Hello guys! 

We’ll be featuring and interviewing cosplayers from all over the world here on the Cosplay Page of the site. My first interview is with Matthew from NY! Special thanks to Matthew for joining us  

Introduce yourself 
(Matthew Jon Durnin, Irish, Brooklyn NEW YORK, SAG-AFTRA Actor)

How did you discover cosplay and why did you decide to be a cosplayer after that?

A lot of my friends in high school were into cosplay. At the time I didn’t think it was anything special, and thought it was nonsense. Then one day 4 years ago my best friend and I decided to see what all the fuss was about. I cosplayed as Wolverine first day of the convention, and next day I was The Joker. If you’re going to do something you have to go all out. That’s when I learned what I was missing out on.  I believe I enjoy it more now, than if I did it with my friends back in high school.

How was your first convention as a cosplayer? 

It was great! I had such a fun time! I didn’t realize that if you match the look of the cosplay and do it 90-100% perfect that you will be getting asked for photos constantly lol, which I don’t mind it all.

Do you make your props/gear/armor or your own costume? If not how do you get it?

I make some props. I built Wolverine claws which Hugh Jackman signed a pair and he interviewed me on ABC Good Morning America! So thank you Hugh for making that a great birthday for me! And I built a Captain America Shield. Both props are made from metal. 

What does Cosplayer mean for you and how is it related to your acting background?

I don’t think being a cosplayer really means anything to me, I do love it! It’s when I get to try out my halloween costume on people and get their reactions. As far as acting, it does help my acting skills to learn and breathe like that character. 

Tell us about your best experience while cosplaying 

My favorite part of cosplaying is something that I think is really funny and really cool, it’s when people stop me for photos. I never say no cause I wouldn’t want that happening to me. I also get to meet a lot of really cool people and learn a lot on how they built their stuff. Leads to great conversations and trading notes on outfit design.

Who do you look up to or who inspires you to cosplay? 

I look up to God, and my Mom. As far as actors I like Hugh Jackman, Kevin Spacey, Emma Stone, Anne Hathaway, James McAvoy, Heath Ledger, Anthony Hopkins, Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Johnny Depp, etc… 

What advice would you give to amateur aspiring cosplayers? 

Cosplay characters that you’re passionate about, and also who you kinda look like. 

Where can we see you cosplaying again? 

You can always find me cosplaying at New York City Comic Con, as well as posting photos on Instagram. 

Where can we find you on social media?

Instagram: @matthewjdurnin @durninindustriesphotography

Anything else you’d like to let everyone know?

Who ever follows my photography page, @durninindustriesphotography, I will pick 3 people to do FREE Cosplay Photoshoots with!