and now for something completely different
Seven days ago, the only thing I could think about was my cat. We didn't know what was wrong with him, we didn't know how to treat him, and we didn't even know if he'd ever recover.
He spent the entire day with his vet, and I spent the entire day wondering . . . well, if you read WWdN for the last week, you know.
In a tangible example of "life must go on," I had an audition on Monday afternoon of last week. Though I felt like I'd rather just stay home and stare at the phone, the call was for a producer's session on a fantastic show that I love, so I called on all my acting experience, temporarily set my worries aside, and drove to the studio.
It was 4:30 when I got there, and the skies were getting stormy. I had to park at the bottom of a hill, and walked to the gate through a bitterly cold wind. On the way up the hill, a twentyish girl driving a Prius pulled up next to me and shouted across her passenger seat, "Excuse me! Are they making us all park in that lot down there?"
I wanted to reply, "No, I'm just walking all the way up this damn hill in the freezing cold because I want the exercise and possible pneumonia." But she was cute, and she smiled at me. So I said, "Yeah, I think so," and kept walking.
She thanked me and backed down the hill into the lot.
When I got to the guard shack, I was breathing heavily. I couldn't help but think of Sketch as I told the guard where I was going.
"What's your name?" The guard said.
"Wil Wheaton."
He scanned down a long list of names, found mine, and crossed it off.
"Do you know where you're going?" He said.
"I haven't been here in a long time," I said. A year ago, I would have felt weird saying that, but the familiar feeling of angst wasn't there. "My priorities have changed." I thought.
He gave me directions to the other side of the lot. A short walk later, I signed in below someone named "Dane," and took a seat. The waiting room was little more than a long and narrow hallway with chairs lining both sides, reducing the walkway to about ten inches wide. In an alcove at the end of the hallway, a copy machine duplicated scripts with a familiar ka-chunk! whirr ka-chunk!
The cute girl turned heads as she walked in. "That hill is murder in heels," she said to me.
"I'm glad I wore my Converse," I said.
"Sure, rub it in." She said, coyly.
"Is she flirting with me?" I think that this is a universal truth: no matter how stupid in love a guy is with his wife (and we all know how stupid in love I am with Anne) when a cute girl flirts with you, it makes you feel good, like you've still got something worth flirting with. I said nothing and blushed.
A very young casting assistant came out of the office and looked down the sign-in sheet.
"Are you Dane?" He said to me.
I almost laughed out loud. "No. No I'm not." I said.
"Who are you?" He said.
It was one of those moments where time comes to a complete halt, and a thousand things race through your mind:
"Who am I? I'm the guy who's been acting longer than you've been breathing, kid."
"I am Sparticus!"
"Are you serious?"
"Ah, this is my place, and I've just been put in it."
I heard the distant ka-chunk! whirr ka-chunk! of the copy machine, and I knew that time would soon be returning to its normal passage. I didn't feel insulted, or embarrassed, or anything unpleasant. "Am I offended? Should I be offended? Where's that Prove To Everyone voice? Where's that Voice of Self Doubt? They live for this sort of thing . . . Huh. That's weird. I'm not offended. I'm actually amused. Yeah, this is funny!"
"I'm Wil Wheaton." I said with a grin.
He looked down at the list. "Oh, here you are! Okay, Will. Did you bring a picture?"
I haven't needed to bring a picture to auditions for about a decade, but I didn't tell him that.
"I did not," I said, "But I can have my manager send you one if you need it."
"Oh, it's not a big deal. They just like me to ask." He smiled warmly. "Oh! The script describes this guy as 'a real eager beaver', but the producers don't want you to play it that way. They want you to make it a little more dark."
"Thanks for the heads-up," I said.
"No problem. You're on deck, right after Dane." He lowered his voice and added, conspiratorially,"if I can find him." He walked down the hallway, found Dane, and took him into the room.
"Nice kid," I thought. Immediately followed by, "I can't believe I'm thinking of a twenty year-old as a kid. I am so . . . old? Lame? Both? Yeah, both. Ha."
I sat back down, and looked at my sides. The scenes were short, and I was already off book, but it just felt wrong to not look at them, especially with this new information about the character. This show is very well-written, so making the adjustment from Eager Beaver to Dark Beaver was simple. I just made up a slightly different backstory and gave myself a different "want" in both scenes (In most scripts there's usually a character who wants something, and another character who helps him or stands in his way. The drama or comedy comes from their interaction) It's much more fun to be dark than it is to be eager, anyway, and I had a lot of real life Darkness in my life to draw upon last Monday.
Dane came out, I went in, and I did my thing. I was dark and scary. The producer told me to adjust a little bit less dark, so I did, and read the scenes again.
Everyone in the room was extremely kind and gracious, which I didn't expect . . . I mean, this show is so popular, people are practically stepping over the corpses of their competition just for a chance at auditioning . . . but everyone there made me feel comfortable, welcome, and like they respected the effort. "Whether I book this job or not," I thought, "I won't take this for granted. These people are a class act."
The one hundred percent honest truth? I had fun. I had a fucking metric assload of fun reaching into this character's soul and pulling him out of my guts. Remember when I wrote about how you're not supposed to give a shit? Well, a gave a lot of shits, but I didn't feel like it was life-or-death to nail this. I honestly had so much more on my mind, I just went up there, did my thing, and thought, "Well, here's my take on this guy. Hope you like it."
"Thanks for coming in, Wil," one of the producers said to me, "you did a really nice job."
Usually, "really nice" is Hollywood code for "do not darken my door ever again," but there was a sincerity in his voice, and he didn't have to say anything . . .
"Thank you," I said with a smile. I wanted to add, "I love your show, my kids love your show, and I appreciate the opportunity to read for you," but I kept my big mouth shut and stuck to The Plan: Well, here's my take on this guy. Hope you like it. I walked out of the room, and dropped my sides in the first recycling bin I saw. It's a post-audition ritual: my way of letting go, because at that point, it's totally out of my hands anyway.
"Careful when you walk back down the hill." I said to the pretty girl as I passed her.
"Are you kidding me?" She tapped one of her heels with her fingertips. "These fuckers are coming off as soon as I get out of there!" She laughed. She struck me as one of those rare women, like my wife, who call her shoes "these fuckers" and drink beer, and watch the playoffs, and are entirely charming and beautiful. We're lucky to have them in our lives.
I laughed with her. "Break a leg."
I walked out of the building, and into a strong wind. The sun was setting, and the building, white when I entered, was pink. Reflected in its windows, golden clouds raced from West to East across the deepening blue sky toward the impending night.
I walked quickly back to my car, and drove to my meeting at ACME in Hollywood. The clock in my car read 5:21. Anne had picked Sketch up at 5, so I called her to check on him. When she didn't answer, I feared the worst.
"I'm on my way to ACME," I told her voice mail. "Call me as soon as you get the message and let me know how Sketch is. I love you."
Ten minutes went by. I called again and left a similar message. Five minutes after that, I called Ryan at our house.
Me:"Is mom home?"
Ryan: "No. She's with Nolan."
Me: "Is she getting Sketch?"
Ryan: "Yeah."
Me: "Tell her to call me when she gets home if she hasn't talked to me already, okay?"
Ryan: "Okay."
Me: "Thanks. I love you."
Ryan: *click*
He's fifteen and doesn't say "I love you" very often, but that's okay. I know he does.
The sunset, off to my right, was particularly beautiful as I crawled down the 5 in rush hour traffic. The storm clouds were heaviest behind me and to my left. Normally, I'd take time to enjoy the juxtaposition, but while I'd been focusing on my audition, lots of worry about my kitty had backed up, and now it was coming out.
"Should I blow off going to ACME and head home? Yes. Yes, I really should go home. I'll go East on the 134 in six miles, and just go home."
For the next several minutes, I looked at my phone over and over again, certain that I was going to miss the call, equally certain that when the call came, it would be Anne's voice, bravely trying to stay steady, while she gave me The News.
"Oh god. What am I going to do? What am I going to do if he has to be put to sleep? This isn't fair! He was fine on Friday morning! Why is this —"
My cell rang.
It was Anne. "How did your audition go?"
"Fine. How's Sketch?"
"Please say he's okay."
"He's not doing well, Wil. His breathing is really heavy, and his eyes look scared. I wish we had known to get his ultrasound yesterday." I could hear the fear and worry in her voice. She was doing her best to keep it together for me. She's incredible, my wife.
I drew a deep breath and felt a strong wave of grief and worry shudder through my body. I didn't know it, but I would get very intimate with this feeling over the next seven days.
"Should I just come home?" I said.
"It's not going to make a difference. I'll call you if anything changes."
"Okay," I said. "I should be home around nine. Take care of my fat guy."
"I will," she said. "When do you think you'll hear about your audition?"
"Well, I think it works pretty soon, so maybe tomorrow or Wednesday, I guess."
My phone chirped twice: call waiting.
"I have another call. It's Chris [my manager]."
"Maybe you got the job," she said.
"I don't know. I'll call you when I know what's up."
Chirp! Chirp!
"I gotta go. Give Sketch some love for me. I love you."
"I will. I love you too," she said.
I clicked over. Chris wanted to know how the audition went. I told him about it, and about Sketch.
"I hope your cat gets better," he said. "I'll call you as soon as I know anything from casting."
"Okay. Thanks."
I went to ACME, even though I really felt like I should have been home. I got back shortly after nine, and ran into my bedrooom. Sketch was on my floor, looking like each breath would be his last. I opened my mouth to tell him I love him, and sobs came out instead. I cried myself to sleep while he struggled to stay alive on my bedroom floor, and took him to the vet the following morning. On the way home, I got a call from my manager.
"How's your cat doing?" He said.
I told him, and we spent a few minutes talking about animals and what they mean to us. Most managers have earned their stereotypical image as Armani suit wearing ponytails who end every conversation with ciao! but Chris is antithetical to That Guy. More often than not, I call to talk about an audition, or ask a question about something work-related, and we end up talking about our kids. It's fairly common for me to call him, end up talking about report cards, and have to call him back to ask about the project I'd called about in the first place.
"Well, not to abruptly shift to business, but how tall are you?" He said.
"How tall do they want me to be?" I said.
"Seriously. How tall are you?"
I told him, and pointed out that it's pretty easy to make me one or two inches taller with the right shoes.
"Hey, if you put me in really funky shoes, like James Brown shoes, I could even be four or five inches taller."
He laughed, but I laughed way too hard and way too long for the joke. Now that we knew what was wrong with Sketch, and how to treat him, I laughed more out of relief than anything else.
"Why do they want to know how tall I am? Am I going to lose another role because of the way I look?"
"Quite the opposite," he said. "You made a great impression up there yesterday. They like you so much, they're considering you for a different role in the show."
"Really?! What role?"
"Well, that depends on how tall you are. Let me call them back, and I'll call you when I know something."
I hung up, and I didn't think about the audition again until later that night at ACME.
After we'd been pitching material for about an hour, a friend of mine sat next to me and said, "Are you okay?"
I told her about Sketch. "I'm emotionally exhausted right now."
"I understand," she said. "I'm really sorry."
"Thank you," I said. We talked a little bit about work, and I told her about the audition.
"Oh my crap!" She said, "You're totally going to book it. I just know it."
(This is something that actors always say to each other. If my friend Greg auditions for a wasabi commercial, and he's the only 30ish white guy in there among a hundred Sumo wrestlers, I am bound by the actor's code to tell him, "Dude. You're totally going to book it. I just know it.")
"Well, we'll see." I said.
I watched a lot of really funny sketches (especially Ethan's — we're lucky Travis doesn't grade on too steep a curve), put up a mildly amusing one of my own, and raced home so I could sit up most of the night worrying about my fat little guy.
Early Wednesday morning, I spoke with Sketch's vet: he was improving. I spent the morning working on my Onion column, and did some re-writing of my mildly funny ACME sketch. Around eleven or so, the phone rang. I felt the too-familiar surge of adrenaline before I saw the caller ID. It was my manager.
"Hello?"
"Wil? It's Chris."
"What's up?" I said.
"How's Sketch doing?" He said.
"His vet says he's getting better."
"How are you doing?"
"We're not out of the woods yet, but at least I can see the path."
"Okay . . . so how are you doing?"
"I don't know, Chris," I said. "Okay, I guess."
"I understand." He paused, we both shifted gears. "Well, I heard from casting."
"Oh?"
"You won't get the official offer until later today, or maybe tomorrow, but they wanted you to know that you're going to get the job."
I sat up in my chair.
"What?! Really?!"
