Today, it gives me great pleasure to turn this blog over to the greatest overnight sensation in Stargate franchise history. Last year, he was one of a handful of nameless Destiny crew members left behind on a perplexingly perfect planet. This year, thanks to a massive fan campaign, Vince Kwan is set to make his triumphant return to the Stargate universe. Exactly how and why remains to be seen, but maybe the following Q&A by actor Bill Y.W. Butt may shed some light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding his character’s most unlikely reappearance – and give us a glimpse at the man behind that tightly clutched briefcase…
Major D. Davis writes: “Questions for Mr. Bill…1. When did you first discover the save BAG campaign?”
BB: August 12th, 2010 was the day of enlightenment! I will never forget the birth of B.A.G. in my small, ignorant mind. On Thursday August 12th, I walked on set and I was greeted with a warm salutation from Alex the first A.D. and Will the Director. After about five minutes of doing my usual background work, minding my own business, I began to feel eyes on me. You know that feeling when you’re being watched. Do I have a snot hanging from my nose? A donut on my shoulder? I didn’t catch anybody looking but I could feel eyes caressing my body. During a break, Will the mighty, all powerful director (oh, just a side note, for a man, Will is such a damn good looking man. OK, enough sucking up for now, let’s get back to my story) came over and out of the blue asked me, ‘Did you start it?’ I was not even stunned, because I had no idea what he was talking about.
“Start what?”, I said.
“You started it, didn’t you?”
“Start what?”
Will leaned in close, searching my eyes, and asked me again, “You sure you didn’t start it on GateWorld?”
Now, I was really confused! I asked, “What is GateWorld?”
Will leaned in closer and I thought he was going to kiss me. Then he said, “GateWorld is the site where fans discuss ‘Stargate Atlantis’, ‘Stargate’ and ‘Stargate Universe’.”
I looked into his eyes and replied, “Ok????”
Will at that time must have looked at me from every angle without breaking his neck and finally enlightened me with the holy truth. “You really don’t know you have 27 pages talking about you on GateWorld and you have fans?
That moment was a photo opportunity if there ever was one, because I was confused, surprised, and basically I didn’t know what the hell he was talking about. It was like getting kicked in the nuts, but there was nobody around me. I have to make this clear to everybody, I swear on my grandparents’ graves that I didn’t know anything about B.A.G. and I definitely didn’t tell anybody to start the campaign.
I replied, “What are you talking about?”
Will proceeded to tell me how somebody started a ‘Save the Balding Asian Guy’ campaign, that it took off like a forest fire and I should go check it out. From that point on, I will never be the same, because B.A.G. is inside Bill Y. W. Butt now and I am honored to be the vessel for the essence of B.A.G.
“2. What did you first think of the thread when you first saw it? How does it feel to be one of the only extras with a cult fan following?”
BB: I was at a loss for words, amazed, dumbfounded, surprised, happy, didn’t know what to make of it, and most of all, was thinking, “Who are these people!!??” I sat in front of my computer and read all 27 pages, sometimes laughing, sometimes just about crying, and still asking, “Who the hell are these people?” I concluded that I love these crazy ass fans!! I want to join them on this adventure!!
I felt like I was dreaming!! I kept thinking that someone would slap my face and tell me to get back to set!! I am just a background performer doing a job that I love, and to have fans really makes my day, my year, even the rest of my life. I know some people think I am nobody, and wonder why are people following this stupid thread. They probably think I’m just an extra, that I don’t do anything!! I have no delusions of myself being a hero, a famous actor, a god, or a leader of any kind; I am just a hard working guy trying to make a living. 12 years trying to make a living in the film business and the only thing that I am getting from this experience is “enjoyment”. I am sure as hell not in it for the money or I would have quit years ago!! Do you know how many times my father told me to stop wasting time and get a real job?? I don’t care if people like me or dislike me, I am just having the time of my life and my father actually laughed and smiled after reading ‘Save balding Asian guy’. I love my fans and I appreciate what they are doing, even if it is just for the fun of it!! I am having my 15 minutes, so just let me close my eyes and savor it.
“3. Did you ever watch Stargate previously to landing your hit role “BAG master of the Universe” on SGU.”
BB: Major Davis, you are too good to me, because I don’t even think I am a master of myself. I do watch ‘Stargate’, ‘Stargate Atlantis’, ‘Stargate Universe’ and most SF TV shows, but I am not a diehard fan like you guys. Thank you again for your support.
“4. What are your favorite tv shows?”
BB: Some of my favorite TV shows are ‘Firefly’, anything ‘Star Trek’, anything ‘Stargate’, ‘Seinfeld’, ‘CSI Vegas’, ‘Twin Peaks’, ’24’, ‘The Amazing Race’, ‘So You Think You Can Dance?’, ‘Babylon 5’, ‘Xena: Warrior Princess’, ‘The Prisoner’, ‘Quantum Leap’, ‘Space: 1999’, ‘Three’s Company’, ‘Andromeda’, and ‘Wild On!’. How the hell did “Wild On!” get in there?
Shiny writes: “Questions for lovely Bill aka Vince Kwan of the Left Behinders; you’ve been on some very cool shows, some of my faves, so tell the truth: which has the best catering service, other than SGU which we know from the blog has terrific food.”
