Buffy’s JAMES MARSTERS: Dark Side of Playing Spike

[@hellionshark3197]

Spike was the best thing to happen to Buffy the Vampire Slayer, no matter what Joss had in his head.

[@professerkingc7291]

I think you mean Angel was the best

[@anninwhack1998]

Spike made that show.

[@romeocastillo316]

Wtf lol not even James think that about his character.

[@professerkingc7291]

@@anninwhack1998 your out of your mind Angel made the show

[@Любимая-ч9у]

@@professerkingc7291 Ангел в начале шоу полная бездарность,актерская игра на нуле,его взяли в сериал только из за внешних данных,он играл отвратительно,такого персонажа Джеймс отыграл бы гораздо лучше,сам персонаж Ангел очень скучный,он определенно хуже Спайка

[@kerryholland4822]

The fact he clocked he may have triggered Charisma not being asked to return, feeling terrible and going to talk to her about it shows what kind of man he is. Absolutely the standard, what a guy

[@a.perkins89]

James and Charisma also played a married witchy couple in an episode of Supernatural... I loved the chemistry they had...

[@gt4980b]

@@a.perkins89 Never wanted to watch Supernatural but I may give it a shot at least to see their episode.

[@GoddessPallasAthena]

I wonder if it would have made a difference if the producers were just honest about it. I don't know anything about the intricacies of television production/business but sometimes, if you are just honest, authentic and humble about it, the cast and crew might be open to giving more. At least give them a chance by saying "Hey, this is the situation . . . " As long as producers do this HONESTLY and only when necessary, I think people might react in a more positive manner with less hurt overall.

[@darkwater72]

​@GoddessPallasAthena But how would you know that they were "just being honest" about the money situation? You don't have access to the financial books. Are they being honest, is this just a story they are telling as part of negotiations? How could you know the difference? Next thing, now you are pressuring the cast as a group. If one person doesn't want to take the pay cut, ANY changes in casting will now be blamed on that one person.

[@spumoni9713]

@@gt4980bSupernatural is a fantastic show. It starts off as sort of a freak of the week and then goes into a much deeper area as the seasons go on… it’s a little more dark than Buffy but it does have quite a bit of humor.

[@mikehenkelman2111]

Got to hang out with James when he was lead singer for Ghost of the Robot (was in Sacramento) and doing Season 7 of Buffy. He was so friggin' down to earth and nice...such a good dude. My friend was a huge fan of Spike, and he gave her a huge hug and sat on a stool next to her for like 5 minutes just talking about life. Best. Dude.

[@neil8642]

Wholesome

[@aprilmorgan9807]

Agreed

[@dhhjhfjhyiuoguutrtgf]

@FlyingMonkies325 un

[@LadyhawksLairDotCom]

Like many in the comments section, I loved Spike. He was my favorite character in the Buffyverse. He played "cool," but I know from other sources he's a huge geek like me. He probably understands what it's like to feel like an outcast. I don't use Twitter much, but one time, I opened up on his Twitter feed, responding, "I'm overweight, but I still have feelings." He thumbed it up, which made me feel a lot better about myself. Usually, I guard against admitting to faults so people won't hurt me. He's one of a handful of actors I've really wanted to be a decent guy, IRL. Most of them are out-of-touch, vain and arrogant. At least, that's my impression. I don't know why it's important to me that James Marsters is as decent as he seems. Probably, it shouldn't matter to me, but for some reason, it does. *shrug* On the plus side (see what I did there?), I have lost 100 pounds during the past several years. I am still a bit overweight, but I'm no longer insulin dependent. I'm healthier. I'm still trying. That counts for a lot, I think. I'm also trying to be a better person. I fail a lot, but at least I try.

[@agent_ninety9]

Very 😎

[@teddybbc]

Can we just recognize how great James looks for being damn near 60? Homeboy is 59 years old as of today.

[@BT-ch9gf]

I mean, he is a vampire. So...

[@sdub_89]

holy f-really???? WOW.

[@nancydenick1875]

Yeah, he's still hot af.

[@Fififogone]

Good bone structure.

[@sweeperboy]

@@Fififogone That is true, but he's also kept himself in good shape.

[@XetepMappi]

Love Love Love James Marsters. Not only for Spike but also he is THE BEST voice for listening to books - the accents, the feelings, the acting - are all incredible.

[@bp6942]

I love how a little Harry Dresden snuck out there. "The word glamour means illusion"

[@ohsoscenty6242]

Yes!! Would love for him to read a book in his famous spike accent though! 😍

[@nat20dm]

He does audiobooks??? 😮 I'm an Audible addict. Need to go look him up...

[@XetepMappi]

@@nat20dm Yes he does! And he has spoiled me because I compare everyone to him. Not sure if you've heard of the Harry Dresden series of book by Jim Butcher but he narrates those to awesome effect.

[@BlueChrysalis]

@@nat20dm He is the narrator for the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher.

[@Paulafan5]

James trying to explain the later seasons of Buffy was hilarious. "So she dies, goes to heaven, gets pulled back by witchcraft, has a magical sister, her mother dies..." The insanity of the later seasons was hard to deny. Still enjoyable but definitely some crazy storylines later on.