"Yes. It turns out that you are exactly the right height. You're playing a homeless guy who . . . let me read it to you . . . 'has been talking to the voices in his head for years, but has just recently started talking to them out loud. He's a suspect in the murder.'"
I jumped out of my chair. "Wait. Did I get a bigger role because of my acting?"
I could hear the smile in his voice. "I think you did. They wanted you to have something more challenging and complex to do."
I did a little dance in my living room, where I run back and forth and shake my thing. Riley saw me, and ran across the house to my side. She didn't know why I was excited, but she danced with me anyway before she got really interested in chasing her tail. She's good like that.
"Chris, this is . . . this is just . . . holy crap!" The reality of this job was sinking in. "For years I've been told, 'you were the best actor but . . .' and 'we loved your acting, but . . .' this is just so cool! Can I blog about it?"
"Well, until we get the official offer, you can tell your friends and family, but you shouldn't put it on your blog just yet," he said. "And starting right now, they don't want you to shave, so you look good and scruffy. Can you grow a beard?"
"Uh . . . in some spots, I can grow a beard . . . ish . . . thing." I said.
He laughed. "Just do your best."
"It's all I can do," I said. "Chris, I can't believe this. I think this is the first time in years you've gotten to call and tell me that I actually booked a job!"
"Congratulations, Wil," he said. "I'll talk to you later."
I hung up the phone, and that's when it really hit me:
I'm going to be on CSI.
I have said it out loud to my friends and family, and even though I just wrote it down, it still feels surreal.
Holy shit, I'm going to be on CSI!
Comments
Way to go, Wil!
And it is so good to hear that Sketch is doing better!
Posted by: Karen | February 7, 2005 10:53 PM
That's awesome news, Wil. Hope you have a great time on the set!
Posted by: Chuck | February 7, 2005 10:58 PM
w00t!
Loves me some CSI (please tell me it's the Vegas show). That's great! Can't wait to see it. Congrats.
And still sending Kitty Mojo™.
Posted by: AmyO | February 7, 2005 11:00 PM
Wil.....damn. That's so cool. And it gives me a reason to watch t.v for the first time in 4 years.
Break a leg.
Bob
Posted by: CIO | February 7, 2005 11:01 PM
Holy shit! You're going to be on CSI!! I'm going to have to make sure I watch it *now* ;) Wow, all this and a happier kitty... *beams*
Posted by: Jodie | February 7, 2005 11:02 PM
First of all, I'm glad to hear the poor kitty is improving. Just keep it up :)
And now onto the gushing:
CSI?!?!? Not Miami or NY, but the real thing?
Dude, I want pictures of the set. Come on, hook a sister up. This would get me some serious cred at work. I'll hang them right next to my autographed Dr. Henry Lee ruler. You know I will.
Seriously, I am bouncing off the walls on your behalf right now and it's not just because I want you to nick Grissom's fetal pig for me.
Posted by: Astra | February 7, 2005 11:06 PM
That's awesome!
Congrats! Loved the poker sketch at Acme, btw... :)
And I hope Sketch gets better.
Posted by: alan | February 7, 2005 11:09 PM
Way to go! I've never watched it, but I will now. Glad Sketch is doing well, too.
Posted by: Jason | February 7, 2005 11:09 PM
*cheers for Wil*
Sorry, hi--first time commenter. :) OHPLEASEOHPLEASEOHPLEASEOHPLEASE let us know which CSI and when it's going to air... I'll actually break down and watch it just to see you. ;)
*love to Sketch*
Posted by: smirkingpunk | February 7, 2005 11:11 PM
Congratulations!!! That's awesome!! I'm so happy to hear the great news. =) I hope that Sketch is doing alright, too. Pets have always been like family members to me, too.
Posted by: Laura | February 7, 2005 11:28 PM
Too.
Damn.
Cool.
My whole household is into CSI - even the cats. You'll have to let us all know when it airs.
The Mighty Fatcat of the West is doing better (huzzah! go Sketch!) and now a booking on CSfuckingI - sounds like Wil Wheaton could be having the best week ever....
Guinness cheers to you and Sketch.
Posted by: Red | February 7, 2005 11:33 PM
Congratulations, Wil! A nervous, tense week followed by two encouraging pieces of good news, Sketch and CSI... you derserve it! We all know that you don't need lots of other people to book you to validate the fact that you're a good actor... but it never hurts, does it? :-)
Posted by: VineyardDawg | February 7, 2005 11:36 PM
rock on, Wil! you'll definitely have to let us know when the episode airs.
oh, and my dog, my rabbit and me are all still sending canine/lapine/monkey mojo for Sketch...
Posted by: Chris the Tiki Guy | February 7, 2005 11:44 PM
Congrats you! :)
Posted by: Clay | February 7, 2005 11:46 PM
I've had my fingers and toes crossed for Sketch, and am giving my dog (whoops, two now) lots of love because I think sharing love with animals is good for all animals.
And congratulations on the job. I saw Stand By Me when it first came out, and you impressed me then, and *mostly*, you've impressed me since, regardless of publicity. But I'm not a casting agent.
Posted by: MaryMactavish | February 7, 2005 11:47 PM
Well, it's my first time posting here, but I had just had to say big time congrats Wil! And here's hoping it leads to even bigger and better things, you certainly deserve it!
And glad to hear sketch is doing better, me and my daughter and sending much mojo sketch's way
Cheers mate!
Posted by: Genesyn | February 7, 2005 11:48 PM
Holy fucking crap Wil! I turn my back for five minutes and you've landed a role! Good work fella!
I'm owed some big-time cat karma since mine died last year. Transferring it to the Wheaton household.
Posted by: Scaryduck | February 7, 2005 11:51 PM
Great job man! Just to bump what everyone else has said make sure to tell us what episode, I am an advid fan (I was kinda guessing CSI by the way you were sorta giving details) and I can't wait to see you there :)
Posted by: TheShadowx | February 7, 2005 11:56 PM
Wil booked CSI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kick' ass!!!!!!!!!!!!! Woot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: girlie jones | February 7, 2005 11:58 PM
FUCK! YEAH!
*cross-country high five*
Dude! This is so awesome! I KNEW something would drop for you, and now it has! This so ROCKS! Now we can SEE you instead of just hearing you on TV! It's about damn time Hollywood got its head out of its ass and booked you!
Good job, Uncle Willie! \m/
Posted by: Eric in PA | February 7, 2005 11:59 PM
Congratulations on the part, I love CSI as well.
I Sketch gets well soon, I know how hard it is when you're worrying about a pet you love.
Stephen
Posted by: stephenbooth_uk | February 8, 2005 12:00 AM
Wil...
You. Are. The. Man!
No, seriously... you need to friggin' post every single specific about you being on CSI, so I can go to my dad's house and watch it.
Multiple huzzahs to Sketch... we're still sending out much mojo!
Now I'm excited... can't wait to watch...!
Posted by: Amber | February 8, 2005 12:06 AM
GO TEAM WHEATON!
Posted by: PastPerfestGOON | February 8, 2005 12:10 AM
GO TEAM WHEATON!
Posted by: PastPerfestGOON | February 8, 2005 12:10 AM
Wow!
Wil, Congratulations! CSI is one of my favorite shows, I can't say how excited I am that you will be on! When you described the popularity of the show, and the auditors as a class act, it's funny, but the back of my mind went "CSI", and I well yeah...awesome.
Posted by: EvilPhoenix | February 8, 2005 12:10 AM
Way to go Wil - you rock Dude. Can't wait to see the show, we're big CSI fans, although we're in the UK so I guess we'll have to wait a little longer to see it - but hey it'll be worth it! Congratulations ;-)
Good news about Sketch too - pleased for you.
Posted by: Tonto | February 8, 2005 12:13 AM
Beautiful entry. I usually read these from the LJ feed, but I had to comment. First, congratulations on the booking! Break a leg!
Second, may your fat cat recover, or at least be relieved of pain. Hang in there, I know how scary it can be to have a beloved kitty so very sick.
Posted by: Calico | February 8, 2005 12:15 AM
Congratulations Wil!!
I've been reading your site for over a year now, even bought your book "Just a Geek", and this is the best news you've shared with us for some time. :-)
Don't forget to let us know what the episode is called, I'll be watching out for it.
*Note to Sketch.....sending you kitty mojo from the land downunder.
Posted by: BSeanD | February 8, 2005 12:23 AM
Congratulations Wil!!
I've been reading your site for over a year now, even bought your book "Just a Geek", and this is the best news you've shared with us for some time. :-)
*Note to Sketch.....sending you kitty mojo from the land downunder.
Posted by: BSeanD | February 8, 2005 12:25 AM
At first I just scrolled past this entry thinking "Wow, this better be good, cause I prolly won't read it all if it's not..." Wow, just wow. I couldn't stop reading after a while. First of all a freaking huge congratulations on the booking. And secondly, thanks a ton for a great read!
Watching your pets grow old is never easy, they are so much a member of the family. No one wants to outlast their family. You and your family (especially the fat ones) are in my thoughts. I wish you all the best.
Posted by: liana | February 8, 2005 12:26 AM
First of all, my best to Sketch. I hope he gets better soon.
Secondly, this is fantastic news. Cheers from Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Posted by: Skywalker | February 8, 2005 12:27 AM
Congrats WIl! I'm sooo happy for you! I hope your Sketch gets well soon hugs and kisses to him!
-Cat
Posted by: cat | February 8, 2005 12:29 AM
Congratulations! I've recently become addicted to CSI and it's so awesome that you're going to be on it! You deserve it! :)
Sketch is in my thoughts.
Posted by: joy | February 8, 2005 12:31 AM
Anyone who has ever auditioned for anything will be overjoyed for you. Anyone who has ever been found "too . . ." for a part will be doubly overjoyed.
Kinda gives ya a sense a' validation, don't it? To get the gig for the *right* reason?
Cheering for actors, writers and their cats beats hell out of watching sports, is what I say.
Posted by: clydesdale | February 8, 2005 12:31 AM
Oh Wil. (A) This is beautiful. Keep writing, willya? (B) OMG, CONGRATULATIONS! I haven't tuned in to CSI before because I have a little problem with my Law & Order addiction -- but I will now. (C) "Dark Beaver" and "Wait. Did I get a bigger role because of my acting?" made me laugh out loud. Rock on, W.
Posted by: Jen Z | February 8, 2005 12:40 AM
Yay! I can't wait to see it! Congratulations, Wil. I'm so happy for you.
And I'm doubly happy that Sketch keeps getting better. Very good news all around.
Posted by: Eco-Emancipator | February 8, 2005 12:52 AM
Congrats Wil!!
That's so awesome. And CSI! I love that show!
And so glad to hear Sketch has been improving, too, that's gotta be great.
Can't wait to read about how filming goes!!
Posted by: Thorn | February 8, 2005 1:01 AM
I don't usually watch CSI... but i'm SO excited! Yay for you! I'm extremely, extremely happy for you- and Sketch!
Posted by: llikevol | February 8, 2005 1:15 AM
Oh wow. WOW! I feel like I just won the lottery instead of you, Wil! So excited for you I went and registered an account at 4:30 a.m. just so I could say CONGRATULATIONS! :)
Love the way you wrote this up, too -- and so glad Sketch is doing well!
Posted by: Shannon Noelle | February 8, 2005 1:30 AM
Congradulations Wil! This is just the kind of news I knew you would be hearing soon because you do have amazing talent. When will this air? When do you start shooting? I truly am so happy for you. Enjoy every minute of this, you deserve it. See, your passion for the work, smarts, and persistance have paid off. :) Its 4:30am here on the East Coast, and I am smiling for you. WAY TO GO WIL!
Posted by: Quincey | February 8, 2005 1:30 AM
Bloody hell! Thats fantastic news!!!!
I looooooooooooove that show! Congratulations! :)
Posted by: hev244 | February 8, 2005 1:49 AM
AWESOME!! WTG Wil! I can't wait to tell my wife! She'll be very excited! I'm sure the voices in your head will be quite pleased to get some vocal attention :) Good job!
Posted by: BGog | February 8, 2005 1:53 AM
oh yeah, that's only just a little rockin...
sarcasm cleanup on aisle 12
(congradulations!!!)
Posted by: Eric/Fyre | February 8, 2005 2:09 AM
w00t uncle willy!!
congratulations
I'm happy and sad at the same time for you!!It's situations like these that make me think maybe there is a little something to that "balance in the universe" thing (hhmm ponders thought and scratches chin while looking out the window thoughtfully, hey my neighbor needs to get a bigger bathrobe, oh god eye contact look away! look away!)
