Fireside Q&A with Matthew Mercer | Talks Machina

[@Ashley-of6ro]

Matt Mercer saying "Oh hi, I didn't see you there" is one of the few things I needed in life.

[@Doughy_in_the_Middle]

I think I'm gonna make that my new windows log in. LOL

[@fluxshaman8251]

A healthy dose of Matt Mercer makes the world a better place

[@alfredmakes]

The crew losing their shit at that point was the best thing ever

[@ashoggoth2419]

never have i needed something so much, and not known until i received it

[@gamingsnake1769]

this. this is all i need to complete my life

[@effey16]

Can we all just come together and give Matt a hug?

[@leahwatson1828]

effey16 Hopefully he will see all this love and support, but, at the very least, there are others here who can relate to Matt and what he's saying and hopefully understand that same love applies to them too.

[@superjail117755]

THIS, YES

[@amylivingston4590]

We'd have to wait in line...

[@gabrieldaily3969]

I've fufilled this mission +1 Matt Hug.

[@mapleblackoak6192]

Just get an entire huge group together and group hug him

[@raediant3307]

"I tend to cry a lot, I'm a sensitive boy." hard same, matt, hard same. the minute his voice started to crack & when he said "i don't like hurting people" that made me start bawling you have no idea

[@IIBandosII]

Big Feels man. ;_;

[@idrc1415]

@@TheOneTrueKit .... 😐👌

[@AnnikaMystica]

So sweet!

[@tlyria]

Matt is the role model more boys need to see. Loving acceptance, kindness and talent born from hard work...what more could we want for our children to echo. Also as mother of grown boys I played D&D with as they grew up I recommended the show to them. Thanks for your honesty Matt.

[@klanmasterio]

Matt being nice, honest and true to him self; like allways. One of the best people we got on this world. All the love to you man.

[@WholeRPGs]

Never apologize for speaking poorly in a non-native language. Too many people never bother to learn another language :) Good on you!

[@VanxHelsing03]

The man is a legend.

[@GuiiSanttoss]

This was very nice from you!

[@murlend8455]

"You are a good man."- Robot Liam to Matt. Its insanely true

[@christinasims3524]

"Because I hate hurting people" Matt is the loveliest human being I've ever come across.

[@beetlejuiceblues12]

When Matt cries, I cry. Hearing the story about his uncle, and that Matt himself is so worried about hurting people or offending people, I was shattered. I'm LGBT, and I've always felt so accepted and welcomed by the CR cast, always encouraged by the representation they all bring to the narrative. Thank you, Mr. Mercer. (Also, there's nothing wrong with being a sensitive boy. I am one too)

[@gabrielladavidson2938]

One of the dragons(?) was they/them (can't remember who exactly) and they kept messing up and Matt kept gently correcting them and they got it eventually and it made my little NB heart grow an extra size for sure

[@daelenstonemeier490]

⁠@@gabrielladavidson2938your thinking of Jamon S’Ord.

[@azeranth9263]

Matt Mercer just wants to make the world a better place. I'm fucking crying

[@LittleQelo]

Man, when he started crying I really wanted to tell him, I love him... (like, not in a romantic way, but still just all of what he is)

[@juliamcdonough4175]

we need to give this man a hug.... i think we all need a hug it’s 2020

[@drbritishdude]

@@juliamcdonough4175 it gets worse. Love from the UK

[@Hew91]

I dunno if Matt will see this, but this is the first I heard of the frustrations around Terry. As someone who is gay and grew up in a place where that was persecuted. I was loved that moment. I was so happy to see it explored but in a humorous tone. So I am thankful for it.

[@hrani]

Also gay and a huge fan of Gilmore and Terry (and Vax). It's so nice to see gay/non-straight people that feel like real people. People that you feel for. Laughter included. The worst I've been through is anxiety and losing a couple of friends coming out, but it's still a very real thing, that feeling of being somehow different from anyone else - and very very rarely seeing any kind of representation in the media. It absolutely warms my heart to see this group that I love doing this. And let's face it, Gilmore is a treasure. A good, confident, utterly charming man, who isn't afraid to be exactly who he is, feelings included. Love him and love Mercer for creating him.

[@Built2Fast]

Hew91 I dropped out of college because didn't know how to deal with life so I joined the military. There are all kinds of levels of being gay. Because I am a jock I still don't feel accepted in the "gay" community because I like racing cars and turning wrenches and playing sports as opposed to going to clubs and drinking. So, while I was thrown out of my blood family I have kinda just made my own path in the world without acceptance from anyone. It certainly gets hard but find your own path and be yourself without conforming to anyone else's standards of what you should be. I work with some amazing people who brought me back into the world of D&D over a year ago and it's a natural part of my world and it's a welcoming environment. Stay Strong

[@Built2Fast]

CustomSquid Interestingly enough while the point of your message is understood the way you put it out there is not tactful in any way, shape, or form.

[@leavy]

I enjoyed hearing about Matt’s experiences in college. It was pretty cathartic, in that I don’t remember ever hearing a story of someone who’s heterosexual now in their life but had a moment where it was in question. It always bugged me since it happened in high school, like I maybe wasn’t being true to myself. Hearing the majority of sexuality stories being based around someone coming to terms with being non-hetero made me feel like I could be missing something deep in my subconscious. I’ve had more introspective moments than I can count regarding it, always coming to the conclusion that I don’t find men sexually attractive (for the greater majority, there’s a few androgynous dudes who still make me think twice - but that’s easily chalked up to how my brain perceives their look). I was very fortunate to be raised to be very accepting and open minded about all walks of life, so the prospect was never a shameful one regarding my family or close friends, so that furthered my relative confusion. It was just nice to hear that echoed for the first time. Doubly helpful that Matt is roughly a month younger than me, so the empathy is easier.

[@Eunostos]

People really should better learn to grasp the difference between ~having~ fun and ~making~ fun. (the folk who got offended that a ~vocal~ supporter of GLBTIs didn't do things the exact same way they would have) Intent matters, doesn't it. :)

[@Mathurian]

"Cheesy" is often just a label that people put on things to avoid having to treat serious things seriously and to maintain their distance and keep their defenses up. I think that it is awesome that you keep bracelets to remind you of deep, important things in your life (and also you're an awesome DM)!