[@kingbrutusxxvi]

I'm so glad I'm not the only one who thought so. ;-)

[@josephacevedo2937]

Buffy’s later seasons was the craziness of adulthood.

[@lenr112]

All those crazy storylines so well executed is why the show is still so popular today .

[@Meg_intheclouds]

And then there’s this rat girl who becomes not a rat girl and then Willow telekinetically crashes a car with dawn after seeing a wizard. And there’s these 3 guys who think they are super villains, the guy who’s brother did something once, the guy who tricked everyone into thinking he was a superstar - and one of them is just evil and builds robots. And then he shoots witch girls Gf and then witch girl goes to the dark side and becomes veiny and then skins evil robot guy. Then Buffy’s guy friend leaves his ex-demon girlfriend at the alter. And when witch girl goes bad he stops her destroying the world with a story about a yellow crayon. Then evil itself comes out, spike is good now, there’s a thunderdome thing, a principle who’s a demon Hunter? And then bad slayer Is back and how she’s a leader. But in the end Buffy saves the day along with the slayer army because she makes it so she’s no longer the one who must face against the vampires, demons and forces of darkness. Because now in every generation every slayer is activated.

[@darlameeks]

Loved it all! I could always suspend my disbelief when it came to Buffy.

[@Cordelish]

The only time I have met his was in my early 20s. I had waited in line at Dragon Con to get his autograph and completely fan-girled. It just kinda spilled out of my mouth, and I was horrified the moment it was spoken "I am such a nerd right now." In the most loving way he then told me about a time when he did the exact same thing with one of his heroes. It was the nicest thing he could have possibly done. And, I have loved him as a great person ever since.

[@loveandwater6767]

Aw, such a sweet story!

[@jasmineoldham2989]

The fact that James cares so much for the Buffy fandom and his character and he feels so much immense guilt from everything he didn't witness to realizing through Michael that he suffered as well. I love how Michael is lifting him up and the talk is so endearing thanks again Michael loving every time James stops by. And without realizing it I think James created such a lasting poetic character in Spike.

[@leighcochran7303]

@@jamesmarsters7261 Spike was like Tony Soprano. Always walking a tightrope between good and evil. Loving and hating the character. Never knowing which way they will fall. Suspenseful!

[@Miss_Distress]

But not as bad as Spike’s poetry

[@dreadpiratedan]

born in essex, lived here for my whole life; i was SHOCKED when i found out marsters wasn't english. i'd seen so many americans try english accents and none of them had come anywhere close, to the point where i just had it in my head that anyone who had an english accent had to actually be english. on top of that he seems really sharp and earnest, and a clear speaker who can couch sentiments in incisive, intelligent caveats. very very cool interview, always nice when people you've been impressed by turn out to be cool

[@spackar2720]

I was also very surprised when I found out that James Marsters is not English given how good his British accent is.

[@GoddessPallasAthena]

I heard James Marsters say that, in the beginning, Michael Head was IRRITATED with James' accent and took it upon himself to COACH James, even just barging into his trailer to have him read his lines to critique and coach him. I guess it worked out well!!

[@royeaston6067]

@@spackar2720Britain is 3 separate countries and Northern Ireland, it’s an English accent don’t be an ingnorant American.

[@Eva-tz4zy]

“If every vampire who said they were at the crucifixion was at the crucifixion, it would’ve been like Woodstock!” Is the line you were trying to say at the end I think.

[@BloodofaFool]

I'd LOVE to see you interview Eliza Dushku IF she'd do it. I've always been interested from her shoes what her relationship with Joss was like, what really happened with the Faith, Buffy spin off show, her experiences on Angel, working on doll house as well as Bring It On, and everything else.

[@lenajones6117]

Oh yeah it would be so freaking cool and interesting. I hope it will happen.

[@cathygermay996]

Seriously, James Marsters is the absolute best! They say you should never meet your heroes, because they tend to disappoint, but James surpassed all my expectations. I met him at a Buffy convention held in Cleveland(Another Hellmouth! ;) ) and we talked about my art, I'm an artist/painter, and even to this day, when times get tough, I still remember his encouraging words and I somehow pull myself out of the muck, dust myself off, and try again. He is very generous and genuinely kind.

[@AdinaIspas]

Yeah I always think that "never meet your heroes" stuff is such bullsh-t because it basically implies that what we see in our imagination is fake. Maybe there is a capitalistic element to it that is fake, but that's not the core. You should believe in what you sense, and heroes should believe in what we sense, too. It's the only way we can better ourselves. There's a great line on Smallville about exactly that. Every fandom I've ever been in, all those people turned out to have certain spiritual qualities that were significant for me. They were exploring those things and it came across in their work. So there was always a reason for seeing something special there. In my opinion it is far better to grow through these experiences, rather than avoid whatever the truth may be.

