Tampa Comic-Con 2016: Ray Park talks Darth Maul, returning in new ‘Star Wars’ films
With Tampa Comic-Con in full swing, Ray Park and Ian McDiarmid took part in a Star Wars panel to reflect on their work in the popular series of films beginning with Park praising the franchise and addressing any interest in returning as Darth Maul.
“I enjoyed re-enacting stories of my childhood. I didn’t read the books but I enjoyed the comics. I would very much enjoy to come back as Maul.”
Park added later that “I never thought Darth Maul would return until I watched Clone Wars. I have told my son that Daddy will have to start working and training hard again so that I’m ready if the opportunity does arise.”
Park is referring to Maul’s return in the popular animated series
It was Park’s dazzling stunts which landed him the role and he praises Phantom Menace‘s stunt coordinator. Nick Gillard.
“My stunt master, Nick, allowed me to show my flips and spins as Darth Maul.”
Park reflected working in the Maul make-up, a favorite scene and his love of the 1977 classic film.
“With the contacts in, it made it difficult but I enjoyed all the martial arts and gymnastics that I could incorporate. I saw the first film as a young kid and that actually inspired me to begin my martial arts, so to have the opportunity to work as a Sith was fantastic.”
Darth Maul’s big return on “Clone Wars”
Fans questioned if the Star Wars popularity effected them in any “weird” ways, prompting Park to explain that he “wouldn’t say weird, but my role as Darth Maul, I believe, allowed me to get my other roles in X-Men and other films.”
Park played Toad in Bryan Singer’s X-Men, Edgar on Heroes and Snake Eyes in the new G.I. Joe films.
“I enjoyed doing all the different roles I’ve played. I think G.I. Joe was one of my favorites because I was able to use so much of my martial arts skills.”
Park confessed that he currently didn’t have any projects underway, but turned that into a tease as well.
“Nothing, I’m unemployed but I have been asked to read this and that so there are opportunities and hopes to return” (to the new Star Wars films).
For more information, full list of guests and details, visit the official website: http://tampabaycomiccon.com/
Kids 12 and under are FREE and do NOT require any sort of credential for entry.
Check out the full panel coverage of Ian McDiarmid’s comments, click here
The Dispatch have been covering the Tampa Comic-Con for years. Here are some of the most popular posts:
- Jim Sternako talks comic books, new book and Tampa – click HERE
- Arthur Suydam talks Marvel Zombies and more – HERE
- Brandon Selph previews Star Wars 501st appearing at Tampa Comic-Con 2014
- Mike Perkins talks ‘The Stand’ graphic novel
- 2013 Tampa Comic-Con photos