[@norigib6186]

I agree! I try not to do that but I definitely still do!

[@caycat353]

"Bees? Yes. How many? 7." HE IS THE CHOSEN ONE

[@h0lly_blue]

1:24:00 *MATTHEW COMFORT HUGGING INTENSIFIES* 1:25:20 *LAUNCH THE NUCLEAR HUGS* 1:26:30 *FOR THE LOVE OF GOD SOMEONE HUG THIS MAN*

[@vonnwolfe2333]

Those real feels... that apology and explaining himself and just... the reasons why that choice was made. Gods this is why I love this show, this cast, this person.

[@telestic_toad4375]

As someone who is gay and has and is still living in a homophobic environment and family, Tary's story is very important for me. Although it may not be exactly like my situation, it's something that happens and I'm so grateful it's being discussed. Writing from alternative lifestyles than your own is extremely hard and you are bound go stumble and fall, yet we love you Matt, and believe that you and Sam are doing everything thing you can to convey such an emotional scene while staying with Sam's comedic playstyle. Can't wait to see how Tary plays out since he's one of my personal favorites.

[@k0pstl939]

Hope that things have gotten better in 3 years.

[@getknittywithit]

It was so emotional for me too. My family are homophobic and my father is emotionally abusive and not dissimilar to Tray's so that story hit so many things for me,

[@telestic_toad4375]

@@k0pstl939 things have, thank you! I'm out and my family is coming around to things 😁

[@telestic_toad4375]

@@getknittywithit take it from me, things will work out. It's rough at the start, but soon you'll be happy and enjoying yourself for who you are and surrounded by caring people. Who knows, sometimes things turn out better than you expect it too. If you're ever in need of anything, reach out (myself if you need me). It always helps to talk through it

[@getknittywithit]

@@telestic_toad4375 luckily I have a good community outside of my bio family. But it is hard to think about whether it’s worth the risk to come out to my mom.

[@TheChemicalMuffin]

I feel so bad for him apologizing, that story was totally realistic, respectfull and well done!

[@geminijoule5522]

2 HOURS OF MERCER OMG?? WHAT DID WE DO TO DESERVE THIS, THANK YOU DICE GODS

[@Cassius190]

GeminiJoule this is what happens when all the Criters role a Nat. 20 at the exact same time

[@fluxshaman8251]

We rolled a 100 on a divine intervention check to call for our God to manifest Himself

[@7ncunha]

We donated to 826LA during the anniversary stream.

[@SaraTiggs]

Christian Thorn it'd have to be a 1. 100 gets you nothing.

[@fluxshaman8251]

Yeah that, haha. My bad.

[@penpelo3485]

Q&A 3:30 What's your favorite trope in D&D or just in general? What was your favorite storyline besides the Chroma Conclave? 4:37 What's your favorite class in D&D? 5:23 Has the Raishan trophy mount arrived yet? 5:55 How surprised were you when Liam killed everyone midway last week? 7:30 Did you know that's not a real fireplace behind you? 8:24 What do you think of the new Mystic class? 9:56 When starting the campaign, how much did you start with? What level did everyone start at? 11:23 What is your favorite tabletop RPG system? 13:34 What do you recommend when you have no good reason for player characters to pop in and out of the story between sessions? 15:35 Any tips on dealing with audition nerves? Waiting to hear back on an audition. 18:33 Have you ever LARPed? 22:48 What is your favorite kind of cheese? 24:11 I'm planning to break into the VO industry and currently taking lessons. Is there anything else you recommend to get an edge in this cuttthroat industry? 29:32 How do you set magical item prices? 31:21 Are you surprised by what some of Vox Machina has decided to do over the past year? 32:30 Is Bloodhunter being added to your campaign? 33:08 You always try to be positive and down-to-earth. How do you do it? 37:50 Pineapples on pizza: yay or nay? 38:21 How do you balance your major part in Critical Role and your career as a voice actor? 40:48 Is there some NPC in particular you' ve been itching to introduce, but the moment never presented itself? 41:22 What's your favorite type of cookie? 45:12 How'd you get into Burning Man? 50:00 Bees: yes or no? If yes, how many? 50:34 Have you ever had a moment when you almost gave up being a DM entirely? 56:05 What do you think of the McElroy brothers on the show Adventure Zone? 57:25 Did you talk to any of the Critical Role cast about how their characters spent their time during the timeskip? 57:39 Triss or Yennefer? 58:19 How do you want to do this? 58:37 Can we see more Dwarves? I love their accent. 59:23 What is your favorite animated movie? 1:00:02 What about a new member joining Vox Machina during the campaign? 1:00:37 Have you ever been charged of a crime? 1:02:53 Are you going to Dragoncon this year? 1:03:27 What's the story behind each of your braclets? 1:07:45 How did you and Marisha meet? 1:10:09 What is that tattoo on your left wrist? 1:12:43 When you get a rare chance to play, is there a personality trait that you try to avoid? 1:13:58 What happened to the Yasmir(?) kids (don't remember them or their name) 1:16:51 Skyrim or Witcher 3? 1:17:03 Wine, whisky, or vodka? 1:17:43 How do you deal with rejection? 1:20:07 ** WARNING: A VERY emotional aside addressing viewer lashback against how they handled Taryon coming out in Episode 94 ** 1:29:30 How excited are you for the new Bill Nye show? 1:33:14 What's your favorite band? 1:34:58 Kind of stagnant in life with no direction. Did you have any friends or were you like that? How did you find direction/motivation? 1:39:57 What instrument would you play? 1:41:19 How's the date going? Are we gonna see each other again? Does Marisha mind? 1:41:56 Did you ever mow your lawn? 1:42:05 Do you like camping? 1:43:03 What music are you listening to at the moment? 1:44:12 Favorite sweet alcoholic beverage? 1:44:50 Worst video game you've ever played? 1:45:58 Ever considered short hair? 1:46:29 Favorite voice line? Which bugs Marisha the most? 1:47:42 Any tips on how to deal with players that fight over items and gold? 1:48:45 Stars Wars or Star Trek and why? 1:50:16 New tattoo? 1:50:51 Favorite action movie character? 1:51:09 Favorite doctor from Doctor Who? 1:53:20 Favorite non-RPG game? 1:54:40 For players that want more variety, are there any resources you can recommend for learning accents? 1:55:29 Best dream you ever had? NPC CHARACTERISTICS STRAWPOLL 20:32 Race? (Drow, Half-Orc, Genasi, Human, or Dragonborn) results at 26:53 27:20 Occupation? (Warlock, Baker, Royalty, Bounty hunter, or Prostitute) results at 32:10 35:30 Interest in Vox Machina? (Grog, Wedding, Vengeance, Fanboy, or bring Tary home) results at 41:39 42:08 Hidden secret? (Revenant, secretly a Paladin, Ziggurat, Hitman, or he's Blind) results at 47:25 47:42 Name? (Rubrick, Miklos, Zalvs(?), K'ryyn, or Noxtra) results at 55:38 MONSTER ENCOUNTER STRAWPOLL 1:11:23 Size? (Tiny, Medium, Large, Huge, or Gargantuan) results at 1:14:35 1:14:56 Type? (Fey, Abberation, Construct, Celestial, or Elemental) results at 1:28:28 1:28:51 Ability Score Focus? (STR, DEX, CON, WIS, INT, or CHA) results at 1:31:53 1:32:18 Fighting Focus? (Melee, Ranged, Spell, or Environment) results at 1:37:31 1:37:47 Name? (Kaeora, Balkanus, Yort, Exelon, Symphior, or Leth'ess) results at ??? (couldn't find it)

