We Speak Actors

Acclaimed Award-Winning Screenwriter and Novelist Rodney Barnes Celebrates the Legacy of Blacula with Anticipated Graphic Novel “Blacula: Return of The King”

Published

2 years ago

February 1, 2023

Rodney Barnes, celebrated screenwriter, and Eisner Award-nominated author has just released his anticipated graphic novel “Blacula: Return of The King”, today as the first release through his new production company and publishing imprint, Zombie Love Studios. The graphic novel, illustrated by famed artist and “Killadelphia” collaborator Jason Shawn Alexander, was inspired by the cult-classic MGM film “Blacula” which was released in 1972 as one of the top blaxploitation films in history. Rodney has brought the Blacula character to the present-day, with a new storyline and modernized rendition.

Set in Los Angeles, two souls, one looking for vengeance and the other seeking the truth, share one thing in common; they are both searching for the legendary vampire Blacula. Tina Thomas is a reporter for the blog Dark Knights, which chronicles all things unnatural, uneasy, and undead. She meets a young man named Kross, who asked her to help him kill Blacula, after his family was forever changed by the vampire.

Alexander’s attention to detail and undeniable artistry depicts each scene of the graphic novel in a mesmerizing way, capturing readers into the alluring story through his imagery. Rodney’s rendition is both chilling and fascinating, and not only pays homage to the Blacula we know and love, but breathes new life into his character. The graphic novel, which is both available on Amazon or through your favorite bookstore or comic book shop, is the first of the Blacula series set to release this year for avid readers and fans of the genre.

Rodney has maintained his illustrious career in Hollywood for decades as a sought-after screenwriter for top television shows including his work with Fox’s “Everybody Hates Chris”, Adult Swim’s “The Boondocks”, Hulu’s “Wu Tang: An American Saga” and currently Executive Producer for HBO’s “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty”. His emphatic voice has set him apart as one of the great writers of our time, whether on screen or on the page. Rodney is also the co-creator of the Eisner nominated series, “Killadelphia,” with four collections published and currently scoring perfect reviews in its fifth story arc.

“I’m excited for the world to finally see this labor of love. Jason Shawn Alexander and I, along with team Zombie Love Studios have poured our hearts into resurrecting Prince Mamuwalde aka “Blacula” for a new generation. I hope they enjoy it as much as we did putting it together“, Barnes stated.

With first looks with genre media and through Rodney’s own social media feeds, this graphic novel is already primed to be one of the year’s most talked about releases. Rodney will appear at The Barnes & Noble at The Grove in Los Angeles on Saturday February 11 at 2PM, for exclusive insight into the ideation of the graphic novel, as well as the writer’s personal history with the character, and what he has planned next for Blacula.

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We Speak Actors

‘Elkhorn’ star Travis Lee Eller talks Westerns, character-building, and the art of the perfect hat

Published

1 week ago

February 12, 2025

Anna Sutton

Travis Lee Eller isn’t just an actor—he’s a storyteller deeply immersed in the world of Westerns, both on-screen and off. Whether portraying rugged frontiersmen or crafting authentic, weathered cowboy hats through his business, Ugly Outlaw Hats, Eller understands that every detail—especially the right hat—helps define a character. Currently, you can catch him in ‘The Rebel’, a Star Wars fan film directed by Casey Oberhansli, now streaming on YouTube. Later this year, he’ll appear in two Western short films, ‘Darlin’’ and ‘Stubborn’, both directed by Robert Gamperl and set to make the film festival rounds before landing on streaming platforms. And, of course, fans of ‘Elkhorn’ can look forward to season two, premiering in late 2025 produced by Morningstar Entertainment on the INSP Network. We caught up with Eller to talk about his career, the legacy of Westerns in Hollywood, and why the perfect hat is more than just an accessory—it’s the finishing touch that brings a character to life.

You’re known for acting in Western film and TV projects. Which ones are you most proud of?

I don’t think I play favorites when it comes to my projects. What I remember most are the experiences on set, the incredible people I’ve worked with, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Each project pushes me to grow as an actor. That said, I’m especially proud of my latest script, ‘No Man Was Civilized’. It’s a story I’ve spent years developing, and I’m excited to see where it goes.

What are you working on at the moment?

Right now, I’m filming season two of Elkhorn for the INSP Network. The series takes place in the 1880s and follows a young Teddy Roosevelt as he ventures west to prove himself as a cowboy. I play Joe Ferris, the town shopkeeper, and the story is rooted in true events. The new season is set to premiere in late 2025. Beyond acting, I recently finished writing a Western feature film called ‘No Man Was Civilized’, which weaves together four short stories into a single, cohesive narrative. Writing has been a long but rewarding process, and I can’t wait to see it take shape.

Your business, Ugly Outlaw Hats, is also connected to Western projects. In what way?

My hats are known for their worn, distressed look—it’s a craft I’ve spent years perfecting. Over time, actors, directors, and costume designers have reached out for custom pieces to fit specific characters. I even wear my own designs in my work. In fact, the hat I’m wearing in ‘Elkhorn’ season two is one of mine. I’ve always believed that in a Western, the hat is the final touch that defines a character. It tells a story before a single word is spoken.

How do you balance your business and acting career?

During my downtime, I’m usually making hats.The two never really interfere with each other—if anything, hat-making is therapeutic for me. I often find myself running lines in my head while working in my studio. If it weren’t for acting, I probably wouldn’t have started my business in the first place. Over time, I’ve found a rhythm that allows me to balance both without feeling overwhelmed.

What advice would you give to actors who want to appear in Westerns?

Every actor has their own approach to storytelling, character development, and capturing the right tone. There’s no single “right way” to do it. But for me, my love of Westerns comes from a deep passion for that era of American history. I grew up in a household where Westerns were always on TV, so it became part of my DNA. If I had to give one practical piece of advice? Don’t wear your hat backward. I see it happen in movies and TV shows all the time, and it always makes me cringe a little.

What upcoming projects do you have?

Right now, you can watch me in ‘The Rebel’, a Star Wars fan film directed by Casey Oberhansli, available on YouTube. Later this year, I’ll be in Darlin’ and Stubborn, two Western short films directed by Robert Gamperl, both of which will hit the festival circuit before streaming. And, of course, Elkhorn season two arrives in late 2025, produced by Morningstar Entertainment.

Beyond that, my agent, Beverly Brock, is always pitching me for new opportunities. I’m excited for whatever comes next and grateful for every step of the journey.

Featured photo credit: Morgan Weistling