Go squeeze your fat cat for me, I also have a fat cat and there is no grater joy then a kitty squeeze.
Break a leg!! Can't wait to watch!
Posted by: chele | February 8, 2005 2:12 AM
CSI huh? Can you try to work in a private joke about Star Trek - maybe pick a bit character and work it into your mad mumblings or something? You'd so set fandom alight, especially if it was incredibly obscure and we only knew to look for it because of the blog post. That would be, like, so awesome.
Oh, and tough break about the cat. Animals die, it's an animal thing. Every pet I've ever had that has died has done so quickly, an in a fairly dignified manner. But I tell you what, if the cat goes, I'll tip out a half-glass of wine in respect for the dead next time I'm feeling philosophical.
-MP
Posted by: MelbournePhilosopher | February 8, 2005 2:35 AM
Dude. Just so proud.
Congrats and well done. Look forward to tuning in to your beard. :-)
Posted by: jj | February 8, 2005 2:57 AM
I could not sleep, so I got up, turned on the computer and thought I would see what was new with you. Glad I did! CSI is one of the best things you could have landed. I am a taxi driver in the San Francisco Bay Area, and the topic in my cab tomorrow will be about CSI and how great it will be to see you on it. Hope your not the killer, so you can become a regular on the show. I can already picture a quirky street guy in every episode bringing a little extra to the show.
Posted by: joann | February 8, 2005 2:58 AM
That's so fantastic! Congrats Wil! Luckily, I already watch the show, so I won't have to worry about forgetting your episode. ;)
Posted by: Lilitu | February 8, 2005 3:00 AM
DUDE!!! Congrats!! Wunderbar!!!!!!
Oh, I can't wait to see it. I love that show.
Posted by: rani23 | February 8, 2005 3:06 AM
Holy heck!!!!! WOWEE! This is brilliant! Am very VERY happy for you. Funny, isn't it, how out of the darkest moments of our lives sometimes the brightest lights shine.
You DESERVE this. I'm glad your fat little friend's on his way up, too. Give him and yourself a hug for me!
Lis in Aus.
Posted by: AusParaLis | February 8, 2005 3:13 AM
Way to go Wil!
All my best to Sketch, and break a leg :)
Posted by: Mark Healey | February 8, 2005 3:20 AM
I'm not sure which is better news. Sketch improving or the part.
I think on the whole acting by Jorja Fox ought to cheer you up.
Posted by: zweiblumen | February 8, 2005 3:21 AM
Holy shit! That's great! As soon as I read "You're playing a homeless guy..." I knew it was either CSI or L&O.
Way to work the acting mojo, baby!
Posted by: mistytsim | February 8, 2005 3:38 AM
Here's something you don't often get to say:
"You're a homeless delusional bum suspected of murder? I'm so proud of you! You're moving up in the world!"
:o)
Posted by: FNRThomas | February 8, 2005 3:41 AM
Yay! Yipee! And Holy Crap! I don't think I can add anything else that hasn't already been said. Did I say Yay?
I'll be keeping Sketch in my thoughts.
;)
Posted by: CarolP | February 8, 2005 3:48 AM
Oh. My. God. CSI??!!?!?!
Congratulations! Which one? Vegas, Miami or NY? If you can't say I guess I'll have to watch them all to find out. Wow! Hope it's Vegas, I think Gus Grissom is teh r0XX0r \m/
I've been on holiday for a week and only just saw the news about Sketch whilst catching up with internet life. Poor little guy, our three mogs Galileo, Gizmo and new kid on the block ZigZag send purrs and Mewjo. Get well soon little guy.
PS: ZigZag looks like Sketch.
Posted by: Devil Girl | February 8, 2005 3:49 AM
Wil, that is awesome! Congratulations!! Can't wait to watch you on CSI!
Posted by: Annakie | February 8, 2005 3:53 AM
Wil congrats man that is so cool. I am glad sketch is doing better. huggs to the kitty and I will be looking for you on CSI . I am so proud of you and have watched you since you were just a young man on STNG. good luck. Gypsy
Posted by: Gypsy | February 8, 2005 3:59 AM
Congrats Wil. CSI is a great show. My friend
Doug Hutchison has been on CSI and CSI Miami.
I hope they appreciate what a great actor they
have in you and let you go with the part.
My thoughts are still with Sketch and his recovery.
Posted by: ColleenS | February 8, 2005 4:07 AM
Congrats. It will be great to see you on my favorite show.
All my love for Sketch. Pets are like our other kids. :)
Posted by: Kass | February 8, 2005 4:11 AM
Thats so awsome!!! I never watched CSI but I am now. Give my love to Sketch
Posted by: ferrysgirl | February 8, 2005 4:40 AM
CrazyMurderingHomelessDude!Wil! CSI, go figure. I think it's a sign that CSI is really a *good* show, when they hire *good* actors. I had a speechless moment. Go you!
This news forced me to sign up for TypeKey and everything. Ecologists tend to be a bit technophobic, and I'm all over that...
My little bitches are pulling for Sketch. They like cats, and not in the "they're good with cheese" way.
Posted by: caraewell | February 8, 2005 4:41 AM
I totally love CSI,Law and Order and of course Medium. I would love to see you on those two other shows.......I'm going to have to keep track of the online tv guide so I can catch the episode you're in. Congrats to you Wil.....Yippeee I get to see Wil Wheaton on one of my favorite shows. Oh yeah Charlie and I still have Sketch in our prayers. Please keep us to date on "Fat guy". (sends lots of mojo to sketch)
Morgan
Posted by: morgan | February 8, 2005 4:49 AM
Congrats on booking the job! That's awesome! And I am sending good thoughts to Sketch.
Posted by: raanve | February 8, 2005 4:50 AM
It is silly for me to imagine that I was the only person out here who knew you booked CSI after seeing your photo blog and then reading that you had big news?
I also KNEW Sketch would be ok.
And, I know that you're alright -- a true success in all the ways that truly matter. This gig is just icing baby.
Personally, I'd be ok with Vegas or New York. Gary Sinise is another of my favorites, seriously underated and uncommonly sexy.
Geez I hope the bum is not guilty! Recurring role perhaps?
Posted by: Val | February 8, 2005 4:55 AM
Dude that is awesome. You've so got to tell us when you're going to be on! Congratulations. Sa-weet.
Posted by: OddieTaco | February 8, 2005 5:03 AM
That's awesome, Wil! Congratulations!
I'm also sending my love down the well for Sketch, and my fatguy, Chester, says "MEOWW!"
Posted by: RDZ | February 8, 2005 5:06 AM
Holy Crap, that's the coolest shit every. I suspected it was CSI when you said the show was "insanely popular" or something similar, and when you mentioned murder.
But still, that's the best! Please let us know when the show's going to air, if you can.
Posted by: Jasmine | February 8, 2005 5:13 AM
Hi Wil,
So glad to hear that Sketch is doing better. My Gordie, Bagel and Digger cats send lots of love to you and Sketch. Although since Bagel is 25lbs, I think Sketch may have to share the name of "Fat guy".
When I read that you had booked a gig on CSI I jumped up and down and shouted. Which would have been fine, except that I'm at work and now my co-workers think I'm insane. But other than that...Holy Christmas that rocks!
Keep making us smile and cry and laugh and shout! Love from Ottawa Canada
Posted by: Bagelcat | February 8, 2005 5:39 AM
And the crow goes WILD!
HAHHHHHHHHH!
Wow, I'm not one to use this phrase often (if at all) but Oh Em Gee! CSI? Dude that is about the coolest thing ever. I think you being on the show will even convince my girlfriend to watch CSI at least just this once.
Congrats! You better keep us up to date as to when it's on!
Posted by: Jason (xtra-rant.com) | February 8, 2005 5:41 AM
I hope Setch is geting better every day,
I know how you feel we have 3 cats ourselves and it makes me crazy when they are ill.
Congratulations Wil,
this is so coll that you will be on the show CSI
I can't wait to see it over here in Germany.
Posted by: Jules | February 8, 2005 5:44 AM
Congratulations Wil on Sketch and the CSI role!!!111
Now I understand exactly what you meant when you said that you were on an emotional roller coaster. You will have to let us Wil groupies know when your CSI episode airs. Just imagine if all of us tell and email others about your being on CSI. Their ratings will asplode.
Hope that Sketch continues to get better. As a five dog owner(!), I can totally understand how you felt when your fat guy wasn't feeling well.
Posted by: Pixel _Pusher | February 8, 2005 5:58 AM
Well, crap. I guess I have to watch a hour of prime time television now.
Congrats, Wil. And I'll let the kitties at home know that their kitty mojo helped Sketch out.
Posted by: Lytspeed | February 8, 2005 5:58 AM
[office space]
Fucking A, man
[/office space]
Posted by: Heath Allyn | February 8, 2005 6:12 AM
Wil, thanks for sharing the great news. It's very exciting, and I'm so looking forward to seeing you on CSI--you'll be great. Best to Sketch and all the family.
Posted by: maycomb | February 8, 2005 6:13 AM
YESSSSSS!!!!! That is so awesome!!!
I am so proud of you! As Paul McCartney's daughter had written on her shirt when her dad got a grammy It is about F**king time!
I am so happy your cat is better and I am so happy you got this part on CSI.
Posted by: JenniferB | February 8, 2005 6:16 AM
As a serious CSI addict, and a big Wil fan, I can't wait until the show airs. I even get the seasons on DVD. One of my geek out moments I guess. Anyway, congrats on the role, and I am so happy the Sketch is doing better.
I will continue to send healing thoughts his way!
Posted by: Rhiathame | February 8, 2005 6:18 AM
Wil, I can't say how pleased I am - for you and for Sketch. I'm sitting and grinning like a fool after reading all your good news!
CSI, dude!
Erro xx
Posted by: Errodiel | February 8, 2005 6:20 AM
Thanks for posting that, and congratulations.
Posted by: NoisyParker | February 8, 2005 6:26 AM
Yabba Dabba Freakin DOO!
I love CSI and watch all the time.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - big things are coming your way Wheaton. Big, Huge things, you're ready for them to happen now.
My two cats and I are still sending Mojo to Sketch. Hang in there buddy!
Sharfa
Posted by: Sharfa | February 8, 2005 6:28 AM
Awesome Wil!
I knew the minute you started describing the fabulousness (is that a word?) of the show which one it was. Seriously the best thing on television.
I am so happy for you, congratulations:)
Posted by: Sudden | February 8, 2005 6:29 AM
I was reading your post and about halfway through started thinking ... I wonder if it's CSI? ... got to the end and actually squealed (which my prof probably doesn't appreciate in the middle of class).
Anyway, nice to see one of my favorite author-actors on one of my favorite shows. Also, nice to see the fat man doing better. My cats are my children (not in that creepy sort of way, of course), so I'm right there with you.
Posted by: brigid23 | February 8, 2005 6:30 AM
Hey Wil, I was so excited about the CSI news that I forgot to mention how relieved I was to hear that Sketch is doing better. Pretty groovy day, yesterday was.
Posted by: CIO | February 8, 2005 6:30 AM
Yes!Yes!YEEEEESSSSSSSS! There *is* justice*! There *is* magic! Passion and heart and goodness and talent DO get rewarded with work on fabulous projects with amazing people! I am sooooooo pleased for you . . . Are you going to do a little something for Sketch those work day(s)? . . . I can't help but think that your love for him brought up golden richness and layered your audition in ways that only love can . . . what a gift from him to you . . . :) Yay, Wil . . .
Posted by: Katherine | February 8, 2005 6:31 AM
Woo-hoo!! Congratulations! I am so proud of you! (Which is a little odd, considering I've never met you, but there you go...) Maybe this good fortune will carry over to Sketch, too. Again, congrats!
Posted by: Random Amy | February 8, 2005 6:31 AM
Congratulations, Wil!
What an exciting way to end a day!
And many skritches and hugs to Sketch.
My cat (http://members.aol.com/shelaghc/sandi.jpg) is part Maine Coon and I never knew that she might be prone to such a thing. I'll be sending good thoughts to both of you and looking forward to seeing you on TV soon.
Posted by: ShelaghC | February 8, 2005 6:32 AM
nice! happy sketch vibes, CSI spot. my herd of 5 (yes 5) cats is pulling for yours.
freeze or burn, all else is only icing man.
Posted by: rasa | February 8, 2005 6:39 AM
Wow, awesome news, Wil!
I just started watching CSI on DVD and I LOVE that show! I'll love it even more now that you're on it. ;)
Can't wait to hear more about it!