[@Lemmy_Kilturtle]

Yes! Up with you!

[@callmesra]

Paracosm Zed +

[@stella1996able]

You are awesome! Thank you so much! ♥

[@joypomeroy1452]

thanks!

[@michael_epp]

Paracosm Zed e

[@platonicdescartes]

I normally do not enjoy Q&A or AMA vids, but this one was really wonderful and truly memorable. It can also be a bit intimidating to get so emotional in front of so many people, but it only makes me respect Matt even more than I already did.

[@fluxshaman8251]

Just because it was Matt Mercer

[@masamune2984]

Matt Mercer...after watching this video in its entirety, all I can say is...you are a wonderful, beautiful human being. This world is a better place simply for this video existing.

[@HiddenLunarWings]

Matt apologizing and opening up about his uncle is really nice to see. I thought the episode was great and wasn't offended myself, but seeing him torn up and talking about important things like this is a nice change to what I usually see from influencers. It shows he really cares and being bisexual myself, it just really, really, feels nice.

[@rosenrot234]

It was so weird seeing the gay fans on tumblr disagree with each other over that episode. A lot were fine with it. Some were screeching and demanding an apology. So it just hurts seeing Matt get watery eyed or end up being reminded of his uncle. No one wants to think about dead loved ones like that

[@darkseraph2009]

At the same time, a lot of people don't want to think about situations they've been in where compulsory heterosexuality forced them into a situation that they were completely uncomfortable with and unready for. It's real unfair to call people jerks and say they were "screeching and demanding", while ignoring what they've gone through, especially when Matt's done the right thing by recognizing it was a bad situation, and apologizing for it.

[@CrisSelene]

Zem Matt has always said that if you don't like the content they put out just stop watching the show or that particular episode. That way you don't have to think about upsetting things. I'm bisexual myself and live in a homophobic country with not very accepting parents. I didn't find the episode offensive in any way.

[@darkseraph2009]

Cris05 I'm glad to hear you are the ambassador for LGBT folks.

[@CrisSelene]

Zem You haven't been to my inauguration? Shame... huge crowds BTW I was just sharing how that particular episode made ME feel, not how it should make you feel as well.

[@andrewrawlings5220]

Matt:"You should wait until other's have made their characters and fill in the gaps" Group full of Critters: "So what are you playing?" "I'm waiting until all you guys make characters" "Me Too" "Me Too." "Damn."

[@Taikofan04]

Andrew Rawlings I’m the last one

[@deffdefying4803]

The party I'll probably be playing with next Thursday left the character creation session last Thursday with two of them having made a giant Furby (having not known that tieflings are generally humanoid) and a triton with an absolute clusterfuck of fins absolutely everywhere that can fly and climb and can speak many, many languages I'm over here with a half-orc fighter who has 5 Charisma Can't wait til next Thursday for the hijinks that will ensue

[@gabrielladavidson2938]

That's what session zero is for. You all sit at the table like "ok, we need a melee guy, a magic guy, a healer, and a jack of all trades. What do we each wanna play? How can we balance each other out?"

[@austinjones7609]

"Smores. It's not a cheese, but deal with it." Matt Mercer, 2017

[@Christopher-vv8kn]

HaHa Thank you! That needed to be done.

[@NeroFallsOfficial]

This video is one of my favorite things I've ever watched. Matt shows you all levels, from seeing his eyes glow and him smile as he talks about Marisha and Dungeons and Dragons to the tears he has as he talks about loss and him open up, its just a beautiful experience. I hope we get more of these, because this is one of those two hour experiences that will affect me for long in the future.

[@TheRealDerohneNick]

A little warning: This will get deep at around 1:20:00. Matt's such a good being.

[@rosenrot234]

It was so stupid seeing people demanding an apology from Matt on Tumblr the other day. It's weird when the gay community disagrees with each other. I was on the "They were having fun, not making fun" side. A few big mouths were on the RAA I AM OFFENDED AND SHALL PICK APART EVERYTHING TO MAKE IT SOUND TERRIBLE side. Seeing that and then seeing Matt's heartfelt reaction to them just...ugh. I hope those jerks are happy

[@mattiasnordstrom86]

rosenrot234 It is not their fault. It has become part of our culture on so many levels to just get offended by pretty much everything. Some people seem to thrive on being offended for some reason. They seek it out. It's sad.

