If you buy a product or service through a link on our website, The Hollywood Reporter may receive a commission. Matthew Lillard, known for his Dungeons & Dragons adventures, is taking his love for the game to a whole new level with a line of game-inspired spirits. The actor, along with screenwriter Justin Ware and Tim Sparapan, co-founder of Blue Run Spirits, has started a new alcohol company called Find Familiar Spirits. Their debut whiskey, Quest’s End, is set to launch in October.
Quest’s End is not your average whiskey. Each bottle is part of an ongoing story, and the first four bottles are named after characters from the game: Paladin, Rogue, Warlock, and Dragon. The Paladin blend, distilled in Indiana and Kentucky, is characterized by notes of vanilla and fruit with a touch of spice. The artwork on the bottles, created by fantasy and sci-fi illustrator Tyler Jacobson, features maps and hit points, making it a truly immersive experience.
But Lillard’s love for D&D doesn’t stop at whiskey. He is also bringing the game to the small screen with a new series called Faster, Purple Worm! Kill Kill!. The show, which will air on the free ad-supported streaming channel Dungeons & Dragons Adventures, is a mix of improv and live gameplay, featuring a rotating cast of characters played by Lillard, Seth Green, Skeet Ulrich, and others. According to Lillard, the show is a great ambassador for the game and showcases the different ways D&D can be played.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Lillard shared his journey with D&D, from abandoning the game as a teenager to rediscovering his love for it as an adult. He also discussed how his TTRPG company, Beadle & Grimm’s, came to be and how his gaming group has managed to stay together for almost 30 years.
Lillard’s passion for D&D is evident in everything he does, from his whiskey line to his comedy series. He even hinted at future fantasy fandom partnerships for Find Familiar Spirits, promising to bring joy and excitement to fans of different communities.
So, whether you’re a fan of D&D or just love a good whiskey, Quest’s End and Faster, Purple Worm! Kill Kill! are sure to satisfy your cravings. Grab a bottle of Paladin and gather your friends for a night of adventure and spirits. And remember, there’s no wrong way to play Dungeons & Dragons.
Rediscovering Passion and Building New Ventures
We have dedicated our entire lives to the entertainment industry, and while we have loved every minute of it, we knew it was time for something different. We craved the freedom to shape our own destinies and create something that truly resonated with our passions. This is where the concept of a Paladin came into play – someone with unwavering vision and a strong belief in their convictions. We believed that starting our story with this powerful character would set the tone for the journey ahead.
Just as our Paladin character embarks on a quest with unyielding faith, we too embarked on a journey to build something unique for fandoms. We entered into discussions with successful producers who possessed incredibly popular IPs. Our idea was to create in-world whiskeys that would tie into film and television projects, and then offer them directly to the passionate fans of these shows and communities. The potential was immense, and we were eager to explore this untapped market.
You may be wondering how we transitioned from a group of friends who have been playing Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) for over 25 years to venturing into these new companies. The answer lies in our passion and love for the game. Playing D&D has been a constant source of joy, creativity, and camaraderie for us. Our journey began when one of our friends brought the core rule books to our attention during our time at acting school in New York. We became enthralled by the game, and it quickly became a regular part of our lives.
Despite our busy lives and successful careers, we found ourselves craving something more. We were in the midst of a midlife crisis and longed for another fulfilling endeavor. That’s when the idea for Beadle & Grimm’s was born. We decided to create premium editions of tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs), collaborating with renowned brands such as Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: the Gathering, and Critical Role. Our passion for fandom and success in this business led us to establish Find Familiar Spirits, a company focused on crafting premium spirits inspired by the TTRPG space.
Building Beadle & Grimm’s was no small feat. We had to balance our day jobs, be present for our families, and still find time to work on the company. As a result, we made a firm commitment to spend quality time together as a team every quarter, no matter the circumstances. These weekends were filled with games, laughter, and a sense of rejuvenation. In a world constantly buzzing with technology and never-ending work schedules, these game sessions became a sanctuary where we could reconnect with ourselves and each other.
We firmly believe that sitting around a gaming table, whether it’s a TTRPG or any other game, is the best way to spend a life. It reminds us of the joy, passion, and creativity that fuels our ventures. Playing games continually renews our commitment to Beadle & Grimm’s, Find Familiar Spirits, and our pursuit of happiness in Hollywood. It grounds us and serves as a constant reminder of our purpose.
Our Hollywood connections have also played a crucial role in our new ventures. One of our dear friends, Justin Ware, is a talented screenwriter whom we met on a movie set many years ago. We have always shared a dream of creating our own shows, and together we have pitched numerous ideas in town. While the path to success in Hollywood is often filled with challenges, our friendship and shared passion keep us pushing forward.
In essence, our story is one of rediscovery and adaptation. We have taken our years of experience in the entertainment industry, combined with our unwavering love for games, and transformed them into two thriving companies. Our journey may have started with a Paladin’s conviction, but it has evolved into something much greater – a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the joy that comes from playing games.
