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Thursday, July 23
 

10:00am PDT

Animation History with Jerry and Mark
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
This panel features two guys who know a lot about cartoons answering questions from the audience about cartoons. Jerry Beck is one of the foremost experts on animation history, and he even teaches classes about it. Mark Evanier has seen a lot of cartoons, written a lot of cartoons, and worked in the industry for 50 years. Bring your questions, and they'll give you answers, maybe even the right ones.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

Comic-Con Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 9

10:00am PDT

Bringing Films to Life: Building Professional and Fan-Made Props
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Jeanie Croshaw (director) moderates a demonstration on building fan-made props, armor, and droids, featuring actual samples of fan-made and professional props used in films. Panelists Christopher Ting (engineer), Zachary Spencer (engineer), Scott Harvey (prop engineer), Keva Tillem (costume designer), and Amanda Negron (costume designer, she/her) share their process and take questions from the audience.
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:00am PDT

Droid Builders: How to Build a Droid 101
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
An introduction to getting started building droids and robots, featuring a panel of droid and robot builders with more than 50 years of combined experience.
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 7AB

10:00am PDT

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: A New Quest Awaits
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
An exclusive first look at season 3 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Series stars Walker Scobell, Aryan Simhadri, Charlie Bushnell, Tamara Smart, Levi Chrisopulos, and Olive Abercrombie appear with executive producers Craig Silverstein and Dan Shotz on a panel moderated by Juju Green, to share behind-the-scenes stories, introduce new characters, and preview the adventures ahead as The Titan's Curse comes to life later this year on Disney+.
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Hall H

10:30am PDT

Conan the Barbarian: Beyond the Comics
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
The world of Conan is bigger than ever. Marcos Cronander (Heroic Signatures), Fred Malmberg (director), Shawn Curley (marketing creative director), and others share a look at what lies beyond the comic page, including new gaming projects, the Conan Exiles Remaster, merchandise reveals, and an update on an animated project in development. Moderated by Andrew Sumner (Forbidden Planet TV).
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 24ABC

10:30am PDT

Comic Book Law School® 101: Basic Training . . . in IP Rights
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
The Comic Book Law School seminars are back, spreading knowledge and know-how in their typical fun and informative format. Over the past three decades, they have educated and entertained thousands of attendees, including creators, business owners, lawyers, and other Comic-Con International attendees, on identifying and protecting the intellectual property rights of artists, writers, and other content creators. Thursday's session on intellectual property basics provides the knowledge and insights needed to succeed with creations and creative works. As always, all three fun, interactive, and informative Comic Book Law School® programs are led by noted IP and comic book attorney Michael Lovitz, author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic. This first seminar focuses on the basics—which intellectual property rights are available to creators and business owners under U.S. copyright and trademark laws—with the goal of providing attendees with the foundation they need to understand the rights and protections available to creators of all types of creative works, including comics, games, animation, films, and other works. The program covers the best way to protect an idea, the benefits of federal registrations for copyrights and trademarks, the differences between a copyright and a trademark, issues of joint authorship and works-made-for-hire, and more. The goal of this first program is to provide attendees with insights on the protections provided under the law, as well as the numerous potential pitfalls under the U.S. trademark and copyright systems, and perhaps debunk an urban legend or two. It is also an interactive discussion, with opportunities for attendees to weigh in, ask questions, and have fun while learning. Please note: The Comic Book Law School® seminars are designed to provide relevant information and insights to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.]
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 11

11:00am PDT

7th Annual Hollywood Game Changers: A Conversation with the Women Behind Popular Film and TV Projects
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Creative leaders behind some of today's most talked-about projects share their journeys, creative insights, and the challenges of bringing compelling stories to the screen. This conversation explores how these trailblazers are redefining the industry, championing new voices, and paving the way for the next generation of storytellers. With composer/artist Alexandra Petkovski, aka FJØRA (You're Killing Me), two-time Academy Award–winning sound supervisor Karen Baker-Landers, editor Lauren Connolly (Beef), director of MPAC Hollywood Bureau/screenwriter/director Najla Zaidi, director/writer Natasha Mynhier (Aptitude), and composer Shirley Song (XO, Kitty). Moderated by executive producer and Shade TV co-founder Marissa Hill. Part 1 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock, in partnership with the California Post Alliance and MPAC Hollywood Bureau.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

11:00am PDT

Bud Plant: Fifty Years at the Center of Comics History
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Alex Grand (Understanding Superhero Comic Books) interviews Bud Plant (2026 Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame inductee; founder, Bud Plant Art Books) about his career, from the earliest comic book conventions and the birth of the direct market to independent comics such as Cerebus, Star Reach, and Elfquest. The discussion also covers Bud’s iconic catalogs, his lifelong passion for collecting comics and original art, and the sales of Comics & Comix in 1988 and Bud Plant Art Books in 2026.
Special Guests
avatar for Bud Plant

Bud Plant

Comic-Con Special Guest
Bud Plant has been collecting, buying, and selling comics since 1968. In 2010’s Founders of Comic Fandom, Bill Schelly wrote, “Few comic art enthusiasts have had a more visionary and entrepreneurial impact on the hobby than Plant.” Even in high school, the pioneering retailer ran a mail-order comics sales business. He co-founded comics shops in 1968 and 1969, began exhibiting at... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 4

11:00am PDT

Comixology: Stripping Down the Panels
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Acclaimed artist Dan Panosian (Canary), colorist Lauren Affe (Astonishing Times), artist Soo Lee (Carmilla, Maleficent, Star Wars), and others discuss the process of drawing, coloring, and visualizing the look of some of the hottest comics available today. The conversation will be an immersive look at creating comics, including cover design, breakdowns, composition, and colored art. Moderated by Brad and Lisa Gullickson (Comic Book Couples Counseling).
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

11:00am PDT

Cosplay 101: Bringing Your Dreams to Life
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
This fun panel is the perfect first step for beginners and will show that you don't need to be an expert to be a great cosplayer. Featuring Catherine M. Fisher (award-winning costumer, panelist, and charity cosplayer), Bob Mogg (expert steampunker, fabricator, blogger, and teacher), the husband-and-wife team of Jamie Knight-Mason (actress and charity cosplayer) and Michael Mason (filmmaker and charity cosplayer), Miguel Navarro Franco (charity cosplayer and founder/president of Legacy CausePlay Society), Ingrid Luedtke (charity cosplayer and indie horror film actress), and Dan Moyer (charity cosplayer and enthusiast). There will be a Q&A session during the second half of the panel.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

11:00am PDT

Star Trek: The Collector Frontier
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Captain, incoming transmission. A celebration of upcoming launches from two iconic fan-favorite toy companies, featuring an exclusive new video presentation, appearances by the creators behind the toys, and prize giveaways.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 5AB

11:00am PDT

Tales From My Spinner Rack LIVE!
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In 1975, after five incredibly creative—and frustrating—years at DC, writer-artist Jack Kirby returned to Marvel. Over the next few years, he would create titles such as The Eternals and Devil Dinosaur, while also working on Captain America and Black Panther, two characters he co-created. This is the beginning of the final years of the King of Comics' 50+ year career, which also saw him work in animation in Hollywood and introduce brand-new characters for companies like Pacific Comics and Topps. Moderator Gary Sassaman (former director of programming and publications for Comic-Con) talks to Kirby experts Mark Evanier (author, Kirby: King of Comics) and John Morrow (editor-publisher, Jack Kirby Collector) about the final years of the King, including details on Morrow's new book, Marvelmation: Jack Kirby's Final Act in Comics & Animation. Free Tales from My Spinner Rack! bookmark and set of collector's cards to the first 100 attendees.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

Comic-Con Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 9

11:15am PDT

WWE Mattel Reveals
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Under the watchful eye of the very nice, very evil Danhausen, the Mattel WWE Elite Squad presents a panel packed with action figure reveals, exclusive announcements, and WWE Superstar guests. Featuring Rey Mysterio, Sam Roberts, and surprise appearances, the session may determine whether Mattel has earned Danhausen's approval—or receives the curse he's been promising for months.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Room 6A

11:15am PDT

Bite Me: Calling All Vampires
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
The Dark Moon franchise extends beyond its webtoon and anime productions of vampire romance into a broader vampiric discourse. Global K-pop group ENHYPEN along with Catherine Hardwicke (movie director, Twilight), Ashley Greene (Twilight), and Peter Facinelli (Twilight, Nurse Jackie)  discuss how they bring vampire characters to life. The panel will be moderated by Damian Holbrook (senior writer, TV Guide) and conclude with an audience Q&A.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Ballroom 20

11:30am PDT

DC's Jim Lee and Friends
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Jim Lee (DC president, publisher, and chief creative officer) returns to SDCC with surprise guests for an hour of big reveals, behind-the-scenes stories, and moments fans will be buzzing about long after the show.
Special Guests
avatar for Jim Lee

Jim Lee

Comic-Con Special Guest
Jim Lee, the world-renowned comic book artist, writer, editor, and publisher, is currently president, publisher, and chief creative officer of DC. He leads creative efforts to integrate DC’s publishing portfolio of characters and stories across all media, supporting Warner Bros... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

11:30am PDT

Image Comics: Comics Characters Fans Will Love or Hate . . . or Love to Hate!
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Matthew Rosenberg (If Destruction Be Our Lot), Patrick Kindlon (Tigress Island), John Layman (Chew), Rob Guillory (Chew), and Dustin Nguyen (Crownbound) discuss character building that leaps from the page and what makes characters lovable or unlikable to readers. Moderated by Jim Viscardi.
Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

12:00pm PDT

3rd Annual From Script to Screen: Behind the Camera of Film and TV
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Featuring creatives behind Spider-Noir, Scary Movie 6, My Adventures with Superman, Shringing, and more, this panel goes behind the scenes of some of the most exciting projects in film, television, and animation with the creative talent who help bring them to life. From developing unforgettable characters and stunning visuals to crafting the stories that captivate audiences around the world, this panel offers an insider's look at the collaborative process behind modern entertainment. Artists and storytellers shaping today's biggest productions share firsthand stories and reveal what it takes to turn imagination into an unforgettable on-screen experience. With supervising sound editor and sound designer Andy Sisul (Spider-Noir), costume designer Ariyela Wald-Cohain (Scary Movie 6), composer Daniel Futcher (My Adventures with Superman), supervising sound editor Ethan Beigel, MPSE/CAS (Spider-Noir), composer Greg Nicolett (Dr. Seuss's The Sneetches), and production designer Cabot McMullen (Shrinking, Rooster). Moderated by writer/director Chris Rodriguez (Puffing Iron). Part 2 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock.
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

12:00pm PDT

Dark Horse Licensed Comics: More from Your Favorite Fandoms!
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Dark Horse has the power . . . of fandom. Dark Horse celebrates Masters of the Universe, Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Cyberpunk 2077, Tomb Raider, and more, examining what it takes to bring fan-favorite characters and stories from the screen to the page.
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

12:00pm PDT

From Sketch to Stunt: Designing Costumes That Survive the Action
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
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

12:00pm PDT

Weird Al-Gorithm Celebrates 30 Years of Bad Hair Day
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The Weird Al-Gorithm Podcast returns to Comic-Con to celebrate and rank the songs on Weird Al Yankovic's landmark album Bad Hair Day. Hosts Matt Kelly and Matthew Milligan are joined by Dave Rossi and Ethan Ullman (Dave & Ethan's 2000s Weird Al Podcast), Jeff Nucera (director of Tight & Nerdy), and author/cartoonist Kelly Philips (author of Weird Me) for an hour of comedy, debate, and celebration.
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

12:30pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Adapting and Pitching Your Game for TV and Film
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
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

12:30pm PDT

Star Trek's Family Tree
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
For Star Trek's 60th anniversary, this panel explores the creative lineage that shaped the final frontier and the legacy it created in return. From early influences like Forbidden Planet and mid-century science fiction to the groundbreaking ideas explored by Gene Roddenberry and the countless films and series inspired by Trek, the panel maps the franchise's place in pop culture history. Featuring creators, historians, and surprise guests, this conversation highlights the ideas, ethics, and imagination that continue to define Star Trek across generations. Panelists include Tom Costantino (co-producer/editor, The Orville), Jennifer Muro (co-producer/writer, Star Trek Prodigy), and Larry Nemecek (author of Star Trek: The Next Generation Companion), moderated by John Champion (Roddenberry Podcasts).
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1:00pm PDT

Comixology: The Evolution of a Comics Creator
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Many comics professionals started in different fields. Some of the most prolific and acclaimed comics creators of the time, including celebrity baker Kim-Joy (Turtle Bread), Emmy Award–winning writer/producer Marc Guggenheim (Leviathan Freedom, The Whisper War, The Arrowverse), writer/editor Paul Cornell (Salvation's Child, Doctor Who), novelist and television writer Gary Phillips (Martha Chainey: Cold Hard Cash), comics and television writer and podcaster Marc Bernardin (Adora and the Distance, Star Wars: Mace Windu, Star Trek: Picard, Eyes of Wakanda), and writer/producer Curt Pires (Stillman, Endless) discuss their careers, what got them into comics, and what it's been like to follow their dreams. Moderated by Rob Salkowitz (Forbes/ICv2).
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

1:00pm PDT

Kidults: The New Toy Economy
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Richard Mayerick (producer, The Toys That Made Us), Garrett Sander (creator, Monster High, Gravestone Guardians), Dan Southworth (actor, Power Rangers, Devil May Cry), Jake "Oz" Krajeski (CEO, Alpha Omega Hobby; podcaster, Build Paint Play), Jennifer Wu (senior brand manager, Ultra Pro), and Scott Zillner (toy expert, Toy Wizards) discuss the rise of kidults—adults driving the toy industry through collecting, nostalgia, and fandom—reshaping the toy economy and redefining play. Moderated by Bex Francis (SacGeeks).
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1:00pm PDT

Night of the Living Dead: They're Coming to Get You, Comic-Con!
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Horror history takes center stage with Night of the Living Dead: The Official Story of the Film, from Titan Books. Judith O'Dea (original cast member) and Jim Cirronella (Image Ten) share behind-the-scenes stories from the making of the 1968 classic, from its independent production outside the Hollywood system to its lasting cultural and social impact. Moderated by Andrew Sumner (Forbidden Planet TV).
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 5AB

1:00pm PDT

Robert Kirkman Live!
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
The biggest Robert Kirkman panel yet. From Invincible to the newest superhero series Terminal, to Void Rivals and an expanding vision for Transformers in Skybound and Hasbro's Energon Universe, Robert Kirkman pulls back the curtain on it all. Behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive reveals, and surprises are part of the program.
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 6BCF

1:00pm PDT

Third Annual Fan Favorites: Behind the Scenes of Popular Film and TV Shows
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Featuring creatives behind Obsession, Euphoria, One Piece, Spider-Noir, The Boys, and Paradise, this panel steps behind the curtain and into the creative process behind some of today's most talked-about film and television projects. From epic action sequences and unforgettable characters to groundbreaking visual storytelling, this panel brings together the artists and storytellers who help shape the worlds fans can't stop talking about. Exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, favorite moments, and insider insight reveal the creative decisions that turn great ideas into must-watch entertainment. With editor Aaron I. Butler, ACE (Euphoria), costume designer Blair James (Obsession), editor Eric Litman, ACE (One Piece), editor Jennifer Barbot, ACE (Spider-Noir), Onyx VFX supervisor John L. Weckworth (Paradise), and co-composer Matt Bowen (The Boys). Moderated by creator Monse (CVNELA). Part 3 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock.
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

1:00pm PDT

Where All Educators Belong: Popular Arts Educator Learning Communities at Comic-Con Museum
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Are you the nerdiest teacher on your staff? Is your classroom or office decorated with superheroes, sci-fi, fantasy, and anime? Popular arts passion is not just fun; it can also be a powerful catalyst for rigorous, authentic learning. At the Comic-Con Museum Education Center in San Diego, local and national communities of educators are using the popular arts in their teaching through the Education Advisory Committee, Teacher Studio, professional learning workshops, Educator Nights, and more. Emily Schindler, Karis Jones, Alecia Magnifico, Roxanne Pompilio, Danny Beckwith, Nairin Collardey, and other educators discuss in-person and hybrid opportunities and why the popular arts can serve as springboards for student learning and adult learning in this interactive session.
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