Posted by: ignote | February 8, 2005 6:40 AM
TOO COOL! you have to let us know when it's going to air, because that is one episode i am NOT going to miss. ^_^
Posted by: Kristan | February 8, 2005 6:40 AM
Wil, I just started reading your blog a couple of months ago, even though I've been a fan of yours for years and years. Over the past few entries I've become completely engrossed in what's going on with Sketch, as though he were a kitty that I knew personally. I hope he continues his progress toward healthy cat status. My Dexter kitty and I are pulling for him. The news about CSI is fantastic! You completely deserve it, and I'm sure you'll have a blast with it. Congratulations! Jess (& Dexter)
Posted by: freyja79 | February 8, 2005 6:41 AM
It's so nice to hear about you getting good news for a change! =)
I don't know when we're going to have TV hooked up in our new house, but I'll do my best to be watching the night it airs.
Posted by: Kilbia | February 8, 2005 6:42 AM
I laughed, I cried, I came thisclose to letting out a loud "WOO-HOO!" here in the library. Congrats, Wil! Gee, now maybe I should actually get around to watching CSI...
My own fat cats continue to keep Sketch in their thoughts. :-)
Posted by: littlenicola | February 8, 2005 6:43 AM
Honestly, that's the best news I've heard all week. Well after the cat getting better! Congratulations! I cannot tell you how much you have risen in my opinion as an actor and as a person over the last few years and I can think of no one who deserves this chance to shine more than you.
By the way, on an off note, a bunch of us who weren't too thrilled with the lead for Spiderman decided that if we were to cast him, it would have been you. An oddness on our part but as soon as your name was dropped into the ring of who we would have liked to see in the role, you won hands down. Of course you also would have been starring opposite of Natalie Portman.
Congrats again! So looking forward to seeing you on the show!
Posted by: wedschilde | February 8, 2005 6:45 AM
Wow, that is SO great!
Congratulations Wil! You really earned this one!!!
Posted by: Lane | February 8, 2005 6:53 AM
That's awesome! Congrats . . . Be sure to tell us when the show airs!
-adam
Posted by: AdamAnt | February 8, 2005 6:55 AM
Congratulations Wil! You're SUCH a ROCKSTAR! I'll keep praying for your fat little guy too.
Posted by: PirateAlice | February 8, 2005 6:58 AM
I love your stories man. I've not met or read anyone quite like you and it's refreshing to hear how down-to-earth you are.
Super-congrats. Be damn sure to tell us when you're on. I usually don't catch the show so I'll want to tune in to see you.
Posted by: Almost Lucid (Brad) | February 8, 2005 6:59 AM
Awesome! AWESOME! I guess I'll be watching my first episode of CSI! Do let us know when your episode airs so I don't miss it!
Posted by: svenden | February 8, 2005 7:03 AM
Congratulations, Wil. You've earned it. I'm not a regular CSI viewer, but I'll make sure to TiVo your episode.
Posted by: Seth | February 8, 2005 7:09 AM
Holy Crap!! CSI?!? That is so exciting for you!
Congrats on a job, well audition, well done. Can't wait to see you in the show. It is absolutely my favorite on TV right now!
Also, LOVE the blog. I'm a new reader and just trying to catch up on your life.
Posted by: squeekybuddha | February 8, 2005 7:17 AM
Oh my God, Wil!
*laughs and does the dance of victory*
Go team Wheaton! w00t!
Posted by: Kaytlyn LeBlanc | February 8, 2005 7:19 AM
Wil, congrats. Hope sketch is doing better.Here's my little saying I found on the Internet.
*I live in my own little World,But it's ok.They know me here.*
Lots of Mojo to Sketch
Posted by: Lostboy67 | February 8, 2005 7:22 AM
Dude! That kicks seventeen kinds of ass! CSI! Fuck, yeah!
I've been reading your blog for about a year now, and I bought Just a Geek and Dancing Barefoot as Christmas presents (though I read them both first) for my sister (also an actor), and I've been following your life, and hoping for the best, and feeling your pain. I am so glad that you're getting such a great opportunity.
w00t!
Posted by: J. Erik Lundberg | February 8, 2005 7:26 AM
It's bad luck to tell someone to break a leg when they get a part....Now can someone explain what this typekey is. I had to re register Is our sign in our email addie?
Posted by: Lostboy67 | February 8, 2005 7:31 AM
Dude! Congrats! Looks like everything is shaping up real well! Hope you do an awesome job there :)
Posted by: Glyn Evans | February 8, 2005 7:37 AM
HOLY BANANA MONKEYS WIL!!!
That's so friggin great! We watch CSI RELIGIOUSLY around here. In fact... moreso than we go to church? Man... I need to think about that eh?
Eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee I can't wait to tell my family, they'll be just as excited.
OH and keep us updated, I wanna know exactly when so I can tape it and show it to everyone I know, including some great directors hehe.
Posted by: jude | February 8, 2005 7:38 AM
I'm so glad to hear about Sketch, and I can't wait for your episode! Fabulous!
Posted by: Anya_____ | February 8, 2005 7:40 AM
Hi Wil
I have been reading your blog for about a year now and been a fan since stand by me.I am soooo thrilled for you that i actually signed with typekey to post "congrats"..a first for me.*squeals in delight for wil.
can't wait to watch your episode of CSI.
again congrats,you so deserve it!
mojo to sketch
and best wishes to you and your family
Posted by: Geekgirl15 | February 8, 2005 7:42 AM
Yeah!!, I love CSI, I look forward to seeing you.
Posted by: Madie | February 8, 2005 7:51 AM
Cheers Wil. afkjgedf!!!
Posted by: TheEmperfect | February 8, 2005 7:52 AM
Congrats first on the great news about Sketch. But also big congrats for landing CSI!
For some reason, upon reading the entry, my mind conjured up an image of a pre-production picture from the set ending up on the cover of some gossip rag with the headline: "Former Star Trek Wonder Kid Now Living In His Own Filth!" :-)
At least you're a suspect, and not the victim...though they can be juicy roles sometimes...though the chance of recurring is pretty much nil...
Posted by: Dan Gross | February 8, 2005 7:52 AM
Like a multitude of others, we're fans of CSI. I'm thrilled for you to have the opportunity.
One thing I've noticed about all of the CSI's: They often give actors a chance to play against type in their guest appearances. It has given quite a few lesser-knowns who were starting to be typecast a way to show what else they can do.
Posted by: Beth | February 8, 2005 7:53 AM
haha that's so awesome. now i have a reason to check out CSI. give em hell shooting the episode and let us know when it'll be on.
and punch the lead character guy in the face on the set. i've always wanted to see someone do that.
Posted by: Justin Hall | February 8, 2005 7:54 AM
Wil,
Way to go! You have given me reason to comment for the first time. Looks like I may have to watch an entire episode of a television show.
Posted by: Doppler | February 8, 2005 7:58 AM
Dude, that fucking rules!
I probably don't need to tell you to let us know when the episode's going to air... but TELL US WHEN IT'S GOING TO AIR. This ought to be cool. =)
Pax,
Matthew
Posted by: Matthew Ebel | February 8, 2005 7:59 AM
Holy Shit - That's Awesome! Congratulations Wil!
Can't wait to see the show!
Kate
Posted by: prozac_on_wheels | February 8, 2005 8:07 AM
Congratulations Wil! I don't normally watch CSI but might have to Tivo your episode!
Posted by: Virago7 | February 8, 2005 8:09 AM
way to go wil! now i get to see one of my favorite actors on my favorite show! does it get any better?
Posted by: redstarkate | February 8, 2005 8:09 AM
Rock rock on Wil. \m/! That totally rules! I'm so excited for you. Congrats on CSI. I love that show. Can't wait for it!!
Posted by: karenk | February 8, 2005 8:17 AM
Holy fucking shit batman! That's absolutely, totally, great!
I'm so happy for you wil! I'll be sure to watch!
Posted by: pyrofenix | February 8, 2005 8:20 AM
That's pretty cool... CSI is definitely the best of the three.
Posted by: fnaqzna | February 8, 2005 8:20 AM
SWEET!
Congratulations!
Posted by: Jeff Ray | February 8, 2005 8:21 AM
Wil,
When you said roller coaster, you were not exaggerating! Wow.
You will be terrific on CSI!
We are still sending lots of mojo to Sketch and your family!
Tim in NorCal (and the rest of the gang)
Posted by: TimCalif | February 8, 2005 8:23 AM
Many congratulations, Wil, on the booking. It's great that you are not only getting back to acting, but getting a chance to work on a great show.
Look forward to seeing the finished product.
Posted by: rougewench | February 8, 2005 8:23 AM
Long time reader, first time poster.
Just to say: WOW!!!
Sorry, I'm lost for words ;)
P.S. Lots of mojo to Sketch!
Posted by: Eponine | February 8, 2005 8:29 AM
Wow. You completely gave it away with 'corpses'. I knew then what show you'd got on. *G* I'm a little late, but congrats!
Posted by: Thren | February 8, 2005 8:30 AM
Gotta say, I laughed out loud when, after you introduced yourself as Wil, the casting assistant addressed you as Will. Could you actually hear the extra L?
Posted by: PokerMike | February 8, 2005 8:30 AM
Holy Shit, you're going to be on CSI!
Posted by: Niki | February 8, 2005 8:31 AM
Congratulations!! *I* was excited when I read that you were going to be on CSI...can't wait to see it!
P.S. I'm glad Sketch is doing better...I'd be devistated if anything happened to Baby-girl (I've had her for 9 years)
jena
Posted by: jena | February 8, 2005 8:39 AM
first: Dane reminds me of Blaine which belongs in a group called "names from the 80's that sound like appliences" not that theres anything wrong with that, my name is Zilpha and people who live in weird name houses shouldn't throw judgemental about names stones. just saying.
second: I call my heels "fuck me" shoes because they're sexy and at the end of the day I feel like yelling "FUCK ME, THESE HURT LIKE A BITCH"
third: yay for you and CSI. bring on the skeezy Will Wheaton!
Posted by: zilly | February 8, 2005 8:42 AM
WOW that is wonderful!!!
I love CSI and now it is going to be even better!!!
I can't wait to see your show!!
I know you will do a wonderful job!
Hugs and such to Sketch - i hope he surpases the vets expectations and lives those 9 lives!
Smiles
Posted by: Susanne | February 8, 2005 8:43 AM
Congratulations, Wil! Be sure to let us know when your episode of CSI will be on! Holy Shit! Indeed.
Posted by: Deirdre | February 8, 2005 8:45 AM
So I'm reading and I'm reading and I'm waiting for the Wil's not edgy enough bit and instead you get the job and then I'm reading and reading to find out which show it is then I read CSI and I yell out "Oh fucking hell".
Poor fiance thought something bad had happened, instead I raced off there to tell him "Will's going to be on CSI!!!!" We're both so excited for you, of course it will be an age before we get to see the episode here in South Africa - but dammit, it's going to be worth waiting for.
We are so happy for you and we're still sending kitty mojo over for Sketch.
Posted by: Geek's Girl | February 8, 2005 8:48 AM
Wow congratulations Wil!
That's wonderful news! Both the CSI gig and also Sketch getting better.
I'm so happy for you.
Can't wait to see you on my favorite show
Now go convince that beard to grow!
Posted by: Raeann | February 8, 2005 8:51 AM
One word...."SHAAZAAAM!"
Posted by: Aylanah | February 8, 2005 8:59 AM
You get 10 points for the Monty Python title, and another 10 points for the "I am Spartacus!" which made me laugh aloud in the office.
Still reading. But I skipped to the end for the good news! Woo! Congrats! :D
Posted by: lomara | February 8, 2005 9:03 AM
Wil - I am so incredibly happy for you. It's as if the universe is giving you your karmic returns. You've spent a lot of time reflecting and getting your perspectives and priorities straight, and now... you not only get the job, but you get a better role BECAUSE OF YOUR ACTING.
Congrats.
Posted by: Joshua Archer | February 8, 2005 9:04 AM
I am so freaking excited! As I was reading this I was so hoping you were going to say CSI -- you gave a little hint with that comment about stepping over corpses. I love CSI and I think you are a great actor. So hurry up and do the show already so we can se it!
Oh, and congratulations!
Posted by: jc | February 8, 2005 9:06 AM
Wil, I'm so happy to hear that things are going well for you professionally (the CSI gig and the Onion gig) and to thank you. I cried as I read about Sketch and my heart goes out to you, your family and that scruffy little fat guy. You'll let us know when the CSI gig is going air, won't you?
