Loss Of A Hero
I just learned that my good friend Perry Moore has passed away yesterday. Perry was the executive producer of the Chronicle of Narnia films and the author of the critically acclaimed YA novel Hero.
While writing for Drops of Crimson, I did a review for Hero. Perry saw it and was so impressed that he sent a note to the editor Ms. Moffatt to pass along to me, thanking me for the eloquent analysis. Shortly there after, Ms. Moffatt emailedme stating that because he was so impressed, Perry was interested in seeing if I wanted to do a one-on-one interview. I won't go so far as to say that I jumped up and down and shrieked like a prebubescent female at a pop boyband concert, but I'm fairly certain the fine folks at Kinkos are convinced that I had lost my ever loving mind.
Prior to the interview, Perry and I chatted for hours on everything ranging from comic books, our favorite characters, personal background stories, to music to travel, to even our experiences body surfing. We were both convinced that we got separated at birth. Speaking as a former pro journalist, this is hands down the most enjoyable interview I ever gave.
One of the most extraordinary souls you'll ever meet, Perry's story is a powerful one. But more than that, after chatting with him, I felt inspired and I felt like I was 7 years old again when I thought anything was possible. Life was golden. I was on the world's biggest high. He reminded me that my purpose was to be a storyteller and to be a kid and to inspire others and bring about change through our works, the way comics inspired us. And for that alone, I will always be indebted to him. For that alone, he will always have my thanks.
Side note: The icon is a fanart of Thom Creed, the main character from Hero.
Moore was one of the most beautiful men I've ever encountered, inside and out. He had no qualms about calling out homophobia or any other forms of bigotry and injustice, but he still had a genuine warmth and compassion that is rare in this world.
I emailed Perry a while back but never heard from him. Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader was about to hit theaters so I knew he was busy promoting the film. Last we spoke, I know he had some other projects in the works, including a sequel to Hero. I hope they were finished and still get published because the world needs his voice.
Thoughts and prayers are with his partner Hunter and his family and loved ones.
Perry, keep flying. Know that you are missed and know you'll always be that hero of mine.
Thank you.
Perry with Stan Lee.
Perry andWilliam Moseley
