An autographed photo that isn't even personalized is no substitute for the actor being at the event. I really hate it when actors pull out of these things. They book the events then later on say that they can't do it.

ShotgunWes | September 07, 17:58 CET

You can't expect an actor to turn down doing a play (that might last a year, it will certainly last several months) in favor of a weekend convention. When ever actors sign for conventions it is always with the understanding that they will cancel their convention contract in favor of an actual acting job.
It is disappointing to the fans, but it is really the convention organizer's responsibility to satisfy the fans with a replacement guest.

embers | September 07, 18:06 CET

I have the platinum package for this event. I really hope that they can get someone comparable to ASH to replace him, but since the convention starts the day after tomorrow, I have my doubts.

Sister Spooky | September 07, 19:11 CET

I really hate it when actors pull out of these things. They book the events then later on say that they can't do it.

Well, not that this is the case in this instance, but ASH himself has said that sometimes cons will announce that a guest is going to be there when the guest has never signed on to go, then they will say they have pulled out at the last minute. So it's not like actors always pull out, sometimes they were never signed on in the first place. I don't know how often it happens, but I'm pessimistic enough to think it happens more than we think! Then it always sounds like actors are pulling out, when that may not be the case.

But yes, in this case, you can't begrudge an actor an acting job, especially when it's written into their con contract.

Rogue Slayer | September 07, 19:26 CET

The question is when did they know this, cause my guess is they would have had to know that Tony had gotten a job that might interfere before now. Since the convention is this weekend, I'm sure they knew about the job before today. He does have a job and I'm guessing he has been rehersing it for a while.

From Tony's site

"Tony will be appearing in the play 'Otherwise Engaged', with Richard E Grant, playing the character, Jeff Golding. The play will run from September 21st - October 1st, 2005, at the Theatre Royal Bath. Tony will then tour with the play to the Oxford Playhouse October 3rd - 8th, the Milton Keynes Theatre October 10th - 15th, the New Victoria Theatre, Woking, October 17th - 22nd and into the West End at the Criterion Theatre, London, from October 25th, 2005 - January 28th, 2006. To read an article about Tony's role in the play, please visit the BBC Somerset website."

RavenU | September 07, 19:52 CET

Quite often conventions know about actor commitments well in advance, but ‘accidentally’ announce the pull outs at the last minute. More custom that way. No idea if that’s the case in this instance.

gossi | September 07, 20:27 CET

It's disappointing to think the con might have withheld this information until now, hoping the fans will "understand" (that they didn't have time to find a good replacement) and not be too upset. Maybe they held out because they were trying to find a replacement, but that fell through as well? Hmm.

brownishcoat | September 07, 20:56 CET

I called them and they were quite upset that ASH couldn't attend. I believe them when they say they just found out. They said that they already have everything printed (t-shirts, etc) and that they are disappointed as well. The lady I spoke with said that they are working on getting someone else. They were awaiting word from Amber Benson to see if she could replace ASH.

Sister Spooky | September 07, 23:02 CET