1:00pm PDT

On the Mic Podcast with Tim Drake LIVE from SDCC
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Hosted by Tim Drake (Funny or Die, Demonetize), an award-winning filmmaker, writer, producer, and Second City alumnus. Tim's jokes and tweets have been featured on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and Comedy Central. Tim has assembled a group of film and TV writers to discuss navigating the madness of a writing career in 2026 Hollywood. Tim is joined by Rob Kutner (writer, Conan, The Daily Show), Stefanie Leder (showrunner/writer, No Good Nick, Melissa and Joey), Kirk Kushin (animation/comic book writer, Hello Kitty and Friends Super Cute Adventures, PAW Patrol), and Hyunjin Jo (writer, Squid Game, I Am Sam).
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1:30pm PDT

Main Character Energy: Black Female Storytellers
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
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

2:00pm PDT

LOST Fans Unite with Jay and Jack
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Jay Glatfelter and Jack Glatfelter return to Comic-Con for their 18th annual panel. The co-hosts of the Lost Podcast with Jay and Jack are joined by Ralph Apel (podcaster/filmmaker, producer of Getting LOST) and Jo Garfein (co-founder of the nonprofit Cancer Gets LOST) to discuss the thoughts, theories, and legacy of one of television's best serialized series.
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

2:00pm PDT

Mondo Toy Talk
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Mondo's creative team shares a behind-the-scenes look at the latest and upcoming drops, with surprises along the way. Inspired by the fan-favorite Mondo Toy Talk livestream, moderator Bryan Starr leads Hector Arce (senior director, creative and product development), Peter Santa Maria (a.k.a. AttackPeter; senior creative director), Alex Brewer (creative manager, sculpting), Jordan Christianson (product manager), and Nolan Fleming (creative director) through the artistry, vision, and process behind anticipated drops and exclusives. A giveaway is scheduled for attendees, while supplies last.
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

2:00pm PDT

Spotlight on William Stout
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
William Stout has had the amazing good fortune to work with Kurtzman, Elder, Eisner, Kirby, Moebius, Harlan Ellison, and Russ Manning. He co-founded the Comic Art Professional Society and was its 10th president, shared a studio with Dave Stevens and Paul Chadwick, and has attended every single San Diego Comic-Con. Bill has 14 murals at the San Diego Natural History Museum and the San Diego Zoo. Flesk Publications will debut the first volume of a three-volume box set collecting all of Stout's comics-related work at this year's Comic-Con.
Special Guests
avatar for William Stout

William Stout

Booth #4803, Comic-Con Special Guest
Artist William Stout has worked with Russ Manning, Harvey Kurtzman, Will Elder, Jean “Moebius” Giraud, Will Eisner, Jack Kirby, and Al Williamson. His studiomates included Dave Stevens and Paul Chadwick. Bill co-founded the Comic Art Professional Society and was their tenth president... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 4

2:00pm PDT

Sung Kang's Drifter: Car Culture on the Big Screen and Beyond
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
A first-hand look at the story of a solitary janitor who finds redemption and belonging through the competitive drifting scene, with behind-the-scenes footage and stories from the cast and crew of the highly anticipated movie. Writer, director, and star Sung Kang (The Fast and the Furious franchise) is joined by actors Tamara Braun (Days of Our Lives, General Hospital), Gregory Cruz (Dexter: New Blood, Mayans M.C.), McCaleb Burnett (Daredevil), Michael Nehring, and Grant Sullivan, as well as Ted Chung (writer/producer), Aaron Strongoni (writer), Brian Yang (producer), Lam T. Nguyen (editor/co-producer), Brian Scotto (2nd unit director), and composer Chanda Dancy (Lawmen: Bass Reeves, Devotion) in a panel hosted by Coy Jandreau (DC Studios Showcase, Reel Rejects).
Thursday July 23, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Ballroom 20

3:00pm PDT

A Web of Design: Caught in the Creation of Sony's TV Series Spider-Noir
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Trayce Gigi Field (costume designer, Local 892; Spaceballs: The New One, The 'Burbs) discusses the costumes designed for the Spider-Noir series with her costume team, including Daniel Selon (assistant costume designer, Local 892; Blue Beetle, Agatha All Along), Maddison Carroll (assistant costume designer, Local 892; Agatha All Along, The Muppet Show), Julia Van Vliet (key costumer, Local 705; The Flash, Hocus Pocus 2), Imario Susilo (costume concept artist, Local 892; The Mandalorian and Grogu, Tron: Ares), and Maggie Chan (costume concept artist, Local 892; Lanterns season 1, Spaceballs: The New One), with creator and showrunner Oren Uziel (screenwriter, Mortal Kombat (2021)). Moderated by Spencer Williams, founder of The Art of Costume.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

3:00pm PDT

Comics Will Break Your Heart: Coping Conversation for Fans and Creators
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
An acclaimed comic book creator and a licensed therapist lead an open conversation on mental health in comics, covering burnout, creative blocks, toxic fandoms, and staying resilient. The panel offers real strategies to help fans and creators protect their passion and well-being.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

3:00pm PDT

Jada Toys: Taking Collecting to the Next Level
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
A sneak peek at what's next for Invincible, Street Fighter, Mega Man, Scooby-Doo, and other fan-favorite brands, with upcoming action figures and die-cast releases, announcements and exclusive reveals, and behind-the-scenes insight into the product development process from Juhn Lim (vice president of product development) and Darryl Li (director of brand management). Moderated by Brian Sun (senior marketing manager).
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 9

3:00pm PDT

Outlandish Confabulations
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Be prepared for a no-holds-barred discussion of favorite characters, storylines, and theories from Outlander—main books, bulges, and the television series are all fair game. Ginger Wiseman (The Outlander Podcast), Sarah Ksiazek (Outlander TV News), Heather Insley (Outlander SoCal Edition), and Katherine Stinson (Outlander TV News) share their takes.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

3:00pm PDT

Print Is the New Digital
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
The future will not be digitized. While digital dominates everywhere else, print comics are still growing, still selling, and still driving the business. Why did readers stay with print while other audiences moved on? And what does that mean for creators and publishers trying to build something that lasts? This panel comes from the front lines of publishing and retail, including Joe Keatinge (Shutter, COMICS! The Magazine), Tiffany Babb (Comics Courier), David Harper (SKTCHD), and others, where print is not nostalgia, it is momentum.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

3:15pm PDT

The Year of Jack Kirby: A Star-Studded Celebration!
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Industry superstars Tom King, Mark Waid, Phillip Kennedy Johnson, and Nick Dragotta along with Tracy Kirby, Jeremy Kirby, and pop culture historian Roy Schwartz, celebrate the legacy of Jack "The King" Kirby, co-creator of the Marvel Universe, mythmaker of DC's New Gods, and pop art pioneer. With a street named after him in NYC, a new documentary in production, two museum exhibits, the upcoming Mister Miracle animated series, and Avengers: Endgame, 2026 is the year of Jack Kirby. An SDCC 2026 panel-exclusive Marvel comic will be distributed to attendees.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Waid

Mark Waid

Comic-Con Special Guest
Over the course of his four decades in the comic book industry, New York Times bestselling author Mark Waid has developed characters and written stories for Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, The Avengers, X-Men, Archie, Star Wars, The Incredibles, Fantastic Four, Wonder Woman, Daredevil, Captain America, and almost every other franchise currently enjoying success... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Room 6DE

4:00pm PDT

Weirder Together: Meow Wolf + Titmouse
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Immersive art makers Meow Wolf and Emmy-winning studio Titmouse discuss what happens when animation meets architecture, when 2D storytelling moves into a 3D world, and what it takes to build a universe from scratch. The session includes a sneak peek at the collaboration and exclusive giveaways.
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

4:00pm PDT

Why Representation Matters in Young Adult Novels
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
The YA-OK podcast hosts Erik J. Brown (author of All That's Left in the World), Alyssa Ljub (contestant, season 4 of Netflix's The Circle) and YA-OK producer Matt Kelly lead a discussion with young adult authors Hannah V. Sawyerr (All the Fighting Parts), Susan Lee (Seoulmates), and more on why representation matters in literature, especially in YA.
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

4:00pm PDT

No Latency LIVE: Cyberpunk Red Live Play
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT
The No Latency crew tackles another one-shot mission in its continuing TTRPG adventures in Night City. Paris Arrowsmith (CPR writer/designer; GM), Tracie Hearne (CPR/VTM writer, MagiRPG), Jade (Save the D8), Evan Christopher (Save the D8), and Peter D.M. Castro (System Switch) are joined by panelists Dayeanne Hutton (Life Is Strange, ISD) and Anais R. Morgan (Renegade, ISD) for a live play of Cyberpunk Red by R. Talsorian Games.
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

4:15pm PDT

Thematic Tunes from Star Wars to Pokémon
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Crafting themes for favorite characters is no easy task. Composers across film and television discuss their approaches to writing music for iconic stories and the challenges of scoring projects with dedicated fan bases. From Supergirl to Darth Maul, the panel covers it all, featuring Ed Goldfarb (Pokémon), Claudia Sarne (Supergirl), Trey Toy (Castlevania: Nocturne), and Kevin Kiner, Deana Kiner, and Sean Kiner (Star Wars: Maul—Shadow Lord). Co-moderated by Louie Stephens (director of film, TV, and visual media, BMI) and Chandler Poling (White Bear PR).
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Room 6A

4:30pm PDT

The Cuphead Show 2: Electric Boogaloo!
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
The cast and crew of The Cuphead Show are back for more shenanigans at SDCC. Tru Valentino (Cuphead), Frank Todaro (Mugman), Joe Hanna (Elder Kettle), and the brilliant creative team return for more insanity. Moderated by TJ Shevlin.
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

4:30pm PDT

The Power of Women in Entertainment
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Actor, director, and co-founder of Brooklyn Quarter Danielle Beckmann hosts Gillian Bohrer (producer/studio executive, Twilight, Warm Bodies, La La Land), Dara Resnik (showrunner, Home Before Dark, Daredevil), Amanda Mortlock (writer/producer, Tracker, Strange Bedfellows), and Tawny Platis (voice actor for commercials, animation, Bluetooth devices, and automation) as they share how they have blazed their own paths in film, television, animation, and entertainment.
Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

5:00pm PDT

Crafting Pop Culture Content to Educate
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
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

5:00pm PDT

Monsters and Cryptids in Comics
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Che Grayson (Absolute Catwoman, Exquisite Corpses), Chris Condon (Ultimate Wolverine, That Texas Blood), Tate Brombal (Batgirl, Everything Dead & Dying), Soo Lee (Maleficent, Carmilla), and Julio Anta (Blue Beetle, Beast of Boriken) discuss favorite cryptids, creature features, and folk stories that inspired their bone-chilling comics. Moderated by Sami DeMonster.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

5:00pm PDT

Power Rangers: The Next Era Begins
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Creators Marguerite Bennett (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Gastronomique), Phillip Sevy (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), Kenny Porter (Superboy: The Man of Tomorrow), and Joey Esposito (Power Rangers Unlimited, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Zord Quest) discuss what's in store for the next generation of Power Rangers. Moderated by BOOM! editor-in-chief Andy Schmidt and in conversation with editors Tea Fougner and Ari Yarwood, the panel includes exclusive previews, behind-the-scenes insights, and audience questions about the epic storylines shaping the next era of Power Rangers.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

5:00pm PDT

Robservations LIVE
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Rob Liefeld (Deadpool, Cable, X-Force, Youngblood) records a live episode of his hit podcast Robservations LIVE in front of the SDCC audience.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

5:00pm PDT

The Future of Collecting
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Panelists Shane Walsh (McFarlane Toys Digital), David Yu (VeVe Digital Collectibles), David Steinberger (Neonichiban.com), Brandon Boggus (TRU Media Group), Will Weinraub (Digitoys), James Roach (Muse Ink), and Ben Kendrick (vending.comicbook.com). discuss their respective projects and the expanding world of digital collecting.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

5:30pm PDT

Afrofuturism: Black to the Future IX: Afro-Anime
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Everyone is familiar with what happens when Asian and Pan-African creative forces collide. K-Pop is sweeping the world. Before that, it was the Japanese City Pop hits of the 1980s, like "Plastic Love" and "Stay with Me." Now, the creative mashups are flowing in the other direction. Black content creators are exploring anime from a fresh Afrocentric perspective. Panelists discuss the creative and collaborative possibilities with groundbreaking experts in film, television, and education. Featuring Kevin Grevioux (director, producer, and writer, Underworld, I, Frankenstein), Anissa Ocansey (Emmy Award–winning journalist and producer, Emmy-nominated host, published writer, comedian, featured on Hulu and ABC), Matt Ford (U.S. history and Black aesthetics professor at University of San Diego and English professor at Grossmont College), Jimmy Diggs (panel creator, moderator, producer, and screenwriter, Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), and Dr. Camille Jones, Ph.D., M.P.H. (creator, Middle of Everything animated series).
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

5:30pm PDT

Past, Present, Future of Comics Distribution
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Who decides which comics readers discover? Distribution. From the earliest days of the industry to today's rapidly changing marketplace, distribution has shaped the success of publishers, retailers, and creators alike. Atom Freeman (publisher, COMICS! The Magazine) hosts Filip Sablik (publisher, Ignition Press), Christina Merkler (co-owner, Lunar Distribution), and Chris Arrant (editor-in-chief, Popverse) for a look at where comics distribution began, where it stands today, and where it's headed next.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 10

5:30pm PDT

Aliens 40: The 40th Anniversary of One of the Best Sequels Ever Made!
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
The 40th anniversary of Aliens (1986) is marked with a panel honoring James Cameron's landmark sequel and its lasting impact on sci-fi action and pop culture. Cast members Jenette Goldstein, Mark Rolston, and Ricco Ross share behind-the-scenes stories, discuss groundbreaking effects, and trace Ripley's evolution into an action icon. Moderated by Mark Atkinson (actor, filmmaker), the session includes rare anecdotes, a Q&A, and retrospective insights.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 6A

5:45pm PDT

The Tony Swatton: Next Chapter
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:45pm - 6:45pm PDT
Legendary blacksmith and propmaker Tony Swatton (Hook, Man-at-Arms) discusses his career spanning more than 300 films with multiple Oscar-winning makeup artist Ve Neill (Pirates of the Caribbean, Beetlejuice), Isaac C. Singleton, Jr. (Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Deadpool), producer Valerie Perez (Paula Peril series, Saturn Awards), cosplayer Ashley Howe, writer/director Benjamin L. Brown (Severed Road), and moderator Cate Barry (True-Sight Lens, The Elder Scrolls Online: Gold Road, Man at Arms: Reforged), Tony's fiancée. The discussion highlights Tony's new YouTube channel, featuring blacksmithing techniques, tool demonstrations, plenty of hammers, and building projects with friends.
Thursday July 23, 2026 5:45pm - 6:45pm PDT
Room 6DE

6:00pm PDT

Growing Up with the Power Rangers
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
For more than 30 years, fans have grown up with the Power Rangers, one of the most successful sci-fi franchises of all time. Favorite actors from across the seasons appear and answer fan questions. Scheduled to appear: Walter Jones (original Black Ranger), Brennan Mejia (Dino Charge), Tracy Lynn Cruz (Turbo and Power Rangers in Space), Patrick David (Power Rangers in Space, Lost Galaxy), Christopher Khaymen Lee (Power Rangers in Space, Lost Galaxy), Dan Southworth (Time Force, Wild Force), Sean Cw Johnson (Lightspeed Rescue), and Rhett Fisher (Lightspeed Rescue). Moderated by Ben Kliewer (actor, host, TheConGuy.com).
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

6:00pm PDT

Marvel Rivals: Meet the Cast
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Voice talent from Marvel Rivals discuss bringing fan-favorite heroes to life, with Erik Braa (Moon Knight), Brittany Cox (Angela), Bill Millsap (The Punisher), Laura Post (Emma Frost), Hakeem Ysaguirre (Cloak), and Lenore Zann (Rogue). A Q&A follows.
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 6BCF

