TAMPA, Fla. — Billy Dee Williams, the legendary actor best known for his role as Lando Calrissian in the “Star Wars” franchise, made a memorable appearance at Tampa Comic Con this past weekend. The 87-year-old actor was a highlight of the event, where he entertained fans with anecdotes, participated in a lively card game, and was honored with a video tribute to his illustrious acting career.
Williams, who has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades, was greeted with a vigorous ovation as he took the stage on Saturday. Fans of all ages gathered to see the actor, whose charm and charisma have made him an enduring icon in pop culture.
The most talked-about moment of the day came when Williams invited a young fan from the audience to join him for a game of cards. The stakes? None other than the Millennium Falcon, the iconic starship that Williams’ character famously piloted in the “Star Wars” saga.
The game was filled with lighthearted banter, as Williams and the fan went head-to-head in a battle of wits. The audience watched eagerly as the game unfolded, with Williams ultimately emerging victorious. However, the victory was short-lived.
As Williams received his applause, the moderator noticed something unusual—a stray card peeking out from the actor’s pocket. The crowd erupted in laughter as the young fan pointed out the card, revealing that Williams had an extra card hidden away. Williams, ever the showman, took the revelation in stride.
Despite the humorous incident, the game was all in good fun, and the young fan walked away with a memorable experience, while Williams maintained his status as a fan-favorite guest.
The convention organizers also played a heartfelt video tribute to Williams’ long and varied career in film and television. The tribute highlighted some of his most iconic roles, including his performance as Two-Face in 1989’s “Batman” and his portrayal of Louis McKay in “Lady Sings the Blues.” The montage also featured scenes from his lesser-known but equally impactful roles, showcasing the breadth of his talent and his significant contribution to the entertainment industry.
As the tribute concluded, Williams, visibly moved, took a moment to address the audience. He expressed his gratitude for the continued support of his fans, reflecting on how much their love has meant to him throughout his career. “I’ve been blessed to have a career that’s lasted this long, and it’s because of all of you that I’ve been able to keep doing what I love,” Williams said.
While his age was evident in his slower responses during the Q&A session that followed, Williams remained as engaging and warm as ever. Fans asked him a range of questions, from his experiences on the set of “Star Wars” to his thoughts on his time as Two-Face in the Batman franchise. Though he took his time to answer each question, the crowd was patient and attentive, showing their respect for the star’s advanced years.
The event closed with a final round of applause as Williams waved to the crowd, thanking them for their unwavering support over the years. As he left the stage, it was clear that the love between Billy Dee Williams and his fans remains as strong as ever.
Tampa Comic Con, known for bringing in some of the biggest names in pop culture, undoubtedly delivered one of its most memorable moments with Williams’ appearance. His blend of humor, nostalgia, and genuine connection with the audience made for an unforgettable experience, one that will be cherished by fans for years to come.
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 Joseph Nuzzo PHOTOGRAPHER at SHUTTER SPEAK     |