BB: The food on SGU is fantastic, Defining Gravity was good too, and the catering on 4400 was excellent. I don’t remember any of the caterers’ names, sorry! At my age, I am happy remembering what I ate in the morning, ha, ha!! Thank god I work out all the time, or I would be a fat pig by now!!!
“And dammit, I have to know what is in that briefcase! Besides just your notetaking materials. MREs? An iPad? Wired magazine? Do tell! Keep up the good work!”
BB: What is in the bag, that is the question? As the saying goes, if I tell you I’ll have to kill you, ha, ha!! I signed some document on set, so I can’t really say what is in the bag, but I can tell you what Vince Kwan would put in the bag. Vince Kwan’s bag will always have a SF book, a pair of chopsticks, a pair of red underwear because mom said to be prepared (Vince doesn’t know what he is preparing for, but he is not going to question his mom.), a notebook, and …………..
Detox writes: “I only have question for the captivating Mr. Butt: How does it feel to be the most passionately beloved character in the SGU universe?”
BB: I don’t know about the most passionately beloved character in the SGU universe, maybe just one of the loved characters on SGU, thank you very much. Your praise is so appreciated but my head is going to explode any second now, ha, ha!! I don’t know enough English vocabulary. I think I need to go into my limited Chinese to describe my feelings of appreciation and honor of being the vessel of the all mighty essence of B.A.G.. Bill Y.W. Butt is happy, excited, smiling all the time (more than before the enlightenment, which in itself is incredible, because I already smile all the time), honored, giggly, sexually charged, and I do actually feel more potent these days, shy, embarrassed (especially when people talk about B.A.G. in front of me – my face just turns red like a ripe cherry), scared, afraid, and overwhelmed. All in all, I feel like I did after my first sexual experience: “Wow, that was great!”, “I want more.”, “Did I please her?”, “Did I do it right?”, “Can I last more than two minutes next time?”, “I’m the best!”, “I’m awesome!”, “She must adore me.”, but most of all: “What the hell just happened!!!!!????”.
Lalaland writes: “What is the most difficult scene that u have ever done? Who is ur favorite character in SGU?”
BB: There are so many difficult scenes because anytime you have to work in extreme cold or extreme heat it is going to be difficult. “Halloween Town”, a kid’s movie, was a killer because I was in a costume outside in November for 4 days!! It was so cold, I actually felt my nuts dropping into my boots, and it didn’t even hurt. Another difficult one was ‘Stargate’!! It was Summer, and I was outside, wearing fur and head gear, holding weapons, running fast down a hill yelling with 50 other guys. It was dusty, sweaty, and hot, and I had to wear contacts!!! One guy actually fell and did a face plant on the ground!! We were savages running after the good guys, and it was so hot, I actually felt my underwear and my body melt into each other. Whoever can find this scene is good!!!
My favorite character in SGU hands down would be Chloe!! Damn, she is hot!! Did I just say that out loud??
Akamaimom writes: “My joy is full this evening as I pen this question. My life has been enriched by the wonder that is BAG. Some of the funnest moments of my life have been pondering on His BAGness. My husband thinks that this is kind of sad, but I am a firm believer that a little inanity in one’s life is a good thing. I would like to know if Vince Kwan would believe the same thing, or if he is a realist who prefers not to muddle his grand mind with the silliness that life offers.”
BB: When you get to know me, you will know I’m a firm believer in silliness! Smiling, being silly and the state of happiness have proven to increase everybody’s lifespan, ying and yang, and chi. Energy will circulate better within our body and our centre will gyrate in harmony with the universe. My life has been enriched by the wonder of my GateWorld fans and my wife thinks I am crazy!!!
“And I would like to know what he really thinks about all this. I was one of the first people to campaign to save the character, and have proclaimed myself a “BAG Lady”. Even my children ask for status updates about BAG and our quest to save him.
Thank you, Joe! Thank you Bill! And thank you, BAG!”
BB: What I really think about all this is answered in question #2 from above!! Thank you BAG Lady!! Thanks from your humble servant!!
Bailey writes: “For Bill, you are my favorite character on SGU! I am almost too awed by your presence to ask a question, however. Thank you for gracing our screens in so many shows! It’s now fun to “Spot BAG” (does that name annoy you by the way?) in all the Canadian produced shows! Thanks Joe, for having Bill here on your blog. And Bill, do you twitter?”
BB: My head is going to explode with all your praise, Bailey. Thank you! I’m just a background performer doing a job that I love and I am so glad my presence makes you happy. No, I am not annoyed or offended with the name B.A.G. at all!! I find it kind of funny and fitting, because I am balding, I am Asian, and I am a guy. I do not Twitter and I do not do Facebook, but now I am thinking about a Facebook fan page, so I can get to talk to all my fans.
Randomness writes: “@Question for Bill. 1. What do you believe your characters reasons were for deciding to stay behind on the planet in faith?”
BB: I am claustrophobic, so the planet is where I am going to stay. I also believe that I am on the planet for a reason – I don’t know why, but I need to stay for something to happen. As a scientist and a doctor, I just couldn’t give up a chance to have a planet as my playground, and a chance to study or meet the aliens that built the planet. It is a risk, but a calculated risk according to my Chaos theory.
“2. How would you describe your experience on Stargate Universe thus far?”