[@Jay_Heinz]

James Marsters is one of those actors that comes along, takes a character that was meant for one thing, and changes him into something totally different. He's an amazing performer and so I would kind of really like to see more of his production work. Let me see an episode he directs or executive produces or just produces, I don't think it's possible to hate the guy... Unless your name is Smosh Whedden.

[@SammyD89]

I know it's a different genre but just like Jaleel White and Family Matters. He was only supposed to be a short lived character. We see how that turned out. Changed the whole show.

[@paulpeterson4216]

The analog I come up with, and it is from long long ago, is Dr. Smith from Lost in Space, Jonathan Harris who did much the same with that character. Though Joss Wheedon would never let an actor re-write all of his scenes like Harris did.

[@Ronzeru]

@@SammyD89 yeah. How did it turn out? We got Sonic.

[@SammyD89]

@@Ronzeru you right he was the voice of Sonic also. But it's crazy thinking of that show without Steve Urkel

[@morrisgautreau6704]

"A bear! You made a bear! Undo it, undo it!" Chair falls over, "What happened? Did we win?" Hands down the funniest moment ever in BUFFY! Made me laugh so hard! James Marsters is such a delight to watch! Loved him on Smallville too! 👋🏻👨🏻‍🦲👍🏻

[@liss72]

that scene is my favourite to🤣👌

[@morrisgautreau6704]

@@liss72 🐻👍

[@jennypeck1186]

YOU MADE A BEAR!!! Will always go down as one of my favorite scenes on the show!!! The delivery of the line was perfection!

[@liss72]

@@jennypeck1186 I had to watch that scene again.after this🤣So good👌👌👌

[@morrisgautreau6704]

@@jennypeck1186 You know it! 😉

[@amg4150]

Out of all the actors in Hollywood, James marsters is the most caring,kind, down to earth, honest and real human being I have ever met! He’s a true professional! He’s a really good guy! 😊

[@ZacharyKatzStein]

What an empathetic human being. How did I not know he was such a kind soul?

[@AndrewSmoot]

Because he's just that good at playing bad/evil, or at least morally ambiguous, characters.

[@lightingthedarkremoteviewi8086]

@@AndrewSmoot Na I saw his Empathy in Spike.

[@jennifermccord8008]

Love love love James Marsters. I met him years ago at a convention and yeah, I know they're paid to be there and interact with fans, but he was so nice and so engaging in a way that really gives an impression he genuinely appreciates his fans. I was in line to get his autograph and I mentioned a particular scene I really liked when it was my turn and it prompted him to start a whole conversation about it. Talented actor and lovely person.

[@jessicapare8779]

James still looks amazing, let’s be honest. Love his voice and relaxed energy as well. Hope he’s doing better mentally since Buffy!

[@cat3357]

im late to the game. but yeh i surly wouldnt kick him out of the bed. hes fiiiiiine. and has aged likea fine wine

[@TravelingBlind]

I’ve discovered and become addicted to this show in the past 24 hours. This is the best episode I’ve seen so far! Incredible discussion. I have always adored James. Both times I’ve met him he was just the kindest, humblest guy.

[@SeanOHansen]

James Marsters is always a pleasure to see interviewed. A very thoughtful, passionate, outright decent dude. Great interview! :)

[@SamanthaSweets]

James Marsters is just a genuine real person he never let the Hollywood life take over him

[@CorbCorbin]

He was already 35, when he first started the show, so he probably had more realistic expectations about his career. He was a surprise hit with fans, and that was his “big break.” Compared with Sarah Michelle Gellar, who wanted a career in films, and felt Buffy was the biggest reason a successful career never materialized.

[@CorbCorbin]

@@jamesmarsters7261 Why are you spamming this comment section? You obviously aren’t the person being interviewed. Are you sad? Even if you were the actual James Marsters, one would still wonder why.

[@AcanthaRayneOakMoon]

My favourite Buffy and Spike episode was when Buffy was invisible. So hilarious. Spike's excuse of doing push ups/press ups 'naked' had me laughing so hard, I peed myself. lol

[@danellae.perezschmieloz5958]

No

[@danellae.perezschmieloz5958]

You haven't watched all buffy seasons right?

[@jamesmarsters7261]

❤️Thanks for your unending love and support you have constantly shown me. I can’t appreciate the unconditional love I have gotten from fans, which for this very reason has got me giving a more sensational entertainment. I’m forever grateful. Where are you watching from?

[@AcanthaRayneOakMoon]

@@danellae.perezschmieloz5958 I've watched it all multiple times. It's not my favourite scene in the whole show but it's my favourite of the two of them.

[@Tamara-mm7us]

Ah…. I remember that scene…. Still makes me giggle🤭♥️

[@jacquig1939]

I don't like James feeling bad that Charisma was outed for him to be on Angel. Joss was furious she got pregnant and it seems like his excuse to get her out, like lying about killing off her character when he said he wouldn't.

[@M_SC]

It’s always more than one thing though right?

[@tzeven1]

James has one of those voices that is just so pleasant to listen too.