Posted by: JaeWalker | February 8, 2005 9:07 AM
That's great, Wil! CSI is just about my favorite show ever. Can't wait to see it. Too cool!
Posted by: Rodan | February 8, 2005 9:10 AM
* High Pitched Girlie Screams of Joy *
I am so happy for you and truly proud of you, Wil.
I told you almost three years ago that you'll always be a baby because you're younger than I am and ya know what? That's still true.
Posted by: Cookie | February 8, 2005 9:10 AM
Congrats Wil
I knew your Time would Come, I figured you would end up Dirty and Talking to yourself soon. Now you will get Paid for it!
Posted by: Wizzer | February 8, 2005 9:23 AM
Congratulations! CSI is one of my wife's favorite shows. I wonder if the commercials are going to be like "This week on CSI guest star Wil Wheaton plays a homeless killer who talks to himself."
Posted by: Alan | February 8, 2005 9:28 AM
Holy crap, Wil! That's awesome! I don't generally watch CSI (spent too long working with real police departments to really enjoy it) but I'm definitely going to watch your episode. Keep us posted, my TiVo's waiting!
Posted by: solcita | February 8, 2005 9:38 AM
Oh, Wil! I'm so excited for you! I actually had to blink back tears about the whole Sketch/CSI story. I'm so happy for all the good news.
Scruffy Wil, huh? That will be interesting and different to see. I'm so looking forward to seeing a darker Wil. I think the darkest I've ever see you do was Mr. Stitch.
You are such an amazing writer. You do know that, right? And so generous to take us on this rollercoster ride with you. Thank you for sharing these pieces of your life with us.
Posted by: watcher652 | February 8, 2005 9:39 AM
Heh, the way you just slipped the line in at the end:
"I'm going to be on CSI."
Proof in one sentence that you write really well and that you act really well too!
Well done.
Posted by: BigLig | February 8, 2005 9:43 AM
Wow, that's fantastic Wil! Also, I believe you did a stellar job in the storytelling on this one.
Great news and great work all around. Kudos!
Evan
Posted by: misterorange | February 8, 2005 9:43 AM
didja know that if you scroll long enough and stop, it makes ya dizzy....except the up and down kind...not normal side to side
and yea i'm crazy...
hey wil, i sent ya a rambling email...but in case it was too long to bother with...i am pumped about both sketch and csi
Posted by: dakabn | February 8, 2005 9:44 AM
I signed up at TypeKey, this post deserves a comment. Congratulations on the CSI job! WOW. I am so excited for you and I appreciate you writing it out for us in a way that was a true pleasure to read.
Sending out all kinds of good health mojo for Sketch, he sounds like a total sweetheart.
Posted by: Kristi | February 8, 2005 9:45 AM
Don't you be makin me cry at work Wil!! I am so happy for you. CSI !! Incredible!! I am still praying for your fat guy. I know exactly how you feel and one should shed tears for the animals you love and nurture. They are worth it. Good luck Wil, I'll be looking for you on TV !!!
Posted by: Lorraine | February 8, 2005 9:48 AM
Wonderful news, Wil! It made me so happy for you that I came over here from reading the LiveJournal RSS feed (you have a lot of congrats posted for you over there too) and created an account just so I could tell you how happy it makes me.
It's weird to me to be so happy for someone I don't know, but I guess that's a testament to your writing skills.
Give the fat guy some love for me.
Posted by: mythfish | February 8, 2005 9:55 AM
I don't watch CSI, but I will start, just to make sure I don't miss you. Congrats Will!!!! And have a blast!
Posted by: Liz | February 8, 2005 9:56 AM
That's so great. I was reading your entry thinking to myself "I hope it's CSI...Please let it be CSI." I think that made my day. I'm so happy for you!
Posted by: Jessica | February 8, 2005 10:15 AM
I finished reading Just a Geek last night, and after becoming so intimate with all the struggles you went through between TNG and now, it makes your announcement today even more sweet. Way to go, Wil! Unfortunately, I have chosen to not have a TV, so I'll be missing your show. Maybe someday you'll have a spot on NPR or something and I'll get to hear you. ;)
Posted by: Anna | February 8, 2005 10:17 AM
I am so excited for you! I was reading your bost and was almost brought to tears and When I found out it was CSI I actually gasped in excitement! COngrats. You are such a great writer....I felt every moment that you wrote about! Thank you for sharing yourself with us!
Posted by: Tiggermn | February 8, 2005 10:18 AM
Congrats. You should sneak Sketch on , I mean a homeless person with a cat, perfect!!.
What episode want to PVR it.
Give sketch my best.
Posted by: Kevin | February 8, 2005 10:19 AM
I knew it.
I knew it when you said, "people are practically stepping over the corpses of their competition just for a chance at auditioning..."
Then I KNEW it had to be CSI.
That is SO cool.
I have the impression you could be "one of us". You know, the guy next door - a Eugenian - a theatre kid trying to make good, be smart, be well-balanced, and live a normal life. A 30-something who is trying to find depth and dimension in a post-"Me-generation" era. I feel like I grew up with Mr. Wheaton. I feel like you're my best friend - lost over a long list of moves, and I misplaced the last address... I suppose it's because you peel back the layers and let us see inside your brain on a regular basis. So we feel intimate, even though we've never met.
And I can't help rooting for you and your cat.
And I can't help cheering when you win, and crying when you hurt.
Congratulations - on SO many levels.
Posted by: Katherine | February 8, 2005 10:20 AM
I have had the crappiest past few weeks, and I swear to god reading this entry just totally cheered me up.
How do you DO that??
I caught myself actually doing a happy dance of joy for a guy 1000 miles away who I've only met once for 2 minutes at a booksigning.
Right there is my proof of how much your writing rocks.
- mrs L (Portland)
ps. my cats send sketch happy fuzzy warm love.
pps. I've got a massive crush on William Petersen. Please post pictures. :)
Posted by: discordgrrl | February 8, 2005 10:23 AM
Wil!
I can't stand the CSI shows (or the umpteen spin offs) but I know everyone else on the planet does. So...a big fat congrats to you on this one.
What's next, 24? For some reason it seems like you'd fit in nicely on that show.
Posted by: sorebikr | February 8, 2005 10:25 AM
Wil, I must nominate this for:
Best. Blog. Entry. Ever.
You did a hell of a job conveying the emotional ride you were on while all this was going down.
I am utterly thrilled for you for booking this job, and I can't wait to see the episode when it airs. Hey, if the best you can do is a "beard-ish thing," that ought to look appropriately scuzzy.
But a question: what kind of manager doesn't know *how tall* his clients are?? He doesn't have your vital statistics on file? Or did he want to let you "decide" how tall you are for this job? Just sayin'.
Anyhow, congrats again and you know we need blog entries about the shoot.
And all the best to Sketch for his continued recovery!
Posted by: Dave Westbay | February 8, 2005 10:36 AM
Hey Wil,
That is SOOOO great! I love CSI and can't wait to see you in it!! I haven't had a chance to read all the comments, uh, is it the original in Vegas? (My favorite)
Congratulations!!! (And best whishes to Sketch.)
-Ali
Posted by: Ali | February 8, 2005 10:37 AM
I was originally looking to post somewhere just to let you know I'm half way through 'Just a Geek', and I'm loving it (in fact it made me quite late for work this morning as I stopped up way too late reading it last night!) - but after this news!
Woo Hoo! It's about time! I don't watch CSI too much (here in the UK the schedule is a mess) but you need to blog the episode number as soon as you know it so I can track it down!!!
Nice one.
Posted by: SinCulture | February 8, 2005 10:38 AM
I was originally looking to post somewhere just to let you know I'm half way through 'Just a Geek', and I'm loving it (in fact it made me quite late for work this morning as I stopped up way too late reading it last night!) - but after this news!
Woo Hoo! It's about time! I don't watch CSI too much (here in the UK the schedule is a mess) but you need to blog the episode number as soon as you know it so I can track it down!!!
Nice one.
Posted by: SinCulture | February 8, 2005 10:39 AM
Congratulations! And love to Sketch.
Posted by: mae | February 8, 2005 10:43 AM
That's the best damn news i've heard all day Wil! How the heck did you manage that?!
j/k - always felt you were a great actor, and its great to see you've still got the mad skillz.
When you gonna come visit us fans in Canada? :)
Posted by: Goodmojo | February 8, 2005 10:44 AM
CSI!!!! Way to go, Wil!!!!! Hope you have a brilliant time!
Lots and lots of get well wishes to Sketch!
Posted by: Nadia | February 8, 2005 10:47 AM
Yup, you've still got it. Way to go, Wil!
S
Posted by: Scott Ganyo | February 8, 2005 10:56 AM
woohoo....happy dancin...way to go Wil!!!!! Can't wait to see the show.
Posted by: Mel | February 8, 2005 10:57 AM
Oh man, this entry broke me. Your deft ability to convey your emotions in such a honest, self-examining manner never fails to amaze me. I cried about Sketch, and I literally cheered out loud about the CSI gig - my boss stuck her head into my office and asked what was going on, and I just told her "Oh, good stuff happening to people who deserve it."
Continuing to send good mojo to Sketch.
Posted by: jessa | February 8, 2005 11:00 AM
Just want to add congrats, please be sure to post when the episode Wil air.Did you catch that totally awesome play on words "will" and "Wil"? Your good news inspires this kind of clever commenting. I... I'm a better person now./stoked
Posted by: ez_bake | February 8, 2005 11:03 AM
Wow, Wil, that is so awesome!
I'll be watching for you, man!
Posted by: Evie | February 8, 2005 11:08 AM
con-fucking-gratulations!
I guess I'll have to actually watch TV now. Nothing like seeing a fellow actor onscreen, but it's extra-special because of the kharma turnaround for you.
+2 constitution
+3 wisdom
-1 charisma
Posted by: ak_hepcat | February 8, 2005 11:13 AM
congratulations on getting CSI!...now my mom and dad will finally see what you look like as an adult!...i'm pretty sure they picture that WIL WHEATON guy, with the cool website i mention from time to time as a 12 year old kid...be sure and post some "scruffy wil" pictures on WWDN as soon as you can...most of us have never seen your scruffy side.
Posted by: d. burr | February 8, 2005 11:17 AM
w00t, muthafucka!!!!!!!!!!!!! Rock tha house, beeeeyotch!!!!! SUCH good news.
Posted by: Zarate | February 8, 2005 11:23 AM
WOW! 175 comments and counting!! within just 24 hours too! I'm delighted for ya bud. CSI isn’t on much over here in Ireland but I know the few times it has been on TV it’s been really cool and i enjoyed it. Good luck with it, hope it leads to bigger and better things.
Laterz,
Noel
p.s. Any news of the movie audition you had two weeks ago??
Posted by: Noel Burke | February 8, 2005 11:28 AM
Spectacular news, Wil! I never really got into CSI, but now I guess I have a reason to watch! Looks like perhaps Sketch isn't the only one to have caught some of last week's mojo!
On a sidenote, mad-props to you for the flirtations. What a great confidence-booster before an audition...
--T
Posted by: t_knotts | February 8, 2005 11:41 AM
WOO FRIGGIN' HOO!!! Network television! I'll actually have to watch that show when you make your appearance!
A crazy homeless guy, eh? Talk about casting against type...but I'm sure you're just going to take that role and knock it out of the park! And Prove to Everyone and Self-Doubt better be looking for their parachutes, 'cos they're about to get booted off the plane!
I smell bigger and better things happening as a result of this...
Now, go play with Sketch for awhile. Playing with kitties is important. (I haven't been able to play with Maui much due to my injury. I think he misses it.)
Posted by: Erbo | February 8, 2005 11:48 AM
Congratulations, Wil! I'm a huge fan of CSI, and now I have an even better reason to watch it. :) And here's some get well wishes to Sketch.
Posted by: Karen | February 8, 2005 11:54 AM
OH MY FRICKIN GAWD!!!!!
hahahha..YEAH BABY!!!
i knew it man...i just knew it..
it was just a matter of time buddy boy....
you were bound to make it back...and all of us here at wwdn are super proud of ya!...major congrats wil!
y'know, maybe things work this way for a reason...
maybe you were meant to be on the sidelines for a while....maybe you were supposed to pick up writing as your new inspiration...
maybe now that you're a little older, a little wiser, maybe now it's time for the man you've become to step back in the ring and show em what you've got...
anyhow, i'm just blathering on now...
can't help it..
i'm so totally fucking happy for you...
sweet jebus..
weldone wheaton...weldone indeed!
