Comic-Con 2026: Full Schedule

10:00am PDT

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT

Women in Comics Collective International (WinC for short, pronounced "wink") is an artistic and informative initiative. It serves to highlight the merit and craftwork of marginalized voices, especially those of Women and Queer Folx of color, who work in the comics and multimedia industry. They are also the 2024 recipients of the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. Created during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Creator Symposium is an ongoing panel discussion series designed to explore the ways in which creatives working in comics can continue to grow and thrive in an ever-changing industry. Panelists include Shawnee Gibbs and Shawnelle Gibbs (Ghost Roast, writers), Joe Illidge (Noir Is the New Black Season 2, writer), Amy Linsamouth (Omens, writer), Morgan Hampton (Green Lantern Corps), Alice Meichi Li (Rebel Moon, cover artist), and Asia Simone (Moon Girl & Devil Dinosaur, cover artist). Moderated by Regine L. Sawyer (WinC, founder).

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Education, Writers & Writing

10:00am PDT

They Can Buy Themselves Flowers

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT

Room 28DE

When fantastic and terrifying things happen, the protagonists of these books jump directly into the fray. Terry J. Benton-Walker (The Drakon King), Kamilah Cole (An Arcane Inheritance), Ayana Gray (I, Medusa), Katee Robert (The Tarot Trials), and Scarlett St. Clair (Terror at the Gates) discuss writing characters who take destiny into their own hands. Moderated by Jenni Marchisotto (Mysterious Galaxy).

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 28DE

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing

11:00am PDT

Comadres y Comics Podcast: A Decade of Comics and Community

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

Kristen Parraz (Santa Monica Comics Co.; co-host), Sara Bazan (co-host), and Jennifer Lopez (co-host) discuss the impact of their podcast, the growth of Latinx voices in comics, and how community-driven media has shaped industry conversation and opportunity. Henry Barajas (Death to Pachuco) and Omar Morales (Major Thomas) join the conversation.

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, Anniversaries, BIPOC, Comics, Library Programs, Podcasts

11:00am PDT

Spotlight on Denys Cowan

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 32AB

Eisner Award–winning creator Denys Cowan discusses artistic evolution, creative reinvention, and the power of collaboration. From helping lead the latest evolution of Milestone Media as its iconic characters expand within the broader DC Universe to developing film, television, and animation projects, Cowan has never allowed himself to be confined to a single lane. Cowan will discuss his collaborations with Charlamagne tha God on Illuminati, the upcoming BeastMode graphic novel with Marshawn Lynch, and his return to monthly comics as the artist of Nightwing. Along the way, he'll share stories from a groundbreaking career that continues to shape comics and popular culture.

Special Guests

Denys Cowan

Booth #4601, Comic-Con Special Guest

Denys Cowan’s acclaimed work as the artist on The Question, Detective Comics, Black Panther, Deathlok, and Nightwing in the 1980s established him as one of comics’ most distinctive storytellers. In 1993 he helped launch Milestone Media, the revolutionary company that changed the face of comics by centering diverse voices and perspectives. Beyond comics, Cowan served as executive producer of the... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Movies, Superheroes, Television

11:30am PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #2: How Comics Work

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT

Room 26AB

This session explores how comics construct meaning through serial storytelling, reinterpretation, race, and political memory. Paul Young (Dartmouth College) shows how early Hulk comics helped shape Marvel's serialized universe-building through cyclical transformation narratives and crossovers. Francisco Sáez de Adana (University of Alcalá) reinterprets Vitaliti's contemporary artistic reworking of El Eternauta, focusing on how a classic comic work can be reinterpreted to extract meanings that underlie the original as well as to build new ones. Johnathan Flowers (California State University, Northridge) investigates the act of racebending as a form of counter-narrative that exposes systemic racism and white supremacy embedded in superhero culture and fandom. Daniel Ambord considers how comics confront misinformation and "toxic nostalgia," proposing an anti-fascist interpretive framework for engaging classic characters and stories.

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, International, Superheroes

12:00pm PDT

From Sketch to Stunt: Designing Costumes That Survive the Action

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 32AB

Superhero landings, wire fights, explosions—costumes don't just look good; they have to perform. ISBCD costume designers Gersha Phillips (Captain America), Trayce Gigi Field (Spider-Noir), Charlese Antoinette (Children of Blood and Bone), Antoinette Messam (The Bluff), Dominique Dawson (HIM), Tiffany Hasbourne (Shadow Force), and Jennifer Bryan (The Acolyte) break down how garments are engineered for extreme action, from stretch fabrics and hidden reinforcements to quick-change duplicates and stunt doubles. The panel shares stories of costumes that ripped, burned, or had to be rebuilt overnight, and how teams saved the day.

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Costuming, Fandom, Historical, Horror and Suspense, International, Movies, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television

12:00pm PDT

Light Before Dawn: The Making of a Global Fantasy Streaming Series

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 28DE

As demand grows for independent, creator-driven storytelling, new models of global collaboration are emerging. Sohaib Awan (creator of IDW Publishing's Jinnrise) leads a discussion with author Sarah Mughal Rana (Dawn of the Firebird), director Usman Riaz (The Glassworker), and Mustafa Davis (Mustafa Davis Studios) on developing Light Before Dawn, a fantasy live-action prequel series to Dawn of the Firebird. The panel shares how the international team is developing the project and how creators can produce ambitious multimedia while retaining ownership of their work.

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

1: Programs, BIPOC, Historical, International, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television

12:30pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Adapting and Pitching Your Game for TV and Film

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT

Room 10

Translating your story across media can be tricky, which is why so many game-to-film adaptations feel poorly conceived. But when done well, you get The Expanse, Fallout, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, and countless others. But how do you do it without a massive IP everybody's heard of? How do you determine your lead characters? Do you need a pitch deck? A completed script? Six seasons of story arcs? This panel of film industry professionals explores what studios generally look for, how meetings get set up, and what pitfalls to avoid when adapting a game for the screen. Ryan Omega (TaskmasterLA, Darkness Emergent), Lauren Cipollo (Parallax, Dark and Zarus), Matt Conant (Mystery Science Theater 3000), Jenni Powell (Emmy Award–winning producer, The Lizzie Bennet Diaries), and moderator Joe Barrette (Creators Assemble president) participate.

Thursday July 23, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 10

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, Games, Television, TTRPG, Writers & Writing

1:00pm PDT

The Asian Corner: LeUyen Pham Talks Comics and Kids' Books with Gene Luen Yang

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 29AB

Eisner Award winner and Caldecott Honor winner LeUyen Pham (Lunar New Year Love Story) has created more than a hundred books in her career, but she is still feeling like a newbie in the world of graphic novels. Gene Luen Yang (American Born Chinese) talks with LeUyen about making comics, the difference between kids' books and comics, and how their Asian history fits into the stories they tell. Q&A to follow.