[@forslukenhet]

Just recently watched whole Buffy. 6-7 seasons were most deep for me because of Spike's changes. James played undeniably sexy and full of pure suffer character. And, you know, when you watch him for 2 weeks and he's so.. well.. Spike. It's really easy to forget that there is a real person behind him. But here we are. James in a way sounds like Spike with his sensitivity and spark, but after many years of therapy. So self-aware, so empathetic and tactful, but no less charming. Just amazing. Hi from Moscow and thank you both for this podcast. True pleasure.

[@briane2520]

I love that this show exists and helps to destigmatize what we all go through. It'd be awesome to have a beer with Rosenbaum some day. What a cool dude. Glad I stumbled on this channel.

[@InsideOfYouPodcast]

very grateful you found it as well :)

[@choosecarefully408]

I find the whole attitude about "mental health" to be handled as incorrectly as possible in Western society generally. It's designed to make it worse in every possible way. *"You* have to act correctly by the standards of a society that refuses to acknowledge it can be responsible for you _not_ acting correctly." Can anyone think of _more ways_ to blame the victim than Western society? We still label people for having different skin ("African-" American. Oh, so the White people born there are simply "American." Blacks though? Nuh-unh) and we totally deny this. so the problem is really when we're _less_ schizophrenic than the "it's right when _our_ Central Authority figures do it, wrong when anyone else does." I'm not even talking about placing blame. That's a useless exercise. We *celebrate that* though. It justifies acting out against others. I often think that this is exactly what's behind all the supposed mental problems. Taking private $ while in public office is an illegal conflict of interest for obvious reasons; No one can take these amounts of $ allaregreen.us/ then *not vote* in line with what those paying it *tell one* to vote in line with. Yet I can't find a single person in Western society willing to acknowledge that lobbying affects how their politicians vote? I can't *imagine* what having to repress all this hypocrisy does to people. & I can _only imagine_ that making yourselves *do so* is what causes it all. Not specifically politicians mind you: in adulthood we shift the fealty we felt towards our parents in childhood onto the concept of 'Government." We think of the word as a Living Being & worship it as a surrogate-protector/father-figure. But if one was hurt by their parents either because _they_ had some moral failing we became aware of, _or because_ our parents stayed loyal to politicians that we *know* are corrupt (again, _they_ know damned well that they're breaking the law) well... living within that lie has gotta have some effects. Just sayin'.

[@GravityGrave]

Same! I just discovered this channel today and definitely subscribed

[@tammyhayes6920]

​@@InsideOfYouPodcastyou're awesome

[@Rhonda_girl_11]

Love James Marsters and I gotta say that without Spike, the Buffy series would not have been a hit for me. He's my favorite guest I've seen on your show so far - just found your channel and subscribed so I'm catching up. Looking forward to more of "Being Inside of You"! 🤔🤣😊

[@aureliaj.871]

" We are all human beings, no matter what the gulf is " . - James Marsters. I think that is the reason why I love this show ; which is not like usual shows with celebs.

[@ParadiseVids]

I totally burst out laughing at 27:57 when Sarah turns around and says, “WHAT?! Not you too, James! Everyone’s been making fun of me with this hat. I didn’t think you would too! GOD!” 🤣🤣🤣

[@asthajindal5275]

It was my favorite part. God, the softness he brings!🥰

[@GG-cj4jx]

El sombrero era horrible, recuerdo el episodio.

[@Kittyintheraiyn]

"If every vampire who said he was at the Crucifixion was actually there, it would have been like Woodstock. I was actually at Woodstock. That was a weird gig. I fed off a flower person, and I spent the next six hours watchin' my hand move."

[@omila7]

I like when James talks about the scene of Buffy in the burger place...one of my fav scenes is when Spike comes to the burger place and tells Buffy " You chose to be in a consumer profession. I am a consumer. Service me" Now that I am older and this can have a double meaning, its so hilarious

[@misswhiskeykittie]

Wow James is such a cool guy. Really sweet and humble, and just open. It kinda blows my mind to think that he was so distant from the rest of the Buffy cast. He takes his craft really seriously. I always imagine famous actors as having everything and living the best life ever, but I guess it really goes to show that it's not always like that. Buffy had a massive impact on me growing up. The show was huge and I ADORED Spike.

[@ThePetje06]

I met James a few years ago at a Comic Con in the Netherlands. He was very friendly an approachable towards everyone around him. I Had a geat and unforgettable conversation with him back then.

[@LadyVenomWay]

This was such a pleasure to listen to. I would listen to James talk forever. He is such a smart, sophisticated guy. Love this. Love spike! Miss the good ol days!

[@laurentquilan438]

my wife says this : Spike is the most beautiful character who has evolved throughout the episodes and seasons he is certainly clear proof that everyone can change. Too bad buffy never knew he was alive. I would love to see the band again but especially spiky lol! ( Mr marsters super Actor and Singer )

[@RickMiddleton-1]

While watching this interview I found myself "fanboying" so much. We all as an audience got to see 2 of the greatest "tv character villains" arguably of our generation. Lex Luthor talking to Spike....WOW!!! Both actors poured themselves into these characters during their time portraying them and they took each of us on the journey of them growing ( negatively & positively) into the people they were destined to become. I am not sure if you will see this Michael, but if you do all I can say is thank you for giving us this entertaining interview and for all the years you gave us of the greatest Lex ever!!!