6:00pm PDT

Masquerade 101
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
For cosplayers, current or future contestants, and those who simply enjoy watching cosplay events, this overview of fan convention costume competitions will discuss their work, history, judging, participating with anxiety or a disability, and more. Also covered are construction methods and stage presentation tips for taking original and re-created designs from concept to construction to stage-ready, and how to have fun doing it. The panelists are multiple award winners from Comic-Con and other conventions: Judith Grivich, Allan Lavigne, Rogue Shindler, and Helen Collins, each with decades of onstage costuming. Moderated by Martin Jaquish (Comic-Con and WonderCon Masquerade coordinator since 1992).
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

6:00pm PDT

Stars of Star Trek
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Doctor Who's Gallifrey, Aliens' Xenomorph Prime, and Luke Skywalker's Tatooine are planets that all orbit imaginary stars. But when the USS Enterprise (in its various incarnations) visited planetary systems, the writers mostly imagined them circling real stars we can see. In this fascinating panel that merges science with science fiction, Michael E. Bakich (former senior editor, Astronomy magazine), Lisa Will (professor of astronomy and physics, San Diego City College), and Steven Snyder (CEO, Fleet Science Center, San Diego) show you the most famous ones and discuss the science of Star Trek and the possibilities of life elsewhere.
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

6:30pm PDT

Gay Geeks and Where to Find Them
Thursday July 23, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
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

7:00pm PDT

From Fandom to Footsteps: The Art of Set-Jetting
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
What if your next trip was not just a vacation, but a chance to step inside your favorite stories? From the deserts of Star Wars in Tunisia to the streets of Game of Thrones in Dubrovnik and beyond, this panel explores the fast-growing world of screen tourism, where fans turn movies, TV shows, and games into real-world adventures. Seasoned set-jetters and industry experts discuss how to find iconic filming locations, plan story-driven itineraries, and capture cinematic moments. Practical tips, insider knowledge, and behind-the-scenes stories, including a few moments that did not go as planned, show how fandom can transform the way people explore the world and turn a journey into a favorite story.
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

7:00pm PDT

Raising Fankids: Teaching Young Geeks to be Self-confident and Successful
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
It's 2026, 11 years since the Raising Fankids panel started. A panel of teachers and students discusses what it means to be nerdy in the modern era. These experts on the post-COVID generation discuss techniques and experiences that help kids grow up nerdy in the 2020s.
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 4

7:00pm PDT

Reels to Register: Is Short-Form Video the New Comics Journalism?
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Get a full understanding of the current state of comics distribution. Who are all the players? What does it take to get from the printer to the customer's hands? A panel of experts, including Atom Freeman (Prana Direct Market Solutions), Omar Valdivieso (Near Mint Condition), Tessa Gray (Tessa Is a Nerd, Cloud City Games), Brent Sands (Impound Comics), and stakeholders in the comics sales, marketing, and influencer network make predictions on the future of getting comics to customers for the foreseeable future.
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

7:30pm PDT

Saga Press Publishing Panel
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Simon & Schuster's Saga Press is the award-winning publisher behind many fan-favorite fantasy, sci-fi, and horror books. The panel offers an exclusive look at highly anticipated fall releases, direct conversation with bestselling authors, and insight into the state of genre publishing from Saga staff Joe Monti (vice president, associate publisher, editorial director), Theresa DeLucci (director of marketing and publicity), Christine Calella (publicity manager), Amara Hoshijo (executive editor), and Karintha Parker (publicist).
Thursday July 23, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

8:00pm PDT

Hot Takes Only: The Pullbox Power Rankings
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
The rankings are live. The opinions are loud. And this time, you are part of it. Every month, COMICS! The Magazine publishes the Pullbox Power Rankings. Every month, people disagree. Now it's your turn to step up. Hot takes challenge the list and make the case to the editors, creators, and industry pros who put it together. This is a live, audience-driven panel built for strong opinions, sharp arguments, and fans who are ready to stand behind what they believe. Featuring Joe Keatinge (COMICS! The Magazine, Shutter), Atom Freeman (COMICS! The Magazine), and others.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

8:00pm PDT

Klingon Lifestyles Presentation
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
In a new fandom play, the crew of the IKV Stranglehold faces a distress call from a Klingon ship that may be the nefarious plan of an old foe. Will the crew survive? Find out in the 33rd installment of Klingon Lifestyles. All life forms are welcome.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 5AB

8:00pm PDT

StreetPass OC: Nintendo Quizbowl XII: Rise of the Quiz
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Welcome to the Nintendo Quizbowl. Do you have what it takes to be a master? Do you have the knowledge for all things Nintendo? Or perhaps even more? Kiet Pham, Ryan Lu, and Adam Shere host a competition for an opportunity to win prizes. Attendees should be prepared to be tested in all things Mario, Zelda, Pokémon, and more. Let the games begin.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

8:00pm PDT

Trivia for Chocolate
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Tom Galloway ($20,000 game show winner), assisted by Peter S. Svensson (Exposing Comics YouTube channel), asks the audience rapid-fire comics and related trivia questions. The first audience member to call out the correct answer wins a small piece of chocolate. At the end, the person with the most small chocolates receives a really big (more than 1 pound) piece of chocolate, and runners-up receive quality chocolate bars. Everyone keeps any small chocolates they have won.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

8:00pm PDT

Warren Kremer: Harvey Comics' Cover Genius
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
When Casper the Friendly Ghost's artist visited the Marvel Bullpen, Marie Severin remarked, "They don't know it, but this is the best artist that ever walked through these doors." Was she right? Jim Thompson (A People's History of Comics; Eisner Hall of Fame judge), Alonso Nuñez (executive director, Little Fish Comic Book Studio; Eisner Hall of Fame judge), Mark Badger (artist, DC/Marvel; creator of Badgetoons), Mimi Pond (cartoonist, humorist, author of Do Admit: The Mitford Sisters and Me), Bruce Simon (cartoonist/writer, co-author of Hoo-Hah!), Steve Leialoha (artist), and Andrew Kunka (professor, USC Sumter) look closely at the Eisner Hall of Famer's greatest covers from Casper the Friendly Ghost, Wendy the Good Little Witch, Hot Stuff, Little Dot, Little Lotta, Stumbo the Giant, and Richie Rich in a master class on color, brushstrokes, design, direction, character expression, and the art of the gag.
Special Guests
avatar for Mimi Pond

Mimi Pond

Comic-Con Special Guest
Mimi Pond is an American cartoonist, humorist, and writer. In 1982, her book The Valley Girls Guide to Life (Dell) became a bestseller and launched her career. Her works include humor books such as Secrets of the Powder Room (1983) and Splitting Hairs (1998) as well as acclaimed... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

8:00pm PDT

The Comic Shop Series Roundtable
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
"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

8:15pm PDT

Stan Lee: The Final Chapter: Exclusive Documentary Screening
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:15pm - 10:15pm PDT
Stan Lee was the beloved face of comics and a legend whose larger-than-life personality inspired people around the world. But behind the smiles, convention appearances, and red-carpet events, there was a very different story. Stan Lee: The Final Chapter reveals the reality of Stan Lee's final years. Through never-before-seen footage and firsthand accounts, the documentary pulls back the curtain on the life of this icon and serves as a reminder that what the public sees is not always the whole truth.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:15pm - 10:15pm PDT
Room 6DE

8:30pm PDT

Invincible: The Price of Power and the Strength of Connection
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
While many superhero stories focus on the thrill of the fight, Invincible stands out for its unflinching look at the emotional and psychological toll of wearing the mask. This panel brings together mental health experts Dr. Sara Roldan (Our Oasis Community Podcast), Marc Davis, LMHC-D, RN (Alchemy Counseling), Dr. Asher Johnson (Superhero Redemption Therapy), and Dr. Benjamin Taitz (The Fleet: Star Trek Costuming and Charity Fan Group) to explore the complex dynamics of the Grayson family, the trauma of legacy, and how Mark navigates a world where being "invincible" doesn't mean you can't be broken. The panel explores the series' portrayal of resilience and the deep-seated human need for connection in the face of intergalactic betrayal. Moderated by Aaron Weinstein, M.A. (NerdNite OC).
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

9:00pm PDT

Futurama Collectors: Eternity Alone with Barely Any Swag
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Futurama fans Adam Taylor (Guinness World Record holder for the biggest Futurama collection) and Jeff McClelland (also has accomplished things) discuss Futurama collectibles, old and new, with Toddland’s Todd Masters, with a focus on production, licensing, and design from the show's 27-year history.
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

9:00pm PDT

Pokopia: The Science of Saving the World
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
In the world of Pokopia, a lone Ditto awakens to a world ravaged by natural disasters, abandoned by humans, and left nearly uninhabitable. By working together with its fellow Pokémon, Ditto restores the planet one habitat at a time. In this panel, scientists and experts discuss the ways Pokopia is a cautionary tale inspired by the very real dangers the planet faces and people like Ditto who are working to save it. Featuring MB Ramirez (geoscience educator, PBS Eons cohost), Dr. Earyn McGee (herpetologist, science communicator), Dr. Greg Pask (entomologist, Middlebury College), and Bayne Westrick-Snapp (educator, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium), and moderated by Gabriel-Philip Santos (Cosplay for Science cofounder, PBS Eons cohost).
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

9:00pm PDT

Thursday Hall H and Ballroom 20 Panel Playback
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Didn't get into either Hall H or Ballroom 20 today? The pain is real. Do you like stuff? Of course you do! Your 2025 Inkpot Award recipient for Fandom Services Tommy Goldbach (Spider-Clone expert, programming coordinator for Comic-Con) hosts this one-and-a-half-hour block in which Comic-Con will rebroadcast some of the day's popular panels from those two giant rooms. Best of all, those in attendance will get to vote in a show of applause on what they want to see. It's democracy at its finest, and it's a second chance to see these panels. Bring your questions in case of technical delays . . . (Please note: These playbacks will include only the panel discussions. No trailers or clips from films or TV shows will be shown.)
Thursday July 23, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Room 23ABC
 
Friday, July 24
 

10:00am PDT

Bad Medicine in TV and Film
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
The physicians of Hi Everybody! A Bad Medicine Podcast return to examine what Hollywood gets right and wrong about medicine, injuries, and how the body works. Spoiler: There's almost never enough blood. Featuring Drs. Ewa Farrelly, Courtney Nicholas, Greg Winter, and Jackson Vane. Moderated by Johnny Kolasinski.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

10:00am PDT

Love in Every Universe: The Great Romance Trope Debate
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Enemies to lovers. Fake dating. Love triangles. These are the tropes fans live for, but which ones still deliver, and which ones are overdue for a breakup? This panel turns romance into a full-on debate as voices from storytelling, publishing, and fandom go head-to-head over the tropes that define favorite love stories, featuring ROSEOAK (WEBTOON creator), Alessandra Ferreri (Wattpad head of content), E. M. Wilson (Wattpad author, Situationship), Becca Erin Title (founder, Meet Cute Bookshop), and more.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 32AB

10:00am PDT

Lucasfilm Publishing: Stories from a Galaxy Far, Far Away . . .
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Lucasfilm Publishing and Star Wars authors, including Ahmed Best, Kristin Baver, and more, provide behind-the-scenes insights, stories across several eras and frontiers, and, most of all, fresh announcements and reveals that expand the Star Wars saga into books and comics for readers of all ages.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 7AB

10:00am PDT

Main Scenario or Side Quests? Balancing Careers and Hobbies
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Working in games and entertainment can feel like a dream career, but passions don't stop at work. From creative hobbies to community involvement, this panel explores how professionals in the industry balance careers with personal endeavors. Kristina Wong (business operations leader, AAA gaming industry), Emi Nguyen (visual design artist III, Riot Games), Karen Morrison (narrative design at Soda Den), and Mai Dinh (graphic designer, Raw Fury & Fury Studios) have a conversation about time management, burnout, creativity, identity beyond work, and finding fulfillment both inside and outside the industry. This panel is moderated by Rachel Tiu (creative designer, Square Enix America) and is a collaborative effort with the International Game Developers Association San Diego.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

10:00am PDT

Showcasing Your Culture Through Fandom Cosplaying
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Lucy Capuchino (costume designer, cosplayer), Giraffe (educator, podcaster, cosplayer), Shelly Grace (content creator, cosplayer), John Phung (traveler, budget-friendly cosplayer), and Lonnie Lucas (writer, army veteran, cosplayer) discuss celebrating cultural heritage while overcoming the challenges of cosplaying favorite fandoms, especially given limited representation in pop culture. Moderated by Miguel Capuchino (internationally known cosplayer, content creator).
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:00am PDT

TMNT: Shellebrating 300 Issues of Turtle Power and Last Ronin
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
From Technodrome-sized surprises about the blockbuster comics to jaw-dropping reveals about The Last Ronin beyond the panels, IDW's TMNT panel delivers shellshocking surprises for fans. Moderators Comic Book Couples Counseling lead an announcement-filled discussion with Gene Luen Yang, Tom Waltz, Andrew Joustra, Jake Thomas, Sarah Myer, and a surprise guest who will remain in the shadows . . . for now.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 25ABC

10:00am PDT

Collector's Call with Lisa Whelchel and MeTV
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Lisa Whelchel, best known as Blair on The Facts of Life (1979–1988), brings some of the experts and collectors from her hit MeTV series Collector's Call to talk about the wide world of collecting and share some behind-the-scenes stories from the series, now in its seventh season. Fans will hear what Lisa has found in common among all the distinctly different collectors she's featured. Joining Whelchel will be Collector's Call experts, including professional archivist Rob Klein, screen-used costume historian Jennifer Klein, toy collecting authority and comedian Matt Weinhold, and Weigel Broadcasting vice chairman Neal Sabin. Whelchel will also make an exclusive announcement about her next MeTV programming event. Actor/podcaster/collector and Collector's Call guest Ralph Garman moderates, and panel attendees will receive a Comic-Con exclusive Collector's Call lenticular collectible.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 6DE

10:00am PDT

The Black Panel
Friday July 24, 2026 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
The 29th annual Black Panel centers on Black women, with panelists discussing what inspires them, which characters ring true, and how and why they do what they do. Participants include Eisner-nominated Stephanie Williams, producer Candy Nicole, and returning panelist Dr. Lando Tosaya, with additional guests and surprises. Produced by Hannibal Tabu, with an introduction and closing by Black Panel founder Michael Davis.
Special Guests
avatar for Stephanie Williams

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 10:00am - 11:30am PDT
Room 5AB

10:30am PDT

Kyle Higgins: Radiant Black, the Massive-Verse, and More
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Kyle Higgins (Radiant Black, No/One), Brian Buccellato (No/One), Melissa Flores (The Dead Lucky), Ryan Parrott (Rogue Sun), and others share exciting new developments and announcements in store for the Massive-Verse this year and next.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 6A

10:30am PDT

Smallville's Kristin Kreuk: Black Star
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Actor Kristin Kreuk (Burden of Truth, Murder in a Small Town) discusses her first comic book, Black Star, a Northern Gothic noir infused with horror and dark humor. Kreuk appears with co-writer Peter Mooney (Rookie Blue, Mistletoe Murders) and screenwriter Eric Putzer to discuss the creative process from concept to page and the eerie world behind the series. Moderated by Andrew Sumner (Forbidden Planet TV). Black Star #1 debuts at the convention with a special exclusive cover available only at the show.
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 24ABC

10:30am PDT

Designing the Future: 60 Years of Star Trek Visual Evolution
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Star Trek's vision of the future has been shaped as much by its design as its storytelling. From the clean optimism of the original Enterprise to the layered realism of modern Trek, this panel explores how artists and designers have defined the look and meaning of the future across six decades. Using rare materials from the Roddenberry Archive, panelists examine how design choices reflect changing ideas about technology and humanity. Panelists include Holly Amos (Roddenberry Archive), James Kerwin (director/writer, Yesterday Was a Lie, Nonlocality), and Liz Kloczkowski (art director, Star Trek: Picard), moderated by John Champion (Roddenberry Podcasts).
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 10