Posted by: Tyson | February 8, 2005 11:59 AM
Yay! That's awesome, thanks for the great news o make my day better than it has been! I'm glad to hear Sketch is doing better too!
Posted by: Shelley | February 8, 2005 12:02 PM
why does it even matter how tall you are? seriously curious...please send answers to [email protected]
ps...i got some gmail invites if anyone wants in
Posted by: dakabn | February 8, 2005 12:06 PM
Just want to say Congrats on the job well done. And you can bet your ass I will be watching that show.
Posted by: Cockat00 | February 8, 2005 12:08 PM
Ha!
I was just watching L&O the other day ...and Kevin Smith had a tiny part and asked my husband how Kevin "Silent Bob" Smith could get a 3 line role and you the FAMOUS Wil Wheaton couldn't get an offer to save your life?
And that same day you are offered CSI...I am so happy that this blog ended the way a hundred others should of.
P.S. what happened to the movie you read for?
Posted by: heather | February 8, 2005 12:16 PM
Bravo!
Applause!!!
Ovation!!!
I'll just bet your beloved cat was getting so much mojo, he just HAD to pass some back to you!
May this be the beginning of a WONDERFUL Valentine year!!!
Hugs and congrats ~ from all our family (fourleggeds too!)
Posted by: Kirimaku | February 8, 2005 12:22 PM
W00T! That's FUCKING AWESOME, Wil!
I'm doing the Happy Dance myself.
Congrats.
Posted by: AT | February 8, 2005 12:24 PM
That's great news! I've never actually seen the show, but I may have to check it out for you. Let us know when it'll air!
Posted by: Daymare01 | February 8, 2005 12:26 PM
Holy burrito. That's great news, and though I don't much watch CSI, I'll make sure to catch it when you are on. Congrats!
Posted by: aleja | February 8, 2005 12:33 PM
Hey Wil, that is just effing excellent news! You Rock dude!! :)
Nice way to tell the story, too. :)
Congratulations on making a great life for yourself... that's what it's all about ya know.
Jenga
Posted by: jenga | February 8, 2005 12:34 PM
OH MY SWEET GOD! wil, i am SO EXCITED for you! when you gave us the teaser about good news coming up...somehow i KNEW that you had booked a sweet job, and when i read this entry i had this itchy feeling that it was csi. congrats! hugs! champagne!
Posted by: kara | February 8, 2005 12:40 PM
Congrats, Wil. Which version are you going to be on? Original? Miami? NYC? Vibes to Sketch...
Posted by: Sea-bright messenger | February 8, 2005 12:41 PM
Congratulations, Wil! Both my husband and I love CSI. I'm really looking forward to seeing your performance. And I just think it's a great good thing that you got the job. Congrats again!
Posted by: magdala | February 8, 2005 12:42 PM
Yay! I'll be joining the legions of people who will be plugging in dusty old TVs (or in my case, pestering a friend with cable to watch theirs) to try and catch that episode :)
Posted by: hikahi | February 8, 2005 12:48 PM
oh awesome... an excuse to catch myself up on CSI again...
yay wil!
I've been enjoying your posts about Sketch too, generally reading them with my cat in my lap, thinking about the fact that I wouldn't know what I'd do in that situation... glad to hear he's better. Hope he continues to improve.
Posted by: julrosec | February 8, 2005 12:49 PM
Dude - you totally booked it!
BSN
Posted by: BigSlickNuts | February 8, 2005 1:06 PM
Wil, that is so cool!
Looks like some of the kitty mojo spilled over onto you. ;-)
Seriously, congratulations! This is so awesome!
Posted by: dreamriver | February 8, 2005 1:23 PM
THAT IS SO COOL!!!!!!! how fricking exciting!!!!!!!!!! DUDE!
get well soon sketch!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Jessie | February 8, 2005 1:29 PM
I wonder if CSI realizes how many viewers they will pick up from casting you in an episode? I don't normally watch prime time shows -- except Lost -- but now I will start watching CSI so I'll be up to speed when your show airs.
Posted by: evalucent | February 8, 2005 1:29 PM
Hi Wil, I'm a new Wheaton Follower. I loved you on Next Generation (wesley was neat), and I enjoy your blogs as well. So glad to hear about CSI. I eschew TV (now don't have one at all, just my tristy G4), and this is the first time i regret not having Cable or a TV!!! I will risk the chance of being lame and ask my mom to tape it for me. that's how excited I am to see you act on television again. -Lisa M.
Posted by: Lisa Marie | February 8, 2005 1:40 PM
woot!
I'm glad ye got a job Wil. Still hopin' Sketch gets back to being a regular kitty (even with the pill poppin').
I don't have TV anymore, but I'll be sure to try and get a friend to tape it ;-)
Posted by: Grimicus | February 8, 2005 1:55 PM
Guess all the mojo we all sent your way payed off!!! Congratulations Wil, you deserve it! I literally let out a yell when I read CSI, you've earned it 1000 times over. Let us know how it turns out.
Posted by: Ana Marylee | February 8, 2005 2:00 PM
OMG! Making me register for TypeKey so I can congratulate you, you bastard ;) That is fantastic! I will certainly watch!
I am keeping Sketch in my thoughts.
Posted by: R | February 8, 2005 2:06 PM
Totally awesome Wil!
I have to say I didn't know what show it was until right at the end. I was pulling for you while reading the story.
Hope sketch recovers.
Posted by: spi | February 8, 2005 2:08 PM
Seriously Wil that was such a great story...I actually had a little bit of a tear roll down my cheek at the end! I could not be happier for your exciting news both CSI and on the kitty front. Give your fat boy an extra scratch from all of us monkeys here at WWdN. We love you!
Victoria
Posted by: vicmoore70 | February 8, 2005 2:11 PM
Uber-congratulations on the new job Mr. W! CSI's one of my favourite's so it'll be really cool seeing you on there. Hope it all goes well for you :)
Posted by: Del | February 8, 2005 2:17 PM
Felicidades, Wil! (Congratulations, Wil! for the Hispanically impaired).
Posted by: 100_Fires | February 8, 2005 2:27 PM
great news on the part! and be sure to let us know when its on so we can all watch you in action!!
Posted by: tuzanoore | February 8, 2005 2:27 PM
Most awesome :)
Is it too soon for us to start mojo'ing for Best Guest Emmy...?
Posted by: Thumper | February 8, 2005 2:29 PM
Wil
i'm very glad to hear the good news.
i look forward to that episode.
youll let us know when to look for it wonncha.
peace
c
Posted by: carthies | February 8, 2005 2:42 PM
Congrats wil.
We all knew that your time would come. And what better show to be cast on? I love CSI and I can't wait to see you on it.
In Australia we have only just started season 5 but thankfully a friend is kind enough to supply me with episodes recetnyl aired in the US so I will get to see you on CSI sooner rather than later.
Don't forget to let us all know which episode it is.
cheers
Lauren
Posted by: Lauren | February 8, 2005 2:43 PM
FUCKING-A WIL!!!!
There shall be a Guinness hoisted in your honor tonight in San Marcos, TX.
Posted by: Sean W | February 8, 2005 3:05 PM
Wil, you have no idea how happy I am for you. I knew you could do it!
Sending lots of love to Sketch too. I'm glad he's feeling better.
Christina
Posted by: crouton | February 8, 2005 3:06 PM
In the words of Abraham Lincoln....
"FUCK YEAH!"
Great story and great news, Wil. Knock it out of the park.
Posted by: shane | February 8, 2005 3:07 PM
Way ta Go Wil!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll be the *Real Homeless Guy* you wonder by.... hahahaha
Cheers..
Posted by: Keith Xgaming | February 8, 2005 3:19 PM
Yesssssssssssssssssssssssssssss!!!!
Congratulations Wil. Unfortunately we Aussies are one year behind, so we won't be seeing you on CSI until 2006. Drat.
I think a lot of people would be really interested in hearing what the shooting was like. There are very few of us who will ever get the chance to appear on the highest rating TV show in the world.
Lucky Devil.
Posted by: Spacehamster | February 8, 2005 3:28 PM
I just wanted to mention that Creation has sent
out an email touting your appearance at the
Nest Grand Slam convention
This is the Headline and it is very flattering.
WIL WHEATON COMES ABOARD GRAND SLAM
& ENTERPRISE CANCELLATION UPDATE
One of the coolest celebrities we know, Wil Wheaton, returns to Grand Slam: The Sci-Fi Summit March 11-13, 2005. No doubt Wil will be doing one of his fantastic readings for our audiences at the event, as well as meeting fans, signing autographs and doing photo opportunities.
Pretty Cool stuff
Posted by: ColleenS | February 8, 2005 3:32 PM
Congratulations Wil! CSI is an awesome show.
Posted by: RobAP | February 8, 2005 3:36 PM
Congratulations Wil!! I've recently started watching CSI myself and think it's a fantastic show!!!
I know you'll keep us in the loop as to when it airs! Keep this kind of acting and eventually we'll all be saying, "Wesley Who???"
Posted by: Gizmo | February 8, 2005 3:43 PM
Everyone on LiveJournal sends their congrats. Very cool that you'll be on one of the best shows on television!
Congrats.
Also, so happy to hear that Sketch is doing better. Know what you're going thru. I've had to make the decision to put one of my kitties down (from college no less), and have one more that mom & dad a sitting for me till I can have her with me.
Best of mojo to him & break a leg!! :)
Posted by: Marilyth | February 8, 2005 3:51 PM
I just wanted to let ya know that your Michigan Rodent posse is giving you 'mad props' (as the kids say)! Also, continued thoughts for the Sketch...we just know he'll pull through this.
Squeak Squeak M*therf*cker! Boo Yah!
~~(__)8>
Posted by: MouseBeast | February 8, 2005 3:59 PM
Congrats Wil, about CSI! I was reading your blog a few days ago..and my dog just got diagnosed with the same thing your cat did, which was extremely weird..it helped knowing yours is recovering a little bit from it.
Posted by: DelRay | February 8, 2005 4:07 PM
Hey Wil,
I've been a huge fan and have been reading your blog (on and off, but I always catch up) for a long time...
Dude, I am really sorry about all of the emotional stuff that you guys are going through regarding Sketch :-/ I hope that he either gets better soon, or that he can be made comfortable. Our animals are part of our families and our lives, so I am hurting with you. I am also sending as much Karmic energy as I can spare Sketch's way.
Congrats on the CSI gig too, btw... I'm not surprised though, as it was bound to happen :-)
Take care,
Terry
p.s. One of your previous entries listed 10 things about what makes you a true WWdN reader (monkey), and I fit 2 1/2: I say dubya dubya dee en to friends, I wrote a letter to Alias about them inviting you to be a guest on the show (_before_ I read your Alias-related entries!), and I bought a Wil Has A Posse shirt for myself (hence the 1/2 point) cya!
Posted by: oboeterry | February 8, 2005 4:19 PM
Congrats, Wil!! I've never gotten the chance to act a crazy person before, but it seems like fun. Dark fun- but fun.
Continued kitty mojo for The Fat Guy! Give him a little hug for me.
Posted by: Constable_Geek | February 8, 2005 4:22 PM
Oh my goodness! I was crying when I started reading this, having just gotten some incredibly unpleasant news, but your entry made me feel so much better. It just goes to show that even when my little corner of the world totally sucks, somewhere, something good is happening. CSI! Wow, I couldn't be happier for you. You really deserve this, congratulations! And thank you for sharing your joy with us, today in particular, it meant a lot.
ps - I'm sending all sorts of good vibes to your kitty, I hope he's better soon!
Posted by: alice | February 8, 2005 4:24 PM
BOOYA!
I don't watch CSI (dons flame-proof suit) but I WILL watch to see "THE MAN" in action!
Posted by: Sinkuu | February 8, 2005 4:51 PM
Holy Shit, you're gonna be on CSI.
Posted by: drdrew | February 8, 2005 4:51 PM
Congrats Wil. You were always a great actor, but you've turned into a great storyteller. You had all these monkey holding their breaths till the very last sentence.
Hold on the mojo.
Tam
Posted by: TaminNC | February 8, 2005 4:56 PM
wil,
which CSI is it??
the original or Miami or new york?
Posted by: Kjarka | February 8, 2005 4:57 PM
Hey Wil!
Great news about both Sketch and CSI.
It's funny, the one time you are not plagued by the internal voices of doubt and wounded pride during an audition call.... you end up getting a part of someone who suffers from internal voices of negativity!!!!