[@federicoquiroga3082]

Yo I had the same reaction when I saw both of them on screen it was crazy seeing them together

[@ninjanibba4259]

They were on smallville and had plenty of scenes together

[@nicolenic9757]

I know 16 yr old me would just DIE to see Michael and James in one room. Hottest tv villains, especially for early 2000's tv shows in which arguably most tv villains are throw away actors or cringy -- and yet they carried such great charm through that!

[@sarahneuren7057]

As someone who did tons of theatre in high school and minored in theatrical design in college, the part where James was talking about the 6 hour play where all of the lighting cues disappeared, absolutely made my heart drop. If I've learned anything doing theatre it's 1. Mistakes happen and, 2. As long as you work with it and make it look intentional the audience likely won't notice or care.

[@vandergrad]

Great conversation. James Marsters is such a genuine human being. How can you not love him?

[@lilyrose3]

Michael's a natural at interviewing and James is such an interesting guy. Really enjoyed this conversation!

[@gardenkeeperjg]

I just love to hear James speak about his craft and experiences. So articulate and informative.

[@mahastikia9676]

The magic of James Marsters/Spike is such that after all these years I watch this and feel exactly the same feelings I had watching the series! He was such a powerful charachter/actor. Ahhh 🖤🖤🖤🖤 🥺

[@mahastikia9676]

@@jamesmarsters7261 yayyy thank you for replying and I think I'm blushing! ☺ I live in Turkey and I watched the whole show back when it aired on tv here (early 2000s). I had groups of friends who were fans as well. Some used to gather for dvd sessions later on. I remember being so caught up in your unrequited love for Buffy, one friend and I would call each other after the episodes and talk about it... the scene with the cross in the church got us ranting about true love and all sorts of things! That's the power of good cinema! (Tv series are small movies) Nowadays I'm searching for online streaming to see it all again. Hoping to see you in some new productions 🍀

[@jamesmarsters7261]

@@mahastikia9676Thanks for your love and support from Turkey. I’m forever grateful for all the love and support you have been showing me. I will love to create a warm atmosphere to know your opinions and thoughts about my movies and music

[@jamesmarsters7261]

@@mahastikia9676 Are you on telegram?

[@jamesmarsters7261]

@@mahastikia9676 Specify with your name when you send me a message on the telegram account below

[@jamesmarsters7261]

jamesmarstersofficial

[@anastasiia2981]

James is amazing! I loved watching Buffy being 10-13 yo, living in Kyiv , Ukraine 🇺🇦 helping me establish basic understanding of good and bad!! Basically taught me better than a school!! Thank you for this podcast 😊 PS. Spaffy best life realistic love couple ever! Pretty in line with life struggle and finding your life buddy ❤

[@TheGeekAuthority]

I've always admired Mr. Marsters many credits and very diverse acting abilities. Listening to him talk about the theater, TV and Film industry and its quirky nature is both educational and insightful. Thanks Michael for a great interview and great questions. Bravo gentlemen! Thank you both!

[@stewmott3763]

I've always been fascinated by that weird liminal zone between fantasy and reality where actors seem to spend a lot of their time, and JM illustrates it beautifully when he talks about falling in love with Buffy.

[@alejandrabua1046]

I love him 👏

[@GG-cj4jx]

Para mí es completamente inimaginable. Es una locura.

[@TheMaskedHero]

I love how Michael is always caught up on being Lex, but he never gives himself the credit for being an incredible Flash. Maybe his voice is too heroic.

[@MarionTatum-ke5kx]

Spike was and still is the sexiest vamp ever, while Angel was broodingly handsome, Spike was the total package on Buffy! James did an excellent job playing him!

[@loriburnip]

I'd want Angel to protect me if I was in danger, I would want spike to hold me up against a wall and make me feel a little pain😂 that's the difference in my mind.

[@energymaven7537]

54:38 The moment you realize you love both the character and the actor. Excellent human. 10/10.

[@zodden01]

This podcast keeps getting better and better. Michael is a natural when it comes to interviewing.

[@richellekohler2165]

Totally came for James but totally subscribed for Michael!!! this is awesome!!

[@johnganner6102]

Firstly, I think Marsters is, as always, very gracious and forgiving when it comes to Joss Whedon! His demand for same pay on Angel as it was on Buffy was in no way a contributor to Charisma Carpenter's firing! Whedon had it in for her! The John Barrowman issue? He ALREADY apologised for this 13yrs earlier! Noel Clarke, who worked with Barrowman on Doctor Who, brought it back up recently! But what everyone seems to have forgotten is the Noel Clarke was also in trouble at the VERY SAME TIME, women were coming out and accusing him of forcing himself on them!

[@beckywillis5640]

100% Noel just wanted the heat off off him, nothing similar in the situations at all

[@mskaylamichele92]

Buffy: What are you doing here!? Spike: I- Buffy: Five words or less! Spike: Out. For. A. Walk......Bitch! Classic.

