Salt Lake City lit up with more than just cosplay and comic book buzz last week—it pulsed with purpose. Actor and fan-favorite Zachary Levi, known for his charismatic roles in Shazam! and NBC’s cult hit Chuck, brought his signature blend of humor, heart, and heroism to FanX® Salt Lake Comic & Pop Culture Convention. But this time, it wasn’t just about fandom—it was about healing.
Through his nonprofit Nerd HQ, Levi hosted Nerd HQ Nights, a three-night series of post-convention events that raised over $80,000 for mental health initiatives. Sponsored by FanX® and Angel Studios, Inc., the events ran from September 25–27 and offered fans a rare chance to connect with Levi and other celebrities in intimate, meaningful ways.
From Karaoke to Conversations: A Weekend of Connection
Thursday’s Koncert & Karaoke was a standout, with Levi taking the stage alongside voice acting legends like Nolan North (Uncharted), Jason Griffith (Sonic the Hedgehog), and Sarah Natochenny (Pokémon). Fans sang alongside their heroes, with Levi’s duet from Disney’s Tangled—where he voiced Flynn Rider—earning cheers and teary smiles. Every ticket sold helped fund mental health support for those in need.
Friday shifted gears with Conversations for a Cause, a heartfelt Q&A where Levi opened up about his own mental health journey. “This cause is deeply personal to me,” he shared. “I know what it’s like to struggle, and I also know how life-changing it can be to get the right help.” The evening wrapped with a free screening of SKETCH, a film that explores creativity and emotional resilience.
Saturday closed the series with a high-energy 21+ dance party, free to attend but rich in impact. Donations flowed throughout the weekend, supporting Nerd HQ’s mission to provide free therapy access and destigmatize mental health care.
More Than a Superhero
While Levi may be best known for donning the cape in Shazam! or hacking his way through espionage in Chuck, his off-screen work is just as heroic. Nerd HQ, originally launched as a fan engagement platform, has evolved into a force for good—bridging the gap between pop culture and mental wellness.
Levi’s openness about his own struggles has made him a relatable figure in a world that often prizes perfection. Through Nerd HQ Nights, he’s proving that fandom can be more than fun—it can be transformative.
To learn more or support the cause, visit nerdhq.org.