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This week, we descend into the shadowy corridors of Safehaven, the new supernatural thriller premiering on Tubi.
This week's guest is a double-threat force behind the series: the head of special FX and makeup design and the actor who steps into the enigmatic role of Francis Zelk, Aaron Merke
We get to find out more about the architect behind Safehaven’s bruised dreamscapes and haunting practical effects, and also being one of the faces pulling you deeper into the show’s mystery.
On this episode, he walks us through the strange dance of designing terror for the cast while performing within it.
From early concept sketches to surreal on-set moments, from building creatures out of psychology to embodying a character tied to the show’s unsettling atmosphere, we explore how Safehaven’s world was stitched together.
About SAFEHAVEN
Based on the graphic novel, Safehaven follows Jenna Frost, a teenager tormented by visions that claw at her sanity and reality. As those visions take shape, the town’s darkest corners crawl into the light. The series blends psychological horror, supernatural lore, and YA drama into one slow-burning nightmare.
Credits
The Reel Debaters Podcast is produced by Sick Bad Panda Studios in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
🎙️ Executive Producer: Michael Petrow
🎧 Produced by: Emily Clark
🎛️ Recorded and Mixed at: Sick Bad Panda Podcast Studios
🎬 Episode: Aaron Merke from Safehaven
🎤 Featuring Guests: Aaron Merke
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Aaron Merke
Hey, I'm Aaron Merke! I’ve spent my career blending creativity, humor, and production expertise across multiple industries. As a producer, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of projects, from developing film and TV series to leading comedy shows and live performances. I co-own Royal Awesome Productions with my long-time partner and wife, where we’re bringing exciting new projects to life, including "Megasis," "Advanced Wizards and Warriors," "The Pam Oberman Project," and "Devon Brooks Psychic Medium"—all currently in early development.
My background in comedy is a huge part of who I am. From performing and producing at legendary places like Second City and MuchMusic to running live-streamed shows with GO Live Comedy, I love creating moments that make people laugh and think. Improv, sketch, and character-driven comedy have always been at the heart of my work, and I thrive on pushing creative boundaries to deliver something special.