Special Guests

LeUyen Pham

Comic-Con Special Guest

LeUyen Pham is the artist of over 120 books for adults and children. Her graphic novels include the multi-Eisner Award–winning Lunar New Year Love Story with Gene Yang, the Eisner Award–nominated Templar, and the bestselling Friends series with Shannon Hale. She is the recipient of several awards, including the Caldecott Honor, The Society of Illustrator’s Bronze Medal, and the Fay B. Kaigler Southern Miss Medallion. She is the creator of the Vampirina book series, which has been... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Education, Kids, Writers & Writing

1:30pm PDT

Main Character Energy: Black Female Storytellers

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT

Room 10

Moderated by Amanda Miller and Amber Miller (co-founders, Fangirl Central), this panel spotlights Black female storytellers from all areas of the industry who are shaping narratives across genres and platforms. ShaMya Williams (producer, Starting 5), Christian Streaty (writer, Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures), Ryan Oakley (illustrator, Fortnite), Kai Grayson (producer, Roles for Initiative LA), Chelyse Abrams (editor, Michael), and Angela Entzminger (screenwriter, My Adventures with Superman) discuss their creative journeys, the challenges of forging new paths, and the power of fandom in building community and identity. One lucky audience member will have the opportunity to win a commissioned 5x7 bust illustration.

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 10

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Writers & Writing

4:00pm PDT

Transgender and Nonbinary Creators Stay Relevant and Proud

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Room 9

Trans and nonbinary people have faced political setbacks as hard-won rights are challenged across the country. However, trans creators are still speaking up, sharing their experiences, and making a difference in the fight for equality. How can trans and nonbinary artists use their work to support the community? How can trans stories reach broader audiences? What can trans and nonbinary creators bring that popular culture desperately needs? Prism Comics, moderator Tara Madison Avery (We're Still Here, Stacked Deck Press), and panelists Sonya Saturday (The Greatest Thing You've Ever Seen in Your Life, J.K. Rowling and the Ungrateful Fans), Simon Jane Robrock (Blue Hare Comix, MADE U LOOK), Margeaux Pepoy (The Adventures of Simone & Ajax, Betty & Veronica), Mac Maclean (Opting Out, Death Saves, 3rd Edition), Jenny Blake Isabella (Black Lightning, Ghost Rider), and Liam Coballes (Shifter, The Out Side) discuss these and other questions.

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 9

U: Updated, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+ | 1: Programs, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+

4:30pm PDT

NEON's Sci-Fi-Action Epic: HOPE

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm PDT

Ballroom 20

From visionary South Korean filmmaker Na Hong-jin (The Wailing, The Chaser) comes Hope, one of the most talked-about films from this year's Cannes Film Festival. In the remote village of Hope Harbor, a mysterious creature has wreaked havoc on the community. Police and local hunters set out to track the beast, only to find themselves hunted instead. But not all is as it seems. As panic spreads and reality unravels, the village faces something far beyond imagination. "Pure, unfiltered blockbuster adrenaline" (Justin Chang, The New Yorker), the film is a bold wall-to-wall action spectacle infused with Na Hong-jin's signature mix of genre-blending suspense and dark humor. Following a special introduction by Korean breakout star Hoyeon (Squid Game), who stars in the film, Na Hong-jin takes part in an in-depth conversation with The Ringer’s Joanna Robinson presents exclusive footage from Hope that has not been shown anywhere else.

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm PDT
Ballroom 20

U: Updated, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Horror and Suspense, International, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy | 1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Horror and Suspense, International, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy

5:00pm PDT

Crafting Pop Culture Content to Educate

Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

In a world of fast edits and even faster social media virality, crafting educational content has become increasingly important as audiences seek ways to deepen their knowledge. What does it take to create unique, memorable educational content, and how can audience reactions guide more impactful work? Jason Patrick Galit (JPG; pop culture educator and consultant, InterMyth) leads Goldie Chan (branding expert and author, Personal Branding for Introverts), Thomas Craig VIII (host, Sick Burn Podcast), Ronell Crawford (co-creator, 8-Bit Closed Fist), and Sabeen Faheem (press, cosplayer, and entertainment host) in a discussion of research methods, differentiation through marketing and branding, and strategies for pushing back on anti-intellectual comments and bad-faith engagement online.

Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, Games, Historical, Library Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM

6:00pm PDT

Keenspot Power Hour: Maids, Monsters, and Pooh Bears, Oh My!

Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 5AB

At the 26th annual Comic-Con panel of pioneering comics conglomerate Keenspot, lucky audience members will win ultra-rare variant covers and other mystery prizes. Panelists include the mastermind behind the Ex Posse Universe, film producer Sean E. DeMott (co-creator of Maid Cafe), who is joined by writers Aimee DeLong and Kazue Watanabe, with cover artist Naomi Griffin, to discuss their top-selling grindhouse slasher manga Maid Cafe. Next, The Crying Boy creator, Niall O'Rourke (Squish & Squash), has updates on the in-the-works film and television adaptations of his two Ringo-nominated comics with director Mitchell Altieri (The Hamiltons), and then breaks down the process of making comics for an all-ages audience with the writer of the kids comics phenomenon Pooh Bear Adventures, Matt Cole (The Glopple), alongside Michael Adams (Hero Hiro, Kung Fu Legume) and Rob "Potsy" Potchak (Junior High Horrors, ZOR). There will also be surprise guests and announcements on Keenspot's comics, film, and television projects. Please note: The first half of this panel will discuss comics for mature readers, while the latter half will be devoted to Keenspot's all-ages comics. If bringing children, please arrive at 6:25.

Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 5AB

1: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Horror and Suspense, Humor & Satire, International, Kids, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Web, Writers & Writing

6:30pm PDT

Gay Geeks and Where to Find Them

Thursday July 23, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT

Room 26AB

Nicole Maines (actor, writer), Sami DeMonster (community manager, Tiny Onion), Viktor Kerney (writer, board member, Prism Comics), and Kickxy Vixen (drag queen, cosplayer) gather to discuss their geeky careers, seeking diversity and representation, and how being a member of the community influenced their work. Special performance by Kickxy Vixen. Moderated by Julian Jetson (host, stylist).

