Emilio Rivera reflects on his journey through Sons of Anarchy, Mayans, and Con Air, opens up about unlearning violence, and shares the deeply personal story behind being chosen to play the father in Flamin’ Hot. In this unfiltered conversation on Taboo’s Comics and Kicks, Emilio Rivera traces his path from the Frogtown projects of East Los Angeles to becoming a foundational presence in two of television’s most influential crime dramas. He reveals the real story behind joining the Sons of Anarchy pilot, being written out, and later returning after intense behind-the-scenes negotiations — a move that directly led into Mayans. Emilio also revisits Con Air, discussing early-career lessons, working alongside Danny Trejo, and a near-fight that forced him to confront the survival instincts he carried into Hollywood. That moment became part of a larger journey toward sobriety, spiritual grounding, and choosing peace over conflict. The episode culminates with Emilio sharing the emotional weight of portraying the father in Flamin’ Hot, a role shaped by his own upbringing and relationship with his dad — including the unforgettable moment he was personally chosen for the role from a Lakers suite by the man whose life inspired the film. This is a conversation about legacy, second chances, and the hard work of becoming a different man than the one you were taught to be.

Martial arts icon Gerald Okamura shares untold stories from inside Hollywood’s most iconic action films—where the weapons were real, the discipline was earned, and nothing was faked. From growing up in Hawaii and serving in the military to working with legends like Bruce Lee, Brandon Lee, and James Hong, Gerald breaks down his journey into martial arts, stunt work, and cult classics like Big Trouble in Little China and Mortal Kombat. He explains how authentic weapons were designed for film, the difference between choreography and real combat, and why martial arts movies of the ’70s–’90s carried a level of realism that’s rarely seen today. This conversation is a deep dive into martial arts lineage, Hollywood history, and the craft behind some of cinema’s most unforgettable action moments.

Antwon Tanner shares the untold stories behind Coach Carter’s improvised scenes and the creation of Sunset Park’s legendary chant, revealing how some of the most memorable moments in both films actually happened on set. In this episode, Antwon Tanner gives a rare inside look at two classics of 90s and 2000s basketball cinema. He breaks down the improvised moments that shaped Coach Carter, the unexpected on-set energy working with Samuel L. Jackson, and how he ended up creating Sunset Park’s legendary chant. Antwon talks about the culture on set, the creativity that went into these iconic scenes, and why this era of sports movies continues to resonate with fans decades later. A must-listen for anyone who grew up on these films or loves hearing how great movie moments are made.

Filmed in a real Mexican jungle, Predator demanded heat, danger, and authenticity — and Richard Chaves explains how his military experience shaped the film’s realism. Chaves reflects on joining the cast alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, and Jesse Ventura, the raw conditions of shooting in the wild, and why practical effects made the movie feel more like a combat deployment than a Hollywood production. No CGI, no shortcuts — just actors, terrain, explosions, and the intensity that built one of the most iconic action films ever made.

Richard Chaves (Poncho from Predator) shares his journey from Vietnam vet to Broadway success in Tracers alongside Gary Sinise — and the behind-the-scenes stories of training with Arnold, filming in the jungle, and building a career that honored his service. Actor and Vietnam veteran Richard Chaves joins Taboo for a powerful conversation that spans war, healing, and Hollywood. Chaves recounts the creation of Tracers, the groundbreaking play written and performed by Vietnam vets, how Gary Sinise, David Bowie, and Robert De Niro helped elevate it, and how the show changed lives in the veteran community. He then breaks down his unforgettable experience filming Predator — from working out with Arnold Schwarzenegger, to surviving the scorching jungle shoot, to the helicopter scenes, to the personal hat and character details fans still talk about. Chaves also shares the unbelievable story of how missing an audition for a comedy film ended up putting him in the right place at the right time to join the Predator cast. Through it all, Chaves opens up about veteran advocacy, his cancer survival, and his dedication to telling stories that honor those who served. A must-listen for Predator fans, military families, and anyone who loves the intersection of art, healing, and pop culture.

Affion Crockett breaks down his dance roots, early Apollo days, Wild ’N Out’s beginnings, legendary impressions, and behind-the-scenes stories with Taboo—plus a look at his new film, A Hip Hop Story. Affion Crockett sits with Taboo to trace the journey from dance battles and martial-arts fusion to comedy stages and major film sets. He opens up about performing with Mop Tops, learning from Bruce Lee, and the 90s Hip-Hop movement that shaped his artistic voice. Affion shares how Nick Cannon recognized his talent and built Wild ’N Out, plus hilarious impressions including Jay-Z, Anderson .Paak, Manny Pacquiao, and Erik Spoelstra. He also reveals stories from Beverly Hills Cop 2024 with Eddie Murphy, and gives a deeper look at his upcoming project A Hip Hop Story—a blend of comedy, dance, and Hip-Hop culture. A nostalgic, energetic, and insightful episode for Hip-Hop heads and comedy fans alike.

