My Encounter with Celebrities: From Guarding Futuristic Muscles to Bogus Conversations

Back in the day, being around celebrities like Kylie Minogue and Rick Moranis wasn’t just a dream but an everyday reality. From the riverside terrace at County Hall to tiny airports, I had my share of encounters that left a lasting memory. This article delves into my world of unexpected and often awkward celebrity interactions.

Random Encounters

I first encountered Kylie Minogue at a gala event for Sly Stallone’s Judge Dredd. The vibe was laid back, much like a summer evening by the riverside. Alongside some mates, I was hired to be part of the crowd, acting as 'futuristic muscle.' The highlight of the evening was watching Kylie Minogue, who introduced herself in a most unique way. When a massive firework went off, she positioned herself so that my elbow and her eye socket were at the same level, and we both staggered back. It was a bit of a stumble, but no one got hurt thanks to the protective powers of 'Judge Dredd!' This encounter left us both somewhat frustrated—perhaps from being startled—and a bit self-conscious fixing our eyeshadow.

Recalling another meeting, I remember the time I spoke to Rick Moranis about squash, the sport, not the vegetable. No, we didn't delve into the nutrition or benefits of squash, but it shows how even the simplest things can spark a conversation. Other encounters ranged from security work at bars and poker tournaments to regular folks on college campuses. These interactions were organic, happening naturally without much planning. Whether it was at the Four Seasons lobby or at a band meet/greet, these moments were real and memorable.

Unexpected Serendipity

Of course, there were a few encounters that weren't entirely random. My world turned upside down when I encountered Jon Hamm at 5 a.m. in the hotel lobby. I made a light comment about him taking too long to choose a muffin, suggesting he just pick the chocolate one and leave early. He laughed, and it wasn't until later that I realized who he was. And then there was the time I attended meet/greets with iconic bands like Aerosmith. I managed to have adult conversations and even had photos taken with the band members. Once again, I got caught up in the moment.

But my most unforgettable experience was during a work trip to Saigon in 1967. I was waiting for my flight back to the United States and went to the U.S. military club. There, I encountered a country star and his wife singing a song by Merl Travis called '16 Tons.' I recognized him immediately. I approached him and requested an autograph on my transfer orders, a request he graciously honored with his and his wife Betty's signatures. Little did I know, checking in at my stateside command a month later would cause some confusion.

Star-Struck Moments

Other times, celebrity encounters were accompanied by a mix of excitement and anxiety. Like the time I met Steve Tyler. I was traveling for work, and when my colleague asked who the person next to me was, I didn't realize it was Steven Tyler until he looked up and smiled. In that moment, I was no longer the seasoned professional but a star-struck teenager. I wished I had something meaningful to say but was stuck with words of utter admiration. It was a stark reminder of the ups and downs of celebrity spotting.

These encounters range from the whimsical to the poignant, each one a different story of meeting the famous in ways you wouldn't expect. From squashing squash with Rick Moranis to struggling with Steve Tyler, these interactions remind us that the world of celebrities is vast and unpredictable.