"206 - Star Trek Deep Space Nine Far Beyond The Stars with Todd E. Slayton"
No Win Scenario is your gateway to science fiction entertainment. Don and Trevor will spar over diverse perspectives and dissect popular narratives. Don and Trevor engage with industry experts to explore the day-to-day realities of production and the increasing prominence of mental health concerns in the film and television industry.

In this episode, Don and Trevor welcome Todd E. Slayton who beams in from Star Trek Deep Space Nine. The pair also shout out Beyond Classical Theatre and the legendary actor Johnny Lee Davenport once more. 

The interview includes:

Todd Slayton's background and connection to Deep Space Nine 
Todd Slayton is an actor, editor and producer who had a unique behind-the-scenes role on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. He started out in the industry as a model, but had a passion for entertainment instilled by his grandmother's involvement in vaudeville. Todd was hired as a background extra and stand-in on DS9, eventually becoming very close with the cast and crew, especially Avery Brooks (who played Captain Sisko) and Brock Peters (who played Sisko's father). Todd shared stories of the long hours, intense makeup, and occasional pranks on set, as well as the deep emotional connection he felt to the show and its themes of diversity and perseverance.

Todd's experiences with Avery Brooks and Brock Peters 
Todd had a close mentorship relationship with Avery Brooks, who he says treated him like a surrogate son. He shared a story of how Brooks pulled him aside to prevent him from attending an event the night Biggie Smalls was shot, likely saving his life. Todd also became very close with Brock Peters, who he says was like a father figure to him. He has fond memories of the two actors bonding and sharing stories on set.

The making of the "Far Beyond the Stars" episode 
Todd had a unique behind-the-scenes role in the acclaimed Deep Space Nine episode "Far Beyond the Stars", where the main characters are transported to 1950s Earth and experience racism and discrimination as African-American writers. Todd was Avery Brooks' stand-in and photo double for that episode, and he shared details about the intense emotional performances, the elaborate set design, and the significance of depicting that historical struggle. He felt honored to be part of such an impactful and well-crafted episode.

Todd's other roles and experiences on Deep Space Nine
In addition to his work on "Far Beyond the Stars", Todd played various background characters on Deep Space Nine, including Klingons, Cardassians, and Breen. He shared stories of the long hours, complex makeup, and occasional pranks on set. Todd also discussed his work on other shows like CSI, where he had a recurring role as a paramedic, and how the Deep Space Nine cast and crew formed a tight-knit community.

Todd's current projects and the legacy of Deep Space Nine
Today, Todd is producing a unique music and cultural festival in his hometown, blending reggae, hip-hop, and Afro-Cuban influences. He remains passionate about the arts and entertainment, and feels that Deep Space Nine's legacy as a groundbreaking, diverse, and socially conscious sci-fi series is an important part of his own story and experience in the industry. Todd expressed hope that Avery Brooks and the show will continue to have an impact in the years to come.

Podcast: No Win Scenario
Episode Number: 206
Release Date: October 19, 2024
Duration: 1:16:14
Hosts: Don Schechter and Trevor
Guest: Todd E. Slayton

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