You must have channelled it all into your character... even if it wasn't the character you actually won.
Congratulations Wil, keep up the great work!
Posted by: lindsay | February 8, 2005 5:06 PM
Hey WIL,
You kept the Faith :)
Congrats, look forward to seeing you on CSI
Posted by: applesauce | February 8, 2005 5:10 PM
Oh thats awesome wil! hope sketch is doing better... and let us know when ur episode of csi airs...
Posted by: Sarah K. | February 8, 2005 5:26 PM
Congratulations, Wil! That part sounds really good. I watch that show and I love it. Can't wait to see you on it!
Posted by: Dana Huff | February 8, 2005 5:32 PM
Wil,
I somehow had this sense that you would one day hopefully end up on a show like "CSI". That's awesome and I'm happy for you. I'm also glad to hear that Sketch is doing better. Thanks for sharing all your ups and downs with the rest of us.
Take care,
Posted by: Mark | February 8, 2005 5:39 PM
That was one of the best things I've ever read. I think it was your relaxed way of getting to the end of your story, you enjoying your trip with knowing how it turns out at the end. A little ways in, I thought to myself, "He got it. Listen to him - he got it." And so I did the same - with a little smile, I sat back and read about your audition. And the results - good going, Wil! When I read: CSI, I actually gasped. Too cool. Too cool that you earned yourself such a good role, and too cool that you can write with such impact. I really enjoyed the trip today - Thanks!
And I'm glad to hear Sketch is hanging in there - he's a very handsome dude in his picture.
Posted by: bova | February 8, 2005 5:48 PM
WOOOOOOT DOGGIE!!!!!
Happy dance! Happy dance! Happy dance!
WAY TO GO! YA-HOO!!
Posted by: Slacter | February 8, 2005 5:52 PM
Thats awesome Wil! Congrats... Please let us know how Sketch is doing...
--M
Posted by: omega593 | February 8, 2005 6:00 PM
*Does best impression of a group of teenage girls screaming on MTV's TRL*
WE LOVE YOU WIL!!!
*Shudders for doing the impression*
Many many many congratulations to you!!! Break a leg!
P.S. My cat Panda and I send our belated mojo to Sketch. Kitty kisses to him from the both of us!
Posted by: Crissie | February 8, 2005 6:11 PM
Congratulations, man. I had a feeling something good was coming your way soon.
Posted by: Ryan C. | February 8, 2005 6:23 PM
That's fantastic!!! I'm so happy for you! Let us know when the ep is due to air. Congrats!!!!!!
Posted by: sonjaag | February 8, 2005 6:30 PM
Poor Sketch. I had a kitty I was totally bonded with. Yeah, had. Lost him to FUS, despite extreme measures. I'm glad Sketch is hanging in there, and I understand and empathise with your pain. Would a zen hug from a stranger be too creepy? Here's one anyway.
CSI!? Pretty damned impressive. Congrats! Do please post airing deets, so we can all tune in and make it the best rated CSI EVAR.
Posted by: Marsha M | February 8, 2005 6:43 PM
Great Job Wil! Now I might actually have a reason to turn on my TV... ;)
Posted by: ToddEC | February 8, 2005 6:47 PM
Allow me to join the abundance of people here and say congratulations dude! I really think you have earned this, not just in your acting ability, but also in the fact that you always stay positive and don't let The Man get you down too much. Everything seems to be going right at the moment; Sketch is better and now you've booked an awesome role that might lead to more awesome roles. My mom records every CSI episode and while I don't watch much television, I've told her to keep an eye out for a homeless man who talks to himself. Good luck with the part Wil, I know you will rock their socks off!
Posted by: bananasontoast | February 8, 2005 6:52 PM
Well I don't watch CSI (or much tv at all, for that matter, the 'net is my entertainment) but this post was the kick in the tail I needed to finally sign up so I could make comments. Congratulations, your post left me in happy tears for you. And I'm glad Sketch is doing better. From myself and the felines of this household, lots of feel-lots-better-soon vibes to Sketch.
Sonja
and Raistlin (Raz) the Maine Coon, Fistandatilus (Dante) the 16lb Coon/Siamese, and Pixel T. Firewire the flamepoint Siamese.
Posted by: RedSonja | February 8, 2005 7:03 PM
I'm glad Sketch is doing better. My puppers is still in 'inconclusive' land. After being poked and prodded for blood, peeing in a bowl on at least 3 different occasions, having her tummy shaved for an ultrasound and, finally, staying at the hospital while they gave her no food or water for 24 hours, they still don't know what's wrong. Most of the really serious conditions have been ruled out, so I have to be satisfied with that.
Congrats on CSI!!! One of my absolute favorite shows and what an awesome role.
Posted by: DebbieJRT | February 8, 2005 7:04 PM
Congratulations Wil! You definitely deserve it. We're all pulling for Sketch, so hang in there!
Posted by: Paul | February 8, 2005 7:18 PM
Congratulations, and I hope Sketch hangs in there!
I also wanted to say that this blog entry is really well written! Your writing has always been on target with me, but for some reason this entry just hit the sweet spot- made me smile, made me feel for you and your cat, kept me rapt and interested- and I loved the reveal at the end!
I've not commented here before, but I just had to say that when you do the sequel to JAG- don't touch a hair of this one- leave it just the way it is.
Posted by: crispian | February 8, 2005 7:19 PM
I too signed up for a Typekey thingy just to congradulate you! Sadly, I check WWDN about once a week, and missed last week, so I got the whole cat rollercoaster all at once.
I'm so happy for you. I'm so happy your fattycat is doing better. He can beat this thing.
Posted by: MelSkunk | February 8, 2005 7:30 PM
Heaven's sake, I'm one of the babillion readers who've signed up for Typekey to "congradulate" you. You are working on a quantum level and generating good things. They, I trust, will spread out and open wide -- for Sketch, too.
Congratulations, Wil.
CSI! Kickass.
Posted by: Erin-bee | February 8, 2005 7:40 PM
Congratu-freakin-lations!
While the congratulations are certainly in order for the gig on CSI, I have to give you mad props for your post. You took me from ambivalent to bummed out to hopeful to a Peter Griffin level of freakin' sweet over the course of your post. I don't normally get that emotionally tied into what I'm reading/watching.
Posted by: Kevin M. | February 8, 2005 8:10 PM
Holy Shit...CSI is right. I know tons of posts and I am new to the whole blog thing, but man AWESOME, I already own all four seasons (license tag soon to be CSIGEEK!) Man, congrats. Hope that Sketch is still doing well. Sorry, I actually started spinning around in my chair when I read it. That is sooooo cool. Man that is awesome. Gonna be ready to tape it. Man, cant wait! Will be there with my popcorn and my jammies waiting to watch. Man this is so cool.
Posted by: cilesmom | February 8, 2005 8:19 PM
Wow, congratulations!
This was the first time I've read this, and it is so well written and very entertaining. Nice work!
"I mean, this show is so popular, people are practically stepping over the corpses of their competition just for a chance at auditioning..."
I'm a huge fan of CSI and after reading that line I thought, "Oh, I hope he's auditioning for CSI, I would love to see him on that!" So congratulations, well deserved! I'll be sure to watch!
I hope your kitty gets better soon!
Posted by: Rach&Tash | February 8, 2005 8:30 PM
I KNEW it was CSI. I didn't read ahead in the blog but I just knew it when you started talking about it. Smart people. CSI and West Wing are two shows that always make me think about you and how good you would be with that material. Rock on Wil. Congratulations and can't wait to see your show.
Kisses to Sketch and love to you and your family for what you have been going through. It is so hard when we have to face losing our furry family members. They make our lives so rich.
Posted by: Laurie Drew | February 8, 2005 8:32 PM
Congrats on the most excellent news, Wil! I nearly screamed when I read that you aced the audition -- and I work in a library! :) Finally, a really good reason to turn on the TV. :)
Sketch: Keep on purring! The Winky Family (my cockatiels) are sending their feathered "get well" mojo to you!
Posted by: clara | February 8, 2005 8:41 PM
Congratulations on the part! And much good wishes toward Sketch.
Posted by: Prodigal | February 8, 2005 8:45 PM
Hey congratulations you crazy dark homeless guy you. Excellent news... hope it leads to more work and more stories.
Posted by: StudioGlyphic | February 8, 2005 8:54 PM
My heart goes out to you, Wil. You must be exhuasted from such a week. Lots of Mojo for Sketch. And I love CSI! It will be great to see you. I can't wait.
Posted by: Megan | February 8, 2005 8:55 PM
Wow...
That is simply amazing. I can't wait to see you bring the character to life! Sounds like it will be a complex and interesting role. Here is to hoping it is the first of many new roles!
Get Well Soon Sketch!!
Posted by: Spiritchaser | February 8, 2005 9:07 PM
I cheered OUT LOUD when I got the last bit, scared the bejebus outta my hubby and cat. That's so exciting! :) Congratulations!! :)
I send my good wishes to Sketch too. My family recently lost a kitty too. My sympathy to you 4.
Posted by: LukaQuinn | February 8, 2005 9:16 PM
Wil, awesome awesome, awesome. It was obvious reading thru the blog that good news was coming. When I read it was CSI, I jumped off the chair in excitement with you. You have absolutely earned it. What a great week for you. Sketch improving and CSI. Un--#@%$ing--believable. I can't wait to see your performance.
Posted by: Harry | February 8, 2005 9:52 PM
Holy, holy crap!!!!
Congratulations, Wil! That is SO cool!
I can't tell you how happy I am for you!
You've just turned a major corner in a major way!
DUDE!!!!!!
:)
Scott
Posted by: Scott T | February 8, 2005 10:33 PM
Hooray! Congratulations, Wil!
Posted by: satsumabug | February 8, 2005 10:42 PM
wow wow wowsers! Congrats!!!! can't wait to see a scruffy Wil, sporting 'beard-ish' thing. You've had a hell of a week, I think Sketch's illness may have been a blessing in diguise. It helped you get that "scruffy, worn, homeless murder suspect" vibe going on.
Tell Sketch we're (my cat Langly) rootin for him, and that Langly will share his "herbal" meds *coughcatnipcough*
Again, Congrats! and Get Well Soon Sketch.
mels and langly
Posted by: foufymaus | February 8, 2005 10:42 PM
Wil-
See!
I told you so! Kitty mojo and audition mojo paid off. Congratulations! NOW maybe they'll book you on Celebrity Poker Showdown.
Valerie S
ps my daughter's shoot for the Zakk Wylde music video shot last Saturday, It went well. Watch for it on MTV in mid-march.
Posted by: Valerie S | February 8, 2005 10:47 PM
Wow, that's great news! I will have to start watching CSI! Hopefully the internet masses will let everyone know when it airs.
Here's hoping your kitty gains that weight back soon.
Posted by: LilituC | February 8, 2005 11:35 PM
Congratulations on the CSI role Wil! I cannot wait to see you and your dark side working it's magic again! What an awesome surprise!
Here's a virtual *scritch behind the ears* for Sketch too!!
Posted by: ThatWickedWench | February 8, 2005 11:50 PM
I've been reading your blog for close to two years. I think I know how much you wanted a role, and am really glad you got it. Congratulations from reader from Croatia!
Posted by: Jurica | February 9, 2005 12:31 AM
This is the kind of post that I keep coming back for everyday. Even before you reached the part about getting the CSI part, I was hooked by the STORY! Your narative style and the way you describe the buildings white then pink and clouds racing and impending storms just makes for a story that pulls in the reader. The fact that this is your life and that this time all that hard work paid off is frosting on the narative cake. I don't mean to minimize your CSI accomplishment. CSI is my favorite show and I can't think of anyone I'd rather see on it (although I think you would have made a good permanent lab geek). But next time you have an audition that doesn't go your way, or you encounter some jerk in life, remember the gift you have for writing that you KNOW has a large audience, and more importantly remember your family that is smaller but more important audience.
Congratulations.
Posted by: yearous | February 9, 2005 5:19 AM
I also want to offer congrats on this very cool promo for GRAND SLAM:
WIL WHEATON COMES ABOARD GRAND SLAM
& ENTERPRISE CANCELLATION UPDATE
One of the coolest celebrities we know, Wil Wheaton, returns to Grand Slam: The Sci-Fi Summit March 11-13, 2005. No doubt Wil will be doing one of his fantastic readings for our audiences at the event, as well as meeting fans, signing autographs and doing photo opportunities.
big things Wheaton, big things
Posted by: Sharfa | February 9, 2005 5:48 AM
So...last night after dinner, I mentioned this story to my friends. I got to the part where you said you had trouble trying to grow a beard, and one of them remarked: "Having a leech on his balls sucked out all his testosterone."