[@link-182]

That is probably my favorite spike moment

[@gricelserrano5383]

Ha. What episode is that?

[@lew-e]

@@gricelserrano5383 kzbin.info/www/bejne/f16bdXygnK6jnKs&ab_channel=danehb89

[@grimmbreak]

@@gricelserrano5383 season 5 episode 5 "no place like home" i think

[@valeriemoreno8535]

I met James at a con in Texas. He was so kind and actually had genuine conversations with his fans. I went all fan girl and he totally appreciated it! I asked him to please say my favorite line when Spike is caught by Buffy hanging outside her house and James smiles and in an instant he switched to Spike and said the line! It was AWESOME! Love James!

[@carlpark1006]

There was a lot of great insight that I’ve never heard him talk about either from a con or other interviews. The fact that him trying to get paid the same amount of money on Angel that he did on buffy might’ve helped get Charisma cut from season five was a shock. It definitely makes sense. I also love the story of how he (Spike) falls in love with Buffy.

[@Paulafan5]

No Spike, no season 5 and all the other actors would have been out of a job (not to mention the crew).

[@carlpark1006]

@@Paulafan5 That was a significant point as well. Crazy to think about. I loved season five of Angel.

[@loboblack3092]

I personally think that James was over qualified for his role in Buffy. He pretty much left the other actors or actresses in the dust...which is why Joss was forced to keep him on. Alyson pretty much did the same thing. These performers kinda carried the show a bit until it gained traction again. This is just my two cents, obviously.

[@beckyenglish4783]

I think you’d have a lot of people agreeing with you.

[@ninjanibba4259]

I felt the same way

[@HDGaminTutorials]

I watched it for sarah Michelle gellar it was her show and she stole the show

[@lightingthedarkremoteviewi8086]

I only watched Buffy for him.

[@viewmaster617]

The fact that James Marsters is a gamer that alone makes him a national treasure

[@seranelson5745]

Loved you on Torchwood! “And I’ve seen his penis” casually dropped into the conversation. I am still belly laughing. I have been feeling a bit sad, it’s the anniversary of my daughter’s death. We watched Buffy together. Thank you for lightening my mood tonight. Bless you.

[@chrisozmcintosh8891]

Thank you for bringing him back. Definitely one of the most interesting and down to earth guests you've had. So well spoken about the craft and the industry

[@heatherwarner865]

I was blessed to get to spend time accidental QT time with James many moons ago at a convention as he set up for a concert. He is one of the most lovely people on the planet and I still have the CD and his set list from that night that he autographed to me. It will always remain one of my favorite hours of my life. Everything he is in this video is how he is in person; gracious, funny, humble and incredibly witty, smart and kind.

[@clairedisapia]

I loved Spike on Buffy and Angel . He was a much needed boost

[@user-id4vx7ss1s]

My God, I adore this man and was/am obsessed with Spike. His portrayal of Spike was remarkable and intoxicating. I'm in another rewatch of the series and I cannot take my eyes off of him whenever he's onscreen. Quite literally the best television character of all time. Once in a lifetime role.

[@MarkRosengarten]

James' work on The Dresden Files audiobooks is some of the best I've ever heard. He really brought the stories to life.

[@ellagrant6190]

This interview ended up being a lot more philosophical than I thought it would be and included some really interesting views and good personal advice. I really appreciate it. Thank you Michael and thank you James. Also, thank you for the years of Spike and Lex. Finally, if Wolfenstein ever gets the movie treatment, James has my vote as Blazkowicz.

[@cyn.05]

His explanation is So Revealing; He WAS Spike and we Loved every moment of it man!! Buffy & Angel were fine but Spike was The most entertaining to watch.

[@pietr036it]

It's funny, i just Saw James at Dallas Fan expo, i was his Audio engineer the evening he did a live performance with his son, he's a really nice guy in person.

[@Hermetis]

A little late to the party, but I loved this. Really enjoyed hearing James is a big video game player since I've made games for 20+ years. A dream project of mine would be a Dresden Files game where James is doing all the VO for Harry. Good stuff, Michael.

[@ardiffley-zipkin9539]

James. Marsters is my favorite actor and character from Buffy. Still attractive and interesting ! He should have been utilized much more in Buffy and Angel. He made both shows. He should be in demand now considering his professionalism.

[@topher2113]

James is always so great! He gives off so much honesty when he speaks. I would love to sit down with these two guys over a beer. No doubt a good time would be had :)

[@sheilalobert715]

The fact that James thinks about how we are going to be viewed in 100 years while critiquing the actions of the past...I freakin' love that.

[@KiLovely]

Woooow I absolutely loooooved this interview! I had no idea James had such a deep soul and such a big heart. I truly loved Spiked and I was sad when he died on the Buffy finale, but someone had to you know. I was so happy when he joined Angel. Learning about his method acting only makes me respect his talent even more. He stayed alone for 7 years! Damn that is serious commitment Honey! And hearing his thoughts about slavery, omg I teared up.

