Conversations with Missy: Gary Berman, Creation Entertainment "Supernatural The Road So Far Tour"

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A Profound Thank You to Gary Berman and Creation Entertainment

Gary Berman stands as a true pioneer in the world of fan conventions, co-founding Creation Entertainment in 1971 with Adam Malin when they were just 14 years old in New York City. What began as a passion for science fiction and comics has grown into a legacy that spans over fifty years, bringing together millions of fans with the stars and stories they adore. Creation pioneered the traveling convention model, starting with Star Trek events and expanding to iconic franchises like Supernatural, Star Wars, and beyond. At the recent Supernatural convention, Gary embodied this history in the most personal way, welcoming me as though I were his own guest and introducing me directly to Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki while proudly sharing that I was with Center Stage Magazine.

From the very first moment, Lynn Esparo, Creation Entertainment's publicist, extended remarkable kindness and immediately connected me with Monica to ensure every detail was handled with care, particularly for the Jensen autograph session. Monica then equipped our team of three with Copper weekend passes and tickets to Misha Collins' one-man show, A Good Idea, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. That is when Matt Irizarry, Gary's personal assistant, became our dedicated handler for the entire weekend. Matt orchestrated a series of meaningful interview opportunities, beginning with Matt Cohen and DJ Qualls, followed by Gary himself, the engaging Babysitters panel, the artistic Dean Draws, and the warm presence of Samantha Smith. Each conversation unfolded naturally, guided by Matt's thoughtful coordination.

The weekend truly felt magical, a living testament to Creation's commitment to creating spaces where fans feel seen, valued, and part of something larger. Gary and Matt went far beyond expectations, securing photo ops with Jared, Jensen, and a special one with baby, another with Jensen alone, and the Jensen autograph session that allowed me to surprise my daughter with a Christmas gift she will treasure forever. In ten years of covering conventions as a magazine, Center Stage has never received such royal treatment, every staff member, every cast member ensured that all attendees, including our small team, were treated like family. This level of care reflects the core of what Creation Entertainment represents: genuine connection, inclusivity, and heartfelt experiences.

Gary did not have to make this personal, but he chose to. He took time to show the deeper importance of these gatherings, the way they build community and preserve the art of storytelling across generations. His example of true care, of kindness, inclusion, and family, moved me deeply and brought tears more than once. Creation Entertainment stands apart because it prioritizes the human experience above all else, and this convention proved it in every interaction. Gary may never fully know the impact this weekend had on me, on our team, on our magazine, but these memories will live on as a source of inspiration and gratitude every single day.

Gary, to you, Adam, Matt, Lynn, Monica, and the entire Creation family, thank you. You have built something extraordinary, and you let us be part of it in the most meaningful way. With all my heart and deepest respect ~Missy

Phooto Credit: Luke Caccetta