Nicholas Turturro breaks down the chaos of The Longest Yard with Adam Sandler, his Yankees superfan life, and behind-the-scenes stories with Derek Jeter, Spike Lee, and more. A hilarious and heartfelt deep dive into acting, New York, and staying true to your roots. Nicholas Turturro sits down with Taboo for an unforgettable look at his journey through Hollywood, New York culture, and the iconic roles that shaped his career. He opens up about filming The Longest Yard with Adam Sandler, unexpected on-set chaos, and what makes Sandler’s crew so unique. Nicholas also shares his lifelong Yankees obsession, unforgettable moments with Derek Jeter, and why his New York upbringing still defines everything he does. From Spike Lee classics to family stories, Italian-American identity, and his love for NY pizza, this episode blends humor, insight, and raw authenticity. Perfect for fans of The Longest Yard, NYPD Blue, Do the Right Thing, baseball culture, or anyone who loves a great New York story.

Jeremiah Bitsui — the actor behind Victor on Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul — joins Taboo to talk about working with Bryan Cranston, Giancarlo Esposito, and the intense world behind TV’s most iconic crime universe. Jeremiah Bitsui (Victor from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul) sits down with Taboo for an inside look at one of TV’s most meticulously crafted worlds. He breaks down his first days on set with Bryan Cranston, the precision and discipline of Giancarlo Esposito’s process, and how Vince Gilligan’s storytelling shaped the tone of the entire universe. Jeremiah also opens up about Indigenous representation in Hollywood, growing up Navajo, navigating imposter syndrome, fatherhood as a girl dad, and the cultural impact of roles in Natural Born Killers, Lords of Dogtown, Flags of Our Fathers, and more. A grounded, honest, and inspiring conversation with one of the most recognizable faces from the Breaking Bad universe.

The Breakin’ legend himself, Boogaloo Shrimp, joins Taboo to relive the film that defined an era — from street corners to Hollywood stages, from Breakin’ to teaching Michael Jackson and touring with Lionel Richie. Boogaloo Shrimp, the pop-locking pioneer behind Breakin’ and Electric Boogaloo, sits down with Taboo for an unforgettable deep dive into the roots of hip-hop dance and street culture. Shrimp reveals how freestyle and faith took him from LA’s Radiotron scene to performing on tour with Lionel Richie and teaching Michael Jackson the moves that changed music forever. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from the iconic broom scene, the rise of breakdancing in 80s Hollywood, and heartfelt memories of his late friend Bruno “Pop N Taco” Falcon. It’s nostalgia, innovation, and the real history of hip-hop’s dance revolution — all in one conversation.

Taboo and Regulo Caro talk collectibles, culture, and Latin heroes — from Hulk Hogan toys to Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl moment — and how Latin artists are changing the face of pop culture. In this episode of Comics & Kicks, Taboo and Regulo Caro dive into the intersection of collecting, creativity, and cultural identity. They discuss Taboo’s rare Hulk Hogan collectible, Latin heroes in pop culture, and how artists like Bad Bunny are redefining what global representation looks like for the next generation.

Ernie Reyes Jr. opens up about his journey from The Last Dragon and Ninja Turtles to working with The Rock in The Rundown. He talks about Filipino representation, Bruce Lee’s influence, and how martial arts and hip-hop shaped his life in Hollywood.

Marvel’s first female Iron Fist—talks Eyes of Wakanda, Raya and the Last Dragon, and leading in women’s flag football. She shares her story of representation, empowerment, and finding belonging through sports and voice acting. In this episode of Taboo’s Comics and Kicks, Marvel voice actor Jona Xiao opens up about becoming the first female Iron Fist in Eyes of Wakanda, her time working on Raya and the Last Dragon, and how sports helped her find identity and purpose. She discusses women’s leadership, Diana Flores and Vanita Crouch’s impact on flag football, and representation across Marvel, Disney, and sports. Jona also shares candid reflections on addiction, mental health, and studying NLP to rebuild self-worth. From voice acting to athletics, her story is one of resilience, authenticity, and redefining what it means to be a hero. A heartfelt conversation on art, athletics, and empowerment.

From Baby Groot to Loki to Namor, concept artist Anthony Francisco has quietly shaped the look and feel of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In this episode of Taboo’s Comics & Kicks, the former Marvel designer shares how his childhood in the Philippines and early fascination with comics inspired the heart behind some of Marvel’s most iconic heroes. Anthony reveals how he brought emotion to Baby Groot, cultural depth to Namor in Wakanda Forever, and mythic elegance to Loki’s redesign—all while learning to protect his own creativity and IP. From Taboo’s Toy Box nostalgia to career insights on visual development, this conversation shows how one artist’s imagination helped redefine the MCU.