[@rosenrot234]

@mattias nordstrom My response to those people was usually "This is THEIR story. THEIR characters. Not yours. If you want your gays a certain variety then you can make up your own stories." The big issue was people going "When will people learn that gays don't have to hate themselves in fiction?" Which was stupid. There's a lot of miserable lgbt still in shitty situations. Yes it has changed somewhat in comparison like Matt said. But that doesn't mean the sad real life instances of growing up lgbt are gone. I was in the closet for over 10 years. I remember trying to date women thinking "Maybe I like them?" I remember being in denial over how I'm a Transman. My Grandma is such a dumbass that I kept lying to everyone and to myself over how I am. She still doesn't know and I don't intend on seeing her ever again after my Mom and I moved out a few years ago. I was just infuriated people thought Critical Role was being homophobic when that is just not fucking true. Especially after their response to the Orlando Pulse shooting.

[@BraisedBroiled]

What did matt do?

[@MassiveEffect]

tumblr go offended about the way Terry being gay was portrayed. It was absolutely ridiculous how people get offended so easily over the tiniest of things.

[@rosenrot234]

1:24:22 Listening to Matt's voice tremble like that is like watching a puppy get kicked. Just. Ow. My heart.

[@ahau9799]

He cries, we cry, and those who don't know watch on in confusion before they start to cry too because who can not love this man.

[@rnufharose]

Such a wonderful, honest, down to earth man! I would love to sit in a room and talk for hours with Matthew Mercer. He always inspires me to be positive and he's one of thousands that taught me it's okay to fail. I applaud this wonderful beam of light that has been brought into this world.❤️❤️

[@entredeuxbouchees]

Jeez, man, Matt, don't feel sorry (ever) for being honest, real and human.

[@DiMono]

The really emotional part about episode 94 that everyone should watch begins at 1:20:07 and continues for slightly longer than 8 minutes.

[@samtrue3]

TheDiMono I believe the true emotional part is at 1:24:00 with the Ted story

[@DiMono]

I view the entire discussion as important. The story without the context that comes before it doesn't carry the same weight, I think.

[@foolbrightw6589]

TheDiMono im just going to say: respect that mercer said what he said. and i might have shed a few tears

[@workandfamily2742]

TheDiMono God, I feel for Matt so much. He is such a legend, so honest and so understanding, Matt you are an amazingly pure of heart person. I don't think that you would ever that you would intentionally hurt someone, And I think a lot of people watching this would agree. You bring a lot of joy to a lot of people, and everyone on critical role including those behind the scenes do such an amazing job in bringing content that bring such a great number of people together. Please never stop, and bring more people together.

[@Eaglebrace]

Wen hes was bout to cry and how he tried to hold it, i started to cry. Matt is so pure, love him.

[@EmileVinesh]

This is probably one of the most honest and open interviews I've ever seen of Matt Mercer. I was already a fan of the guy, but this interview made me respect him even more. He has a great view on life's challenges and an amazing personality overall. And the fact that he opens up to us (the Critter community and the entire internet) is a daring step I can only respect :) Plus the advice he gives is really good! I hope he'll read this, even though the chance is small. But Matt, don't ever apologize for who you are and what you do :)

[@GIJew]

Wow. For all this time I've just looked at Matthew Mercer as a voice actor, primarily for McCree. But holy shit, having watched this video in its entirety, I can see that he is much more than that. He is a wonderful human being. My respect for him has gone up 1000 fold.

[@xaderalert]

If you haven't watched Marishas Between the Sheets, I had the same reaction for her. She is an awesome, amazing person - her and Matt deserve each other in the best way possible.

[@Montagemock]

o god this was such an emotional roller-coaster. Matthew Mercer you are a beautiful human being

[@fluxshaman8251]

LOL MATT GOES "Hmm" and the caption says [Music]KZbin gets it

[@GoldenPerception]

I hope Matt got several giant hugs after this.

[@SadBoi_1066]

Lord have Mercer

[@fluxshaman8251]

*High five followed by rimshot*

[@Enballgroda1]

"Sex trade is an awesome, legitimate form of business for a lot of people." Man I love this guy.

[@logarius_ham]

Do you have a timecode for when he said that?

[@TheGenericDavis]

Logan Cain Around 29:00 if you were still wondering

[@jessicalee333]

I wanted to like this comment, but it has 69 likes and considering the subject matter I just can't bring myself to change it.

[@MarionetteDuAuguste]

Jessica Lee come back and like it now, there are 80 like

[@PalleRasmussen]

"Legitimate trade for a lot of awesome people", if you will forgive the correction. I have known people in the trade, and some of them are indeed good people. I have sadly also seen some who got crushed in it, but those were often coming in with serious issues.

[@aethella4133]

god Matt is so sweet and it hurts me to see him cry. I love the way he made his world in Critical Role. Open, loving, and everything in-between which you can tell he's really just pouring his soul into it. God, you're the best Matt

[@canniloni]

oh matt. he really is one of the kindest people on earth and i appreciate him so much. i've never wanted to give someone i don't personally know a hug so bad, he's just such a pure soul.

[@KFLeite_]

From the way this Q&A started, I really wasn't expecting to cry during it. Thank you for trusting the audience to tell your story, Matt!

[@tipsypanda9861]

Matt is the template that everyone should aspire to be.

[@TheMacroSlacker]

Not a bad idea and a good point for the arts in our lives.

[@Lemmy_Kilturtle]

Nah. He's a really really good person and I love him, but if noone was able to hurt anyone emotionally, no good decisions could be made. All things will hurt certain people, and some people look for things to be hurt.

[@beyzaercan3077]

@@Lemmy_Kilturtle its been too long butvi want to just say i dont think so, if everyone was like him everyone would avoid hurting each other be it emotionally or physically, so many bad things in life that are born out of lack of empathy could be avoided..

[@KevinNHaw]

I rarely comment on videos, but I was very impressed and touched by Matt's honesty and courage in talking about his Uncle Ted. God bless you, Mr. Mercer. God Bless.

