Earlier this week, Critical Role announced “Weird Kids,” a new Beacon exclusive podcast hosted by Ashley Johnson and Taliesin Jaffe. The podcast will delve into the duo’s upbringing as child stars and all the oddities that come with growing up in the entertainment industry. Johnson and Jaffe will pull the curtain back on how it feels to be a child star, including the chaos of being behind the scenes, growing up on a set, friendships, and finding their place in the world.
“Weird Kids is a bit of nostalgia, a bit of history, plus a helping of personal issues and the inevitable eccentric trauma that comes along with it,” shared Taliesin Jaffe. “I’m proud to bring you the conversational equivalent of watching a vintage moped run head first into the back of a comically 1930s produce truck.“
Johnson debuted in “Growing Pains” as Chrissy Seaver at only six years old. Jaffe hit the big screen with Michael Keaton in “Mr. Mom.” Following these breakout roles, both continued to book television roles early in their careers, along with movies, before moving into the voice acting space.
Weird Kids Will Explore Ashley Johnson and Taliesin Jaffe’s Passions Beyond Acting

Beyond the experience of being child actors, Johnson and Jaffe will also share details about their “weird” passions. These unique interests will span across many different experiences and hobbies, including taxidermy, antique toys, Japanese culture, and more. The possibilities are endless, as are the stories and nostalgia.
“We wanted to create a space where we could share the ridiculous, surreal, and deeply personal stories that come with growing up in the industry,” said Ashley Johnson. “Weird Kids is for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in—and we can’t wait for people to join us at the table.”
Weird Kids Goes Beyond The Confine Of Critical Role’s Studio

“Weird Kids” will feature a number of segments. One that Marisha Ray revealed will be called “Touching Grass,” where the podcast will travel outside the studio. “Weird Kids” is meant to be a safe haven for anyone that has ever felt like an outsider who doesn’t fit in. Johnson and Jaffe proudly share the things they love including those that others believe to be strange.
“Weird Kids” will debut with a live launch party hosted by Johnson and Jaffe on March 20 at 7pm PT across Beacon, Twitch, and YouTube. This live stream will include behind-the-scenes details, a fan Q&A, and the premiere episode. The premiere episode VOD will be released on March 25 at 5am PT across Beacon, YouTube, and all podcast platforms. However, following this, Weird Kids will be a Beacon exclusive podcast with new episodes available on the Critical Role platform every Tuesday at 5am PT.
Follow @theweirdkidspod Instagram and @TheWeirdKidsPod YouTube channel for shorts from the show and all news about the podcast. Check out the trailer below for a taste of what’s to come on “Weird Kids.”