10:30am PDT

Comic Book Law School® 202: Show Me the Money!
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Following Thursday's Comic Book Law School® 101 panel on the basics of intellectual property (IP) law, this second session continues to an area of importance for all IP owners and creators—making money off IP capital, and perhaps even using that IP capital as the foundation for earning a living. For writers, illustrators, and all other types of artists and content creators, the process of moving ideas from mere thought to something tangible is only the first step of many. Commercializing creative works is not always smooth, and for those new to the business world, it can be a source of stress. However, with the help of this panel of legal eagles, attendees can get started on the road to the commercial launch and hopefully the success of their IP-based projects. Noted attorney Michael Lovitz (author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book) leads a panel of guests—IP lawyer Chad Tillman and USD School of Law professor Monica Sullivan—for this year's second Comic Book Law School® seminar, tackling some of the more advanced issues that creators, and the businesses they work with, face when seeking to monetize their works. This session provides insights into options and opportunities for generating income from creative endeavors, including understanding key terms in contracts and licenses, from publishing to merchandising to distribution agreements; tips on working with collaborators and co-creators; separating independent contractors from employees; licenses and transfers of rights; and key things to know when Hollywood comes knocking. With the program's interactive format and discussions focusing on the problems and pitfalls that come with generating income through creative efforts, this session offers valuable insights. Please note: The Comic Book Law School® seminars are designed to provide relevant information and insights to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.]
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 11

10:30am PDT

Creators Assemble: Charisma Check, A Networking Event
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT
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

11:00am PDT

Cosplay 102: Taking It to the Next Level and Beyond
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Catherine M. Fisher (award-winning costumer, panelist, and charity cosplayer), Bob Mogg (expert steampunker, fabricator, blogger, and teacher), the father-and-daughter team of Brendan Prout (charity cosplayer, author, and 501st and Rebel Legion member) and Annika P (young cosplayer and charity volunteer), Ayla Fox (actress and cosplayer), and Nathan Seekerman (armor and prop maker and cosplayer/actor) share insights on taking costuming skills into the big leagues.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

11:00am PDT

The Rocketeer: Helmets and Rocket Packs
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Jennifer Stevens Bawcum (The Rocketeer Trust), Michael Possert Jr. (Apollo 13, The Shadow), Jana-Marie Bonar (Jingle All the Way, Earth 2), and Michael Stuart (The Abyss, Armageddon) discuss the fabrication of the iconic helmet and rocket pack for The Rocketeer and the challenges of finishing them in time to meet the shooting deadline.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

11:00am PDT

VS Tips for the Aging Nerd
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
As the saying goes, "Father Time is undefeated." That goes for everyone, including nerds. Attiba Royster (artist, podcaster), Adio Royster (writer, podcaster), Vince Alvendia (artist), Robert McKeone (artist and illustrator), and Marion Copeland (former director of accounting, Mad Cave Studios) share advice on how the aging nerd can adapt to the shifting landscapes of pop culture, gaming, and other forms of nerditry.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

11:00am PDT

What If Artists' Alley Never Closed? The Dawn of Digital Remarques
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neon Ichiban is a new multi-publisher digital comics and manga platform built by Comixology veterans David Steinberger and Chip Mosher. International superstar variant cover artist Tokitotoro and “Fearless” Fred Kennedy (The Florida Hippopotamus Cocaine Massacre), appear for a live Digital Remarques demonstration as they sketch and sign directly onto digital comics, creating a one-of-a-kind collectible edition. The panel explores how technology is opening new ways for fans and creators to connect, collect, and engage in the digital age, and how creators can earn around the clock, anywhere in the world. Moderated by Chris Ross, head of remarques at Neon Ichiban.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

11:15am PDT

DC's Gotham City
Friday July 24, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Top DC creators examine the heroes, villains, and the bad seeds shaping Gotham City's future. The panel includes an early look at what is coming this fall, including a major reveal. Featuring G. Willow Wilson (Poison Ivy), Matt Fraction (Batman), Tom Taylor (Detective Comics), Tate Brombal (Batgirl), Christopher Cantwell (Batman: Bad Seeds – Gotham Central), Scott Snyder (Absolute Batman), and others. Moderated by Rob Levin (group editor, DC).

Special Guests
avatar for Matt Fraction

Matt Fraction

Comic-Con Special Guest
Matt Fraction co-created the New York Times bestselling books Sex Criminals and Hawkeye. He co-created and worked as a writer and executive producer on Apple TV's Monarch: Legacy of Monsters and is executive producer on the adaptation of SEX CRIMINALS coming to Amazon Prime next... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Room 6DE

11:30am PDT

Angry Birds and Palworld: Epic Games with Epic Toys!
Friday July 24, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Rovio Entertainment and The Loyal Subjects unveil new toys inspired by the upcoming film The Angry Birds Movie 3 and the world-dominating Palworld game. Toy designer Dina Al Rifai (The Loyal Subjects) shares behind-the-design insights and reveals upcoming M.A.S.K. and The Hunger Games movie toys. Featuring John Cohen (The Angry Birds Movie 3, producer), Heitor Pereira (The Angry Birds Movie 3, composer), Tom Akel (founder, Rocketship Entertainment), Thom Zahler (Angry Birds, artist), Evan Lee (EvanTube), and Ben Mattes (Rovio), the panel highlights new projects and creative processes across film, comics, and collectibles. The program also includes a special Palworld message from game developer Pocketpair and a sneak peek of the next 80's classic toy that The Loyal Subjects will be remaking for 2027.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 6BCF

11:45am PDT

Nerd Stuff and Sword Things: Storytelling in the Masters of the Universe Film World
Friday July 24, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm PDT
Fabulous secrets will be revealed in this exploration of behind-the-scenes moments and new stories set in the MOTU film world, featuring Chris Butler (screenwriter, MOTU film), Tim Sheridan (writer, Wings of Fate), Mackenzi Lee (author, Teela: Daughter of Eternos), Andy Rogers (editor, Legends of Eternia), and others. Moderated by Nate Atwood (producer, MOTU film), an expert in nerd stuff and sword things.
Friday July 24, 2026 11:45am - 12:45pm PDT
Room 6A

12:00pm PDT

A Conversation with San Diego Celebrities Gabriel Wisdom and (Shotgun) Tom Kelly
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
For the first time, San Diego celebrities Gabriel Wisdom and (Shotgun) Tom Kelly come to Comic-Con to share stories from their multi-decade careers in radio and TV. Gabriel was a longtime radio personality and a special part of the early days of the con, as he helped promote it to the San Diego community. He went on to become a prominent figure in the investment sector. In 2025, he published his latest book, Salton Sea Tales. (Shotgun) Tom Kelly is being inducted this year into the Radio Hall of Fame. He currently hosts a program on SiriusXM, and he recently published his book All I Wanna Do Is Play the Hits.
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

12:00pm PDT

A Galaxy of Star Wars Comics from Mad Cave Studios and Lucasfilm Publishing
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Mad Cave Studios and Lucasfilm Publishing make the jump to hyperspace and showcase their Star Wars publishing partnership. Charles Beacham (editor, Mad Cave Studios), Josh Pruett and Scott Peterson (Phineas & Ferb), Delilah S. Dawson (Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu: Danger in the Dark), Soo Lee (Star Wars: Tales from the Nightlands), and more guests present news and reveals of new tales coming soon. Fans will hear from the comic creators crafting these tales, enjoy out-of-this-world giveaways, and get a peek inside some of these exciting new projects. Moderated by Michael Siglain (creative director, Lucasfilm Publishing).
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

12:00pm PDT

Focus on Stacey McEwan
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
New York Times bestselling author Stacey McEwan, author of A Forbidden Alchemy and the Glacian Trilogy, talks with fellow bestselling author Kaylie Smith (Phantasma, Enchantra) all about writing simmering romantasy with substance, her position as a BookTok comedy sensation, and her newly released sequel, A Forsaken Prophecy.
Friday July 24, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

12:30pm PDT

My Little Pony: A Celebration of Friendship
Friday July 24, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
This panel celebrates the enduring impact of My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic and the continued evolution of the brand. Lauren Faust, creator of Friendship Is Magic, leads a discussion exploring the franchise's legacy, its lasting connection with fans, and what's ahead in Equestria.
Friday July 24, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

12:30pm PDT

DC's Next Level
Friday July 24, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
DC storytellers explore the Next Level publishing initiative with announcements, fresh looks, and new details from across the DC Universe. Featuring Joshua Williamson (Legion of Super-Heroes), Hayden Sherman (Legion of Super-Heroes), Kyle Higgins (Teen Titans), Michael Walsh, Gerry Duggan (Next Level: One-Shot), and others. Moderated by Brittany Holzherr (senior editor, DC) and Andrew Marino (senior editor, DC).
Friday July 24, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

12:45pm PDT

TV Guide Magazine's Fan Favorites 2026
Friday July 24, 2026 12:45pm - 1:30pm PDT
Icons, newbies, and some old friends, oh my. Stars from current and returning shows gather on one stage to talk about the fans who mean so much, share what they are loving right now, and trade behind-the-scenes stories from this annual panel. Moderated by Damian Holbrook (TV Guide Magazine).
Friday July 24, 2026 12:45pm - 1:30pm PDT
Ballroom 20

1:00pm PDT

Comixology and Superfan Promotions: Origin Stories
Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Some of the most prolific creators of the time, including Emmy Award–winning writer/producer Marc Guggenheim (The Whisper War, Leviathan Freedom, Star Wars), colorist Lee Loughridge (The Adequates, Midstate), acclaimed artist Marz Jr. (The Adequates, Transformers), writer Omar Morales (Major Thomás), and writer Michael Conrad (The 99 Legs, Neptune), travel down memory lane to the days of their youth and reminisce about the comics and cartoons they loved as children. Moderated by David Hyde (Superfan Promotions).
Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1:00pm PDT

From Fan Art to Careers
Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Phil Howell and Charlotte Howell (H.E. Creative, pop culture illustration specialists), Michael Cannavo (content creator, Rexin_Around, Star Wars), Lauren Kurtz (character and merchandise designer, Disney), Vinnie Rupolo (owner of Anxious Youth; brand manager for bands and artists), Mike L. Kinshella (video game writer and marketing creative), and Sarah Palmer (horror host, Svengoolie) discuss how their journeys as artists and content creators in their respective fandoms became real opportunities.
Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

2:00pm PDT

Female Comic CEOs: Women Making Comics
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Women in leadership roles across pop culture help build the businesses that create the stories comic fans love. Panelists Waverly Lim (Kwento Comics), Cecilia Lim (Kwento Comics), Hilarie Schmalke (Midnight Factory), and Janet Wade (Toshigawa Universe) discuss their work building comics companies and bringing projects to readers. The session includes a recorded message from Paula Garces (Aluna; On My Block).
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

2:00pm PDT

Get Your Story into Comics or Animation
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
A book, short story, treatment, or work-in-progress script can become a comic or animated project without relying on traditional gatekeepers. Indie creators and producers discuss current pathways for adaptation and production, including building creator-led pipelines and reaching audiences through newer distribution channels. Panelists S. G. Blaise (founder/CCO, Lilac Grove Entertainment), Kris Longo (CEO/publisher, PANICK Publishing), Lesley Worton (president/head of production, Tongal Productions), David Derks (TV executive, cartoonist, and pop culture commentator), Eric Elder (founder/executive producer, OW! Entertainment), and Heidi MacDonald (editor-in-chief, Comics Beat) share practical guidance on developing, packaging, and positioning projects for comics and animation. Moderated by James David Powell (writer and producer, BlerdHive).
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

2:00pm PDT

Hasbro Star Wars Panel
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Members of the Hasbro marketing and design teams discuss Star Wars product lines, including The Black Series, The Vintage Collection, and Retro, with an in-depth look at the latest action figure offerings from across the saga. Word on the Holonet is there may also be a few surprises. May the Force be with you.
Friday July 24, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

2:30pm PDT

SteelBook Unlocked: Collector's Corner
Friday July 24, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
A peek behind the curtain with Aaron Gershman (Lionsgate, SVP of creative), Barron Postmus (SDS, VP of retail marketing), Leslie Bland (Crunchyroll, VP of global commerce strategy and development), and Devon Downs (Alliance Entertainment, director of creative services). Moderated by Matt Marone (Scanavo, business development manager), the panel discusses the exciting future of SteelBook, holds a Q&A, and offers exclusive first looks at what studio partners have coming soon.
Friday July 24, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

3:00pm PDT

Comic-Con Goes Plop!
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
DC's "new magazine of weird humor" went Plop! 50 years ago, but fans have never forgotten those Wolverton covers, the Sergio Aragones cartoons, the art of giants like Wrightson, Wood, Toth, and Ditko, and the genius of Joe Orlando. Plop! contributing writer/artist Lee Marrs (cartoonist, animator; 2026 Eisner Hall of Fame), Plop! editor Paul Levitz (former DC president), superfan Charles Kochman (editorial director, Abrams ComicArts), and moderator Jim Thompson (co-chair, Eisner Hall of Fame judges) share memories of Plop! and its creators.
Special Guests
avatar for Paul Levitz

Paul Levitz

Comic-Con Special Guest
Paul Levitz has been a comics fan (The Comic Reader), editor (Batman), writer (Legion of Super-Heroes), executive (decades at DC Comics, ending as president & publisher), historian (Will Eisner: Champion of the Graphic Novel) and now teacher of subjects related to comics and tra... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 4

3:00pm PDT

So You Want to Be a Retailer?
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
If you've ever thought about owning your own comics shop, this panel highlights information that veteran store owners wish they had known before they started their own stores. Sponsored by ComicsPRO, the trade organization for storefront comic retailers, the panel features four to five panelists sharing their experiences. Moderated by ComicsPRO board member and co-owner of Samurai Comics Moryha Banks.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

3:00pm PDT

Star Wars Memories: The Early Days of Star Wars, SDCC, and Fandom
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Craig Miller (Lucasfilm's original director of fan relations) presents a slideshow on the early association between Star Wars, San Diego Comic-Con, and fandom, including how the film was first publicized and promoted at SDCC in 1976 and how fans got involved even before the film came out.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

3:00pm PDT

Yen Press Industry Panel
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
For over a decade, Yen Press has been one of the biggest publishers of manga, releasing titles such as Black Butler, Fruits Basket, and Toilet-bound Hanako-kun. Yen Press has also given a home to fan-favorite categories such as light novels, audiobooks, and manhwa. The panel includes new announcements and a Q&A.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 9

3:00pm PDT

No Capes Required: Women Powering Pop Culture
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
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

3:00pm PDT

Roll for Romance: An Interactive Rom-Com Decided by Dice
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Romance authors across genres put character chemistry to the test in a live dating-game format where storytelling meets chance, guided by audience prompts and the roll of the dice. Featuring Kristy Boyce (Rolls and Rivalry), Barbara Perez Marquez (To Dance the Moon and Stars), Anna Mercier (All We Hunger For), and Ashley Poston (Star Wars: Eyes Like Stars). Moderated by Kim Bussing.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 11

3:00pm PDT

Taskmaster LA: SDCC 2 Electric Boogaloo
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Taskmaster Ryan Omega (PlayChase, Darkness Emergent) and his assistant Reuben Bresler (Magic Mics, PlayChase) challenge five nerdy, high-profile competitors with a series of fun and chaotic lateral-thinking tasks inspired by the hit British comedy series. Featuring Kyle Shire, Anastasia Washington, Ki'i Kellerman, Aislynn Lowenberg, and an additional surprise panelist.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

3:15pm PDT

10 Years of Watch Dogs 2
Friday July 24, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Mia Ginaé (Riot Games) celebrates the game's anniversary with a panel discussion on how Watch Dogs 2 predicted the state of A.I., surveillance, privacy, and digital resistance in today's world, featuring Ruffin Prentiss (Elsbeth, The Blacklist), Shawn Baichoo (Hell is Us, The Marvelous Misfortunes of My Marvelous Master), Dave Maass (Electronic Frontier Foundation), Timmy Fisher (MK12 Studios), and Hudson Mohawke (Warp Records). With support from Malwarebytes.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Room 6BCF

3:30pm PDT

Modern Fanatic: Crowdfandom: The Future of Pop Culture in the Hands of Fans
Friday July 24, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
In recent years, platforms like Kickstarter and Zoop have emerged to help define future franchises from the bedroom to the boardroom. Whether major publishers, celebrity-driven campaigns, or an indie game birthed in a basement, this method of publishing is shaping the latest, greatest, and next chapter in pop culture. Modern Fanatic's Jeremy Atkins, ZOOP co-founder Jordan Plosky, Kickstarter's Sean Edgar and Oriana Leckert, Stranger Comics publisher Sebastian Jones, MTG legend Brian David Marshall, filmmaker and writer David K. Wilson, and Michael Walsh (CEO and games director, Wayves Creative Co.), along with publishers who have found an audience online, discuss how crowdfandom is carrying projects to shelves, screens, and beyond.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