Actor Brandon Routh sits down with Taboo to share his journey from a small-town kid in Iowa to becoming Superman on the big screen in Superman Returns. In this conversation, Brandon opens up about childhood nostalgia (toys, comics, 80s shows, even his Superman pajamas), his love of music and writing, and the unexpected path that brought him to Hollywood. Brandon reflects on his uncanny connection to Christopher Reeve, the legacy of Superman across generations, and the surreal moment of being cast as Clark Kent. He also talks about stepping into other superhero roles in the Arrowverse (Legends of Tomorrow, The Flash), working in early soap operas and music videos, and the importance of creativity, compassion, and imagination in his life. From stories about the Dream Team and Michael Jordan to his time on set with Christina Aguilera, this episode goes beyond the cape to show the man behind Superman — his influences, values, and the lessons he’s carried into Hollywood.

Shawn Stockman of Boyz II Men joins Taboo on Comics and Kicks for a crossover episode packed with nostalgia, sneakers, and Marvel deep cuts. Shawn opens up about visiting Michael Jackson’s legendary Neverland Ranch, drops sneaker grails like the Dior Jordan 1s, and dives into his lifelong Marvel fandom — from Blue Marvel to Thor, Spider-Man, and Chadwick Boseman’s unforgettable Black Panther. This one’s got music history, comic lore, and sneaker heat all in one.

Jo Koy sits down with Taboo on Comics & Kicks for a wide-ranging conversation on culture, comedy, and representation. From his journey of resilience in stand-up to his takes on Hollywood, Jo Koy shares stories that will inspire, entertain, and spark debate. This episode dives deep into the icons and cultural moments that shaped a generation: Manny Pacquiao’s Filipino pride, Eddie Murphy’s Raw and Delirious era, Michael Jordan’s “not human” dominance, Dante Basco’s Hook legacy as Rufio, Tia Carrere and Lou Diamond Phillips as Filipino trailblazers, and Michael Jackson’s influence on 80s culture. They also break down the rise of hip-hop and B-Boy culture, the importance of family and community support, and how multicultural voices reshaped Hollywood and comedy. Whether you grew up on Nickelodeon, 80s music videos, or blockbuster films like Hook, this conversation connects the dots between comedy, sports, hip-hop, and Filipino representation in ways only Jo Koy and Taboo can.

Actor and Nickelodeon star Thomas Hobson joins Taboo to share his remarkable journey — from Yale theater stages to family TV hits like The Fresh Beat Band and That Girl Lay Lay, and from sketch comedy with legends like Jim Carrey and Jamie Foxx to darker turns in Ghosts of the Ozarks. Thomas opens up about growing up in entertainment, his love for theater, the lessons he learned from mentors like Lawrence Fishburne, and his role as a cultural voice for generations of kids and families.

From YouTube legend Jacques Slade to hip-hop icon Taboo, this episode of Comics & Kicks is a deep dive into sneaker history. Jacques reacts to Taboo’s holy grails, including signed Tinker Hatfield customs, rare Jordans, and even the iconic kicks from Like Mike. They break down the stories behind some of the most legendary sneakers in history — from Jordan lore to behind-the-scenes insight into how designs are created, customized, and preserved. With Jacques’ raw reactions and Taboo’s unmatched collection, this is a true celebration of sneaker culture. 👟 Featuring: Taboo’s holy grails & unboxings Jacques Slade’s sneaker knowledge & first-hand reactions Jordan history and Like Mike kicks Rare Tinker Hatfield customs with personal inscriptions If you love sneakers, hip-hop culture, or legendary kicks, this one’s for you.

n this deeply personal episode of Comics & Kicks, vocal powerhouse Mela Lee—the voice behind Lifeline in Apex Legends, Jade in Mortal Kombat 11, and beloved anime characters like Rin Tohsaka, Yuki Cross, and Tikki—shares how her multicultural upbringing shaped her career. Mela reflects on: Growing up mixed-race and how that identity fueled her creative voice. The emotional milestones behind voicing iconic characters across games and anime. The impact of seeing representation at Comic-Con—and what it meant to her fans. Why authentic storytelling matters now more than ever in comics, games, and animation. This isn’t just a career spotlight—it’s a conversation about culture, identity, and how representation in media can inspire real change.

David Faustino — best known as Bud Bundy from “Married with Children” — opens up about his unlikely role in bringing hip-hop culture to Hollywood. Faustino shares stories from the hit sitcom’s influence on pop culture, his legendary Sunset Strip club Ballistics, and the wild mix of stars who showed up: Ice Cube, Eazy-E, will.i.am, Ed O’Neill, and more. From sitcom fame to late-night hip-hop shows, this conversation dives into how Faustino’s love of the culture created one of LA’s most unexpected crossovers.