[@kelseylogas1580]

I grew up in San Francisco and one of my best friends growing up had two moms and two dads. One of those dads died of AIDs when we were in high school. And I was allowed to go out after curfew if I was with one of my drag queen friends. So I kinda get the episode, I get where Matt and Sam were going with it, and I thought it was wonderful and funny and touching. I get how he didn't want to hurt anyone from a community that has gone through so much. And frankly being a sensitive man in life and on the Internet shows how much he cares, how much he wants to be a positive force in life, and hopefully is a role model for men in general. I just wanted to give him a hug. His courage and openness is something we should all aspire for.

[@keithadams3281]

This man is a genuine and truly wonderful person. I was surprised how hard this kicked me in the feels. His truth shows through in his work and his love for the arts and his fans. If I ever start wearing rock n roll bands my first will be in his honor, I'll stamp the coordinates where we first meet.

[@raidanxv1464]

Many wise words from the Matthew Mercer “Just be empathic. Be willing to make mistakes, and own up to them. Learn from them, and no matter how much a person frustrates you, makes you angry or tries to hurt you, maintain a point of perspective that you don't understand what they’ve gone through to get them there. What their day was leading them to that moment. What abuses they’ve undergone, what difficulties, challenges, and failures they’re ruminating on at that time, and you’ve become an outlet for it. That’s not always the case, there are bad people in the world, by all means, and I do understand that. But I think a lot of dissidence stems from people’s inability to imagine what the other side of this might be. So allowing you that expansion, to be able to give people the benefit of the doubt and think, ‘I know what they said is really terrible, but maybe they’re having a really day, a really terrible week, a very terrible month. Maybe they lost a friend, lost a family member, and they’re just lashing out.’ You don’t know. That perspective makes it a lot easier to not take things to heart and step away. And that opens empathy for others. And that even goes for everyday encounters. When you stop at a gas station to order gas, make eye contact with the attendant and ask them how their day’s been. Its amazing how quickly you’ll see people open up and smile when you engage them as a human being, and not as just part of a transaction. I recommend you try that on a day-to-day basis. It makes every day that much more lively. It makes you really appreciate how so many different backgrounds, how many different people who all have their own story, their own trials and tribulations, and they all come together to make this beautiful world that we all live in. So, good days and bad days. We’re all human beings and we’re all trying to be happy.”

[@SirStarKnight]

I never never never never never was a fan of someone famous. Then I started watching Critical Role and my love for this wonderful human being named Matthew Mercer has grown and grown. I hope he is well and that he will be well always. Love you Matt, a hug from Italy

[@TimpanistMoth_AyKayEll]

Same here. I somehow got to middle age without ever doing any kind of celebrity worship thing. I liked certain actors and musicians, sure, but I've never owned a poster of any of them. I'd occasionally watch a funny interview, but that was about it. Critical Role? Yeah, I've finally learned how to "stan" and the real meaning of the word "fan(atic)." Sniffing out every morsel of content. Kiiiiinda loving it??? Though it also feels weird. I guess some of us are just late bloomers, haha!

[@brettharte]

Matt Mercer is just too pure for this world. I truly do love this man with my whole heart.

[@gloriapoore9732]

I only just got into Critical Role. I'm sad that I'll never get to see the videos that were removed. But I totally get it. I'm glad they did this for Ashley

[@VentStrike]

I actually just learned about this after looking for those videos for nostalgic reasons, and I have to say that as much as I loved Talks Machina, it's definitely not a thing that's worth keeping up after hearing about all this if Ashley or the group as a whole isn't comfortable with it.

[@MrNoe1993]

If you really want to see them, they are archived and links available on the wikis

[@kylestillwell7031]

I did not expect this vulnerability and intimacy. it's endearing, and wonderful.

[@NicPelegri]

Going through the bracelets made me mist up enough that I had to pause. I relate deeply to the family history of addiction, and having commemorations of triumph, partnership, friendship, and community bound to yourself is such a worthy set of reminders

[@NicPelegri]

Aaaaand now the story about his Uncle. Gosh

[@mattcrump856]

So much respect for Matt Mercer, will always have time to see anything he has to say.

[@brianeverett5560]

Matt is genuine and his heart is pure. love that DM

[@DarkKar]

Thank you for bearing your soul, Matt. You're a major figure in my life right now, and as I try and find my place out there and plant my feet and be my own man, this kind of honesty and caring and bravery might be the most profound inspiration I've ever known since my mother (who is a tough role model to beat). Keep doing you, my friend, and I'm going to try and do me. Love you man.

[@twotonhawk]

That's some great Sam Riegel cosplay

[@MrNtlman]

ben steviens I thought it was Scanlan being Burt Reynolds

[@SapphireDragon357]

So does that make it Mercer cosplaying Sam cosplaying Scanlan cosplaying Burt Reynolds?

[@gaprilis]

almost perfect; he didn't pour the wine through an aerator

[@styx1137]

He really is a good guy

[@RobinMadsenDK]

Such a heart warming moment Matt, when you talk about acceptance! the tears really get to me! Thank you for that touching moment, you are an incredible inspiring man!

[@JustGisele]

Matthew Mercer you are a genuine person with a beautiful soul. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and allowing yourself to be vulnerable and honest with us. You share a truly meaningful message.

[@vektorgodel7891]

matt is such an empath and that's why he is a great storyteller

[@theanyktos]

Matt: *describing his disturbing af dream* Me: "You know, I always envied your creativity and vivid imagination, and also people who remember their dreams (I almost never do) but now I think I'm actually just fine the way I am, thanks."

[@jielibai2912]

That moment when you see Mercer breaking down talking about his uncle.

[@Mondo_117]

Matt is one of my favorite people in the entire world. The amount of himself and his creativity that he puts forward is amazing. I hope he knows it's appreciated.

[@lezzleee]

Matt is such a wonderful person. When his friends say one of his best features is his empathy, they are 100% correct. Please keep telling your wonderful stories, even if they are hard, even if they aren't nice. Some of us had harder times in our lives and it's nice to see those aspects played out by people who not only care, but who embrace differences and can transform them into powerful, cathartic, or comedic moments.