BB: Well, personally, when I walked on set, it was like coming home, like seeing family again, like jumping into my own bed, because the crew was mostly from ‘Stargate Atlantis’, a show that I miss working on very much. Everybody is friendly, fun to work with, and ‘Faith’ was extremely exciting and rewarding to work on, so I guess my experience on ‘Stargate Universe’ thus far is excellent.
“3. How did you feel when Defying Gravity was cancelled? Personally the show to me was badly thought out in general and should of been structured differently, I think if it was it’d be on the air still. It probably lost people with all the flashbacks.”
BB: Truthfully, I was devastated when ‘Defying Gravity’ was cancelled because I just lost a job on the second season! Ha, ha!!
How can I put my opinion in a politically correct manner, so I don’t kill any job opportunities for my future career, but still satisfy you with an answer? Well, personally, ‘Defying Gravity’ is not my kind of show. Did that give you a hint of how I feel about the show? I hope so, because this is all I am going to comment about. You can PM me and I can tell you how I really feel about the show, ha, ha!!
“4. Were you a fan of Stargate in general before joining Stargate Universe as a guest star?”
BB: Yes, I was a fan of ‘Stargate’ even back when the movie came out. I read a lot of SF books, so ‘Stargate’ is right up my alley.
“5. What are your favourite hobbys?”
BB: I love to read!! I have a small library of over 1500 SF and fantasy books. I also like to collect bookmarks, little figurines, watches, and eyeglasses.
“6. What are your favourite books/authors?”
BB: I love to read!! This is my favorite question to answer!! These are only some of my favorite writers and books, because I judge each book from each writer separately. Ask me about books, I love talking about them!!
Dennis L. McKiernan – ‘The Iron Tower Trilogy’
Steven Barnes – ‘Gorgon Child’
James Rollins – ‘Amazonia’
Orson Scott Card – ‘Ender’s Game’
Dan Simmons – ‘Hyperion’
James Clemens – ‘The Banned and the Banished’ series
Stephen R. Donaldson – ‘The Chronicles of Thomas Covenant the Unbeliever’ series
Philip Jose Farmer – ‘A Feast Unknown’
Matthew Woodring Stover – ‘Heroes Die’
Roger Zelazny – ‘Amber’ series
Brian Lumley – ‘Necroscope’
“7. Of all the acting jobs you’ve had throughout your career, which did you enjoy the most and why?””
BB: ‘Dead Like Me’ was the most fun, because I met some really good friends on set. Also, it was a comedy, so most of the scenes were funny which makes it light and very enjoyable. ‘Fantastic Four’ was excellent too because there were lots of stunts and I got to stand beside Jessica Alba – what a babe!!! I also met a lot of friends on F4, and we still get together for dinner every once in a while. ‘Stargate Atlantis’ was very enjoyable, because I love SF, therefore just being on set was a dream come true for me.
Debra writes: “Questions for Vince Kwan: Did you have a preconceived idea of who your character could be when you were handed a briefcase prop that very first show?”
BB: I was told to be a scientist, so I created an idea of a scientist that I wanted to be and slowly built on that idea. On the first day I had a fair idea what my character was like, but now I know what I want Vince Kwan’s character to be like. Vince Kwan is shy, quiet, strong-minded, always direct and to the point, a no-playing-games kind of a guy, compassionate, nice but not a pushover, and smart. He doesn’t like to talk unless there is something to say, and he’s the best lover in the universe!! OK, that last bit was just wishful thinking, ha, ha!!
“Can you post a headshot of yourself (so we can get a better idea of what you look like without a furrowed brow and from far away (screen shot)?”
BB: O.K.!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sparky writes: “And like Shiny has asked I too would like to know what is in the briefcase Mr Butt. The last pack of Smarties perhaps?””
BB: Refer to Shiny’s question and you will know what is inside the B.A.G. of Wonder.
E writes: “My questions – Fans have spotted you on various tv shows. What’s been the most fun to work on?”
BB: Refer to question 7 above. Thank you for your question!!
“Did the campaign to get your character back surprise you?”
BB: I think “surprise” is not a strong enough a word to describe the campaign!! I think WTF would be more appropriate, ha, ha!! Thanks from your humble servant!!
“In “Faith”, was it your decision to have Vince to take notes? http://www.gateworld.net/gallery/albums/uni_season1/113-Faith/screencaps/normal_sgu_113_30123.jpg”
BB: Oh my god, this is so funny!! I was told on the day that the scene was us scientists watching and learning how to set up camp. Lo and behold, we had to watch an actor tying two branches together. I actually turned and told the guy beside me that for the fun of it, I would take notes and draw diagrams of the actor tying two branches together, and said, “Wouldn’t that be hilarious!!??” I give kudos to all my fans that caught my inside joke, because I did it on purpose to amuse myself and to test fans’ powers of observation.
“Did your character make a wise choice to stay behind on the planet? What would you have done?”
BB: Please refer to Randomness’ question number one above!! I don’t know if it was wise to stay behind, but it was a risk that Vince Kwan had to take. I, Bill Butt, would have done the same thing, because I don’t like cramped places either.
“Do you happen to know what’s Vince Kwan’s area of expertise?”
BB: Personally, I think Vince Kwan is a ‘Chaotician’ or what you call a ‘Chaos Theorist’ and a damn good medical doctor.
IMissYiu writes: “Vince Kwan…hey you’re hot! Can’t wait to see more of you in Season 2. Questions: (1) Do you have a Facebook/Twitter account? You should! (2) Where do you live? Ok…just kidding.”