[@lucymay446]

I loved spike, I felt so strongly for him and I was kinda annoyed that they made him go through so much pain, sometimes unnecessarily.

[@surferdude4487]

"Let Me Rest In Peace" was one of the best moments ever on the small screen.

[@darthverminates9708]

I wasn't that into the episode but did like that song / part

[@PrincessHeathaB]

I would riot if they recast Spike. James embodies that character.

[@jamesmarsters7261]

❤️Thanks for your unending love and support you have constantly shown me. I can’t appreciate the unconditional love I have gotten from fans, which for this very reason has got me giving a more sensational entertainment. I’m forever grateful. Where are you watching from?

[@eleanorwolff1110]

I love James 😍 Amazing actor, he mesmerizes me. I believe Evan Peters could play an interesting and compelling Spike, though. He has that dark edge, and the vulnerability.

[@NKWTI]

No you wouldn't

[@alanpennie8013]

I would hope for no Spike in the proposed sequel. I would hope they'd get James back to play a different vampire.

[@HDGaminTutorials]

Buffy will be a black lesbian so you wont have to worry about him being in the show cause she wont like male vampires

[@negation1978]

What?! Rosenbaum you know I love James! Pretty cool you got him back. Definitely need to check out this episode sooner than later. He’s just so talented and an all around nice guy.

[@InsideOfYouPodcast]

hope you dig it Lisa. just as good if not better having him in studio

[@MissTease77]

This tv show resonated so much with me when I was a teen , I’m in my mid thirties now and seeing these interviews for the first time , you know times changed technologies are around now , those days if I missed a show thats it was gone So now when I rewatch the show and now seeing these interviews I appreciate James’ genuinenesses and realness and warmth and openness and I see not just the character but the actors so much better now Even Michael , I use to watch Smallville and I’m seeing so much realness in him now , appreciated this talk so much .

[@thisoneiskym]

Absolutely love James, he brings a smile to my face with every interview/fan interaction and screen appearance! 💖💖💖

[@Adry0110]

OMG, thank you for inviting James back! I LOVED the first time around. He's son funny and open about everything you ask (still cannot believe he's not English). 😂

[@alfasou]

The thing with Spike never aging and Buffy being elderly happens in The Last Vampire Slayer. It's great.

[@paperproductions85]

"Home sweet home" was actually his first line in the show (and iconic first scene!)

[@tashahere3380]

Why not an animated continuation of Buffy? Everyone can be on it without worries about appearance.

[@kikib8434]

Cool idea 😁.

[@theangelproductions]

I heard they were actually planning to do this but no studios would pick it up

[@cheese1ak]

As long as it follows those crazy ass comics that continue the buffy series, the few I read were freaking nuts and I loved them!

[@mystiscott7471]

There was one kinda. The first season or two of the comic book continuation were animated and released on DVD.

[@tashahere3380]

@@mystiscott7471 Yeah I heard it was "motion" comics. Wasn't received well. I just wish for a full blown animated continuation. Like how DC has with their superhero movies.

[@NMEntertains]

This just reminds me of the first time I heard James’ real voice and thought to myself, “Why does he sound like that?” Seriously thought he was British! 😂 He is so good!

[@danellae.perezschmieloz5958]

I missed Charisma so much on Angel. Season 5 was just not the same without her

[@christinaharzelli7683]

Same, it was a real shame she wasn't in it except for 1 episode

[@TheMaya0209]

Yeah, I think if they let go Amy and/or J. August instead of Charisma would've been better, I mean I looove Gunn and Fred, but they ruined their characters the last season, especially Fred's

[@jemmathompson1829]

@@jamesmarsters7261 I’m watching from the West Midlands in the UK. I was lucky enough to meet you once and I still hope to work with you in the future.

[@danellae.perezschmieloz5958]

@@jamesmarsters7261 Hi, I'm watching from Argentina (South America). I don't know if you are the real James but you were brilliant on Buffy. Spike is my favourite character. You are the best.

[@danellae.perezschmieloz5958]

@@TheMaya0209 Definitely, would have loved to see Spike interacting more with Cordelia. I'm so sorry about Fred, they really ruined her character...

[@LizaBMarie]

You guys were great to listen to. I hope you have James on your show again in the near future. You vibe well together. Loved the stories, and metaphors, about method acting too. It gave me a better insight as to what an actor might go through, and a better appreciation as well!

[@lavararrington9007]

Marsters was easily my MVP of Buffy as a whole, but especially seasons 5-7.

[@Visciouscirce]

Shout out to Buffy who paved the way for fantasy/drama TV & some of my fav shows like supernatural! Love James M.!!

[@MelodyWork]

The creator of supernatural was a big buffy fan funny enough.

[@claudes.whitacre1241]

Marsters was phenomenal in Runaways. I remember the first time I saw him not use an English Accent. I thought his American accent was excellent. Now my whole world is turned inside out.

[@benarcher4874]

Are you American or English?

[@claudes.whitacre1241]

@@benarcher4874 American.

[@benarcher4874]

It’s refreshing to hear an American to point out our accent correctly usually they say it’s a British accent which could be one of 4 countries 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@theseventhhokage289]

James Masters did such an amazing Job as Brainiac on Smallville. Great Interview.

