WOODBRIDGE — Will Gong, a native of Woodbridge, launched his first sitcom, “Bunkheads.”
The show takes a comedic approach to the zombie apocalypse, as a teacher, actress, workout warrior, and wannabe rapper learn to live together as they take refuge in a bunker to save their lives.
Gong said he was inspired to create the show after watching the success of TV’s “The Walking Dead.”
“It’s so serious,” he said. “How could you take a zombie apocalypse and make it a sitcom?”
Gong said he had a bunker idea from a script he’d been working on and combined these ideas to create the concept for “Bunkheads.”
“What if four people were trapped in a bunker and they had to learn to live together? That would be really funny,” Gong said.
Gong said he didn’t want to play up the zombie apocalypse aspect, which is terrifying.
“My view on human nature is, we adapt, we evolve, and eventually, we get used to things,” says Gong. “How long would it take you to get used to the zombie apocalypse? You resort back to being grumpy about the people you’re living with. You kind of forget that there’s this horrific event going on outside.”
Gong said he began working on the script for “Bunkheads” during the presidential campaign of 2016.
“We’re all living in a world with people we don’t necessarily see eye to eye with and we have to find some common ground. Those are the things I wanted to explore,” Gong says.
Gong grew up in Woodbridge and graduated from C.D. Hylton High School in 1998. Gong said he’s loved film since he was a child. He said his high school drama teacher inspired him to go into film.
“My drama teacher, Ms. Clark was working on creating her own show. One was a short play that she’d developed and written herself and we were all learning how to perform it. I remember watching her and thinking, ‘she just made this up.’ I thought that was amazing and I want to do this on some level. I want to make stuff,” Gong said.
Gong said this was the first time he was able to see the process laid out so when he went to college, he had two ideas. “I was going to write film and make stuff or I was going to be a journalist,” he said.
Gong said he thought journalism would lead him into film, but later decided to devote himself fulltime to film.
Gong said that while “Bunkheads” is the first sitcom he has created, it is not his first time working in comedy. He said some of his favorite work has been producing comedy.
“When you’re stuck working on something for a year or two when it’s fun, it makes it go down a bit smoother. Comedy is a fun place to be,” says Gong.
Gong said the initial six episodes of “Bunkheads” were released on December 13. He said his vision is to build a fan base and grow the show bigger.
“This has been one of the most satisfying events of my life. It’s mine, and it’s oddly incredibly personal,” says Gong.
Gong said he has goals to one day create his own feature film and work on or develop a network show.
He said, for now, he’d love to make more “Bunkheads.”
“I’d like to keep expanding it, stretching its legs and getting more people to watch. That would be the best thing,” he said.
Gong said he loves Woodbridge and comes home every chance he gets. He said he has a comic book store that he loves and frequents when he’s in town where he knows all the guys.
“Every time I get a better phone, I drive around and take better pictures of where I used to live. This is my place, my people. That’s home to me. No matter where I go and all the places I travel to, that’s what I consider home,” he said.
Recent Stories
Earn top dollar with full benefits! When you join the Electrical Alliance, you get to contribute to the biggest projects in the area, all while earning top dollar and employer…
Treat your taste buds to the legendary Giant Stuffed Potatoes at Dixie Bones BBQ in Woodbridge—a culinary delight not to be missed!
The Manassas Park Governing Body will discuss its library policy during its meeting on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.
Potomac Local News recently interviewed Deshundra Jefferson, Chair of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, to discuss her initial 100 days in office and her future plans for the county.
We are honored to have the Honorable Andrea O. Bailey of the Potomac District, along with the esteemed leadership of Prince William County, hosting our 4th Annual 5K Walk for Mental Health Awareness. This event is a testament to their commitment to educate, advocate for, and dispel myths and stigma surrounding mental illness.
Dust off your running or walking shoes, bring your pets, and move with us in this county-wide FREE event in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month on Saturday, May 18th, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This year’s theme is Movement: Moving for Your Mental Health.
We will walk along a scenic multi-purpose trail in a wooded setting with sufficient signage to meet the needs of the walkers at Locust Shade Park, 4701 Locust Shade Drive, Triangle, Virginia 22192.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges? Struggling with anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Take the first step towards healing and reclaiming your life with our professional psychotherapy services.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that mental health is just as important as physical health. Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need on your journey to mental wellness.
Through personalized therapy sessions, we create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Whether you’re dealing with past traumas, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we tailor our approach to meet your unique needs and goals.