3:30pm PDT

The Pitt and Heated Rivalry: Fandom in Entertainment Journalism/Criticism: When Is It Too Much?
Friday July 24, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Rachel Leishman (editor-in-chief, The Mary Sue) leads a conversation with journalists Rachel Tolleson, Bobbi Miller, and Hope Sloop about fandom in entertainment journalism and criticism and where the line is when covering the stories you love. The panel discusses coverage and community response around Interview with the Vampire, The Pitt, Heated Rivalry, and other fandoms.
Friday July 24, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

4:00pm PDT

Comixology: For the Love of Fiction
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Actor Thomas Jane (The Lycan, Star Trek, The Punisher), celebrity baker and comics writer Kim-Joy (Turtle Bread, Ordinary Joy), TV writer Marc Bernardin (Adora and the Distance, Star Wars: Mace Windu, Star Trek: Picard, Eyes of Wakanda), writer Michael Conrad (The 99 Legs, Neptune), and writer Frank Barbiere (Zero Instance, Astonishing Times) discuss their newest comics, their creative inspirations, their favorite stories, and why they love fiction. Moderated by Barbra Dillon (Fanbase Press).
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

4:00pm PDT

Making of Star Wars: The Experience
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Ashley Eckstein (actor; voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars animation) moderates a panel with the creative team behind the official immersive experience celebrating 50 years of Star Wars, opening in 2027 at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia in collaboration with Lucasfilm and Disney Consumer Products. Panelists Matt Martin (senior creative executive, franchise content and strategy, Lucasfilm), Portia Fontes (manager of physical assets, Lucasfilm), Abby Bysshe (chief experience and strategy officer, The Franklin Institute), Dan Picard (owner and chief creative officer, MDSX Creative), and David Edmonds (art director, MDSX Creative) discuss balancing cinematic authenticity with exhibition design, the visual identity of the experience, screen-used archival pieces, and what it means to celebrate 50 years of Star Wars in a way that feels as epic, emotional, and immersive as the saga itself. Attendees receive a first reveal of renderings, key art, and more, with giveaways available only at Comic-Con.
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

4:00pm PDT

So You Want to Start a Comic Book/Entertainment YouTube Channel
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Efrain Laguardia (Passpoint Comics), Ian Nicolas (Hoodrat Podcast), and Paul Santos (Paul in the 619) share how and why they each started a YouTube channel. Their channels celebrate everything that makes comics great: the storytelling, the art, the iconic characters, and even the hidden gems that deserve more attention. They discuss their passion for comic books and share personal experiences and practical advice to equip attendees with the knowledge and inspiration to launch a comic book YouTube channel. Sometimes you just have to press Record. Efrain, Ian, and Paul participate in a Q&A session moderated by Robert Moreno (Momocomics 80).
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

4:00pm PDT

Tarzan and John Carter of Mars Live!
Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Writer-showrunner Michael Kogge (Star Wars) and a surprise Academy Award–winning guest discuss their vision for the animated TV series John Carter of Mars in development, followed by updates on the upcoming John Carter of Mars audio drama, with Wasé Chief (Horizon: An American Saga) discussing her voice work as Dejah Thoris. Both efforts are authorized by Edgar Rice Burroughs, Inc. Andrew Sumner (Titan Books, Titan Comics) shares a new announcement, while Tom Akel of Rocketship Entertainment shares updates on the upcoming massive Russ Manning’s Tarzan project and Matías Timarchi of Alien Books discusses a new take on the Lord of the Jungle in Tarzan Beyond. The session concludes with Wolf Larson (writer/producer; former Tarzan TV star; VP of entertainment, ERB, Inc.) on what's ahead in the ERB Universe for film, TV, and publishing.

Friday July 24, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

4:15pm PDT

Kirkman, McFarlane, Liefeld, Silvestri, Stephenson: Image Comics Legends Together on One Stage
Friday July 24, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Image Comics founders and partners Todd McFarlane, Rob Liefeld, Marc Silvestri, Robert Kirkman, and Eric Stephenson discuss how they revolutionized the comic book industry. The panel explores the risks that sent shockwaves through the comic world and forever changed the landscape of the industry.
Friday July 24, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Ballroom 20

4:30pm PDT

Dispatch: Off the Clock with the Z-Team
Friday July 24, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Voice actors Laura Bailey (Critical Role, The Last of Us II), Travis Willingham (Critical Role, Marvel's Avengers), Seán McLoughlin (aka Jacksepticeye; Sonic Prime, Bendy and the Ink Machine), Alanah Pearce (Cyberpunk 2077, V/H/S Beyond), THOT SQUAD, Yung Gravy, Joel Haver, Mayanna Berrin, Lance Cantstopolis, and a "virtual" MoistCr1TiKaL join Erin Yvette (Hades II, The Wolf Among Us) to discuss what it takes to bring the characters of the award-winning video game Dispatch to life.
Friday July 24, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 6BCF

4:45pm PDT

Bold Voice of Contemporary Horror: Tenth Anniversary Edition
Friday July 24, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT
Going bolder than ever for our tenth anniversary featuring Mubi, Shudder, AMC, Magnolia, and more. Loved Obsession? Backrooms? Hokum? The Substance? In a Violent Nature? Late Night with the Devil? Barbarian? Bodies Bodies Bodies? Midsommar? The Witch? The directors and stars behind some of the most anticipated and exciting horror films and series explore the current state of indie and studio genre filmmaking. The panel features exclusive footage from upcoming releases and standout Cannes titles, including Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma and Victorian Psycho, alongside a lively conversation with some of the most exciting talent working in horror today, including Dan Stevens (AMC's The Terror), Deborah Ann Woll (Shudder's The Cycle), director Zachary Wigon (Bleecker Street's Victorian Psycho), director Dave Boyle (SXSW Audience Award Winner Never After Dark), and others. Moderated by Michael Lerman (co-founder, Overlook Film Festival; director of film programming). Exclusive giveaways from Camp Miasma and Victorian Psycho will be available for all attendees.
Friday July 24, 2026 4:45pm - 5:45pm PDT
Room 6A

5:00pm PDT

Cosplay Is a DRAG: The Draggening
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Chad Hatter (Queer for Fear, Robot Chicken) sits down with Pam Demic (costume designer, Workaholics; drag performer since 1989) and Broadway diva headliners Claire Voyance (Voyance Productions & Broadway Divas SCFTA), Leeko Rae (headliner at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts), and April Showers (Showers Productions & Late-Night Divas @ Hamburger Mary's), along with Thai Teaze (Miss Hamburger Mary's Ontario 2024 and producer/hostess of Oh Honey, It's Brunch!, as well as the infamous Pokebrunches) to discuss the crossroads where cosplay meets drag, as well as navigating these art forms in the modern world.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

5:00pm PDT

Hasbro Transformers Panel
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Hasbro Transformers toy development team shares a behind-the-scenes look at the latest character figures across the brand. Time permitting, the session includes a Q&A with trivia and more.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

5:00pm PDT

Pow! Bang! Teach! Comic-Con in the Classroom!
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Patrick Meehan (ELA teacher, SDUSD), Nancy Burks (social studies teacher, SDUSD), and Maya Bellistri (librarian, SDUSD) discuss how the myriad aspects of Comic-Con can transform the ordinary classroom into a creative, collaborative, and engaging learning environment that complements the needs of today's students and educators. The panel includes handouts and resources for educators, as well as freebies for kids.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

5:00pm PDT

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: What's New on Batuu?
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Like the ever-expanding lore of its movies and TV shows, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland and Walt Disney World has received updates over the past year. From new characters and experiences to fan events, merchandise, food, and more, no two visits to Black Spire Outpost on Batuu are ever the same. Kristine Smith and Martin Smith (Heroes of the Halcyon podcast, Halcy-Con) and Peter Sciretta (Ordinary Adventures on YouTube) discuss 2026's major changes to Galaxy's Edge.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

5:00pm PDT

The Collapse of the Billionaire Hero
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
In today's cultural and economic climate, fascination with the wealthy has shifted toward sharper awareness of inequality, frustration, and scrutiny. Hosts of the Tangential Giants Podcast Kareem Anderson, Patrick Kellenberger, and Ken Rolow, with guests Ray-Anthony Height (comics creator and founder, SKYE-TIGER Studio), Magical Girl Marina (fandom and cosplay content creator), and Justin Quizon (podcast host and comics writer), discuss how money functions as a storytelling tool, the nuance gap in portrayals of wealth, and what characters can look like when wealth is removed from their narratives.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

5:00pm PDT

The Simpsons: A World of Collecting
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Simpsons collectors of the world, unite! Get a chance to meet and mingle with fellow collectors of Simpsons merchandise from all over. This gathering, hosted by members of the SimpsonsCollectors website, is a great chance to network with other collectors and share your experiences in the hobby. Brian Guthrie, Ken Gartin, Jesse Lankford, Duy Trihn, and Ben Barackman offer tips for collecting everything Simpsons.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

5:15pm PDT

Cineverse: Return of a Masterpiece: The 20th Anniversary of Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth
Friday July 24, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
It's been twenty years since Comic-Con fans met the iconic Pale Man, ageless Faun, and young Ofelia, who undertakes a quest to reclaim her rightful place as princess of an enchanted world. Academy Award–winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, actors Doug Jones (Pale Man, Faun) and Ivana Baquero (Ofelia), alongside Oscar-winning Cinematographer Guillermo Navarro, take fans through an exclusive behind-the-scenes event celebrating the film's stunning craft, timeless legacy, and cultural impact. Ahead of a triumphant theatrical re-release in stunning 3D 4K in October, the panel includes never-before-seen interviews with del Toro and some of today's top filmmakers, exclusive giveaways, and new insights into the film's making and legacy.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
Hall H

5:30pm PDT

Breaking into Comics Without a Publisher: Stop Asking for Permission
Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
When you are ready to break into comics, you don't need a publisher—you need a system. Find your audience. Build your team. Build the distribution and sales system that is right for you. To learn why "Previews & Pray" failed and how to avoid today's pitfalls, this panel brings together experts in every aspect of today's comics publishing. Featuring Atom Freeman (COMICS! The Magazine), Adriano Ariganello (Pesto Comics), Brent Sands (Impound Comics), and more, the panel comes straight from the front lines of getting indie comics discovered, ordered, and sold.
Friday July 24, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 10

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
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

6:00pm PDT

Challenge Everything: The Future of Wrestling and Culture
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Wrestling doesn't just reflect culture; it shapes it. Stars of All Elite Wrestling discuss how professional wrestling has evolved from spectacle to cultural force, influencing sports, music, gaming, and beyond. From global fandom to viral moments to the stories only pro wrestling can tell, the conversation considers what comes next when performers refuse to follow the old playbook and challenge everything.
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 6A

6:00pm PDT

How to Build Cosplay Armor and Props with Anvil Station
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Want to build cosplay armor and props, but not sure where to start among the many options? With more than a decade of Halo cosplay and beyond, the Anvil Station team covers common techniques for constructing armor, props, and costumes, including 3D printing, casting and molding, foam construction, laser cutting, microcontroller programming, and more. Panelists include Cary Gunnar Lee (Legacy Effects), JP Polilo (Legacy Effects), Chris Loomis (CrazedOneCosplay), Matt Hendricks (MatterHackers), Tyler Perfect, and James Hall. Moderated by Austin Verburg (DairyBoy117).
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

6:00pm PDT

Star Wars Tourism: Visiting the Galaxy Far, Far Away on Earth
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
From the deserts of Tunisia and California in the original trilogy to the palaces of Italy and Spain in the prequels to the newest sites from Andor and The Mandalorian, Star Wars filming locations are on many fans' travel bucket lists. A panel of globetrotters shares where to go, how to get there, and how to make the most of the experience with fellow fans, from England to Madeira Island to the Imperial Valley. Featuring James Floyd (Star Wars Insider, Star Wars Crossword Puzzles), Charla Teeters-Stewart (Imperial Valley Film Commission), Melissa Miller (Star Wars Insider), and Jake Rowlett (SDSU geography and film lecturer).
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

6:00pm PDT

Unmasking Cultura: Latino Legends in Cosplay
Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
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

7:00pm PDT

Making the World of Fallout at the Atomic Museum
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
A look at a collaboration between Bethesda Game Studios and the Atomic Museum in Las Vegas, and the museum's newest exhibit, "The World of Fallout," which highlights parallels between the fictional post-nuclear setting of the award-winning video game and the reality of the Cold War. Michelle Helms (director of communications, the Atomic Museum) moderates a discussion with Scott Wade (author and vice chairman, the Atomic Museum), Matt Malinowski (director of exhibits and engagement, the Atomic Museum), Matt Clinkscales (assistant vice president of global marketing, Bethesda Game Studios), Jessica Finster (senior director of community, Bethesda Game Studios), and Michael Genova (director, UNLV Entertainment Engineering and Design), on the journey from apocalyptic wasteland to exhibit design. An exclusive preview of a major exhibit expansion planned for late 2026 is included, along with additional surprises.
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 9

7:00pm PDT

The 501st Legion: Star Wars Villainous Costuming
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
An introduction to the creation of fan-made villain costumes from Star Wars films and beyond. Legion members Jamie Tobitt, Linds Cepak, Dean Amstutz, Kevin Weir, Sarah Wetmore, Milan Nguyen, David Neth, and Todd Mullin from the Imperial Sands and Southern California Garrisons provide an overview of the creative process that brings Stormtroopers, Tusken Raiders, Din Djarin, and Kylo Ren from the screen into reality. The panel covers membership, from initial interest through final approval, as well as working with armor parts, small props, soft-costume construction, and 3D modeling and printing. Q&A follows.
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

7:00pm PDT

The Law of Spider-Noir
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Lawyers take on the Amazon series Spider-Noir. What are the rules for private eyes fighting organized crime? What war crimes are committed by performing experiments on prisoners of war? Which crime carries the more stringent penalty: vigilantism or violating Prohibition? A panel of judges and attorneys examines the web of legal issues in Spider-Noir, taking on the black-and-white questions of the law. Featuring Judge Carol Najera (Los Angeles County Superior Court), Kathy Steinman (San Diego deputy city attorney), Michael Dennis, Stephen Tollafield, Vana Palacio (Greenberg Traurig, LLP), and Michael Skeen. Moderated by Kate Bridal (Now It's Ruined Podcast). Presented by The Legal Geeks.
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

7:00pm PDT

Get Rec'd with Straw Hat Goofy
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Juju Green, aka Straw Hat Goofy (Get Rec'd with Straw Hat Goofy), a 2026 TIME100 Creator of the Year, hosts a special live edition of his iHeartRadio podcast, Get Rec'd with Straw Hat Goofy. The episode features a candid conversation with Grammy-winning artist Shaboozey, who will discuss his debut comic book, The Outlaw Cherie Lee, the first issue in a three-part Western series that expands the story of his highly anticipated album of the same name, releasing July 31, 2026.

Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 6BCF

7:00pm PDT

Seeking Out New Life and New Civilizations: Star Trek and Real-Life Astronomy
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
When the Captain of the Enterprise states that the mission is "to explore strange new worlds; to seek out new life and new civilizations; to boldly go where no one has gone before"—what is the real-world translation of such a statement? Science fiction powerhouse Roddenberry Entertainment has brought together some of the preeminent scientists from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and experts in astronomy to break down what making contact with alien civilizations might entail and how we are working to make this science fiction fantasy into a concrete reality. Additionally, exclusive never-before-seen interview footage of Star Trek: First Contact actor James Cromwell (Zephram Cochrane) will be featured to spark the panel discussion on the science-fiction "realities" of making first contact with alien species. Panelists include Rekha Sharma (Ellen Landry, Star Trek: Discovery; Tory Foster, Battlestar Galactica), James Tuttle Keane (co-investigator for the NASA Discovery Io Volcano Observer mission proposal; NASA New Frontiers New Horizons mission science team member), and Jordan Ticktin (aerospace systems engineer), with moderator Tamara Krinsky (Marvel Live; Does it Fly?).
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

7:00pm PDT

Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender: Special Fan Screening
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
An exclusive screening of Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender before it premieres on Paramount+. In this new story in the Avatar universe, Aang and friends race against time to secure an ancient power before it falls into the wrong hands, threatening to upend the peace they sacrificed everything to achieve.
Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Ballroom 20

8:00pm PDT

Bridging The Expanse: United by War/Divided by Peace!
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Carl von Clausewitz famously wrote, "War is a mere continuation of policy by other means." This principle echoes into the distant future of The Expanse. Across the solar system, the three major powers—Earth, Mars, and the Belt—wield their militaries not just as instruments of defense, but as tools of political leverage, coercion, and survival. Moderator Michael Pea (senior writer, Friends of Comic Con), Krys Blackwood (principal designer, NASA JPL), Lt. Col. Matthew Frebert (Department of War), Julius Francisco (Southern CA School of Writing 2.0), Dr. Benjamin Taitz (clinical and forensic psychologist), and Jordan Ticktin (aerospace systems engineer) examine this conflict. Who will win? What is the cost?
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

8:00pm PDT

By Creed, Not Blood
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
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

8:00pm PDT

First in Fright with FANGORIA
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Since 1979, FANGORIA has been the definitive blood-spattered bible for horror fans, chronicling the genre across print, film, and digital media. FANGORIA and a few guests take a tour through the brand's house of horrors, with sneak peeks, scoops, and surprises surrounding this year's FANGORIA Chainsaw Awards.
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

8:00pm PDT

The Psychology of Minions
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
From Harley Quinn to Kronk, Mr. Smee to the minions Bob (and Kevin and Stuart), Iago in Aladdin to Mario Bros' Goombas, minions have long held a special place in fans' hearts. They fight, they follow, they support villains (often with humor), but they are far more than just second fiddle. From comic books and fantasy epics to superhero films and animated series, minions are the hardworking henchpeople of some of the most beloved and hated villains. Dr. Keith W. Beard (professor, Marshall University), Dr. Britani Black (assistant professor, Marshall University), and Dr. April Fugett (professor, Marshall University), along with their graduate student minions Addison Guilliams, Hannah Estep, and Mallory Stanley, explore psychological themes that help explain why fans feel a connection to characters who sometimes even "steal" the show (see what they did there). There will probably most definitely not be a blueprint for how to encourage your own minions.
Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

8:15pm PDT

LUMPIA POP! Unwrapping Contemporary Filipino American Pop Culture
Friday July 24, 2026 8:15pm - 9:15pm PDT
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

8:30pm PDT

The Psychological Journey of The Lord of the Rings
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
The Lord of the Rings is an epic, high-fantasy tale that centers on fellowship, bravery, and good against evil. How does Frodo's resilience speak to our own capacity to persist when faced with despair? What does the One Ring symbolize? When did Saruman the Wise abandon reason for madness? How and why does fantasy storytelling improve mental health? Media psychologist Drea Letamendi, Ph.D. (The Arkham Sessions, UCLA), Miranda (host, Tolkien Tuesdays), and Todd Stashwick (actor, Marvel's VisionQuest; co-founder, ProgCore Fantasy) explore and explain the psychology of Middle-earth's riveting and unforgettable characters, both from the page and on screen. Moderated by Brian Ward (The Arkham Sessions).
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

8:30pm PDT

Christian Comic Arts Society Mixer
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm PDT
Presented by the Christian Comic Arts Society and Geeky Guys/Gals 4 God, this is the 18th annual mixer where Christian professionals in the pop culture community come together to discuss their faith and interact with attendees. Featuring Luis Serrano (Samson), Joe Queen (Geeky Guys/Gals 4 God), Christina Todd (Geeky Guys/Gals 4 God OC), Eric Jansen (God and Country Graphics), and Scott A. Shuford (FrontGate Media/moderator). There will be time for people to network and the always-popular geek quiz, with prizes. Guests, networking, and prize opportunities will be featured.
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 26AB

9:00pm PDT

Fourth Annual Ghostface's Killer Trivia
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
For the fourth year in a row, fans can match wits against Roger Jackson, the actual voice of Ghostface from the Scream franchise, as he shreds the crowd with horror trivia. Participants will need to be sharp as a knife to survive this year's contest and win prizes. As always, Matt Corrigan and Aaron McLane of the Launchpad Podcast will be on hand to hide under the table and make jokes.
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

9:00pm PDT

Great Geek Debate
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
From holiday movie controversies (Die Hard?) to fandom-defining rivalries (Star Wars versus Star Trek), GG4G Superfan panelists Brian Slape, Peyton Slape, Jason Wilkerson, Robert Lanuza, and Joe Queen lead a fast-paced, lighthearted, interactive debate tackling pop culture's most hotly contested questions. Panelists and audience weigh in to challenge each other's logic, with the emphasis on what makes fandom fun.
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 9

9:00pm PDT

Star Wars Trivia Party
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Teams compete in spirited rounds of Star Wars trivia, from the movies and TV series to charades. Hosts Richard Woloski and Sarah Woloski (Skywalking Through Neverland podcast; authors of So You Think You Know Star Wars: 50 Years of Trivia & Fun Facts) facilitate the fast-paced fun in the fourth annual "competition of chaos." No trivia expertise is required, and plenty of new Star Wars fun facts are likely to emerge along the way. Prizes.
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

9:00pm PDT

The Boys vs. Supernatural
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
How well do you know Eric Kripke's two biggest hits: Supernatural and The Boys? Can you name all the shared actors between the two shows? Did you catch every clever homage shared between the shows? Do you think one pulled off its finale better than the other? Host Sadie Witkowski (host of In Defense of Fandom podcast) pits Geekscape podcasters Matt Kelly (Weird Al-gorithm and One Hit Thunder podcasts), Eric Conner (Marvel Movie Talk podcast), and Joe Fejeran (Fright School and San Diego Pride podcasts) as "Team The Boys" against "SPN Family" members Meghan Fitzmartin (Supernatural season 15 writer), Berly Land (host of Denim-Wrapped Nightmares podcast), and Irena Chernova (self-described fanfic writer and meta dabbler) to see who knows these shows the best. Audience participation is highly encouraged, with cheers determining who wins each round.
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

9:00pm PDT

Friday Hall H and Ballroom 20 Panel Playback
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Didn't get into either Hall H or Ballroom 20 today? The pain is real. Do you like stuff? Of course you do! Motorcycle enthusiast Tommy Goldbach (programming coordinator for Comic-Con) hosts this block in which Comic-Con will rebroadcast some of the day's popular panels from those two giant rooms. Best of all, those in attendance will get to vote in a show of applause on what they want to see. It's democracy at its finest, and it's a second chance to see these panels. These things always run smoothly and flawlessly . . . (Please note: These playbacks will include only the panel discussions. No trailers or clips from films or TV shows will be shown.)
Friday July 24, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Room 23ABC
 
Saturday, July 25
 

10:00am PDT

Bob's Burgers
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Loren Bouchard (creator and executive producer), Bernard Derriman (supervising director), and cast members H. Jon Benjamin, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, Eugene Mirman, Dan Mintz, and Larry Murphy discuss the latest adventures of the Belcher family, share fan-favorite moments, and tease what is ahead for the Emmy Award–winning series.
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:45am PDT
Ballroom 20

10:00am PDT

Cultural Appropriation: How It Can Affect Cosplay
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Patricia A. Rabago (cosplayer), Rey Benavides (cosplayer), Ingrid Luedtke (cosplayer, actor), Lonnie Khanya Lucas (cosplayer), and Mercedes Silva (cosplayer) discuss cultural appropriation, how it can affect their choices in cosplay, and whether they've run into issues. Moderated by Colleen Kelly Burks (costumer, Cosplay First Aid).
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:00am PDT

Student Activism vs. Student Participation
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
In an ever-changing future that uses pop culture, comics, gaming, and more as essential learning tools, what is the best way for students to be involved? Does traditional education still work? How important is hands-on learning? There's a difference between having a seat and having a voice. Showing up is necessary, but is it sufficient? Educators who use comics, pop culture, and gaming in classrooms—including Dr. Chris Wildrick (Syracuse University), Dr. Christina Knopf (SUNY Cortland), Dr. Billy Obenauer (University of Maine), Krista Rozanski (Syracuse Libraries), Darlynne Overbaugh (First Congregational Church), and Bailey Day (Ithaca College)—discuss the challenges of teaching for an ever-changing future. Moderated by Ed Catto (Ithaca College).
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

10:00am PDT

A Look Back at Comic-Con's Early Years
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
A look back at Comic-Con's early years through the memories of those who were there and never-before-seen video. Panelists include moderator and host Scott Smith (electronic publicist; creator of Comic-Con CCTV), co-moderator Anthony Keith, Clayton Moore (original on-air host for Comic-Con TV), Gabriel Wisdom (early Masquerade host, local radio personality), and David Clark (founding member). The panel will feature video from an early Masquerade, including Brinke Stevens' "Funeral for a Friend" performance, The Rocketeer creator Dave Stevens, George Clayton Johnson, Joe Kubert, filmmaker George Pal, and June Foray, along with stories from the original creators of the Con TV experience.

Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:00am PDT

Dark Horse: Star-Powered Storytelling
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Emmy and Grammy Award-winning comedian, actor, and writer Patton Oswalt and fellow actor David Dastmalchian started out playing fan-favorite characters in beloved films and television, but now they have turned to creating the newest fan-favorite characters in their creator-owned comics. Together with showrunner and writer Jordan Blum and their comics co-creators, they discuss building stories like Minor Threats, Witness Point, American Caper, The Guy in the Chair, Count Crowley, and Kingdom of Earth, what it is like juggling writing duties with their co-creators, what they love most about the medium, and more. Moderated by Ben Blacker (Thrilling Adventure Hour).
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 23ABC

10:30am PDT

The Ringer-Verse's 2026 Franchise Power Rankings
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
The Ringer-Verse crew—House of R's Joanna Robinson and Mallory Rubin and The Midnight Boys' Van Lathan, Charles Holmes, Jomi Adeniran, and Steve Ahlman—debates which franchises at the center of nerd culture have dominated the year. From the DCU to the MCU, Game of Thrones to Star Wars, who is winning 2026? And with major releases like Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Dune: Part Three still to come, what could change?
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 5AB

10:30am PDT

Comic Book Law School® 303: Trademark Parody Limitations, Taylor Swift and Showgirls, A.I. Updates, and Other Hot Topics
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
For the third (and final) panel of this year's Comic Book Law School® series, a group of distinguished legal experts sheds light on some of the complex issues facing creators and businesses, with an eye to the most current and important legal issues from the past year and how they apply to comics and the pop-culture scene. Noted attorney Michael Lovitz (author of the classic The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book) moderates a panel of legal eagles—law professors Betsy Rosenblatt, Lisa Ramsey, and Marc Greenberg, and IP attorneys David Lizerbram and David Branfman—in a discussion focused on real-world issues of importance to fans, creators, and legal professionals. The panel shares insights and knowledge, and provides practical advice, concerning recent updates relating to intellectual property law, impactful court decisions, and how new technologies aid, or impinge on, the rights of creators and those who hire creative individuals. This year's topics are expected to include First Amendment limits for trademark parodies, updates on recent trademark disputes and decisions, and insights into new cases involving artificial intelligence, plus best practices for incorporating A.I. in the creative process and related ethical issues for legal practitioners. Please note: The Comic Book Law School® seminars are designed to provide relevant information and insights to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. [This program is approved for 1.5 credits of California MCLE.]
Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 11

11:00am PDT

Futurama
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
"It's the wildest Futurama panel since ever."Futurama returns weekly starting August 3 on Hulu with 10 splat-tacular new episodes, and the panel includes world-premiere footage presented by Matt Groening with head writer David X. Cohen, executive producers Claudia Katz and Ken Keeler, moderator Lee Supercinski, and cast members Billy West, John DiMaggio, Lauren Tom, Phil LaMarr, David Herman, and Maurice LaMarche.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 11:45am PDT
Ballroom 20

11:00am PDT

Black Dog and Leventhal's Spider-Man Total Universe Panel
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Patrick A. Reed (pop culture historian and curator) is joined by Spider-Man artists and writers to discuss the rich comic book history of Spider-Man across six decades, inspired by Reed's upcoming book Spider-Man Total Universe.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

11:00am PDT

Cosplay Hacking
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Do you hack together costumes on a hope and a prayer? Or are you perhaps a recovering perfectionist trying to embrace the "perfect is the enemy of good" philosophy? Whether attendees are just starting out or are a seasoned cosplayer/costumer, this panel might be for you. SheProp returns with its popular panel on creating amazing cosplays on a budget, getting creative with unexpected materials, and making sustainable crafting choices. The panel covers garment hacking, kitbashing, modular cosplays, thrifting, and other creative costuming practices. Bring questions for a dedicated Q&A section. Panelists: Lacey Bond, Tema Time, Malis Vitterfolk, and Koriel Creations.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

11:00am PDT

Next Stages of Movie and Theater Evolution
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
With the rise of social media, streaming services, and easy access to the internet, movies and the theaters that show them have struggled to find a place with newer audiences. Panelists discuss what the moviegoing experience looks like now, how theaters may evolve to survive in the current climate, new film formats emerging in social media spaces, which concepts have become obsolete, and how theaters are reshaping promotions to offer new value to new demographics. Derick McDuff (host, Underrated Movie Podcast) appears with Tricia Aurand (award-winning screenwriter and podcast host), Alix Catherine (podcast and livestream host, The Welcome Party), Becky D'Anna (movie studio marketing veteran; podcast host, Hanging with Becky), Andrew Linde (podcast host, Nothing New: A Remake Podcast), and Law Sharma (actor and entertainment journalist).
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

11:15am PDT

Avatar Origins: ATLA Legacy and Future
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
For over a decade, the Avatar fan panel has been a cornerstone of the SDCC experience for Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra fans. Hosted by Kimberly Ezeama (Avatar Origins) and Nadar Scott (Avatar Origins), this revival continues the tradition with a panel created by fans, for fans, celebrating the franchise's impact through conversations with series professionals and community voices, including Sigung Manuel Rodriguez (technical advisor and choreographer for Toph), Sifu Joshua Rodriguez (martial arts instructor), Karsin Gowdy (ATLA ultra-fan), DJ Welsh (animator and artist), and Ariirin (ATLA cosplayer). Programming includes discussion of the show's enduring philosophy, trivia, a cosplay contest with prizes, and a look at the future from the fans' perspective.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Room 6A

11:15am PDT

DC's Metropolis and Beyond
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Top DC creators gather for a conversation about Superman, the next phase of DC's All In comics, and what is on the horizon for the heroes who soar far beyond Metropolis. Featuring Joshua Williamson (Superman), Mark Waid (Action Comics, Justice League Unlimited), Tom King (Wonder Woman), Stephanie Williams (Wonder War: The Matriarch, Warriors and a Wee Wonder), Jeremy Adams (Green Lantern, Emperor Aquaman), Morgan Hampton (Green Lantern Corps), Nicole Maines (Justice League: Dream Girls), and more. Moderated by Paul Kaminski (group editor, DC).
Special Guests
avatar for Stephanie Williams

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 →
avatar for Mark Waid

Mark Waid

Comic-Con Special Guest
Over the course of his four decades in the comic book industry, New York Times bestselling author Mark Waid has developed characters and written stories for Batman, Superman, Spider-Man, The Avengers, X-Men, Archie, Star Wars, The Incredibles, Fantastic Four, Wonder Woman, Daredevil, Captain America, and almost every other franchise currently enjoying success... Read More →
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Room 6DE