[@InsideOfYouPodcast]

thanks pal

[@bellatronics]

@@InsideOfYouPodcast Michael, I just wanted to let you know that someone just created an account impersonating James. They created it one day ago, have 3 followers and no content. They have left 103 comments on your channel since then ( that statistic came up when I clicked on the user! I didn’t count them 😂), replying to fans of James’ pretending to be him. The person has poor English and can’t put their sentences together properly - so does a rather poor job of impersonating James. The concerning thing is that this person cuts and pastes the same comment asking a load of women where they are commenting from ( like geographically). I will report the channel, but I thought you would want to pass it on to James so that he can report it which will have more clout with KZbin. Thanks for the fantastic interview with James btw! I was knackered after watching so just left a comment hoping that your health is good. I have so much to say about the interview that I planned to come back and leave a proper comment. Anyways, it was a great interview, I will say more later. I have watched your previous interview with James, but I have subscribed now and will check out some others!

[@katherines5673]

@@bellatronics thanks for posting this. I was one person who had replied and the first reply I was like ok could be him but then he tried to get me to add something called telegram and that's when I was like uh yeah no not him. Saw the same thing-about him having 3 subscribers too lol

[@bellatronics]

@@katherines5673 That’s well dodgy him trying to get you to add Telegram. That’s a private messaging app like WhatsApp. What a creep. I hope that we can get his account removed or Michael tells James so that he can report it as the one being impersonated. This bloke does such a bad job of impersonating James! He would never talk about his work in that way. Or go online interacting with a load of fans eh. 🙄🙄 Anyways since he tried to get you to interact personally with him off of KZbin you should report him for harassment as well as impersonation.

[@Dr3Mc3Ninja]

I finally got around to watching the last interview with James yesterday, this couldn't be timed any better. I wish James would record a full, high quality version of Nirvana's Come As You Are, because his voice suits it so well. He is a gamer, he gets better and better. I need more Torchwood and I need James to return.

[@Miss_Distress]

I never thought about that(Nirvana cover), but you’re so right!

[@cat3357]

ok yes. he is perfect for that song. sombody hit him up on twitter

[@AK-ms5cm]

I love how chill and honest James is.

[@32mybelle]

Loved Spike! He made that show for me! Thanks for this amazing interview. I was a Buffy fan mostly because of Spike.

[@russellward4624]

James is too nice a person. Charsima wasn't brought back because Joss was a douche. Nothing to do with him.

[@32mybelle]

Yes! She got pregnant and it messed up Joss Whedon''s plans, so he punished her by writing her out.

[@timrush9779]

As a Buffy die-hard I love these episodes! And Michael, for me. you're the DEFINITIVE Lex, along with Clancy Brown (who in my mind you just grew up to be....)

[@joshtiscareno1312]

Clancy Brown is great in *anything*. But yes, he was a great Lex.

[@theresemarkham9387]

So I just finished this episode and it was wonderful. James definitely opened up more and had so many great stories. It was interesting to hear how he got into the character of Spike. Another great episode Michael.

[@joshwalty9408]

James Marsters is an amazing human. Thanks for bringing smiles to our faces.

[@pjbynum1]

If you ever get James back on the cast, I'd love to hear about his time recording the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. He kills as an auditor!

[@GGirlxoxoA]

James was awesome playing Spike, such a good character. Love the in person interviews!

[@RadicalValkyrie]

He is always so wonderful to listen to. Never get sick of his experiences and wisdom.

[@RyouNoMegami]

"And they will add some Portishead " loved this line from Rosenbaum . It's true she's does make some good music

[@peterowley2014]

Spike's redemption ark was legendary. James an awesome actor and person!

[@Claudiurogojan1234]

“No I beat you, LEX LUTHOR” one of the greatest Lex luthor lines delivered by yours truly James Marsters.

[@striderreborn1467]

It's funny because Marsters actually voiced Luthor once. lol

[@brookswilliams5239]

@@striderreborn1467 yeah in DC Universe Online that's what the previous comment was referencing

[@rachelwilson3269]

Spike AND Lex?! Be still my unstable fangirl heart 😍😍😍 lol

[@jasontiff1]

Right 🤩🥰

[@jamesmarsters7261]

❤️Thanks for your utmost love and support you have constantly shown me. I can’t appreciate the unconditional love I have gotten from fans, which for this very reason has got me giving a more sensational entertainment. I’m forever grateful. Where are you watching from?

[@DCMarvelMultiverse]

Regarding Barrowman, humor is one of those things whereby "getting it" changes with the times. Streaking in the 70s? People get it as a fool streaking. Today? They would get it as a perv getting their jollies. Recognize.

[@blackwidow5228]

And regarding Noel Clarke (the guy who is accusing John Barrowman of misconduct) has had multiple allegations from women on the set of Doctor Who and events of sexual misconduct. Including sexual harassment and groping. So...yeah

[@damienlee2424]

Thanks James and Michael for your service on tv. Much appreciated