Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott Launch “HypeFriend!” Podcast and Rejoin SDCC
Dive into the magical world of pop culture icons Ashley Eckstein, the beloved voice of Ahsoka Tano, and Michael James Scott, Broadway’s vivacious Genie, as they embark on an exciting journey with their new podcast “HypeFriend!” This weekly comedy show is a celebration of friendship and connection, featuring delightful segments like “Hypes & Gripes” and “Neighbor Drop-Ins” with sparkling guests such as Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse, and Andrew Levitt from RuPaul’s Drag Race, all woven together with effervescent humor and camaraderie. Besides igniting this friendship revolution, their dynamic duo will captivate audiences at the 2025 San Diego Comic-Con, co-hosting the illustrious Her Universe Fashion Show Presented by Universal—a vibrant spectacle of fandom-inspired trends themed “Defying Fashion.” This extravaganza promises unforgettable creativity that blurs the lines between fashion, fantasy, and reality. Discover how Eckstein’s essential recipe for friendship blooms into a dazzling, jazz-hands affair that’s as irresistible as cake—even if it’s burnt. Could “HypeFriend” be the podcast revolution you’ve been waiting for? Tune in and join the sparkle-studded journey into the heart of friendship and fandom.
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Quick Takeaways:
- Ashley Eckstein (voice of Ahsoka Tano) and Michael James Scott (Broadway's Genie) launch a new podcast called HypeFriend!
- The show celebrates friendship with fun segments and special guests like Bret Iwan and Nina West.
- They will co-host the Her Universe Fashion Show at San Diego Comic-Con 2025.
- The event carries the theme “Defying Fashion,” inspired by Wicked and other Universal stories.
- Both emphasize the value of connection and the joy of being a supportive friend.
HypeFriend! Podcast Brings Laughter and Connection
Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott have teamed up to create HypeFriend!, a new weekly podcast focused on sincere talks about friendship. Eckstein, known for voicing Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars: The Clone Wars and founding the fashion brand Her Universe, brings her vision of building community through connection. Her co-host and close companion, Broadway actor Michael James Scott, known for his award-winning role as the Genie in Aladdin, adds humor, heart—and the occasional bold outfit.
Each episode features a mix of storytelling and humor in segments like “Hypes & Gripes,” “Good Gossip,” and “Neighbor Drop-Ins,” with appearances by familiar figures such as Bret Iwan (voice of Mickey Mouse) and drag performer Andrew Levitt, also known as Nina West.
A Longstanding Partnership Continues at Comic-Con
In addition to their podcast, Eckstein and Scott will take the stage together again to co-host the Her Universe Fashion Show Presented by Universal during San Diego Comic-Con 2025. The show takes place Thursday, July 24, at 6 p.m. PT in the Seaport Ballroom of the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel.
Now in its eleventh year, the Her Universe Fashion Show celebrates creativity through geek-inspired fashion and up-and-coming designers. This marks Scott’s third year as co-host and introduces the 2025 theme: “Defying Fashion.” Drawing inspiration from Universal’s Wicked, as well as other beloved stories, the show will spotlight the bold spirits of fans through style.
The Meaning Behind HypeFriend!
Eckstein has often spoken about the importance of meaningful community, saying, “I’ve learned that connection is an essential need, just like food and water… there is a recipe for friendship!”
Scott shares the energy and humor he brings to the podcast, adding, “Ashley’s over here giving you the recipe for friendship—and I’m the friend who shows up, in a FIERCE outfit, ready to eat the cake, even if it’s burnt. Doing a podcast with my lifelong bestie where we overshare and laugh too loud? That’s my love language. HypeFriend is like a big, glittery group hug but with jazz hands.”
Uniting Community Through Fandom and Friendship
Through both their podcast and public events, Eckstein and Scott continue to create spaces where people can connect over shared interests and authentic relationships, uplifting not just fashion fans but communities built on friendship and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ‘HypeFriend!’ podcast about?
‘HypeFriend!’ is a new podcast hosted by Disney stars Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott, where they celebrate the power of fandoms, friendships, and all things pop culture. The show features fun conversations, special guests, and behind-the-scenes stories from their lives in entertainment.
Who are the hosts of the ‘HypeFriend!’ podcast?
The podcast is hosted by Ashley Eckstein, known for voicing Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars, and Michael James Scott, a Broadway star best known for playing the Genie in Aladdin. Both are beloved Disney personalities with strong ties to fan communities.
When did ‘HypeFriend!’ launch?
‘HypeFriend!’ officially launched in July 2024, just ahead of San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC). The timing aligns with the annual celebration of fandoms and pop culture that SDCC represents.
Where can I listen to the ‘HypeFriend!’ podcast?
You can stream ‘HypeFriend!’ on popular podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. Episodes are also expected to be promoted on social media and the hosts’ official channels.
What makes ‘HypeFriend!’ unique compared to other pop culture podcasts?
‘HypeFriend!’ stands out because it’s hosted by two Disney icons who bring personal experiences from the worlds of animation and Broadway. Their authentic chemistry and shared love of fandom create a fun and uplifting vibe for listeners.
Will ‘HypeFriend!’ feature guests or special interviews?
Yes, the podcast plans to include a variety of guest appearances from fellow entertainers, fans, and creators. These segments aim to deepen behind-the-scenes insights and celebrate diverse fandom stories.
Filipino Translation:
Si Ashley Eckstein—na kilala bilang boses ni Ahsoka Tano sa Star Wars: The Clone Wars, at founder ng Her Universe—kasama ang longtime friend niyang si Michael James Scott (yung gumanap na Genie sa Broadway), may nilaunch na bagong podcast called “HypeFriend!” Weekly comedy show ‘to na focused sa totoong usapan about friendship at connection—ang goal nila, magsimula ng friendship revolution, one HypeFriend at a time.
May mga fun segments yung podcast tulad ng “Hypes & Gripes,” “Good Gossip,” at “Neighbor Drop-Ins,” featuring guests like Bret Iwan (boses ni Mickey Mouse!) at Andrew Levitt a.k.a. Nina West from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Super entertaining at very relatable for barkadas everywhere.
Kasama rin sa collab nila ang big event sa San Diego Comic-Con 2025, kung saan co-hosts ulit sila ng Her Universe Fashion Show Presented by Universal, sa Thursday, July 24, 6 p.m. PT, sa Seaport Ballroom ng Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel. Third year na ni Scott as co-host, at 11th anniversary na rin ng fashion show! Ang theme for 2025 ay “Defying Fashion” — inspired by Universal’s Wicked and other franchises. Highlight rin dito ang mga creative designers at ang mix ng fashion at fandom—super bongga!
Sabi ni Eckstein, “I’ve learned that connection is an essential need, just like food and water… there is a recipe for friendship!” Tapos sabi naman ni Michael James Scott, “Ashley’s over here giving you the recipe for friendship—and I’m the friend who shows up, in a FIERCE outfit, ready to eat the cake, even if it’s burnt. Doing a podcast with my lifelong bestie where we overshare and laugh too loud? That’s my love language. HypeFriend is like a big, glittery group hug but with jazz hands.”
In short, sina Eckstein at Scott pinapakita talaga kung paanong through fandom, puwedeng mabuo ang strong communities at genuine connections. Ang saya lang, diba?
Disney stars Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott launch new podcast ‘HypeFriend!’ ahead of SDCC was first published here.