BB: Thank you from Vince Kwan, and I hope I will be back on Season 2 too, ha, ha!! I do not have a Twitter account, but I am thinking about a Facebook Fan page so that I can keep in touch with my fans!!
BAG’s Disciple writes: “Questions: 1) Will Vincent Kwan have some lines in the 2nd season of Stargate Universe? Will he read from the Holy Notebook and enlighten those lost souls aboard Destiny?”
BB: These are decisions made by the BIG CHEESE, the almighty, the omnipotent, the most powerful, the most energetic, the most endowed, the most influential, the most productive, the most vigorous, the most capable, the most competent, the most electric, the most potent (I am running out of power words that I know), the most gifted man (Joe Mallozzi) in the world, and his associates.
“2) Any message for your fans, Mr. Butt?”
BB: I am extremely grateful for everybody’s support, and no matter what happens in the future, I will cherish the name “Vince Kwan” forever.
My writing is not very good, so please forgive any mistakes that I’ve made or will make.
I must have written “Thank you” a few thousand times this past week, and I will continue to thank everybody because that is how I feel. When I think my Facebook Fan page is ready, I will let everybody know on GateWorld. Thanks from your humble servant!!!
I’d like all my fans to know that William Waring and Alex Pappas have my greatest thanks because they acknowledged me as somebody!! As a director and a 1st AD, they have no obligation to talk to us background performers, but they were always nice to me. I am not saying they were not nice to other people. On the contrary, they were super nice to everybody on ‘Stargate Atlantis’ and ‘Stargate Universe’. I’ve been in the business for 12 years and believe me, most directors don’t talk to extras. To me, it is not the talking that matters because I know they are very busy; it is the acknowledgement of me standing there – that’s what I appreciate. Thank you, Will and Alex. I am your biggest fan!
I have to thank Joe Mallozzi for going along with the fun and supporting B.A.G., because without him, Vince Kwan would have never been born. Thanks from your humble servant!!
Kymm writes: “Questions for Bill – 1. I think it would be interesting to be an extra, but what do you do when they aren’t shooting a scene? What do you do on set to keep yourself amused? Well… other than Craft Services…”
BB: I read a lot, I play cards, I play board games, and most of all, I bullshit the time away with my friends. Just give me a good book and I am amused for hours. Between you and me, sometimes I sleep, but don’t tell anybody.
“2. I was also interested to know what was in The Football (briefcase.) Hopefully, not the launch codes…”
BB: Refer to Shiny’s question and you will know what is inside the B.A.G. of wonder.
“3. Since you are being brought back, have you already shot the scenes? Can you tell us which episode to watch out for you in?”
BB: Yes, my scenes have been shot, but I don’t know if I can tell you anything about it. Sorry. You just have to wait and see!!
Montrealer writes: “Question for Bill – Any thoughts to lack of middle age Asian men in North American TV shows & TV movies currently?”
BB: I left this question last, because I had to think about this one. I think I am going to use point form to answer this one.
1 – Asian parents do not encourage acting as a career; they want lawyers, doctors, engineers!!
2 – We Asians usually listen to our parents, so not many of us choose acting as a career.
3 – The black sheep of the family choose acting, but a very small percentage!!
4 – In auditions against Caucasians and African Americans, we Asians are pretty low on the list.
5 – There are not enough roles for Asians, and not even enough roles written for Asians!!
6 – No work, no money, means many Asian actors end up as starving actors!!
7 – Asian parents always say, “I told you so!!”
8 – After years of doing extra work and still no money, some Asian actors become fantastic waiters.
9 – Asian parents always say, “I told you so!!”
10 – After years of work, an Asian actor might get one line here, one line there!!
11 – If an Asian actor gets married, the family needs more money!!
12 – Asian parents always say, “I told you so!!”
13 – Many Asian actors quit acting and find a ‘real’ job.
14 – The pool for Asian actors is getting smaller and they’re still auditioning against Caucasians and others.
15 – A handful get a break, and they have kids. Please go back to number one!!
These are only my thoughts on the lack of Asian actors in the North America film industry. Maybe I am dead wrong, who knows!! Thank you for your question!!
Elminster writes: “Question for Mr. Butt: I can’t imagine that part-time acting would fill up your day (or pay the rent). I was wondering what else you do?”
BB: My whole family would be dead already if we only counted on my background work. Part-time acting is not steady enough, that is why we are called starving actors!! My wife has a very good job and she actually made 7 times what I made last year. I appreciate what my wife is doing to support my acting career, so all in all, we do OK!!
Vvv0472 writes: “Questions:1) What type of paper is used to take notes? Regular or legal sized? 2)What type of scientist is BAG?”
BB: I always use regular sized paper, because of my tiny Asian hands!! Please refer to answer from above as to what type of scientist B.A.G. is!! Thank you for your questions!!
Chevron7 writes: “1. What exactly is your character’s role on Destiny? I see an awful lot of standing around. It’s why I couldn’t get behind the campaign. I didn’t see your character make any contribution. Will that change in Season 2?”
