‘Grand Theft Auto’ voice actors to appear at OG Collectibles in Downtown Downey

DOWNEY – Fans of the Grand Theft Auto franchise will have the chance to meet two of the game’s most iconic voice actors when Shawn Fonteno and Christopher “Young MayLay” Bellard make an appearance at OG Collectibles in Downtown Downey on Friday, April 12.

Fonteno and MayLay, known for their roles as Franklin Clinton and Carl “CJ” Johnson, respectively, will be at the pop culture shop from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a special meet-and-greet event. Tickets start at $12 and are available for purchase on tixr.com.

The event brings together two pivotal figures in Rockstar Games’ long-running Grand Theft Auto series, which has become one of the best-selling and most influential video game franchises of all time.

Meet the Voices Behind CJ and Franklin

Shawn Fonteno voiced Franklin Clinton, one of the three playable protagonists in Grand Theft Auto V, released in 2013. Franklin, a young hustler trying to escape the streets of Los Santos, quickly became a fan-favorite for his dry humor, ambition, and dynamic relationship with the other two main characters, Michael De Santa and Trevor Philips. The game became a massive success, selling over 195 million copies worldwide and revolutionizing open-world gaming.

Christopher “Young MayLay” Bellard lent his voice to Carl “CJ” Johnson, the main character in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (2004). CJ’s story follows his return to Los Santos after his mother’s murder, navigating gang wars, corrupt cops, and a sprawling criminal underworld. San Andreas is often hailed as one of the greatest video games ever made, thanks to its deep storyline, vast open world, and cultural impact.

Since its debut in 1997, the Grand Theft Auto series has become one of the most influential and controversial in gaming history, known for its open-world gameplay, satirical take on American culture, and immersive storytelling. The franchise has pushed boundaries and set industry standards, with GTA V alone generating over $8 billion in revenue and its online component, GTA Online, continuing to thrive more than a decade after its release.

Autographs, photos, and exclusive merchandise will be available during the event.