Making Movies and Building an Entrepreneurial Spirit
In the world of Hollywood, the process of creating shows and movies is famously challenging. As everyone in the industry knows, it can be virtually impossible to get a project together. This has led to a lot of pain and suffering for those involved, particularly when it comes to finding time in busy schedules.
The reality is that if actors were working for 50 weeks a year, there would be no time to pursue other ventures or build additional companies. The greatest struggle for artists isn’t the work itself or the effort required to bring it to life, but rather the time between jobs. This period of waiting can be detrimental to one’s mental health and overall well-being.
Early on in my acting career, I used to have daily check-ins with my agent and manager, constantly seeking updates on my career. This constant state of panic and uncertainty, whether you have work or not, can have a negative impact on every aspect of your life. It was about 10 or 15 years ago that I realized the importance of finding joy outside of acting and the Hollywood scene.
I began to explore other avenues to not only provide for my family but also to feed my own entrepreneurial spirit. This is where Beadle & Grimm’s came into the picture. I also started teaching and generating new opportunities. These endeavors allowed me to diversify my life and find fulfillment outside of acting.
As time went on, we started to see the success of Beadle and Grimm’s. It’s truly amazing to witness the impact of creating something from the ground up. Alongside this, I realized that my dream D&D table doesn’t consist of famous actors or personalities, but rather my own family. Playing the game with my kids and watching them take on heroic roles and solve problems collectively is incredibly fulfilling.
In terms of gaming essentials, simplicity is always a priority for me. Caffeine, preferably from my Nespresso machine, is a non-negotiable for those marathon gaming sessions. I also have a deep appreciation for playing in-person and Wyrmwood gaming tables provide an unmatched experience. As a player character (PC), the choice of dice can truly enhance the gaming experience, and I highly recommend Dispel Dice for their intricate designs.
When I’m the Game Master (GM), I strive to craft immersive stories, and tools like WizKids miniatures and Dwarven Forge terrain are essential. Beyond the gaming table, I have a love for understated yet stylish gear, with Imogene and Willie being a top pick. And of course, celebrating successful late-night monster-slaying sessions with Clayton & Crume rocks glasses is a must!
In conclusion, I have learned that finding joy in life requires embracing opportunities beyond acting and Hollywood. Building something from scratch, like Beadle & Grimm’s, has been a rewarding experience. Playing D&D with my family brings immense satisfaction, and I have discovered a love for various gaming essentials and stylish gear. Ultimately, pursuing these passions has brought balance and fulfillment to my life. So, Oprah, watch out!
Title: Illuminating the Glitz and Glamour: Unraveling the Timeless Journey of Madonna, Trump, and 40 Years in the Queer Spotlight
Introduction:
The entertainment industry has witnessed numerous luminaries whose potent influence has transcended time and cultural boundaries. Names like Madonna, Trump, and a rich history of queer representation in the spotlight have become emblematic of this glittering world. In this blog post, we dive into their remarkable journeys, exploring their impact on pop culture, and shedding light on the transformative power they possess.
Part 1: The Timeless Queen of Reinvention – Madonna:
Madonna’s unrivaled evolution as an artist and her indomitable spirit has captivated audiences for over four decades. Constantly pushing boundaries, she breaks societal norms with her unapologetic artistic expression. Through her music, fashion choices, and fearless stance on sexuality, Madonna empowers countless individuals, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community. Her unwavering support has been a beacon of hope, fostering acceptance, and inspiring generations.
Part 2: The Maverick in the Oval Office – Trump:
While controversial and divisive, it is impossible to ignore the impact of Donald Trump on pop culture and the political landscape. His prowess as a businessman catapulted him into the public eye, and later, his unorthodox presidential campaign gained him an even wider following. Love him or hate him, Trump’s audaciousness and undeniable showmanship have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and sparked endless debates.
Part 3: Queer Spotlight in Hollywood:
From its earliest beginnings, the entertainment industry has had a complex relationship with the queer community. However, over the years, the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in Hollywood has taken significant strides. Sydney Sweeney, Sadie Sink, Anne Hathaway, Angela Bassett, and Jodie Turner-Smith are among the rising stars who celebrate and support their queer fans. They understand the importance of using their positions to shine a light on inclusivity and diversity, creating a much-needed space for queer narratives across various platforms.
Part 4: Beyond the Glitz: The Environmental Cost of Red Carpet Fashion:
Behind the glamour and razzmatazz of the red carpet lies a harsh reality that often goes unnoticed – the environmental impact of fashion choices. From extravagant gowns to tailored suits, the excessive consumption and waste associated with red carpet fashion is undeniable. As the voices for change grow louder, it is imperative for both celebrities and the industry to embrace sustainable fashion choices that align with a greener tomorrow.
Conclusion:
Madonna, Trump, and the queer stars who paved their own paths in Hollywood share a common thread – their ability to captivate audiences and navigate the ever-changing entertainment landscape. Whether through their revolutionary music, audacious politics, or unwavering support for marginalized communities, they have forever influenced our cultural zeitgeist. As we marvel at their journeys, let’s also remember the need for environmental consciousness in an industry radiating both glamour and responsibility.
Leave a Reply