BB: Chevron7, you just hit the nail on the head!! I am not a main character on the show, so I don’t really have a role, and I do walk and stand around a lot, don’t I? I am a background performer, so my job is to be doing nothing really. On the other hand, my character is a scientist. I know the campaign started as a joke, but who knew B.A.G. would have 42 pages on GateWorld so far, 20,000 viewed and counting, and that little old me would get the name ‘Vince Kwan’ on SGU!!! I don’t know if I will ever get to contribute to the show, but I sure love the attention. There should be people questioning why an extra is picked for a campaign because without these people, I don’t think the thread would have reached 42 pages. I don’t know what will happen tomorrow, but I am Vince Kwan today!!!
“2. Who are your favourite actors to watch?”
BB: There are so many, because they are so different from each other. Here are a few that I like to watch!!
Tom Hanks, Gene Hackman, Dustin Hoffman, Robert Duvall, Morgan Freeman, Al Pacino, Robert Redford, Robert De Niro, Scarlett Johansson, Susan Sarandon, and Sissy Spacek.
“3. How do you like to prepare for a scene?”
BB: I kind of speak Chinese to myself, which calms me down and helps me to focus. I wonder if that makes any sense to anybody other than myself?
“4. What scares you most?”
BB: My father!! He scares the B.A.G. out of me!!! Beautiful women, snakes, women wearing low cut jeans and bending over. That is why I stay away from crack, and one recurring dream that I have every time I am really sick with fever. I get so scared that I can’t even talk about it!!
“5. What your fave chillout music?”
BB: Some of my favorite chill out music is by Jesse Cook, Gypsy Kings, and Third World. And I definitely like Chinese music!!!
the priors of oris used stargate to go to our galaxy
Was it due to their powers ?
Did they use a power source like ZPM ?
There is a big difference of size between a supergate and a stargate.
Is it a problem if we send a traveler without ship by this one to contact a stargate
Why atlantis would vaporize if we used the engine with whirlpool?
Is it possible to mitigate this problem?
I am now a full supporter of B.A.G.
Joe! He better have some speaking lines in season 2! He’s earned it. lol. and i can tell he wouldnt be speaking for himself, but for all the part-time background actors you’ve ever had on stargate and any other tv show/movie.
Even if his line is just “yes” lol
Yay….so very cool to have Bill aka B.A.G. visit.
Thank you very much for accepting Joe’s invitation to respond to questions and spending time with us on the blog.
This was great.. wish I had been near a computer recently to ask my own question. Also count me in as a full supporter of BAG!
Dude, you’re buff!
It’s great that you fleshed out a background and personality for your character. However, he could not be a medical doctor. It was established that Lt. Johanssen was the most qualified medical professional among the survivors of Icarus base, and she’s a “medic” – she hasn’t even attended med school yet.
Also…take a good look at the last photo. He says he works out and it shows. Great physique! And, in a “muscle shirt” too!…wooohooo!
haha that was funny. can we have him in the upcoming trailer Joe?
Great responses!
I just wanted to respond to what BB said: “1 – Asian parents do not encourage acting as a career; they want lawyers, doctors, engineers!!”
IMO, lawyers — not so much. More like doctors, engineers, accountants, pharmacists, and senior executives in the world of high finance…. LOL.
Bill Y.W. Butt alias Vince Kwan aka B.A.G is VERY funny!! I laughed so hard thru the entire Q&A! I am no longer scratching my head contemplating his popularity. I understand the mystery of BAG now. I am hooked. Count me in as “fan”. I agree with Jeff above. Give Vince Kwan some lines.
“During a break, Will the mighty, all powerful director (oh, just a side note, for a man, Will is such a damn good looking man…).”
Hey, exactly what I’ve been saying! Will Waring is soooo handsome!
“Will leaned in closer and I thought he was going to kiss me.”
I am so jealous!!
I’m envisioning some sort of a B.A.G./Chloe
fantasy type of scene.
B.A.G. with a head full long dark flowing locks
being whipped by the wind…as he holds a large
sword(..or briefcase.) high up over his head with
one extended arm. His other arm extended downwards
towards Chloe who is grasping on tightly to his leg.
They could both be posed atop some sort
of a large rock pile…with dark clouds and
lightning bolts in the background.
Just a quick addendum to my post: No disrespect to any lawyers. Just my own personal observations of most Chinese parents that I know.
Thank you SO MUCH for this Q&A – it has totally made my week!
I never seem to have anything to say until after the Q&A is posted. But I’d now like to say that, as someone who has done some stints as a background performer, how awesome is it that this happened for Mr. Butt? (And had I paid enough attention to ask a question, I’d have asked how frequently people make jokes about his name. Because that’s got to get old.)
What a great Q&A! I’m sorry I didn’t have any questions at the time, but I adore all these answers–extremely witty. I almost woke up Patrick in the process of my laughing out loud. Let us know here when your Facebook fan page is up (or someone else please). I usually just read the news postings on Gateworld, but don’t get to the message boards at all.
Patrick achieved another first on something else today we’ve been trying awhile to achieve. His dad is coming home around midnight Sun/Mon. I can’t wait to show him on Monday all the things he has missed out on this week while he was gone. Today was cold turkey day for his Winnie the Pooh addiction. Rough day for him in that respect. I don’t think they make a patch for that kind of withdrawal. LOL.
Thanks for taking the time to do such a well thought out answer session! You’re awesome. Honestly, I see this campaign as something funny that has become something wonderful. I’m so pleased to be a part of it. Rock on, BAG!
OMG, that final photo! *reaches for convenient Chinese hand fan to relieve sudden heat wave* Bill Butt’s wife is one very fortunate lady!