11:15am PDT

Concert Heroes: Film, Comedy, and Rock 'n' Roll!
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
"Real rock stars face the stage!" Concert fandom takes center stage in Concert Heroes, a fast-paced comedy filmed entirely in San Diego. Starring Chris Kattan (Saturday Night Live, A Night at the Roxbury), the film celebrates the passion, chaos, and community of live music culture. Cast members E. G. Daily (Pee-Wee's Big Adventure), Robert Romanus (Fast Times at Ridgemont High), Eddie McClintock (Warehouse 13), Carolyn Hennesy (Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker), Chad Wolf (Carolina Liar), and Ryan Ochoa (Pair of Kings)—along with writer/producer Steven Mark (The Samuel Project), director Joseph A Nunez (Superbad), and music from pop-rock band Carolina Liar—share a behind-the-scenes look at bringing this indie feature to life. The panel includes stories from the set, a look at the filmmaking process, exclusive clips, and the world-premiere trailer. Moderated by San Diego actor and filmmaker Mark Atkinson (Selena: The Series), followed by audience Q&A.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

11:30am PDT

What's Next from WEBTOON Entertainment
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
WEBTOON editors, executives, and creators share announcements, first looks, and behind-the-scenes insights into upcoming projects across WEBTOON Entertainment. From breakout webcomics and graphic novels to adaptations and new platform initiatives, the session spotlights stories and creators shaping the future of comics and entertainment.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

11:45am PDT

The Simpsons
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm PDT
The Simpsons returns to Comic-Con for its "one millionth" time! Matt Groening is joined onstage by writers, animators, and top-secret special guests for a celebration in Ballroom 20. To mark the occasion, The Simpsons presents an exclusive world-premiere sneak preview of a chilling new story that challenges everything you thought you knew about Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Maggie, and Barney.
Saturday July 25, 2026 11:45am - 12:30pm PDT
Ballroom 20

12:00pm PDT

Blade Runner Comics: The Tokyo Nexus Saga
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
This spotlight on the Tokyo Nexus comics saga with Jeff Conner (Alcon director of publishing) includes special video appearances from Nancy Collins (writer) and Mariano Taibo (artist), and David Leach (Blade Runner comics editor). The panel explores the expanding universe of Blade Runner comics with updates on current and upcoming series, including a first look at Blade Runner: Black Lotus: Underbelly. Moderated by Andrew Sumner (Forbidden Planet TV).
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 4

12:00pm PDT

Crowns: Honoring the Beauty of Black Girls and Femmes in the Comics and Pop Culture Space
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
This panel celebrates the accomplishments and moves in pop culture in the past year and looks ahead at favorite Black women and femme creators on the horizon. FeaturingRegine Sawyer (Women in Comics, founder), Marqueeda LaStar (WinC, BlerdGalaxy Magazine), Jonita Davis (The Black Cape Magazine), Dr. Robyn Warren (Geek Girl Strong), and M'Shai S. Dash (Emmettopia Comics). Moderated by Simone Bradshaw (Knights Tale Romance series).
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

12:00pm PDT

From Playlists to Panels: Pop Culture in the ELA Classroom
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Austin Bruns (Ánimo Leadership Charter High School) shares how he transforms students' existing engagement with pop culture into rigorous, purposeful learning. From song lyrics to graphic novels, he leverages cultural relevance and student interest as a gateway to critical thinking, close reading, meaningful analysis, and creative production.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

12:00pm PDT

You Got Comics in My Games. You Got Games in My Comics.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The intersection of comics and games, from adaptations to how fans interact with favorite characters, is a frequent topic of debate in pop culture. Panelists discuss perspectives on cross-media fandom and storytelling across formats. Featuring James Sanderson (OverPower TCG), Tim Shields (Cascade Games), Hannibal Tabu (MPLS Sound, The Sundering), Amin Amat (Road to Oz), and Joelle Sellner (Teen Titans, DC Superhero Girls). Moderated by Rick Hernandez.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

12:00pm PDT

Societal Storytelling: Fandom's Activist Role in Evolving Culture
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Kristy Strouse (founder, Film Inquiry; RT Critic), Chris Gore (founder, FilmThreat), Craig Ouellette (Straight One Till Morning), Bonnie Tyer (The Past Is Ever Buried), and Ben Yennie (Disrupt Entertainment; Tim Travers and the Time Traveler's Paradox) discuss how movies, media, and books can do more than entertain, but help shift culture and create a better society. Power to the fans. Discussion moderated by Alain Diaz (Up Your Nerd Crew Podcast).
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

12:30pm PDT

Building the Media Company of Tomorrow
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Moderated by Adhrucia Apana (Curiosity Entertainment; filmmaker, founder), panelists Igor Mijavec (senior vice president, strategy and business development at NBCUniversal), Charles Allen (Storyteller Media; publisher, founder), Matthew Medney (Gungnir Books; publisher, founder), and Jason Neese (director, executive producer, The Umbrella Academy) tackle the business of transmedia storytelling: sourcing original IP, spotting franchise potential early, and structuring shared-ownership partnerships that align creators, publishers, and producers around stories audiences love. A Q&A follows.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

12:30pm PDT

Comic Books for the Blind
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Scott Brick (Audible Hall of Fame narrator, the Dune saga, Blade Runner), blind martial artist and competitive surfer Joshua Loya, Roy Samuelson (audio description performer, The Last of Us, House of the Dragon), and Chad Allen (creator of the audio comic Unseen, who also happens to be blind) discuss the ways in which blind and low-vision comic book fans can enjoy every aspect of geek culture.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 3

12:30pm PDT

DC's Absolute Universe
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Award-winning writers and artists behind DC's Absolute line discuss the fan-favorite comics and how these stories are crafted. The panel includes early hints about the justice closing in on Absolute Batman, Absolute Wonder Woman, and the rest of the Absolute cast. Featuring Scott Snyder (Absolute Batman), Nick Dragotta (Absolute Batman), Hayden Sherman (Absolute Wonder Woman), Jeff Lemire (Absolute Flash), Che Grayson (Absolute Catwoman), Pornsak Pichetshote (Absolute Green Arrow), Rafael Albuquerque (Absolute Green Arrow), and others. Moderated by Katie Kubert (group editor, DC) and Andrew Marino (senior editor, DC).
Special Guests
avatar for Pornsak Pichetshote

Pornsak Pichetshote

Booth #4901, Comic-Con Special Guest
Pornsak Pichetshote is an award-winning Thai American writer of comics and television. Beginning as an editor for DC's Vertigo imprint, he then oversaw DC Entertainment’s TV's department, spearheading The CW’s Arrowverse. As a comics writer, he is known for Infidel, which was... Read More →
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

12:30pm PDT

Star Trek Universe
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm PDT
The cast and executive producers of the Paramount+ original series Star Trek: Strange New Worlds share a look at what is ahead, alongside a celebration of Star Trek's 60th anniversary featuring iconic talent from across the franchise. Exclusive footage, major reveals, surprise appearances, and memorable moments are planned to celebrate six decades of boldly going where no one has gone before. Scheduled to appear from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds are Anson Mount, Rebecca Romijn, Ethan Peck, Christina Chong, Celia Rose Gooding, Melissa Navia, and Paul Wesley, alongside executive producers Akiva Goldsman, Henry Alonso Myers, and Alex Kurtzman. The franchise's 60th anniversary celebration will also feature a special intro from Eugene "Rod" Roddenberry and a panel with iconic cast members spanning the Star Trek universe, including Michael Dorn, Robert Picardo, Connor Trinneer, Cirroc Lofton, Doug Jones, Michelle Hurd, Jerry O'Connell, Christina Chong, Karim Diané, and the legendary George Takei.
Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 1:45pm PDT
Hall H

1:00pm PDT

To You, Your X-Pod: A Live X-Men '97 Fan Experience
Saturday July 25, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
X-Men '97 is back. Grammy Award nominee Mega Ran (Black Materia, Buddy's Magic Tree House) and his partner Marcos Rivas join a special group of guests for an interactive fan panel exploring what makes X-Men '97 so great, including the lore, the theories, and more. Cosplay is encouraged.
Saturday July 25, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1:30pm PDT

Neon Ichiban: Welcome to the Future of Digital Comics
Saturday July 25, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Neon Ichiban 2.5 is the next evolution of digital comics and manga. One year after David Steinberger and Chip Mosher unveiled Neon Ichiban, this panel offers an exclusive first look at what's next. Featuring Dark Horse Comics, DC, DSTLRY, Kodansha, Marvel Comics, Oni Press, Rebellion, Vault Comics, and more, the panel explores Neon Ichiban 2.5 and the latest innovations shaping the future of digital comics and manga. From same-day releases and resellable digital comics to limited digital collectibles and groundbreaking remarques technology, where creators can sign and sketch directly on digital issues, Neon Ichiban is redefining how fans read, collect, and connect. For fans of comics, manga, and the future of fandom, this is the panel. Moderated by Chris Ross, head of remarques at Neon Ichiban.
Saturday July 25, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

2:00pm PDT

Last Man Standing
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Former industry leaders Paul Levitz (DC Comics), Mike Richardson (Dark Horse), Ross Richie (BOOM! Studios), Terry Nantier (NBM), Dean Mullaney (Eclipse), and maybe some surprise guests discuss what it's like to run a comic company and to reflect on it after getting up from that desk. Moderated by one of the last men standing running a comics publisher for decades, Gary Groth (Fantagraphics).
Special Guests
avatar for Paul Levitz

Paul Levitz

Comic-Con Special Guest
Paul Levitz has been a comics fan (The Comic Reader), editor (Batman), writer (Legion of Super-Heroes), executive (decades at DC Comics, ending as president & publisher), historian (Will Eisner: Champion of the Graphic Novel) and now teacher of subjects related to comics and tra... Read More →
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

2:00pm PDT

Building a Pop Culture Podcast
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
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

2:00pm PDT

Fans Assemble for Marvel Causeplay
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Marvel costume fans from Avengers Initiative, a national volunteer nonprofit group, discuss how to get started in cosplay and how to use costuming to give back through community service events with event partners. Mark Chu-Lin (Avengers Initiative head commanding officer) moderates, with Kato Trooper (Avengers Initiative head executive officer), Kate Tidwell (executive officer, West Coast Avengers of California), Kristin Erickson (licensed marriage and family therapist), Adriana Shrem (parent of UC Irvine Health Burn Center program recipient), James Fegan (A-1 Comics communications officer), Kimberly Yong (content distributor), and Robert Torres (photographer).
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

2:30pm PDT

Comixology: Sci-Fi Comics and Beyond
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Emmy Award–winning writer/producer Marc Guggenheim (The Whisper War, Leviathan Freedom, Star Wars), writer/editor Paul Cornell (Salvation's Child, Doctor Who), celebrity baker and comics writer Kim-Joy (Turtle Bread, Ordinary Joy), writer Frank Barbiere (Zero Instance, Astonishing Times), writer Stephen Rhodes (Zero Instance), and writer Omar Morales (Major Thomás) discuss the best in science fiction and their newest comics featuring advanced technology, space travel, dystopian societies, gaming gone wild, and why these concepts are so fun to play with. Moderated by Ernie Estrella (journalist).
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

2:30pm PDT

Women on the Dark Side
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
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
avatar for Stephanie Williams

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

2:45pm PDT

Designing Games in Middle-earth
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
The Lord of the Rings has defined "fantasy" for generations. But creating a game in a generic fantasy world is different from creating a game set in Middle-earth—a place with rich themes, a well-known and specific history, beloved characters, and an audience of experts. This panel explores the unique challenges creators must overcome as they strive to deliver the best possible gaming experience to fans, whether digital or tabletop. Moderated by Luke Peterschmidt (head of category management, Asmodee).
Saturday July 25, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room 6BCF

3:00pm PDT

Batdriven West: Batman '66 to Life on the Road
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Karen Whitfield (Bronze Age Batgirl; author, Batdriven West) and Athena Finger (granddaughter of Bill Finger; heiress to the Dark Knight) discuss life on the road with the original Caped Crusaders, Adam West and Burt Ward. The panel includes a Q&A.
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

3:00pm PDT

Conan the Barbarian: Tides of the Tyrant-King
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Crom doesn't care about you. Titan Comics and Heroic Signatures present updates and reveals from the world of Conan with award-winning writer Jim Zub, editor Chris Butera, and others discussing Conan the Barbarian, the new miniseries Tides of the Tyrant-King, and Savage Sword of Conan. The session also includes a creative team announcement and a first look at the long-awaited Kull comic. Moderated by Andrew Sumner (Forbidden Planet TV).
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

3:00pm PDT

Mad Rewind: Talking About Mad TV
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Mo Collins, Orlando Jones, Phil LaMarr, Michael McDonald, Nicole Sullivan, Debra Wilson, and Blaine Capatch discuss the late-night comedy classic Mad TV and behind-the-scenes stories, followed by a Q&A. Moderated by Brandee Stilwell (host of Mad Rewind Podcast).
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

3:00pm PDT

Marvel Fanfare
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
A behind-the-scenes look at House of Ideas storytelling, featuring insider insights and rarely shared comic book anecdotes from both upcoming and past projects. This panel explores the history of fan-favorite Marvel Comics storylines in a program built for fans, by fans. Attendees who remain until the end will receive an exclusive giveaway comic book.
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 6A

3:00pm PDT

Scott Shaw!'s Oddball Comics Live
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
Scott Shaw! uses a new laptop to quickly access his various Oddball Comics program themes, leaving it up to the usually packed audience to determine which one will be featured in his annual funnybook cheesefest. News on his upcoming Oddball Comics book from TwoMorrows will be included.
Special Guests
avatar for Scott Shaw!

Scott Shaw!

Table I-08, Comic-Con Special Guest
For well over half a century, Scott Shaw! has worked on underground comix, mainstream comics, cartoon shows, and advertisements for TV and print. His credits include DC Comics’ Captain Carrot and His Amazing Zoo Crew, Sonic the Hedgehog, the Cocoa/Fruity Pebbles commercials on... Read More →
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 7AB

3:30pm PDT

Image Comics: The New Wave of Comics Storytelling, Character, and Talent
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Franklin Jonas (Fireborn), Maytal Zchut (Sisterhood: A Hyde Street Story), Lamont Magee (Surprise Announcement), Brett Bean (D'Orc), and GMB Chomichuk (The Eye Collector) discuss what it is like bringing new comics to market and creating comics that fans connect with. Moderated by Jim Viscardi.
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

3:30pm PDT

Neon Ichiban: The Future With Digital Remarques
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Step into the next evolution of digital comics, where fandom meets creation. Neon Ichiban co-founders David Steinberger and Chip Mosher explore Digital Remarques, a groundbreaking feature that allows creators to sign and sketch directly onto digital comics, transforming every issue into a one-of-a-kind collectible. By bringing the convention experience online, Digital Remarques creates new revenue streams for creators while giving fans direct access to original, personalized art from their favorite talent. Featuring DSTLRY variant cover artist and Witness Point co-creator Soo Lee, this panel offers an inside look at how Neon Ichiban is reimagining fan/creator engagement and the future of digital comics. Artists’ Alley anytime, anywhere—this is what's next. Moderated by Chris Ross, head of remarques at Neon Ichiban.
Saturday July 25, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

4:00pm PDT

Beyond the Mainstream: Literary Manga, Manhwa, and Manhua
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Editors and publishers from Kana (Abrams), Takumigraphics (Fantagraphics), Drawn & Quarterly, and Kazé (HarperCollins) discuss the growing audience for literary manga, manhwa, and manhua. The panel explores how publishers discover new projects, work with creators and translators, and connect acclaimed Japanese manga, Korean manhwa, and Chinese manhua with English-language readers. Panelists also discuss how these works fit within the broader comics landscape and why they continue to reach new audiences.
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

4:00pm PDT

Bringing Star Wars Zero Company to Life: Meet the Cast Behind the Highly Anticipated Tactical Star Wars Game
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
The voice cast and developers of Star Wars Zero Company, the anticipated turn-based tactics game, offer an in-depth look at the ragtag group of operatives and immersive storytelling driving this Clone Wars–era narrative. The panel explores how the team brings authenticity and emotional depth to an original story and to their uniquely authored characters as events unfold in the Star Wars galaxy. The cast will discuss their approach to performance, collaboration with the development team, and how their work helps shape a cinematic, character-driven experience that extends beyond traditional tactics gameplay. Along with the game's developers, the panel will go in-depth on the game's story, highlighting the cinematics and high-quality story that push the tactics genre forward, creating a more approachable experience for broader Star Wars fans as well as delivering deep tactics gameplay for strategy gamers. Additionally, panelists will give attendees an extended look at the story and how these operatives must learn to work together to overcome nearly impossible odds.
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 6BCF