[@TheCuteycat]

The question that haunts me the most is what creature did he sacrifice to get that gorgeous hair

[@OrphanHart]

Felinis the last living unicorn

[@cxfxcdude]

Felinis and roughly half a tonne of conditioner

[@TreeFolkDruid]

more like a pregnant uniccorn

[@hempev]

Not anymore - look at that rainbow!

[@jesterericv2]

It's a class trait when you hit level 5 as a DM.

[@NinjaOfTheKyeboard1]

Oh, Matt. Buggaboo. Sweetheart. Dearest DM. You are such an admirable person, honestly and truly. It's very courageous of you to become to serious and honest with us, and you continually earn our respect. You are not perfect, and that's what makes you wonderful. Your stories are real, and sometimes we don't like reality, but reality is what grounds us and brings us together as people on a very raw, and very human level. You'll never see this comment, I know, but I still feel like I'm speaking to you because you allowed such intimacy on this stream. Thanks buddy, and I hope your future will be bright!

[@XDependent]

This man. Honest, sincere, and genuine. He didn't have to be this open on a Twitch stream, but he did it anyway. He didn't have to invest so much time and effort into a D&D campaign on a stream, but he did it anyway. He is an incredible individual and deserves every praise he has been given and then some. Thanks Matt, for making me have a wonderful inspiration each Thursday night, for encouraging me to GM again after serious burnout, and most of all for being simply a good guy and entertainer.

[@phoebemore1418]

Watching this live was great and ultimately very painful because I wanted someone to hug him so badly! Either way it was awesome! Thanks Matt and Crew!

[@mafaldacosta13]

Watching Matt drink wine from my country is something that I didn't know I needed bit I'm glad I got to see

[@KingOfJokers013]

Wow. What a fucking legend. You have my sincerest thanks for being such a prime example of the potential of humanity. Aside from what you do professionally and your sheer talent and drive in that field, your emphasis on understanding, being open, empathetic and genuine make you one my greatest idols. So thank you Matthew Mercer, may you future endeavors be met with as much success and happiness as possible. Here's to you and yours sir. And congrats on the wedding later this month! I hope you two continue to support and inspire each other.

[@johnmcdonald2201]

Thank you for your personal story. It was an amazing show. Opening up live on Twitch, is a brave thing to do. I found Terry's story to be compelling, and empathize. A lot of us have the same stories with friends of ours. Your stories are amazing, don't apologize. Thanks for opening up like this.

[@gill8795]

Matt Mercer, Thank you once again for sharing your heart with us. You sir, are a breath of fresh air. Thank you for putting yourself out there and being sincere with us. We love you for being human, and reminding us that its okay to encourage the heart. Thank you. Love love love.

[@kingsmanmmadd5716]

Matt you are just through and through a wonderful human being.

[@DatsBoCrapp]

Just when I thought I actaully couldn't love Matt Mercer more, he comes out with this??!! God bless man, God bless.

[@shinrahunter]

I didn't expect that very raw, emotional section but it's something I love about Matt & the rest of the cast. They are very honest, open and genuine.

[@nickrussell5752]

I feel like we need a Matt Mercer bed time story series where Matt just tells stories quietly for a while ❤️

[@YanoshSquarepants]

Mr Mercer, I really appreciate that you showed a little of your sensitive side here what talking about your family and issues closer to home. Great to see it, and nothing to be ashamed of. I really respect who you are and how you work, your motivations and attitudes. Shine on you beautiful bastard and keep doing what you do best. I love it

[@Zaiqahal]

This is all that's left of the Talks Machina playlist...

[@twwanderer]

Arrived here after finishing watching all 115 episodes of the first campaign of Critical Role and the season finale wrap up. You are a genuine inspiration and one of loveliest people I've seen on the 'net. Your obvious compassion, empathy, self-reflection, humor and presence is such a powerful antidote to traditional masculinity that you've reduced me to tears. Thank you for opening up and speaking so genuinely about your experiences and working mindfully towards making (or at least showing) what a better world should be. Gods bless you Matt Mercer (Jack from the UK)

[@brenen7412]

man, I wish I could chill like that daily. I know what you do involves a crap ton of work. thank you guys so much for all the stuff you all do.

[@executivelypunk]

matt's voice breaking while talking about witnessing hate just shattered my heart into a million pieces. bless this man's kind heart.

[@jinkerGM]

I never met Matt, but I just know he is the nicest guy in the world.

[@seanmcdaniel2832]

Hey Matt, thanks for being real with us today. It was nice hanging with you.

[@Prandur79]

Thank you Matt for being so open, so honest, and making time for your fans. We all appreciate what an amazing human being you are.

[@LaUltimaPerla]

Listening to this as I work and hearing his voice break 1:24 had me typing with tears in my eyes. Hearing about that unfortunate situation for his uncle and hearing his voice shake so much ugh. Matthew is truly such a sweet soul

[@Tehgreatgamer]

Watching Matt Mercer get emotional and wax poetic about life, love, addiction, and so much else is probably the best time Ive had listening to him speak. It's shocking how much he and I have in common. Love to meet him and have a convo one day, sadly I doubt it will ever get that chance.

[@elpablodiabloepd]

Newer Critter, but loving these specials and everything about the show! Matt, thank you for your work, for your authenticity, for your eloquence and humility. I have not seen many public figures give such real apology or weave such excitement, laughter, and sorrow into 2 hours like that. There would be a standing ovation if you had us all there watching in person. Guaranteed.

[@kimstolz8880]

It's a little sad that Matt felt he needed to apologize for starting to tear up. Was anybody genuinely upset that he was showing emotion?