I was going to make some intelligent comments, but…but…OMG!
@Shawna–Here in South Texas, Butt is a very respected name. The descendants of H. E. Butt run a very large supermarket chain that extends into Mexico. They are unlikely to be related to Bill; the Texas Butts are Caucasian.
This MR. Butt is really a character!! He still have a great sense of humor after 12 years of being a background performer. He deserves a line or two or even a romantic scene with Chloe in the second season to fulfill all his fans’ dreams.
We will wait patiently & wish him all the best.
Great Q&A from BB. Thanks for the lonng answer to my query. Interestingly there’s no lack of Asian actresses of any age currently. We got our own Ming-Ni among others.
Yea, don’t think BAG is of medical background. That just reduces the offshoots of twisted future paths.
And I think the holy briefcase is really holy. That BAG is a deep cover operative safeguarding us with a enhanced naquadria device from whatever unholy beings that constructed that world. What I meant is that the briefcase is a holy hand grenade in the parlance of Militarist Space Opera speak.
People must heard of the retired SADM (special atomic demolition munition) that was in the American arsenal. Basically it’s a hand delivered sports bag size nuke to take out targets like large river bridges, airfield facilities, major tunnels & petroleum facilities. And of course any major Soviet headquarters encountered. And less said of the Davy Crockett Holy hand grenade launcher that uses the SADM nuke as warhead the better. IIRC the Screaming Blizzards was the last American unit to deploy the Holy hand grenade launcher as Airborne Special Artillery pieces.
Coucou Joseph!!!
Merci pour ces q&a , trés interessant, je ne connaissé pas ce personnage!! =)
Je passe demain avant mon grand départ!
Gros bisou bisou!!!
That was a GREAT Q&A. He is very funny!
Hey Bill, I feel like I know you. Remember when you were off in Vegas and missed a day’s shoot? I had the pleasure of filling in for you. I even got to wear your glasses. I don’t want to give away the scene but enough to say it was the best gig of my short background acting career. Everyone around the set was so friendly. You are right about Will, the director… a genuinely nice guy who took the time to say hi to me and thanked me when we wrapped. Thanks for an awesome experience being BAG for a day!
Hey Joe
Another great question and answer session. Say ‘Hi’ to Bill for me, and ‘thanks’.
Elminster
Thanks for the extensive and interesting Q&A, Bill!
I hear you, IggyMing. I was amazed at how accurate Bill’s list was, especially the bit about “I told you so”. Kind of interesting that it reflects what Ming Na said in some of her interviews as well! 🙂
Nice Q&A! And nice photo. Now, how about one with Herb? Q&A, that is, although a photo wouldn’t be a bad idea, either.
Thank you B.A.G. for your interesting answers – they made me smile, snigger and laugh and, really, I can’t expect any more than that.
Remember – make sure your parents know all about your new found fame. 😉
Susan
Very Cool… Love the B.A.G. Thanks for the Q&A!
Cheers
Yes Joe…. PLEASE give him lines in SGU. And do you think you could put BAG in the trailer?
PLEASE!!THAT WOULD MAKE MY YEAR. 😉
Thanks so much,
Major D. Davis
Great answers from Bill all the best to him.
Just wanted to say congrats on becoming a published author!
We all know you’re a talented scriptwriter, but I’m sure you must be thrilled to break into prose.
Must try and check it out asap.
Hope you, yours and the dogs are well
J.
What about a new spin-off series based around the supposed contents of the B.A.G.’s bag.
Hello to W.O.B.A.G., F.O.B.A.G. and P.O.B.A.G. from all the S.O.B.A.G.
(wife of ……., family of …….., parents of ……….. and supporters of…………… )
Susan
Jeff, in such a short time, you know me very well!! I am a background performer and I will always speak for all background performers!! thank you for your support!!
Dear Mr. Hammer,
I’m bad!! I forgot to mention that I am a Chinese doctor practicing alternative medicine, that is why I wanted to be on the planet, because I was collecting herbs for my medicine bag??????? Dam the medical profession for not recognizing my potential!! Between you and me, did I save face with this last minute explanation???? Sorry for the mistake!! You can spank me when we meet, ha!! Ha!! Thanks from your humble servant!!
To all my friends,
Please go to GateWorld to view my answer about my physique!! Thanks from your humble servant!!
Thanks Bill Y.W. Butt for taking the time to answer all the questions so fully. Glad you’re back for the second season!
Dear IggyMing,
I am sorry for leaving out some of the other professions, but for me to spell all the professions, I need my dictionary, and it would have added another half an hour to my writing time, ha!! Ha!! I only type with 2 fingers, so it took me hours to do the Q&A!! Aside from joking, I agree with you!! Chinese parents basically wants their children to be more professional rather than being in the entertainment business. Thanks from your humble servant!!
Ponytail,
Next time I see Will, I will try to get a picture with him and post it just for you, ha!, Ha!! Enjoy the rest of your weekend!! Thanks from your humble servant!!
Winst,
I would die to have hair that long, ha!! Ha!! You are making me hot just thinking about the fantasy with Chloe, ha!! Ha!! Talk to you later!!
Hi Bill aka Vince aka B.A.G.!!