Thursday July 23, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Cosplay, Costuming, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Technology - Science - STEM, Television, Writers & Writing

7:00pm PDT

Fear and Loathing in Aztlan: Hunter S. Thompson, the Chicano Movement, and Comics

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT

Room 29AB

This panel examines the continued and intertwined impact of both the writings of Hunter S. Thompson (writer of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas) and the Chicano Movement (including the Chicano Moratorium against the Vietnam War) in comics. Topics include the writings of Oscar Zeta Acosta, the art journal Con Safos, the journalism of Ruben Salazar, the art of Ralph Steadman, prints from the East L.A. art center Self Help Graphics, and the recent production of the play Aztlan (m)otherland. Featuring Xaviera Flores (librarian/archivist, UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center), Lalo Alcaraz (cartoonist/TV producer, La Cucaracha, Coco), Jeaux Janovsky (cartoonist/animator, Animation Magazine, Orwell: 2 +2=5), and the cast of Aztlan (m)otherland—Crismar Chacin-Ruiz (actress, Netflix's Two Graves), Alejandro Bravo (actor, upcoming Coyote film with Esai Morales), Alan Corvaia (actor, El Sonambulo), and Seth Alexander Ernsdorf (actor/artist/designer, Ernsdorf Design). Moderated by Gustavo Alberto Garcia Vaca (artist/writer, MoMA, LACMA, Aztlan (m)otherland).

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Historical

8:00pm PDT

The Comic Shop Series Roundtable

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 25ABC

"Under the regular threat of eviction and the looming competition of a big box store, a quirky group of friends strives to keep their comic shop afloat by any ridiculous means necessary." That tagline is a hook for the award-nominated series The Comic Shop, centered on friendship and reaching for your dreams. Creator Cheyenne Ewulu and panelists Shanae Cole, Dani Fernandez, Grayson Niles, Alanah Pierce, Zeno Robinson, and Frankey Smith discuss what it took to bring the passion project to the screen and how it was shaped to stand out in pop culture, with behind-the-scenes stories for new and longtime audiences.

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

U: Updated, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Television, Tributes, Web, After Dark | 1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Television, Tributes, Web, After Dark

10:00am PDT

Intro to TV Writing: From First Draft to Getting Staffed

Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT

Room 28DE

Moderator Spiro Skentzos (Arrow) and and writers/producers Helen Shang (Avatar: The Last Airbender), Deric Hughes and Benjamin Raab (Quantum Leap, The Last Starfighter comic book), along with producer Averie Huffine (Humble Sandwich Productions), and manager Diego Rey (Underground) discuss navigating the TV spec landscape, including common beginner mistakes, what they look for in a writer, and what it takes to write a standout spec. A substantial Q&A segment is included.

Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 28DE

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comics, Education, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Writers & Writing

10:30am PDT

Creators Assemble: Charisma Check, A Networking Event

Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Tabletop role-playing game creators, publishers, performers, game shop owners, teachers, and library workers have brought greater acceptance to TTRPGs and fan culture. Take a break from hectic convention life to experience "speed dating"-style networking with diverse TTRPG and board game enthusiasts from all backgrounds. This year's lineup includes Eddie Doty, Heather O'Neill, Anais Morgan, Ivy B, Cody Heath, Doriam Couto, Sarah Durnesque, Matt Fantastic, Amanda Panda, Daryl Andrews, Momo Meas, Dustin Staats, Ryan Omega, Reuben Bresler, Jenni Powell, Michael Ortiz, Amber Bracamonte, Jacob Way, and Jason Patrick Galit (JPG), along with TTRPG educators and enthusiasts Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, and Janie Ghinazzi.

Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, Games, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TTRPG, Writers & Writing

11:00am PDT

Youths Standing on Business

Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 32AB

Tales of princesses and witches are being reimagined for today's young readers. Comic-Con special guest LeUyen Pham, along with Sumayyah Beck (Airrelle of the Maroon Witches), Kim Bussing (Princess Swap), and Jennifer Lee (As I Dream of You), discuss how they are transforming a new generation of readers through fantastical written and visual storytelling. Moderated by Becca Erin Title (Meet Cute).

Special Guests

LeUyen Pham

Comic-Con Special Guest

Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing

12:00pm PDT

Diversity & Dungeons: Making Your Table Inclusive

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

Industry leaders Mayanna Berrin (StoryQuest, Dispatch, Dungeon Masters), Jes Wade (TTRPG producer, ChariTTRPGs), Katherine Harris Mojica (TTRPG performer, Venture Forth), Kai Miller (Dice Times, Pick Your Poison Productions), Rebecca Hausman (performer, Venture Forth, Path to Nowhere), and moderator Rodney B. Campbell (TTRPG performer, Venture Forth) share practical strategies for creating truly inclusive gaming spaces. Panelists discuss strategies for showcasing diverse stories, creating safe spaces for performers from all backgrounds, and engaging audiences through inclusive storytelling. They share hard-won insights on navigating sensitive content warnings, moderating chat communities, and amplifying underrepresented voices in the actual play space, along with specific tools for handling challenging moments on-stream, developing inclusive content policies, and fostering a welcoming community.

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Games, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Podcasts, TTRPG

12:00pm PDT

Drawing Courage: YA Graphic Novels That Speak Up

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

These stories can't keep quiet any longer. Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Library), Jarrett Dapier (Wake Now in the Fire), Tilly Bridges (Just Another Summer), Susan Bridges (Just Another Summer), R. Sikoryak (Declaration/Emancipation Illustrated), and Rob Reger (Emily the Strange (25th Anniversary Edition)) discuss how graphic novels shape moments of standing up and speaking out to initiate change.

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, Anniversaries, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Education, Kids, LGBTQIA+, Library Programs, Writers & Writing

12:00pm PDT

Spilling the Tea on Animation IP

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 9

Siobhan Blanas (literary manager, The Gotham Group) moderates a discussion with Micah Askins (development coordinator, PlayStation Productions), Megan Barnard (director of development, DreamWorks Animation), Curtis Baxter (Predator: Kejime, Storm: Lifedream), Joyce Im (creative executive, Laika), Amanda Muñoz (Maul: Shadow Lord, Star Wars: The Bad Batch), and Nicholas Parker (head of business and legal affairs, The Gotham Group) on adapting books, comics, and games into animation. Panelists examine how to protect, package, and pitch IP for animated TV and film, followed by a Q&A.

Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 9

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Movies, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

1:00pm PDT

Sus Stories with Atif Myers

Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

Comedian Atif Myers (BET and CBS) and fellow comedians Dani Fernandez (Ralph Breaks the Internet, DC Comics), Jeff May (Netflix and Shudder), Adam Tod Brown (You Don't Even Like Podcasts, Cracked), Kazeem Rahman (Netflix; Tough Choice Podcast), and Joe Welkie (Boys Watching Buffy) discuss the weirdest comics they've read and enjoyed and review a current weird comic live.

Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Humor & Satire, Library Programs, Podcasts, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

1:00pm PDT

The Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics

Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 4

Charlotte (Fullerton) McDuffie (Ben 10: Alien Force, Ben 10: Ultimate Alien, Ben 10: Omniverse, and My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic), Will J. Watkins (Motherland: Fort Salem; director, DMAD; founder of Chicago's first Black-owned comic book shop, now an online store, Mike's on Mars), Matt Wayne (Shadow Cabinet, The World Needs Heroes), Kevin Rubio (Star Wars: Tag & Bink, Green Lantern: The Animated Series), host Phil LaMarr (Static Shock, Justice League Unlimited), and keynote speaker J. August Richards (Angel, Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.) celebrate the life and work of legendary animation and comics writer, producer, and creator Dwayne McDuffie (Milestone, Justice League Unlimited) and the prestigious award in his name.

Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 4

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comics, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Writers & Writing

2:00pm PDT

Creating and Maintaining Your Comics Community

Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Room 28DE

Besties Raina Telgemeier (Smile), Gene Luen Yang (American Born Chinese), Julia Wertz (Bury Me Already, It's Nice Down Here), Thien Pham (Family Style), and Briana Loewinsohn (Raised by Ghosts) discuss lives of friendship and comics.

Special Guests

Briana Loewinsohn

Artist Alley HH-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

Briana Loewinsohn is the author of the graphic memoir Ephemera (Fantagraphics, 2023), which was listed as one of the ALA’s top graphic novels of 2023 and was awarded the 2023 Foreword Indies Editors Prize for nonfiction. Her latest book, Raised by Ghosts (Fantagraphics, 2025), won... Read More →

Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Education, Humor & Satire, Writers & Writing

2:00pm PDT

LGBTQIA+ Activism in Comics

Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Room 4

In a time of polarization when politics has seeped into every corner of popular culture, what is the role of comics creators? How do comic books and pop art comment on the current social and political climates . . . or should they at all? Prism Comics, moderator David Reddish (political journalist, anchor for Occupy Democrats, and host of The David Reddish Show), and panelists Tara Madison Avery (We're Still Here; publisher, Stacked Deck Press), Marc Andreyko (Torso, Love Is Love), David M. Booher (Canto, Ghostbusters, Killer Queens), Sarah Gailey (Upright Women Wanted, Eat the Rich), and William O. Tyler (We Belong, Theater of Terror: Revenge of the Queers) discuss how the Trump era has affected the popular genre of comics and how queer artists use their voices to inspire the public and be catalysts for change and empathy.

Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 4

U: Updated, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing | 1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing

2:30pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #8: Focus on Shawn Martinbrough: Graphic Novel Storytelling, From Art to Words

Friday July 24, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Room 26AB

Comic-Con special guest Shawn Martinbrough (Thief of Thieves, Anansi Boys) is an Eisner Award– and NAACP Image Award–nominated artist whose career spans genres, publishers, and markets. His projects range from comics series for the Big Two, to original graphic novels, to best-selling children's books. Martinbrough explores his journey of becoming a professional illustrator working with some of the best writers in the comic book industry, to writing stories of his own in various genres for DC Comics, Megascope/Abrams ComicArts, Ignition Press, Dark Horse Comics, and Simon & Schuster. Ringo Award-winning Sina Grace (Iceman, Ghosted in LA) moderates.

Special Guests

Shawn Martinbrough

Comic-Con Special Guest

Shawn Martinbrough is an Eisner Award–nominated artist whose comic book projects include Batman: Detective Comics, Luke Cage Noir, The Black Panther, Hellboy, Thief of Thieves, Promethee 13:13, Anansi Boys, and the NAACP Image Award–nominated, bestselling kid's book Like Lav... Read More →

Friday July 24, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

3:00pm PDT

Black Women in Conversation: Pink Riot Comic Show and Stephanie Williams

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 29AB

The hosts of the Pink Riot Comic Show are in conversation with comic writer Stephanie Williams as they discuss her journey from scientist to Eisner Award–nominated, prolific comic writer. Williams (Roots of Madness and Temporal), Bri, and Keisha will take questions in an interview and Q&A session.

Special Guests

Stephanie Williams

Artist Alley GG-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

Stephanie Williams is a research scientist turned prolific comics writer. She’s best known for helping to bring Nubia back to relevancy for DC Comics with Nubia and the Amazons and Nubia: Queen of the Amazons. She has worked on such titles as Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur: Wreck... Read More →

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Podcasts, Technology - Science - STEM, Writers & Writing

3:00pm PDT

What Now?! Comics Censorship in Schools and Libraries

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

Comic books are under attack in schools and libraries across the country. This panel covers the latest threats, what is being done, what to know, and ways to help protect the freedom to read comics. Featuring Jeff Trexler (interim director, CBLDF), Gamal Hennessy (comic book attorney), Moni Barrette (comics librarian), and Mary Ellen Stout (lecturer, SDSU), with a surprise guest creator.

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Historical, Kids, LGBTQIA+, Library Programs

3:00pm PDT

No Capes Required: Women Powering Pop Culture

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 6DE

You don't need a cape to be a hero in storytelling. Moderator Janet Hsieh (Fun Taiwan) leads a lively panel with AJ Mendez (WWE pro wrestler), Anjali Bhimani (Ms. Marvel), Carolina Ravassa (Overwatch), Helen Shang (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power), and Silenn Thomas (CEO, Frank Miller Ink), women who are making their mark across comics, gaming, sports, television, and film. Expect candid stories, industry insights, and a celebration of the voices driving today's most exciting and inclusive pop culture moments.

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 6DE

4:00pm PDT

A Strange Friday

Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

How are you gonna fight a demogorgon on your day off? The cast of Alt-Haven's Blackness & Dragons plays Kids on Bikes 2E in a prequel one-shot featuring the parents of their classic Inglewood Crew: DM A Jordan Lambert (TTRPG pro and writer), Krishne Chelliah (Smells Like Teen Angst), Moe Jerome (Human), Jeff Thompson (The Goldbergs, iCarly), and Abadonna Killbride IV (BlacBox Radio). The game asks whether they can defeat the demogorgon, get their bikes back, and keep their jobs.

Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

1: Programs, BIPOC, Games, Omni Programs, TTRPG

5:30pm PDT

Indigenous Comics and Nature's Advocacy

Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT

Room 24ABC

Comics creators Dale Ray DeForest (Dine), Tokala Tatum (Yakama/Rosebud Sioux), and Deshheum (Nooksack/Shxwhay Village First Nation) are joined by Kumeyaay/Ipai artists Nayah and Chanthavy Alvarado to explore how Indigenous art and stories convey ancestral links and unique responsibilities to a people's homeland. Moderated by comics creator Chag Lowry (Yurok/Maidu/Pit River).

Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Education, Historical, Kids, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

5:30pm PDT

Divine Design for Demigods: Creating the Costumes for Disney's Percy Jackson and the Olympians Season 2

Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT

Room 6DE

Catherine Adair (costume designer, Local 892; Perry Mason season 2, The Mysterious Benedict Society season 1) shares behind-the-scenes details on creating costumes for iconic characters, alongside her costume team: David Matwijkow (assistant costume designer, Local 892; Perry Mason season 2), Daniel Mahler Landman (key costumer, Local 705; Star Trek: Picard season 3), Tannis Hegan (specialty costumer; Tron: Ares, Peacemaker), and Zoe Neary (producer; co-producer, The Old Man season 2).

Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

U: Updated, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Kids, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television | 1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Kids, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television

6:00pm PDT

Unmasking Cultura: Latino Legends in Cosplay

Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 32AB

Cosplay, comics, and popular cultura have become powerful spaces for cultural expression. For Latinos, the journey often involves building opportunities where none exist, navigating creative industries that may not always reflect direct experiences, and finding ways to turn passion into meaningful community impact via lucha libre, premieres, car shows, charity events, workshops, art shows, and more. So what does it take to create cosplay, curate art, mentor the next generation, and build lasting relationships as Latinos? Learn how to integrate education, clinical data, and functional cosplay with Michael Alberto Garcia (professor); design and implement red-carpet-worthy cosplay with Nancy Gonzalez (mixed media artist); photograph and tell the story with Nohemi Ramos Uriostegui (industry photographer); experiment with thermoplastics, electronics, and other materials with Bruce Salas (award-winning cosplayer); and lead and coordinate charity events and administration with Ricky Gutierrez (founder of Cosplay4Kids). Moderated by Mark "Funky" Garcia (curator and LCS manager). Q&A to follow.

Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

6:00pm PDT

The Case of the Curious Convention: Kids on Bikes Live

Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:45pm PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

5 GMs in a Trenchcoat season 5 stops at SDCC for a canon episode. Something is amiss at the convention, and Zeke finds himself in the middle of the mystery. Players Darby Pak (Geeky Teas and Games), Jesse Espinoza (5 GMs in a Trenchcoat), Queon Story (Role D5, The Veil of Athium), Sachiko Morita (The Veil of Athium, Forgotten Paths), and Skyler Seymour (Fears & Fortunes), with game master Adam Gonzales (5 GMs in a Trenchcoat), play Kids on Bikes 2E.

Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

1: Programs, BIPOC, Horror and Suspense, Humor & Satire, Omni Programs, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TTRPG

6:30pm PDT

From Paradise Hills to Comic-Con: The San Diego Roots and Creative Journeys of Bobby Rubio & Keithan Jones

Friday July 24, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT

Room 24ABC

Bobby Rubio (director of Float, creator of Neighborhood Legend) and Keithan Jones (founder of Black Comix Day, creator of The Power Knights, 2021 and 2022 Eisner Award judge) take an intimate look at how their shared hometown and childhood friendship shaped their paths from aspiring local artists to industry leaders. Together, they discuss the importance of local representation, the evolution of their creator-owned projects like Rubio's Alcatraz High and Neighborhood Legend and Jones's The Power Knights, and how the San Diego community and their experiences at Comic-Con throughout the years continue to inspire their mission to bring diverse, homegrown stories to the global stage. Moderated by Aaron Nabus (host of the Hall H Show podcast, founder of FilAm CreatorCon).

Friday July 24, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics

6:30pm PDT

Queer Horror

Friday July 24, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT

Room 10

The horror genre has always attempted to bring audiences to the threshold of their fears and use a dark lens of the fantastic to force them to come face-to-face with issues the mainstream may otherwise dare not address. For those in the LGBTQIA+ community, this sense of otherness within the genre is not only terrifying and titillating, but it is often relatable. The queer community has had a long history with the horror genre, from the sapphic subtext of Gothic literature to modern fare such as Summoning Sylvia, T-Blockers, and The Boulet Brothers' Dragula. Does a queer horror genre exist, and, if so, what makes it different from mainstream horror? Furthermore, how does the current political climate alter the lens through which people celebrate and connect to the macabre? Prism Comics, moderator/screenwriter Michael Varrati (There's a Zombie Outside, The Midnight Mass Podcast), and panelists Drusilla Adeline (Bloodhaus Podcast, Sister Hyde Design), C.J. Arellano (Dry January, Griffica), Casey Gilly (Return to Sleepy Hollow, Buffy the Last Vampire Slayer), Daniel Montgomery (The Jessica Cabin), William O. Tyler (We Belong, Four Seasons of Fear), and Vander Von Odd (The Boulet Brothers Dragula, Scorch Marks) explore the current realms of queer horror.

Friday July 24, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 10

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Writers & Writing

8:00pm PDT

By Creed, Not Blood

Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 7AB

Mandalorians are defined by creed, not by blood. The Mando Mercs Costume Club discusses found family, adaptive armor building, and the local communities that make Mandalorian costuming a space for creativity, support, and belonging.

Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, After Dark

8:15pm PDT

LUMPIA POP! Unwrapping Contemporary Filipino American Pop Culture

Friday July 24, 2026 8:15pm - 9:15pm PDT

Room 6BCF

Kid Heroes Productions, creators of the award-winning Lumpia film and comic book series, discuss collaborations past and present with Apl.de.Ap (Black Eyed Peas), AJ Rafael (Red Roses), Doug Marcaida (Forged in Fire, Lineage), Patricio Ginelsa (writer/director), Patrick Ballesteros (artist), and Lauren Lola (writer). Their new comic book, Red Roses High, honors 15 years since AJ Rafael's debut album, while Apl.de.Ap premieres the newly remastered Bebot: Generation One music video for its 20th anniversary. Moderated by Winston Emano (mano Y mano Media). Free print giveaway.

Friday July 24, 2026 8:15pm - 9:15pm PDT
Room 6BCF

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Anniversaries, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Historical, International, Music, After Dark

11:00am PDT

Middle Eastern/North African Representation in Media

Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

A discussion and celebration of positive Middle Eastern/North African (MENA) representation in Western arts and entertainment, with a look at progress past and present, and what more can be done in the future. Panelists Yas Modares Ghasiri (Sylvester Stallone's MVP, The Breastorcism), Esraa Darwish (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Fast X), Sarah Fatemi (Netflix Is a Joke, SkankFest), Kaveh Taherian (Mothman's Compendium of Southern California Cryptids, 500 Open Tabs), Jasmin Joestar (Twitch), and Sara Karimipour (Jurassic World: Chaos Theory, Alice's Wonderland Bakery) share perspectives on creating and sustaining authentic representation. Moderated by Paul Zecharia (Mr. Student Body President, I Don't Like My Voice). A Q&A follows.

Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Games, International, Marriott Programs, Movies, Music, Podcasts, Television, Video Games, Web, Writers & Writing

2:00pm PDT

Building a Pop Culture Podcast

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

Podcast hosts and creators Alexis Hodoyán-Gastélum (It’s a Kpop Thing podcast host), Theresa Avila (It’s a Kpop Thing podcast host), Alexandrea Callaghan (Lady Comic Book History podcast host/journalist), Chris Victor (Live Your Dreams/The Front Row podcast host; actor; producer), Joe Gawalis (Live Your Dreams/The Front Row podcast host; creator; filmmaker), Josh Blumenkranz (film/TV critic; content creator; actor), Meosha Bean (Creator to Creators podcast host; filmmaker; cinematographer), and Maddy Myer (Maddy Mania podcast host; publicist; journalist) discuss what it takes to build and sustain a pop culture podcast from the ground up. From ideation and branding to guest booking, production, editing, promotion, and audience engagement, the panel explores the creative and business sides of podcasting across entertainment, fandom, film, television, gaming, comics, and digital culture. Moderated by Lizzy Gonzalez (Lizzy Cupcake, content creator). Audience Q&A follows.

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

2:30pm PDT

Women on the Dark Side

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Room 29CD

Women on the Dark Side returns for its tenth year at SDCC. Whether it's comic books, novels, film, or art, these are the women creating content that connects with the deeper, darker side of us all. Madeleine Holly-Rosing (Boston Metaphysical Society, Lady Mechanika), Deborah Daughetee (Kolchak, the Nightstalker, Dark Shadows), Stephanie Williams (Nubia, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur), Megan Hutchison (Coffin Girls, Rockstars), and Susan Lee (founder, Women on the Dark Side; Wraith of Love) discuss their work. Moderated by Barbra Dillon (editor-in-chief, Fanbase Press).

Special Guests

Stephanie Williams

Artist Alley GG-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

2:30pm PDT

Narrating Bestselling Audiobooks

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT

Room 10

Scott Brick (Dune, Orphan X series), Daniel Henning (The Cerulean Chronicles, In the Lives of Puppets), Avi Roque (Cemetery Boys series, Sworn Soldier series), Karissa Vacker (The Girls Before, Forget Me Not), and Vikas Adam (The Fake Divination Offense, A Killer in the Family) discuss the behind-the-scenes artistry and technical precision of narrating bestselling audiobooks. From the isolation of the recording booth to the ears of listeners, these voice actors share their processes for bringing complex characters to life, mastering diverse accents, and collaborating with authors to translate the written word into a compelling audio experience.

Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 10

U: Updated, BIPOC, Books, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing | 1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing

3:30pm PDT

Comics vs. Authoritarianism!

Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT

Room 10

In an age of censorship, making comics is a radical act. Moderator Mo McMasters (Pretty Guts Press) leads a discussion with graphic novelists Andrew Aydin (March), Melissa Chan (You Must Take Part in Revolution), Dave Maass (Death Strikes: The Emperor of Atlantis), and Shay Mirk (Making Non-Fiction Comics, Guantanamo Voices) about portrayals of resistance in comics and how their own work serves as a form of resistance.

Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 10

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, International, LGBTQIA+

4:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event

Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The "speed dating" style networking event returns with new and returning guests. Brief pitches and structured rounds support learning and connecting with industry insiders, retailers, publishers, and creators, including Alex Antone, Barbra Dillon, Charlie Stickney, Heather Antos, Meghan Fitzmartin, Drew Edwards, Lisa Burdage, Dylan Davison, Jessica Maison, David M. Booher, Gamal Hennessy, Jonathan Chance, John Hazard, Joseph P. Illidge, Shannon Live, Tony Fleecs, Katie Pryde, John Berry, Omar Morales, Gabriel Valentin, Jeffrey Snow, Dan Brozo, Brock Smith, and more. Moderators are librarians and educators who work with comics, including Matthew Atherton, Stacy-Michelle Banks, Matt Slayter, Mary Ellen Stout, Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, Elias Campos, Sophia Juarez, Janie Ghinazzi, Jack Phoenix, Megan Halsband, Allison Dohr, Jana Tropper, and Moni Barrette.

Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

5:00pm PDT

Comics and Advocacy

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

Women in Comics Collective International (WinC for short, pronounced "wink") is an artistic and informative initiative. It serves to highlight the merit and craftwork of marginalized voices, especially those of Women and Queer Folx of color, who work in the comics and multimedia industry. They are also the 2024 recipients of the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. In this discussion, panelists talk about how they use comics as an advocacy tool for social change in their work, as well as in the world at large. Panelists include Gamal Hennessy (Creative Contract Consulting), Vanee Smith-Matsalia (WinC-EDU), Dr. LaWana Richmond (Afrofuturist Lounge, creator), Ebony Toussaint (Crash Cart, creator), Karla Medrano (The Zelda Awards, founder), and Jibola Fagbamiye (Fela: Music Is the Weapon). Moderated by Regine L. Sawyer (WinC, founder).

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Seminars & Workshops

5:00pm PDT

Level-Up: Taking Your Comics to the Next Tier

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Room 11

Marcus McNeal (editor-in-chief, Odyssey Comics), Rob Pilkington (writer, Slight Return), April Connors (creator, Everybody's Happy Nowadays, as Prof. Raco), Joshua Pruett (writer, Stranger Things Tales From '85; The Last Comics on Earth), and Amy Linsamouth (writer, Jackie and the Magical Guys; Byte Me) discuss strategies for creating comics that stand out, including what separates good ideas from great projects and why so many comics fall short despite solid art or writing. Topics include shaping pitches with clarity and intent, assembling and leading creative teams, navigating editorial without losing your voice, and making choices that give a project a distinct identity.

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 11

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing

5:30pm PDT

From Indies to Blockbusters: The Storytelling Power of Diversity

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT

Room 6A

Nicole Maines (actress, writer, Supergirl, Justice League), Lenore Zann (actress, X-men ‘97, X-men: The Animated Series ), Andy Park (former Marvel director of visual development , Deadpool & Wolverine, Avengers: Doomsday), Rob Edwards (writer, Captain America: BNW, The Princess and the Frog), Anjali Bhimani (actor, Ms. Marvel, Overwatch), Stephanie Filo (editor, Daredevil: Born Again, A Black Lady Sketchshow) Andres Useche (writer, director, ICE: No One is Safe, Resist), Caitlin Glass (actress, director , Solo Leveling, FullMetal Alchemist), Hadas Mozes Lictenstein (producer, talent agent, Euphoria, Scarred), Teri Weinberg (producer, executive, The Office, Ugly Betty), and Karen David (actress, Fear the Walking Dead, Galavant) reveal their paths into the industry, how they push the boundaries of their craft, and how everyone can make a difference by giving voice to underrepresented communities and pursuing greater inclusion, empathy, and equity. Moderated by Kimberly Woods (voice actor, Archer, X-Men '97).

Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 6A

6:00pm PDT

How-To Motion Graphics for Film, TV, and Entertainment

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 3

Award-winning motion graphics artist Jonathan Winbush (Transformers, My Little Pony) demonstrates how tools such as Adobe After Effects, Unreal Engine, and Cinema 4D are used to craft animated titles, commercials, and visual sequences for the entertainment industry. Winbush walks through foundational techniques for building motion graphics and participates in a Q&A session.