[@claudiamastroianni4300]

I very much doubt it. I think it was more a "I'm sorry I'm not quite in control of this", and we pretty much entirely forgive him. ;-)

[@Kyshakk]

Credit to Paracosm Zed. For visibility. Q&A 3:30 What's your favorite trope in D&D or just in general? What was your favorite storyline besides the Chroma Conclave? 4:37 What's your favorite class in D&D? 5:23 Has the Raishan trophy mount arrived yet? 5:55 How surprised were you when Liam killed everyone midway last week? 7:30 Did you know that's not a real fireplace behind you? 8:24 What do you think of the new Mystic class? 9:56 When starting the campaign, how much did you start with? What level did everyone start at? 11:23 What is your favorite tabletop RPG system? 13:34 What do you recommend when you have no good reason for player characters to pop in and out of the story between sessions? 15:35 Any tips on dealing with audition nerves? Waiting to hear back on an audition. 18:33 Have you ever LARPed? 22:48 What is your favorite kind of cheese? 24:11 I'm planning to break into the VO industry and currently taking lessons. Is there anything else you recommend to get an edge in this cuttthroat industry? 29:32 How do you set magical item prices? 31:21 Are you surprised by what some of Vox Machina has decided to do over the past year? 32:30 Is Bloodhunter being added to your campaign? 33:08 You always try to be positive and down-to-earth. How do you do it? 37:50 Pineapples on pizza: yay or nay? 38:21 How do you balance your major part in Critical Role and your career as a voice actor? 40:48 Is there some NPC in particular you' ve been itching to introduce, but the moment never presented itself? 41:22 What's your favorite type of cookie? 45:12 How'd you get into Burning Man? 50:00 Bees: yes or no? If yes, how many? 50:34 Have you ever had a moment when you almost gave up being a DM entirely? 56:05 What do you think of the McElroy brothers on the show Adventure Zone? 57:25 Did you talk to any of the Critical Role cast about how their characters spent their time during the timeskip? 57:39 Triss or Yennefer? 58:19 How do you want to do this? 58:37 Can we see more Dwarves? I love their accent. 59:23 What is your favorite animated movie? 1:00:02 What about a new member joining Vox Machina during the campaign? 1:00:37 Have you ever been charged of a crime? 1:02:53 Are you going to Dragoncon this year? 1:03:27 What's the story behind each of your braclets? 1:07:45 How did you and Marisha meet? 1:10:09 What is that tattoo on your left wrist? 1:12:43 When you get a rare chance to play, is there a personality trait that you try to avoid? 1:13:58 What happened to the Yasmir(?) kids (don't remember them or their name) 1:16:51 Skyrim or Witcher 3? 1:17:03 Wine, whisky, or vodka? 1:17:43 How do you deal with rejection? 1:20:07 ** WARNING: A VERY emotional aside addressing viewer lashback against how they handled Taryon coming out in Episode 94 ** 1:29:30 How excited are you for the new Bill Nye show? 1:33:14 What's your favorite band? 1:34:58 Kind of stagnant in life with no direction. Did you have any friends or were you like that? How did you find direction/motivation? 1:39:57 What instrument would you play? 1:41:19 How's the date going? Are we gonna see each other again? Does Marisha mind? 1:41:56 Did you ever mow your lawn? 1:42:05 Do you like camping? 1:43:03 What music are you listening to at the moment? 1:44:12 Favorite sweet alcoholic beverage? 1:44:50 Worst video game you've ever played? 1:45:58 Ever considered short hair? 1:46:29 Favorite voice line? Which bugs Marisha the most? 1:47:42 Any tips on how to deal with players that fight over items and gold? 1:48:45 Stars Wars or Star Trek and why? 1:50:16 New tattoo? 1:50:51 Favorite action movie character? 1:51:09 Favorite doctor from Doctor Who? 1:53:20 Favorite non-RPG game? 1:54:40 For players that want more variety, are there any resources you can recommend for learning accents? 1:55:29 Best dream you ever had? NPC CHARACTERISTICS STRAWPOLL 20:32 Race? (Drow, Half-Orc, Genasi, Human, or Dragonborn) results at 26:53 27:20 Occupation? (Warlock, Baker, Royalty, Bounty hunter, or Prostitute) results at 32:10 35:30 Interest in Vox Machina? (Grog, Wedding, Vengeance, Fanboy, or bring Tary home) results at 41:39 42:08 Hidden secret? (Revenant, secretly a Paladin, Ziggurat, Hitman, or he's Blind) results at 47:25 47:42 Name? (Rubrick, Miklos, Zalvs(?), K'ryyn, or Noxtra) results at 55:38 MONSTER ENCOUNTER STRAWPOLL 1:11:23 Size? (Tiny, Medium, Large, Huge, or Gargantuan) results at 1:14:35 1:14:56 Type? (Fey, Abberation, Construct, Celestial, or Elemental) results at 1:28:28 1:28:51 Ability Score Focus? (STR, DEX, CON, WIS, INT, or CHA) results at 1:31:53 1:32:18 Fighting Focus? (Melee, Ranged, Spell, or Environment) results at 1:37:31 1:37:47 Name? (Kaeora, Balkanus, Yort, Exelon, Symphior, or Leth'ess) results at ??? (couldn't find it)

[@elib6465]

hey mat thanks for doin for doing this, your openness and ability to share your emotions is inspiring and I admire how you can just share experiences so easily.

[@seanwmcinnes]

My absolute favourite part was the question about Tary's reveal and the ensuing real talk. Thank you Matt. Such an amazing ambassador, benchmark and role model. I love this man.

[@TartanKiwi]

Gosh darn! I learned so much about the mentality of voice acting from this Q&A Thank you Mathew Mercer and thank you Geek & Sundery!

[@poofballoon]

Matthew Mercer is the rolemodel I look up to the most. He is such a kind and empathic soul. People really need to cut him some slack. He is NOT the person you should be hating on. Put your anger elsewhere.

[@ArudoGuy]

Thank you, thank you, Matt, for sharing so much of yourself with us. Over the past 1.5 years, you have become a role model and a constant source of inspiration for me as a GM (which I became because of Critical Role), but also as a human being. You are a truly good dude. So again, thanks from the bottom of my heart to you, Critical Role and all of Geek and Sundry for bringing so much joy and goodness in a time when it is sorely needed.

[@Xenodude2000]

This is fantastic. Emotional, engaging, funny, and most of all, real. Thank you for this video Matthew, I fucking love you.