I love it that you didn’t have a clue that a campaign was in the works. It would have been a great surprise. I so enjoyed your Q & A today, very funny. I don’t know how you were chosen for a fan campaign, but they chose well. You deserve it. I hope you enjoy your 15 minutes (and maybe it will stretch out to 20!!).
You must have some great stories of behind the scenes stuff, on all of those series you been on. Very interesting!!
Take care!!
Kymm
P.S. – I won’t tell anyone that you sleep on the set (sometimes). *smiles*
P.P.S. – I hope they gave you a line or two!!
Dear Shawna, Shawna, Shawna, (I just love saying Shawna, Shawna, Shawna!!)
Thank you for your support!! The jokes about my name are never old, because I learn long time ago to embrace what I can’t stop!! I kind of enjoy watching people trying to come up with new ones, ha!! Ha!! My daughter came to me when she was 5, and asked me if she could change her last name. I asked her “Why?”, and she told me her friends were making fun of her. I asked her, “Would Chan or Wong make her feel better, or having the one and only “Butt” in her whole school make her feel better?”. She said “Wong!!” Dam, that didn’t work!!!! I said “Now, at this moment you might hate your last name, but when you grow up, you will realize having “Butt” as your last name will get you notice, and people will remember you. You are not changing your last name, go back to play!! Hey, I am a great parent!! I love my last name!! I was Big Butt in grade 9 and my brother was Itchy Butt!!
Dear PBMom,
Thank you for writing in and thanks for your support!! When you do have a chance, go check out “save balding Asian guy” on GateWorld, because those fans are so funny!! Kiss Patrick for me, and enjoy the rest of your weekend!!
OH GLORIOUS GLORY OF-Actually, I think I’m gonna cut that out now.
Thank you Mr. Bill Butt for entertaining our questions! Your answers were hilarious, informative, and at times outrageous, which is a good thing around here! Fingers crossed that you get a line or five in the upcoming season and beyond. I would really like to know what Dr. Vince Kwan has to say about the current predicament onboard Destiny!
Speaking as an Asian Guy myself, your comments regarding Asian actors definitely ring true. I think it’s the same regarding all facets of Hollywood. I sometimes betray my thoughts of doing some professional writing for TV shows to my parents, and all they do is scoff. “It’s just a hobby!” they say. Sure it is. A hobby that allows you the funds to raise four doggie kids and have TWO models of Destiny, one of which you can play with! Phah!
But I digress. You seem like such a happy person and I’m glad that this little sillyness of ours makes you even happier. Make no mistake, this is only the beginning. Now that we have found your presence in so many Vancouver-based shows, you will be known far and wide as the most beloved background performer ever!
Now, let me just say…OH GLORIOUS BAG YOUR WISDOM ENRICHES US ALL!! WE ARE UNWORTHY!! HALLOWED IS BAG!!
Gilder,
I was just telling my wife how fortunate she is, but she just walked away!! Ha!! Ha!! I would Chinese hand fan you any day!! My last name is very rare in Asia too, that is why I consider myself very special!!
Lalaland,
Thank you!! I wish the dream will come true too, but I don’t think my wife will like it very much!! Ha!! Ha!!
Montrealer,
Asian actresses are much better looking and they rarely are balding, ha!! Ha!! Thank you for your support and you write so well!!
Doug,
Thank you for your hard work, and I bet you were my best “Body Bag” ever!!! Ha!! Ha!! Will was nice, wasn’t he?? He is such a dam good looking man too!! I will try to get this in everytime I write about my favorite Will!! Ha!! Ha!!
Crazymom1,
I will try to catch Herb on set sometime and work out something fun!!
Susan,
Believe me, I will make sure my parents know, ha!! Ha!!
Susan,
I am spinning just reading about it,ha!! Ha!! Thank you for your support!!
@ B.A.G. – A picture of you and Will Waring together would be awesome! I would be YOUR humble servant!
You should do stand up comedy. You are so funny!
Bill… I loved being your ‘body BAG’… haha, good one! And yes, I DID work hard… 12 hrs shoot, most of which was on set. And hey, it’s not easy living in BAG’s shadows… literally! I’m YOUR humble servant… I’d carry your BAG anytime!
By the way, it must be hard being the BUTT of jokes all the time but I love your attitude about it!
Dear Holy One, the All-Knowing B.A.G.:
Perhaps your daughter would feel better if she knew there was a very good surgeon in our area in Houston named Dr. Donald Butts and his specialty is colorectal surgery. I kid you not.
http://www.healthgrades.com/directory_search/physician/profiles/dr-md-reports/dr-donald-butts-md-00dc20bb
And there is also a doctor in the area whose last name is…ta-da…Doctor. Dr. Doctor. He specializes in pain management and anesthesia, probably using more than just laughter to help his patients.
My first name is Hilda and I’ve always disliked my name. Too many witch references, a retired hurricane because it was so destructive, etc. But I found out that it means “battle maiden” and considering my battles for my son (autism), it seems to be feeling better to me now.
So there is hope, oh little one.
Thank you very much for participating in the Q&A. I really enjoyed it. I totaly agree with you about not enough roles for Asian actors. I have always wished there were more.
Thanks for responding, B.A.G.! Glad you find my name fun. Not as interesting as Butt, but we can’t all have such memorable names. At least you have a good humor about it. Yeah, I guess in a lot of ways, having a name people remember is more important than potential teasing.
