As Tom took part in the HP Promotional Extravaganza this past month, we received many reports from various interviewers on what Tom is like as they gave copy to the words Tom had to say. Yet, as most often happens in the world of performance, there are people behind the scenes helping to make these interviews happen, and what these people see during these interviews is often a story left untold

As Tom gave answer to multiple questions on one particular day of interview upon interview, a lone voice stood by silently, waiting to give voice to what they saw later after their work was done.

This is Leanna’s story.

Draco and Me

I have several jobs. All of which I’m blessed enough to enjoy. My favourite of them is writing books, of course. Another occasional job is doing background/extra or stand-in work for film and TV. Another is stage managing at a small TV studio which specializes in media tours, where I’m the lone human in a room, on a headset, with famous people. I’ve met a lot of really interesting personalities in the past few years. I spent a 14 hour day on set for the latest Ben Stiller film last week, which was cool. But only a few of my experiences get me really, really, jumping-up-and-down excited when going into the studio for a media tour. For example, The Muppets. (Follow that link to see a ridiculous happy Leanna).

And Monday, I got another wish fulfilled; to meet a cast member of Harry Potter. And not just any cast member, but a Slytherin. I said to my boss when I first started working at the studio a few years ago; “If there is ANY Harry Potter press tours that come through here, I will never forgive you if you don’t bring me in to work it.” Thankfully we’re friends enough for me to say that, and he was good on his word. And so I present to you: Me and Tom Felton, Draco Malfoy.

Could there be any more of a SQUEE expression on my face? What isn’t visible is my Slytherin pin I was wearing in House solidarity. Major House points. In all seriousness, Tom Felton is one of the nicest guys in the world, gracious, kind, easy to chat with, funny as hell, great in interviews and an all around stand-up young man who the world has watched grow up. That’s a lot of pressure but he’s handled it beautifully. He’s genuinely humbled and grateful for the opportunity, but also excited for his next projects. (Like his music (!) and a Planet of the Apes prequel, Rise of the Apes). Oh, yeah, and he’s really cute. I made my friends in The Group That Shall Not Be Named very jealous. I can’t wait to watch the midnight showing with the TGTSNBN crew this week, now 700 strong! Wow!

It makes my day when stars live up to their billing and deserve every bit of their success. These films feature the best casting in the world, and it was fascinating to hear about the close-knit dynamic of the cast, the incredible journey these films have taken, bringing the world along on pages and screen thanks to J. K. Rowling’s genius.

Cheers, Tom, for being a consummate gentleman and a major highlight of my year. 🙂