I thought it was too funny not to share.
Posted by: Kilbia | February 9, 2005 6:20 AM
You GO, girlfriend! And be sure to tell us when the episode airs. I, for one, want to tell TiVo not to erase it.
Posted by: Michael | February 9, 2005 6:43 AM
Hey excellent!!! Do us proud. Make sure to take a camara and after the episode airs blog the behind the scences!!! That'll be great.
Wow - I now know a famous homeless guy!!
Posted by: macshaggy | February 9, 2005 6:46 AM
Holy Shit!
that is beyond awesome wil.. I haven't been around in forever I know.. but to come back and read this.. I am so happy for you!
Congratulations man, you know you deserve it.
Continuing mojo for the kitty. :)
Neph
Posted by: NephraTari | February 9, 2005 7:04 AM
Crongratulations Wil!! With so many science oriented programs like the CSI franchise, Navy NCIS or even Cold Case, you could fit perfectly in a permanent position as a "resident", lab geek. I don't know if this is even one of your goals or you ir aspire to other type of roles, but that's the way it occurs to me.
I hope to see you soon in CSI. Do you know when the episode will be aired?
Well done and keep being there!
Regards,
Luis
Posted by: Sparhawk | February 9, 2005 7:47 AM
Wow, Wil! That's great news. Congrats!!
Posted by: Matt | February 9, 2005 8:24 AM
yeah Wil! Well done! I can't wait to see you on CSI. One of my fave shows, and you're right, you have to be amazing to score a guest shot. Luckily, you ARE amazing.
Posted by: Aethera21 | February 9, 2005 9:01 AM
YAY! YAY FOR YOU!!! Congratulations! That's awesome awesome awesome! WOO HOO! :)
I think because you built it up so much in your blog that I'm more excited than I should be, but...whatever! That's awesome! YAY YAY YAY FOR YOU!
I'm not an avid watcher of CSI, so you'll have to let us know which one you'll be on so we can all watch! WAY TO GO WIL! :)
Posted by: kellygyrl | February 9, 2005 9:17 AM
Congrats Wil!!! I'm so happy for you! I'll have to start watching CSI now I guess hehe.
I hope Sketch gets better for you too.
Take care!
Posted by: RavenBlue | February 9, 2005 9:38 AM
Do we get to see pics of this beard??
Remind me to feel sorry for you wife until it grows in enough to soften up (I'm one of those girls that is really glad the 3 o'clock shadow fad is gone)
Posted by: Reddy | February 9, 2005 9:47 AM
Scruffy Wil-Cam
You must take a close up artistic shot of your fact each morning so that at the end we can view the time-lapse of your hair growing. Ok, multiple hairs growing.
Artistic=Geeky=Funny
Posted by: sorebikr | February 9, 2005 10:10 AM
Wil.....
Excellent news for both you and Sketch! A big happy dance from me and a huge PURRRRRRRR from Jean-Luc. \0/ Woohoo!!
Wendy
Posted by: VoxyLady | February 9, 2005 10:11 AM
Wil, you _know_ the part was a gift from your cat. The January 21st entry "voices of angels":
http://www.wilwheaton.net/mt/archives/001776.php#001776
Not only did you "not give a shit", but it's also possible that if somebody messes with your cat, you get "edgy". :)
And then there's the flood of kitty mojo, which your cat may have forwarded a bit of to you for the audition...
Rob
Posted by: landley | February 9, 2005 10:26 AM
congratulations wil! I've never watched CSI but now i will, just because you'll be on it.
i hope sketch is doing okay.
Posted by: tom | February 9, 2005 11:16 AM
CSI, that is great news! After reading this post, it made me smile. I don't even know you and I am happy for you. If anything at least Sketch is loved and has been given a good life with you. Sending sketch some more mojo.
Posted by: JeremyJaySharp | February 9, 2005 11:26 AM
Wil,
I tried, I did, but there are really no words to express properly everything I'm feeling for you.
What came out can best be explained as hoot n hollerin'.
And there were tears, happy freakin' tears.
Can't wait to see you on CSI.
More love and mojo to Sketch.
-MKF
Posted by: MissKittyFantastico | February 9, 2005 12:30 PM
Congrats on scoring the CSI role. I'll have to actually watch that one. I think this is the first high profile role since I started reading your blog after your first Slashdot interview.
Speaking of which, didn't they solicit questions for a second interview at the end of November? Did you ever get them? Did I miss your posted answers? I can't seem to find them on the site. Enquiring minds want to know...
Posted by: ttrentham | February 9, 2005 12:32 PM
Hm. It appears that now I am going to have to start watching CSI. (Plus, I think I read somewhere that Tarantino is going to be directing a CSI...)
Congratulations, Wil. More mojo to The Fat One.
Posted by: IanMcKellen | February 9, 2005 1:01 PM
Hugs to Sketch - hope he feels better.. and massive congrats on CSI. :o)
Posted by: angelgrl979 | February 9, 2005 1:22 PM
Dude you need to podcast this stuff!
Posted by: Starbubz | February 9, 2005 1:29 PM
I'm guessing that Wil doesn't get "edgy" when something is wrong with his cat. He gets "sketchy" -- which is almost, but not quite, completely unlike being "edgy".
Posted by: Alan | February 9, 2005 2:31 PM
Wil - wow such great news! Been reading you here almost two years, and read Barefoot, looking for Geek, have seen everything you've done...blah blah blah but shit this is cool!
Will count on you to post the episode details WAY in advance...
Posted by: The Rob | February 9, 2005 2:43 PM
Well? Let's see the beard-ish thing!
Posted by: Scion the Ion Lion | February 9, 2005 2:54 PM
That is so awesome, I love your blog. You capture so many emotions so well. I can really feel all of it. You Rock.
Posted by: Grrly | February 9, 2005 3:00 PM
Reminds me of this:
Doris: At last the world is safe, eh, Fallout
Boy?
Bart: Watch out, Radioactive Man!
Director: Brilliant reading! Again?
Bart: Watch out, Radioactive Man!
Director: Fantastic! One more time?
Bart: Watch out, Radioactive Man!
Director: Congratulations, Bart Simpson: you're
our new Fallout Boy!
Bart: [gasps]
Director: That's what I'd be saying to you if you
weren't an inch too short. Next!
Congrats, for real, Wil.
Posted by: RocketRay | February 9, 2005 3:09 PM
Well, first time I've visited in ages, and then to read the tuff stuff with Sketch ... loads of hugs mate, and the great news about CSI ... so loads of hugs for that too!! Don't know how long it'll be before it gets to the UK, but I'll be keeping an eye out for ya :-)
Wow, congrats, excellent news! :-)
Posted by: Ade | February 9, 2005 3:29 PM
Holy Shit Wil! That's awesome. I don't watch much TV, but let us know when your episode will be on and I'll make a point to watch it!
Posted by: jcklsgk | February 9, 2005 3:31 PM
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
I am so happy for you!
This just proves it really does work better when you don't give a sh*t.
You have to let us know when to watch the episode. I don't normally watch CSI, but I'm going to watch it just to see you play a scruffy homeless guy with a beard...ish... thing. =)
Posted by: bruingrl | February 9, 2005 4:38 PM
Congrats, Wil!
Posted by: Ryan | February 9, 2005 4:47 PM
Oh my goodness gracious! CONGRATS, Wil!
Wow, not only did I sign up just to post this (haven't posted since the change to this new account system), but I will also have to watch TV just to see this show. CSI is a big deal, even I know about it and I scrupulously avoid TV.
Wow, so awesome. Congrats! Best blog entry in a long, long time. You sound so happy, content and excited, all at once. I''m so happy for you!
Posted by: Roy | February 9, 2005 4:54 PM
Holy crap, Wil! That is so cool! I'm really happy for you! I've been reading your blog for a long time now and you seem like such a great guy. You totally deserve this. Make sure to let us know when the episode airs! :o) Congratulations!
Posted by: LolaGabanna | February 9, 2005 7:57 PM
I know I'm waaaayyyy down the list here, but that's fantastic! Congratulations, Wil! I look forward to seeing it!
Posted by: Carol | February 9, 2005 8:27 PM
Not much else to say after 300 or so comments I guess but I'd like to throw my Congratu-freaking-lations into the mix! The write-up of this was, as has been stated, beyond amazing.
And, of course, more kitty mojo for Sketch!
Posted by: delenn_xi | February 9, 2005 8:36 PM
Holy Crap! I'm so excited for you! I'm excited for me! I get to see you on a cool show that I love.
WOOHOO! Congratulations.
Posted by: sleepingmommy | February 9, 2005 9:51 PM
I've never commented on your site before, but felt the need to now. Congratulations! When I read it I made a huge gasp of joy for you! That is so awesome...keep us posted!
Also, I thought it was very cool...because I just got cast in my first play at school. :) Just thought I'd share. And your posts about auditioning and the business and all of that really have inspired me and helped me gain confidence in my own acting. So thank you. :-D Congrats again!
-Kelly
Posted by: kellygirl | February 9, 2005 10:08 PM
Yessssssss! It's so cool that my favorite actor is going to appear on CSI. Believe me, everyone I know will watch it. I love that show and I cannot wait to see you. Congratulations! You really deserve this. And for Sketch: just hold on, think positive and remember there are people thinking of you all the time (and some pets too).
Posted by: Jellkica | February 9, 2005 11:38 PM
Wow! That is so awesome, Wil! Congrats on the CSI gig!
*hugs* for sketch.
Posted by: Sue R | February 10, 2005 7:10 AM
Corngrats on the CSI role...it'll be very interesting to see. Also, I'm so sorry Sketch is ill.
Posted by: ravenlore | February 10, 2005 10:33 AM
Congrats! Oh hell, this probably means I'm going to have to buy a TV..
Oh and I'm sure the Kitty will be fine, most of them are amazing troopers.. I could tell you a story about Boots, but this is your blog, not mine. Needless to say that cat gave the Energizer Bunny a run for his money.
Posted by: nickb | February 10, 2005 6:53 PM
I know I'm a little late, but dude! That rules! \m/
I'm so glad that I'll get to see you on one of my favorite shows! Congrats!
and still sending mojo to Sketch
Posted by: moonkiss | February 10, 2005 9:14 PM
I am so far behind in this, it’s embarrassing, but,
CONGRATULATIONS Wil
It will be so good to see you on TV again over here.
Posted by: griff | February 10, 2005 11:21 PM
This will be the start of terrific things for you, Wil! Congrats!
Um....I don't watch much TV and I've never seen CSI!! But I do know that it is considered one of the better shows on TV these days. And I do know that it is "insanely popular." Please tell us when your episode(s?) will air so we can tune in (or in my case, check the show out for the first time).
BTW, just this week I learned about "sides." I'm taking an Improv and Scene class (just a little Parks and Rec thing). This week we finally worked with scripts. It was dangerously fun for a soccer mom like me. I think I may be getting addicted.
Posted by: LynnZee | February 11, 2005 10:09 PM
Congratulations, Wil! I've not watched CSI before but I will make it a point to do so now. Please advise us as to airtime (like you won't LOL)
Praying for Sketch. GL HF (thats Good Luck Have Fun in gamerspeak, you know that already I expect...)
-Klingon Mage
Posted by: Klingon Mage | February 13, 2005 11:21 PM
I've set up a "wishlist" on my Tivo to watch for the name Wil Wheaton whenever he appears in a first run crime drama. I'm very excited for you. God bless.
Posted by: Dennis | February 14, 2005 7:56 PM
Right on! I'm an enthusiastic CSI:LV fan and from the description of the character, casting you as the killer is just brilliant! Can't wait to see you knock it out of the park! Congratulations and break a leg. (I'm sure there's stuff on-set to bind it )
Posted by: taramis | February 15, 2005 11:46 PM
Wil,
This comment is ridiculously after-the-fact, so I don't know if you'll ever find it, but it's something I thought I should tell you.
This paragraph:
I did a little dance in my living room, where I run back and forth and shake my thing. Riley saw me, and ran across the house to my side. She didn't know why I was excited, but she danced with me anyway before she got really interested in chasing her tail.
That's one of the most wonderful and visually evocative paragraphs I've ever read to describe joyful personal celebration. I love it, and it's come to my mind many a time since I read it about a month ago.
Just thought you should know.
--------
Posted by: satsumabug | March 19, 2005 2:11 AM