Just catching up on the blog
1. Bill’s as funny as hell….you can’t tell that from the standing around…thanks for the life lesson…say no to crack.
2. Bill’s got guns…who knew? They’re always hidden under scientist shirts….maybe out there on Faithopia he’s ripping up his shirt to make a muscle shirt…or maybe not ‘cos I just remembered that they said it was cold.
3. I like Tom Hanks too….he rocks in every role he does….so versatile.
Thanks Joe for sending my questions…I’m still sad about LDP but this makes me feel a little better.
Cheers, Chev
Hi Kymm,
I don’t know why or how I was chosen, but I am glad my balding head helped!! I am really enjoying my 15 minutes, but talking to all you nice people is even better. I do have lots of great stories of behind the scene stuff and I will share them with my fans in the near future.
You have a nice day now!!
PG15,
I have to ask before I can comment on what is happening on Destiny, because I am so new to this that I have to be careful about what I say.
Thank you for your support again, and no matter if i get lines or not, i am just having the greatest time of my life!!!
You have a very good “hobby” when you can raise 4 doggie kids and have 2 models of Destiny!! Ha!! Ha!! Good luck to your “Hobby” and soon you will have all the models you want!!
I am always happy and silly, but my wife, my daughter, and my parents thinks I am nuts,ha!! Ha!!
I would love to be the best loved background performer ever, that would be cool!!
You know what would make my day? “Fringe” calling my agent and asking B.A.G. to be a special guest star!! That would be so funny!!!
Take care!!!!!!!!!!!
Dear Doug,
Have we ever met on set before?? Are we friends or are you new to the business?? I mean were we friends before B.A.G.?? anyways, we are friends now, that is all I need to know!!!!
You will never carry my bag, because you are my friend!! You can be my wing man or i can be your wing man, it depends on the situation. If we need to jump off a cliff, i will be your wing man, you can go 1st!!!!!!!!
Yes, my last name will always be the BUTT of jokes, BUTT what can i do about it,ha!! Ha!!
Take care!!!!
Hey Bill, I’m not sure if we have met before on set but you look vaguely familiar. I’ve been a background performer for only about 5 yrs since I retired, just for the fun of it. So it’s possible we’ve met before. Anyways, I’ve worn your glasses (for the shoot) so I feel like we’ve been intimate, haha!
You talked about the limited roles for Asians… so true. Being a BAG, I am getting tired of being a monk or a tai chi/kung fu guy! That’s why being a double BAG was so cool!
PB Mom,
I will let my daughter know about Dr. Butt and Dr. Doctor, maybe she will want to be a doctor in the future, that would be the day,ha!! Ha!!
One of my best friend’s wife is a “Hilda” and she is one of the nicest person i know. One of my friend is call “Semen”, can you imagine having a name like that one,ha!! Ha!! She is Chinese and I did ask her if she knew what “Semen” means?? She said it was a straight translation from her Chinese name, and all i said was “o.k.!!!!”
From now on, you will always be my “little battle maiden”, and whoever tease you about your name, you send them over to me and i will wrack the person with my BAG of Wonder!! Ha!! Ha!!
My Muay Thai boxing instructor’s son has (autism) and I can see her battles first hand. I know it is difficult, and very tiring, but a mother’s love is stronger than anything in the world. Be strong and all I can tell you is I care and you have my support always.
Take care!!!!!!!!!!
Doug,
We will see you on set sometime, but no holding hands,ha!! Ha!!
So glad that we finally got your answers to the questions we asked! I thought Joseph had forgotten…
First of all, love all the answers, I can see now why it might have taken you a while to complete all the questions. As others mentioned, they were very thorough, witty and entertaining!
Second, those photos–wow!
I’ve decided to try and change your AKA name, from BAG/Baguettes/BAG ladies to Butt Kissers! Any followers?!
Really looking forward to the upcoming season for sure!!
Great answers BAG !! I hope that you’ll get resurrected. I’m a total “BAG Bunny” now.
Bill answered my questions, woo hoo! (insert cartwheels!) Thanks to Bill for answering all our questions and to Joe for bringing the fans together with Bill. One word: Kismet.
I often laugh hard while reading Joe’s blog but Bill’s Q & A was funny, sweet, a little raunchy but very charming! My tummy hurts from laughing, thank you to Bill, and Keep Holding That Briefcase!
Thanks also to Bill’s wonderful wife sharing Bill with the world and to Bill’s parents for giving the world the one true B.A.G.
And check out the bod on Bill! Please tell the costume dept to get Bill out of those argyle sweaters and into a tank top, stat!
Debra and Carmen,
Thanks for writing in, and no matter what you girls call yourself, you girls are great!!!
Thanks for writing in Shiny!! I had fun answering your questions, and I had to use a little raunchy bits, because that is the magic that makes your tummy hurt. For 12 years, I am still waiting for the tank top, ha!! Ha!! Take care and thanks from your humble servant!!
Thank you Joe for giving me this opportunity to share with my fans or friends I should say. Everybody were very nice to me, so i guess i did something right. This is one of the most exciting highlight of my life and it is all due to you, Mr. Joseph Mallozzi, and all my friends. Thanks again and i will always be your humble servant!!
Haven’t laughed so hard in a long time!
You are so right about asian parents…”I told you so!”
When did you get into acting and what inspired you to pose for the camera?
Bring atlantis back, please? please? please? please? please? please? please? please? please?