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 3

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comic-Con How To, Education, Movies, Television, Video Games

6:00pm PDT

The Track You've Never Heard: Audio Description and the Stories Behind the Stories

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 11

Blind film and TV audiences experience every superhero battle, every alien landscape, and every moment a character's face changes everything, and the people on this panel are the reason why. Audio description is the art of putting audiences inside a story when they cannot see the screen. Christina Stevens (AD writer, Superman), Anna Capezzera (Deluxe), Serina Gilbert (BlindyGirl, The Last of Us), and Colleen Connor (AD Training Retreats) discuss how this work actually gets made: the decisions, the details, and the moments that get it right, moderated by Roy Samuelson (AD performer, House of the Dragon, Spider-Man).

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 11

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, BIPOC, Horror and Suspense, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

6:00pm PDT

Out in Comics: Year 39

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm PDT

Room 4

The comic world's longest-running panel is back for its 39th record-breaking year. The comic book world has become a celebrated part of the pop culture world. LGBTQ comics and graphic novels for all ages are being produced and acclaimed in incredible numbers, and queer characters are finally starting to show up in genre movies and TV shows like Star Trek: Discovery and X-Men '97. And yet, in a politicized and polarized world, LGBTQ comics and graphic novels and LGBTQ characters in popular media are facing more banning and opposition than in previous years. This means that telling stories of queer characters of diverse backgrounds and identities is more important than ever before. Prism Comics, moderator Andy Mangels [he/him] (founder of the "Out in Comics" panel; bestselling author of Wonder Woman '77 Meets The Bionic Woman, Star Trek, and Star Wars books and comics), and panelists Jenny Blake Isabella (Black Lightning, Ghost Rider), George Gene Gustines (comics journalist and editor, New York Times), Rupert Kinnard (Brown Bomber and The Diva), Jim McCann (The Other/Half), Margeaux Pepoy (The Adventures of Simone & Ajax), Sarah Gailey (Upright Women Wanted, Eat the Rich), and Brandon T. Snider (Supergirl's Family Vacation, Pride Parade Mad Libs) discuss what being "Out in Comics" means now and in the future. A short Prism Comics meet-and-greet follows the panel discussion.

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 4

6:30pm PDT

The Unsung Heroes of Superhero Films

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT

Room 29CD

Behind every epic battle and breathtaking moment is a team of creative powerhouses and unsung heroes bringing superhero worlds to life. Costumer Gaby Acosta (Captain Marvel), composer Christopher Young (Spider-Man 3, Deadpool VR), stunt coordinator Thom Khoury Williams (Doom Patrol, The Punisher), sound mixers Ryan Collins and Nick Offord (Spider-Noir), stunt coordinator Chelsea Bruland (Descendants: The Rise of Red, Black Widoow), composer Roger Suen (Daredevil, Krypton), and stunt coordinator Cory DeMeyers (Venom, Project Power) share how their craft transforms imagination into cinematic impact, building worlds, shaping action, and giving every punch, explosion, and emotional beat its power. Moderated by Lumos PR CEO Stephanie Pfingsten.

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

8:00pm PDT

Made by Humans: Immersive Storytelling in the Age of Machines

Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 9

Every time technology has transformed how stories are made, creators have faced the same choice: shape the tools before the standards are set, or adapt to the systems that follow. The MP3. Streaming. Now A.I. Felice LaZae (Ctrl Alt Create Labs) returns for her third consecutive Comic-Con panel on the future of immersive storytelling, exploring what it actually looks like to build at the intersection of emerging technology and human creativity and why the builders getting it right are the ones who keep creative voices at the center of the process.

Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 9

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Movies, Music, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM, After Dark

8:00pm PDT

AAPI Representation in Comics and Media

Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

A candid discussion with creators on what inspired them growing up and their experiences breaking into the industry. Rich Ting (actor, Tulsa King, Warrior), Peggy Chung (director/author, Gadget-Bot Productions, Kaidro Chronicle), Helen Shang (television writer, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power), Nogi San (artist, Marvel/DC/BOOM!), and Mark Nazal (visual effects supervisor, Gotham, Lucifer) discuss the work behind the characters and stories seen across comics and media. Moderated by Justin Otero.

Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

U: Updated, BIPOC, Comics, Marriott Programs, Movies, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, After Dark | 1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Marriott Programs, Movies, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, After Dark

10:00am PDT

Race, Gender, and the Comic Book Medium

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT

Room 29CD

Women in Comics Collective International (WinC for short, pronounced "wink") is an artistic and informative initiative. It serves to highlight the merit and craftwork of marginalized voices, especially those of Women and Queer Folx of color, who work in the comics and multimedia industry. They are also the 2024 recipients of the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award. "Race, Gender, and the Comic Book Medium" is WinC's longest-running panel discussion series. In this edition, the panelists discuss the evolution of representation in the comic book industry. They include Stephanie Williams (writer, Temporal), Ryan Oakley (artist, Won’t Back Down), M'Shai Dash (founder, Emmettropia Comics), Robyn Warren (founder, Geek Girl Strong), Asia Simone (cover artist, Devil Dinosaur and Moon Girl), Amanda Meadows (editor, Andrews McMeel Publishing), and Maika Sozo (cover artist, Absolute Catwoman). Moderated by Regine L Sawyer (founder, WinC).

Special Guests

Stephanie Williams

Artist Alley GG-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 29CD

U: Updated, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing | 1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing

10:00am PDT

Tales from the Brass Dragon

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

Dungeon Master Adam Fletcher (director of The Adventure Factory, producer, and professional DM) and players PJ Megaw (producer and roleplayer with CritHitChronicles), Shaun Wada (content creator), Lizette Garcia (geek therapist, creator), and Emily Blake (producer with The Adventure Factory) highlight the developments happening with Adventurers League in Dungeons & Dragons 5.5 as they present an adventure featuring some of the characters from Tales from the Brass Dragon. The panel shows how Adventurers League can add story and action to your home game or stream.

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:45am PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

U: Updated, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Games, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Podcasts, TTRPG | 1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Games, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Podcasts, TTRPG

10:30am PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #13: Capes, Curls, and Culture: Black Women in Comics

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT

Room 26AB

Black women in comics challenge the very form of comics itself, asking how a form whose history is embedded in stereotype and caricature can make room for the plurality of Black women's experiences. Bringing together Black women scholars and creatives from a range of backgrounds, this roundtable considers the representation of Black women in comics across the 20th and 21st centuries. Panelists Sasha Sanders (California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo), Christian Hines (Texas State University), Kiana T. Murphy (Brown University), Ebony Toussaint (Ororo Comics Podcast), Briana Forbes (Pink Riot Comic Show), Keisha Parks (The Blerd Library), and Karla Medrano (Blaq Girl Comics) consider the contributions of Black women writers and illustrators in comics, focusing on how they use the form to critique popular discourses around representation, politics, and belonging. The roundtable also considers Black women scholars in the field of comics studies, such as Ebony Flowers, Qiana Whitted, and Rebecca Wanzo.