[@a.o.9594]

Dear Matt and all of critical roll players and staff. Thank you so much for being yourselves. I look forward to all episodes laugh and cries and swearing at the wtf parts. I'm truly thankful I stumbled across and caught up. Have only played one dnd game way back in high school. It wasn't great cause I trying to fit into group that was set in there ways, heavy rules group and more reactionary group. Though now my daughter has played a few app card games with me. So perhaps I can one day it will be something she is excited about it. Thank you thank you thank you

[@a.o.9594]

Lol as the Porte goes down the voice/personalities come out.

[@stuart5350]

3:30 What's your favorite trope in D&D or just in general? What was your favorite storyline besides the Chroma Conclave? 4:37 What's your favorite class in D&D? 5:23 Has the Raishan trophy mount arrived yet? 5:55 How surprised were you when Liam killed everyone midway last week? 7:30 Did you know that's not a real fireplace behind you? 8:24 What do you think of the new Mystic class? 9:56 When starting the campaign, how much did you start with? What level did everyone start at? 11:23 What is your favorite tabletop RPG system? 13:34 What do you recommend when you have no good reason for player characters to pop in and out of the story between sessions? 15:35 Any tips on dealing with audition nerves? Waiting to hear back on an audition. 18:33 Have you ever LARPed? 22:48 What is your favorite kind of cheese? 24:11 I'm planning to break into the VO industry and currently taking lessons. Is there anything else you recommend to get an edge in this cuttthroat industry? 29:32 How do you set magical item prices? 31:21 Are you surprised by what some of Vox Machina has decided to do over the past year? 32:30 Is Bloodhunter being added to your campaign? 33:08 You always try to be positive and down-to-earth. How do you do it? 37:50 Pineapples on pizza: yay or nay? 38:21 How do you balance your major part in Critical Role and your career as a voice actor? 40:48 Is there some NPC in particular you' ve been itching to introduce, but the moment never presented itself? 41:22 What's your favorite type of cookie? 45:12 How'd you get into Burning Man? 50:00 Bees: yes or no? If yes, how many? 50:34 Have you ever had a moment when you almost gave up being a DM entirely? 56:05 What do you think of the McElroy brothers on the show Adventure Zone? 57:25 Did you talk to any of the Critical Role cast about how their characters spent their time during the timeskip? 57:39 Triss or Yennefer? 58:19 How do you want to do this? 58:37 Can we see more Dwarves? I love their accent. 59:23 What is your favorite animated movie? 1:00:02 What about a new member joining Vox Machina during the campaign? 1:00:37 Have you ever been charged of a crime? 1:02:53 Are you going to Dragoncon this year? 1:03:27 What's the story behind each of your braclets? 1:07:45 How did you and Marisha meet? 1:10:09 What is that tattoo on your left wrist? 1:12:43 When you get a rare chance to play, is there a personality trait that you try to avoid? 1:13:58 What happened to the Yasmir(?) kids (don't remember them or their name) 1:16:51 Skyrim or Witcher 3? 1:17:03 Wine, whisky, or vodka? 1:17:43 How do you deal with rejection? 1:20:07 ** WARNING: A VERY emotional aside addressing viewer lashback against how they handled Taryon coming out in Episode 94 ** 1:29:30 How excited are you for the new Bill Nye show? 1:33:14 What's your favorite band? 1:34:58 Kind of stagnant in life with no direction. Did you have any friends or were you like that? How did you find direction/motivation? 1:39:57 What instrument would you play? 1:41:19 How's the date going? Are we gonna see each other again? Does Marisha mind? 1:41:56 Did you ever mow your lawn? 1:42:05 Do you like camping? 1:43:03 What music are you listening to at the moment? 1:44:12 Favorite sweet alcoholic beverage? 1:44:50 Worst video game you've ever played? 1:45:58 Ever considered short hair? 1:46:29 Favorite voice line? Which bugs Marisha the most? 1:47:42 Any tips on how to deal with players that fight over items and gold? 1:48:45 Stars Wars or Star Trek and why? 1:50:16 New tattoo? 1:50:51 Favorite action movie character? 1:51:09 Favorite doctor from Doctor Who? 1:53:20 Favorite non-RPG game? 1:54:40 For players that want more variety, are there any resources you can recommend for learning accents? 1:55:29 Best dream you ever had?

[@jujube24]

boosting

[@stevehoyle2802]

Matt Mercer could record saying random words for an hour and a half and I'd listen to it. Love that voice

[@gabrielamedeirosribeiro3223]

To be fair, “I don’t know what’s happening but this is weird and awesome” is a pretty good description of Doctor Who.

[@Barrlounge]

I imagine the Drow baker being like Garak from DS9 who was "just a simple tailor"...

[@Doughy_in_the_Middle]

I'm now picturing Drow-like Garak, "My dear Terry. You ARE so very optimistic, aren't you?"

[@NabrocMajere]

Garak is one of the greatest examples of a neutrally aligned character in modern media. If anyone could get Vox Machina to dance, it would be a social puppeteer like Garak! I can just see it. Level 17 almost into the epic levels... slayer of dragons... defeater of demons.... saviors of the land.... and yet these mighty adventurers are brought into a world of complication and woe by a Drow "Baker" who works for the family of this pretty boy man child that they hooked up with after having a nasty break up with a bad boy musician. I just can't wait to see how this plays out.

[@sirlaggzzalot]

James B. what's a ziggurat

[@Babalas]

James B. please yes please

[@davidmurrell5143]

A step pyramid, like the one under Whitestone.

[@FriendlyNeighborhoodDM]

"Me and technology strangely don't mix very well," finally...proof Mercer is a Wizard! Do you keep company with a certain Harry Dresden, Matt?

[@RoyMBar]

The Aasimar kids left White Stone and went back to Emon with the surviving Queen and her children during the last episode from what I remember.

[@auluadenbartolli6755]

Everytime I see something from Matt Mercer, I just end up respecting him even more as a human being. Man, he'd be an awesome friend to have. Also, his best nightmare was almost LITERALLY the Vecna Ascension.