El Paso Comic Con Guest Shares How Local Singer Inspired Him

Well, I didn’t expect to be tearing up this early, but here we are. *Crying in Spanish* All because of a powerful moment I experienced while sitting down with Ozark actor Evan G. Vourazeris, who’s coming to El Paso Comic Con, and what he shared is something I won’t forget.

In the middle of our interview, Evan opened up about feeling depressed after being bullied. But instead of staying silent, he reached out to someone he felt could understand.

That someone was El Paso’s own Julian Kalel, and Julian answered with a message of hope and kidness.

Courtesy: Getty Images/American Idol

Evan G. Vourazeris is More Than Just An Actor, He’s A Model and Activist

For actor Evan G. Vourazeris, this year’s El Paso Comic Con is more than just another appearance, it’s a milestone.

“This is my first El Paso Comic Con. And in my career, I hope it leads me to different comic cons.”

For Evan, the opportunity represents not only a chance to meet fans, but a moment to be seen for his work. Known for his role as “Tuck” on Netflix’s Ozark, Evan says he’s looking forward to connecting with people who recognize him for his talent — not just his diagnosis.

“I want to be known for my role,” he said. “Not just as a person with Down syndrome. I have dreams and goals.”

Evan George Vourazeris

That passion and determination have been at the center of Evan’s journey from the very beginning.

Evan began acting in 2017 on Ozark, quickly becoming a recurring character during its first two seasons. His love for storytelling started early, watching movies with his father, and grew stronger after a friend encouraged him to pursue acting.

Off-screen, Evan has become a powerful advocate

After experiencing bullying firsthand, he joined the I’m Bullyfree organization in 2013 and began sharing his story across Texas.

Since then, he has spoken to more than 500,000 students and families, spreading a message of resilience, self-worth, and perseverance. His platform continues to grow, and his message is simple: everyone has a purpose and a voice.

Evan And Julian: Two different journeys. One powerful message: don’t give up.

During my conversation with Evan he opened up about a recent moment that deeply impacted him.

He shared that he had been feeling depressed after experiencing bullying again. He had been following Julian’s journey on American Idol and he came across Julian’s performance of his song “Surrender.” Evan said that as soon as he heard the lyrics, he felt an instant connection. “It spoke to me,” he said.

Evan shared Julian’s American Idol performance to his story with a message that read, “I don’t care if I have down syndrome because I pursue every dream in my life.”

Julian, who is currently competing on American Idol , replied to Evan’s story with an encouraging message:

Right on man! Thank you for your suport and for being honest with me about your struggles. I’m glad my music inspires you. Don’t ever give up, man. You’re never alone in this journey. Keep fighting.

A simple act of kindness can go a long way

I got the chills just thinking about how both Evan and Julian were using their voices in different ways but still found common ground through their vulnerability and strength.

What made this moment even more powerful was that Julian, in the middle of his fast-paced national competition, took the time to pause and remind Evan to keep going. It was a simple act, but one that left a lasting impact.

Evan says that the message gave him a sense of confidence and motivation. As he continues pursuing acting and modeling, he hopes to open doors for others like him.

“I want agencies to consider hiring people with Down syndrome,” he said. “We’re capable of acting and modeling too.”

Now, as he prepares for his first El Paso Comic Con, Evan is stepping into this next chapter with purpose and will continue to use his platform to inspire others and prove that limitations don’t define potential because whether it’s on a national stage or at a local convention, stories like Evan’s are a reminder that talent, resilience, and heart can shine anywhere.

Find out more about Evan by clicking here!

From El Paso to Hollywood: Julian Kalel’s American Idol Journey

Julian Kalel secures a golden ticket on American Idol and delivers a message bigger than music.

Gallery Credit: Courtesy: American Idol

The “People of El Paso” loteria series

Gallery Credit: Courtesy: Ware Portraits

El Paso Comic Con Guest Shares How Local Singer Inspired Him

Tags: