KUWAIT: American writer Larry Hama speaks during his participation in the Games and Media Entertainment Expo (GX2017). - KUNA photos

KUWAIT: Popular American comic book writer Larry Hama was the guest of honor during the Games and Media Entertainment Expo (GX2017), where he showcased his prowess in a 'Storytelling without Words' event. "My participation today is to tell stories plainly with the use of pictures without words," he said. "I am fascinated with the people here in Kuwait. This is my first time in the Middle East and when I see how people here are appreciative of my work, I am really amazed," he said.

He advised young talents to pursue their dreams in this art form. "This is struggle for a time, but if you become famous, you can actually live and help your families with it. You will be gratified if you pursue your heart's desire. Do not be afraid to fail - it is part of life. Just go on, continue and do whatever makes you feel better," Hama said.

Hama was accompanied by the US Embassy's Cultural Attache Zennia Paganini. He will also visit some local schools in Kuwait, addressing those interested in writing and cartooning. Hama has a decade of experience in print and various mass media.

Born on June 7, 1949, in Manhattan, Hama is also an actor and musician who has worked in the fields of entertainment and publishing since the 1960s. In the 1970, he starred in TV shows 'MASH' and Saturday Night Live, along with many more projects. Hama is best known to American comic book readers as a writer and editor at Marvel Comics, where he wrote the licensed comic book series G.I. Joe:

A Real American Hero, based on the Hasbro toy line. Hama also written for the series Wolverine, Nth Man: the Ultimate Ninja, and Elektra. He created the character Bucky O'Hare, which was developed into a comic book, a toy line and television cartoon.

By Ben Garcia, Staff Writer