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Historical, Superheroes

12:00pm PDT

Color Bind, A BIPOC Actual Play

Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:45pm PDT

Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

When the Gray Curse stripped Tah'ruul of its vibrancy, legacies and myths were lost with it. Now, generations later, heroes band together to retrieve Tah'ruul's colors and revive its culture. Narrator Doriam Couto and players Fish, Jaz Diaz, KZ, Noel Esquinca, and a surprise guest take part in an actual play adventure focused on uplifting BIPOC and POC voices, experiences, and history through the lens of fantasy.

Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Games, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Superheroes, TTRPG

12:30pm PDT

When Comics Meet Indigenous Art

Sunday July 26, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT

Room 23ABC

Celebrated Indigenous multimodal artists who infuse their work with comic influences discuss how a love of sequential art and superheroes shapes their creative practice, featuring Shaun Beyale (Diné [Navajo]), Kristin Gentry (Chahta), Tom Farris (Cherokee/Otoe Missouria), and Monica Zavala (Gabrielino/Tongva Nation/Acjachemen/Chicana). Q&A moderated by Chad Valdez (Diné [Navajo]).

Sunday July 26, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 23ABC

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom

1:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #15: Lost and Found Along the Color Line: Black and Brown Counterworlds in Early Comic Books and Comic Strips

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 26AB

How did early Black and Brown comics creators repurpose colonial "lost civilization" tropes to contest dominant regimes of place, power, and legitimacy in U.S. popular culture from the 1930s through the 1960s? This panel argues that lost-world settings are not simply adventure conventions but contested narrative structures through which creators negotiate sovereignty, historical memory, and civic authority. Stanford W. Carpenter (Comicpalooza University) reconstructs the underrecognized labor of early Black comics production, examining creators such as Jay Jackson, Ezra Clyde Jackson, Orrin C. Evans, and Bertram A. Fitzgerald Jr. alongside key characters including Bungleton Green and Neil Knight. Kevin Garcia (The Liberal Arts and Science Academy) analyzes Golden Age depictions of Maya, Aztec, and Inca civilizations, showing how fantasies of technological antiquity often reproduce extractive colonial logics, while some texts offer more critical representations of Indigenous Latin America. Michael Dando (St. Cloud State University) centers Lion Man in All-Negro Comics #1 (June 1947), arguing that "Magic Mountain" operates simultaneously as a pulp-derived lost-civilization site and as a civic metaphor for Black and Brown authority over resource governance, sovereignty, and collective security in an early Cold War frame. Together, the panel demonstrates that early Black and Brown comics traditions refunctioned and refused colonial forms from within mass culture toward counter worlds and self-determination.

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Historical, Science Fiction & Fantasy

2:00pm PDT

From Page to Scream!: Horror Across Media

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Horror has a way of finding audiences everywhere: in comics, film, folklore, haunted attractions, and beyond. From creeping dread to full-on spectacle, the genre keeps evolving while holding onto the fears that make it so compelling. Featuring horror filmmaker and author, Kristine Gerolaga, scare actor Michael Beggs, slasher screenwriter, singer, and horror historia author, Chance Calloway, and creature actor Scotch Hopkins. This panel explores why horror continues to thrive across media and why we keep coming back for more. Moderated by scare actor Tania Escobar and PR manager Winter Adair.

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Movies, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Video Games

2:00pm PDT

Streaming Has Changed Media Forever

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Room 29AB

Streaming services need to fill space and are hoping for the next big thing. Panelists Jonathan Maberry (Joe Ledger), Gini Koch (The Alien/Katherine "Kitty" Katt Series), Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), J.B. Garner (The Push Chronicles), Robert Roach (The Roach), Gary Montalbano (Disney), and Matt Dinniman (Dungeon Crawler Carl) discuss their experiences—good, bad, and indifferent—while offering tips on creating work that is more attractive to streaming services. Moderated by Jeff Twohig (Fuzzy Logic Media).

Special Guests

Matt Dinniman

Comic-Con Special Guest

Matt Dinniman is a writer and artist from Gig Harbor, Washington. He is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling Dungeon Crawler Carl series, along with several other books about the end of the world. He doesn’t really hate cocker spaniels, and he plays bass in one band... Read More →

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Horror and Suspense, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Writers & Writing

2:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #16: Super-Traumatized Childhoods: Youthful Superheroism as Trauma Reconciliation in the Transnational, Post-War Imaginary

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT

Room 26AB

In times of social and political instability, childhood performance of superheroic feats provides unifying cultural fictions for individual, family, and community to reckon with national trauma. Koni Zhang (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) examines the Japanese manga Barefoot Gen, an atomic bombing survival tale that adopts superhero visual elements and narrative structure yet denies individual salvation, arguing that survival and witness—not triumphalist victory—constitute true heroism against state-powered violence. Rose Padilla (University of Texas at Austin) theorizes girlhood play as superheroic nation-building in the post-World War II Philippines using Mars Ravelo and Nestor Redondo's Darna, a Filipino nationalist fiction that imagines play and superheroes as analogs for post-war reconstruction and reckoning of trauma. Through an examination of Batman comics, Justine Trinh (Washington State University) looks at the runaway figure of Jason Todd to show the instability of the family. Following his resurrection, Jason's character demonstrates the inability to move on from death, as both Jason and Bruce label each other as failures within the family. These presentations collectively reimagine superhero comics as a renewable cultural resource to negotiate traumatic childhood events in the 20th century, the present day, and beyond.

Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Historical, International

3:00pm PDT

In My Y2K Era: Anime Fandom Before Streaming and Social Media

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 24ABC

Veteran conventioneers Ashley Brown (cosplayer), Lily Gruenke (cosplayer), Lynleigh Sato (Her Universe), Caitlin Beards (Her Universe), and Kie Shimokawa (Kaigai Idol) discuss what conventions and cosplay were like at the turn of the century. Moderated by Erica V. Espejo (The Fangirl Diaries).

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Cosplay, Fandom, LGBTQIA+

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Educators bring academic, social, and emotional lessons to life through the popular arts. Which characters resonate with learners and inspire creativity and engagement? How about superhero themes in the classroom? Panelists discuss how various fandoms can enhance curriculum and instruction. With educators Mike Cruz (elementary teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Derek Heid (high school English teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Jason Charles (high school ELD teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Dr. Emily Schindler (senior director of learning and engagement, Comic-Con Museum), Cecilia Carbajal (Upward Bound director, Barrio Logan College Inst.), and Jaime Diego Chavez (counselor, San Diego Unified). Informal conversation time follows with fellow teachers and lifelong learners.

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM

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