4:00pm PDT

Parillo and Cohen Live: From Aftermarket Demand to Career-Defining Covers with CovrPrice
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
CovrPrice.com hosts a live interview with Lucio Parrillo and Carla Cohen, two cover artists shaping today's comic market. The discussion breaks down the covers collectors are chasing, the stories behind them, and what transforms great art into modern grails. Giveaway: Attendees receive a free, exclusive Parrillo & Cohen lanyard (limited to 300).
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

4:00pm PDT

The Future of TwoMorrows Publishing
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
John Morrow reveals TwoMorrows Publishing's plans for the future and looks back at the company's more than three decades in business. In addition to getting the scoop on his 100th issue of The Jack Kirby Collector (the publication that started it all), featured panelists include Kevin Miller (author of The Crisis Companion, debuting at Comic-Con), Keith Dallas (who will give the scoop on not one, but two upcoming American Comic Book Chronicles volumes), Peter Bosch (author of the company's American Movie/TV Comics books), Greg Biga (author of a top-secret upcoming TwoMorrows book that will be revealed at the panel), and Ed Catto (editor of RetroFan magazine).
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

4:00pm PDT

Trek Marry Kill Live!
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
The only podcast in the universe brave enough to judge episodes of Star Trek boldly goes live at Comic-Con with hosts Bryan Murphy and Kristen Ray, along with actor/comedian Katie Hampton and Shereese Alexander (The TNG Podcast).
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

4:00pm PDT

The Dungeon Run's Flagship D&D Campaign Live
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT
The cast of The Dungeon Run brings The Stormborn, its long-running saga of unlikely heroes and divine destiny, to a live audience for the first time. The show is interactive, with audience participation throughout.
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

4:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
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

4:15pm PDT

Inside Season 2 of TNT's The Librarians: The Next Chapter
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
The stars of TNT's hit fantasy series The Librarians: The Next Chapter, including Callum McGowan (Jamestown), Jessica Green (The Outpost), Olivia Morris (Hotel Portofino), and Bluey Robinson (Britannia), along with series showrunner and executive producer Dean Devlin, share insider stories from the set and exclusive details from the upcoming season, along with a special sneak preview of the adventures ahead. Moderated by Josh Gates (Expedition Unknown), with Christian Kane (Leverage) and Lindy Booth (Dawn of the Dead) joining to discuss returning to the franchise and reprising their fan-favorite roles.
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

4:30pm PDT

Transformers and G.I. Joe: The Energon Universe Is Unstoppable
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
The next phase of the Energon Universe is here. Robert Kirkman (Void Rivals, Transformers), Joshua Williamson (G.I. Joe), Conor Hughes (Void Rivals), and Sean Mackiewicz (SVP/publisher, Skybound) reveal what is next for Skybound and Hasbro's shared universe featuring Transformers, G.I. Joe, Void Rivals, and M.A.S.K. Moderated by Arune Singh (VP, brand, Skybound).
Saturday July 25, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

5:00pm PDT

Dread the Hall H 2026: More (Fictional) Comic Convention Horror Stories
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Everyone has experienced the joy and anguish of trying to get into an oversold panel, and the comic spotlighting those highlights and horrors returns for its annual celebration of both. Dread the Hall H co-creators and writers Chris Ryall and Jordan Hart, along with cover artist Maria Wolf and interior artist Chris Anderson, share spirited convention stories, both real and fictional, in celebration of comic conventions in general and their new horror anthology in particular. Attendees receive a free, one-of-a-kind Dread the Hall H enamel pin.
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

5:30pm PDT

Collider Ladies Night with Perri Nemiroff
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Collider Ladies Night returns to SDCC to spotlight female voices in Hollywood through an in-depth conversation with behind-the-scenes insights. Collider's Perri Nemiroff (senior producer at Collider; press award winner) sits down with Poorna Jagannathan (Lanterns), Lana Condor (Acme vs. Coyote), Aimee Garcia (Walking Dead: Dead City), Jessica Henwick (Silo), and other panelists to discuss their paths in Hollywood and tease upcoming projects.
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

5:30pm PDT

Crowdfunding in Today's Economy
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Crowdfunding specialists Jordan Plosky (co-founder and CEO, Zoop/Dooz) and Eric Moss (co-founder and COO, Zoop/Dooz) discuss the latest in the world of crowdfunding. From rising shipping costs to content restrictions, this is a panel to learn more about what's going on. They are joined by the legendary Stan Sakai (Usagi Yojimbo) and Dave Dorman (Star Wars, Aliens) to share experiences, tips, and stories from their time in the crowdfunding space.
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 7AB

5:30pm PDT

1980s Comic-Con Lost Videos Part III: The Trilogy
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Digitized Betamax tapes gifted to the Comic-Con Archives by Greg Koudoulian to David Glanzer (Comic-Con International chief communications and strategy officer) anchor this screening and discussion of rarely seen Comic-Con TV footage from the early 1980s. Highlights include 1982 interviews with Jack Kirby and George Clayton Johnson; Sergio Aragonés (MAD magazine) onstage (including a dance); Comic-Con history as told by Shel Dorf; a "Marvel vs. DC" game show featuring Joe Kubert, Paul Levitz, and others; Masquerade clips hosted by Gary Owens; and Inkpot Awards footage, including the awards' origins, plus appearances by Dave Stevens, Archie Goodwin, Richard Kyle, and more. The program also includes an exclusive mystery clip.
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

5:30pm PDT

From Indies to Blockbusters: The Storytelling Power of Diversity
Saturday July 25, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
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

Comixology: For the Fear of Comics
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Why do people love to be scared? Actor Thomas Jane (creator of the Eisner Award–nominated series The Lycan), Michael Conrad (writer of the upcoming graphic novel The 99 Legs and more), Tula Lotay (artist of the acclaimed miniseries Groupies), Lee Loughridge (writer of The Adequates and Midstate), and Frank Barbiere (writer of Zero Instance)discuss their craft, high-stakes suspense, supernatural thrills, and slasher- and giallo-inspired horrors. Moderated by Jonathan James (Daily Dead).
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

6:00pm PDT

Frazetta's Fiercest Females: Space Vampires, Cave Girls, and Egyptian Queens
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Fantasy art grandmaster Frank Frazetta (1928–2010) inspired creators and electrified fans with depictions of strong, confident heroines. How does that vision resonate in the fan culture of the 2020s? Creator-entrepreneur Sara Frazetta (FrazettaGirls), actress and cosplay superstar Erica Fett, artist Sozo Maika, and art industry specialist and podcaster Taffeta Darling (formerly at Heritage Auctions) offer new, PG-rated perspectives on Frank Frazetta's body of work. Moderated by Rob Salkowitz (Forbes).
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 9

6:00pm PDT

Salaam Fandom! Anime, Manga, and Islam
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Anime and manga feature various worlds and cultures, including ones that reflect Muslim societies. This panel explores these fandoms in Muslim communities around the world. Podcaster Tobi Yusuf (Religiously Nerdy), Pokémon Master Awesome Adam, cosplayer Helalipop, rapper Rasheed Chappell, and gamer Jasmin Joestar discuss representations of Islam in anime and manga. Moderated by comics editor, writer, and scholar Dr. Shamika Mitchell (State University of New York, Rockland Community College/Women in Comics).
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

6:00pm PDT

We Are All Superfans
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Superfan Podcast features comics creators discussing the things they love that are not comics. Co-hosts Christian Gossett (story artist, Eyes of Wakanda), Kristen Simon (executive editor, Mad Cave Studios, Nakama Press), and David Hyde (owner, Superfan Promotions) appear with Jordan Morris (Web of Venom), Soo Lee (Witness Point), and Samuel Sattin (Unico) for a candid conversation about what they are superfans of, along with surprises.
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

6:00pm PDT

Mad Maze of the Murder Mage 4: The Legends of the Zodiac
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:45pm PDT
9th Level Games returns for the fourth year with its Mazes Fantasy Roleplaying audience-participation actual play show. In years past, audience members have taken on the roles of solo adventurers facing the deadliest, most insane fantasy dungeons. This year, they become the Legends of the Zodiac, wielding power and magic beyond the ken of mortals—and yet, they're still going to die, perhaps more epically, but just as often, as the audience tries to ascend the Endless Tower of the Star of Death to defeat Nephran-Ka, the Black Pharaoh. No experience necessary.
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:00pm - 7:45pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom ABC, 4th Floor

6:30pm PDT

The Unsung Heroes of Superhero Films
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
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

6:45pm PDT

The Tiny Chef Show Rides Again
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
Tiny Chef has had a huge year, from a nonstop stream of online content to the acclaimed Tiny Chef, Big Impact exhibition at the California Academy of Sciences and his historic election as mayor of Pioneertown. But Chef may be cooking up his biggest adventure yet. The Tiny Chef Show co-creators Rachel Larsen, Ozi Akturk, and Jason Kolowski, alongside Matt Hutchinson (the voice of Tiny Chef), offer an inside look at the creative world behind everyone's favorite diminutive culinary genius. Behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive updates, and a major announcement about what's next for Chef will be featured. Moderated by Gary Miereanu, the panel will also feature audience Q&A and limited-edition prizes for the best questions. Longtime fans and those new to Chef's world will be in the room when the next chapter of The Tiny Chef Show is revealed. All panel attendees will receive an exclusive 2026 Comic-Con Tiny Chef poster.
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront

6:45pm PDT

X-Men Fandom Panel
Saturday July 25, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
Season 2 of X-Men '97 is upon us, and the annual X-Men Fandom Panel returns to celebrate all things X-Men. Cast members Lenore Zann (Rogue), Holly Chou (Jubilee), Gui Agustini (Sunspot), and Carolina Ravassa (Polaris) will appear alongside the composers of X-Men '97, The Newton Brothers. Surprise appearances and freebies from Hasbro, Entertainment Earth, Agoro, and more will be featured. X-Men fans won't want to miss this panel moderated by Chandler Poling and Chris Riley of Giant-Size Productions, producers of The Uncanny Experience, the ultimate immersive X-Men fan event.

Saturday July 25, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
Room 6DE

7:00pm PDT

Did Drop Culture Break Comics?
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
First, it came for shoes. Then NFTs. Now it is comics. Drop culture has arrived, and it is reshaping how comics are marketed, sold, and collected in real time. Who actually brought this playbook into comics? More important, what parts of this model are sustainable, and what is already burning out your audience? From limited variants to live selling, this panel offers a tactical look at what works, what fails, and how to use drop culture as a tool instead of letting it use you. Led by Atom Freeman (publisher, COMICS! The Magazine), DJ Coffman (VeeFriends), Bryan McClay (Beyond Wednesdays), and other experts, the panel comes from the front lines of launches, campaigns, and retail, where hype meets reality and only one of them pays the bills.
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

7:00pm PDT

Spiritual Themes in Comics
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Spiritual themes continue to be an essential component in comics, television, and movies, with series like Avatar: Fire and Ash, Ironheart, and Win or Lose all having spiritual themes as an important element in their stories. Russell Dalton (professor), Casey Robin (illustrator), Travis Hanson (Beanleaf Press), Alesha Escobar (author), Justin Martin (professor), Ralph Miley (CCAS), Leo Partible (filmmaker), and Kyle Keene (moderator) will discuss the importance of spiritual themes in storytelling and the future of these themes as they are interwoven in culture and creative expression.
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

7:30pm PDT

Why Immersive Worlds Work (and Why Some Don't)
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Why do some immersive experiences transport you completely while others fall flat within minutes? The panel explores the key ingredients that make immersive environments successful, from narrative clarity and spatial design to guest psychology and attention to detail. Featuring Bonnie Hallman (creative director, Mycotoo), Josh Steadman (senior director of experience design, Space Center Houston), Kathrynn Di Genova (executive producer, Disney Live Entertainment), and Andy Di Genova (senior producer, Walt Disney Imagineering), and moderated by Camille Falciola (From Page To Park).
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

7:30pm PDT

Star Trek's Future in a Time of Flux
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
It’s party time for Star Trek's 60th—right in the middle of an inflection point: New owners, evolving audiences, and media platforms in flux. Never has the outside world had as much to do with Star Trek's future as now, it seems—and can traditional genre franchises even survive in today's landscape? Moderator Larry "Dr. Trek" Nemecek (The Trek Files, The Con of Wrath) will brainstorm with a panel of "pro fans" coming from all industry sectors as to just what future Trek storytelling might look like and arrive as. Featuring Ben Betts (supervising engineer, Star Trek: Voyager through Star Trek: Picard), John Champion (producer-host, Roddenberry Podcasts' Mission Log), Dan Hageman (writer-executive producer, Star Trek: Prodigy), Liz Kloczkowski (S2-3 art director and 1701-D bridge hero, Star Trek: Picard), Amber Michaëlle Maher (video assist engineer, Star Trek: Picard), Aviel Mann Ballo (writer assistant, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy), and Steve Welke (producer,Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Enterprise).
Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 7AB

8:00pm PDT

Frankenstein: VFX in Guillermo del Toro's Vision
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
An in-depth look at the creative and technical process behind more than two hours of visual effects for Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein. Dennis Berardi (overall VFX supervisor; founder, MR. X; The Shape of Water, Nightmare Alley), Stacey Dodge (VFX producer; Comandante, Painkiller), Ayo Burgess (MR. X VFX supervisor; The Boys, The Deliverance), Ivan Busquets (Industrial Light & Magic VFX supervisor; Michael, The Irishman), and David Roby (MR. X CG supervisor; Nightmare Alley, Guillermo del Toro's Cabinet of Curiosities) discuss the work. Moderated by Mark Peikert (founder, Meet Me at Crafty).
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

8:00pm PDT

Villains Do It Better
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
From fandoms to books, there's something incomprehensibly alluring about the dark, morally gray, or deadly that makes a girl want to go bad. (I'm looking at you, Predator.) Readers are falling for the bad guy in bold numbers these days, but crafting a villain worth rooting for takes effort. Authors Abigail Owen (Games Gods Play), Addie Thorley (Burn the Kingdom Down), Amalie Howard (Queen of the Night Sky), Christine Ma-Kellams (The Band; associate professor of psychology, San José State University), Jayci Lee (Nine Tailed), and Sajni Patel (A Drop of Venom) discuss what truly draws attention and gets readers rooting for villains, whether they want to be them or be with them. Authors will participate in a Q&A session moderated by Stephanie Carr (LiteraryHype Podcast).
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 23ABC

8:00pm PDT

Not So Strange Bedfellows: The Relationship Between Comics and Pro Wrestling
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Some have called the spectacle of pro wrestling "a comic book come to life." That is not far from the truth. From the heroics of Hulk Hogan to the antiheroics of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and the villainy of Ric Flair, this panel explores the parallels in character development and storyline advancement between these outrageous forms. Featuring Francis Szyskowski (creator, The Massacre Twins), Rik Offenberger (editor-in-chief, First Comics News), Hunter Jackson (co-founder, GWAR; professional wrestler), Chris Squires (G-Men Comics; 20-year veteran wrestling referee), and Michael Mondragon (Punk Rock Art School; co-founder, Pro Wrestling Guerrilla). Moderated by Joshua Waldrop (founder/publisher, Ultima Comics).
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

8:30pm PDT

Best Spider-Man Villain: Great Pop Culture Debate Live
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Do you have opinions on superheroes? Of course you do. This live version of the hit podcast Great Pop Culture Debate features host Eric Rezsnyak and panelists Tim Seeley (Local Man, Rogue: The Savage Land), Jordan Morris (The Amazing Venom, Good Mythical Morning), Meghan Fitzmartin (Mary Sue, Supernatural), and Brendan Hay (Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, Robot Chicken) debating who Spidey's greatest enemy is. Audience votes live will decide which villain moves forward. Sixteen contenders. One winner. Infinite debates.
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

8:30pm PDT

The Comic-Con International 2026 Masquerade
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT
In 1974, Comic-Con added a costume contest to its events, and it's been a part of the convention ever since. Not a dance or party, it's a cosplay stage event with awards, prizes, and more. Doors open for audience seating 30 minutes early at 8:00. The ballroom holds 4,000, but for those worried about getting a seat, free tickets are given out at noon on Saturday near Ballroom 20 and also at the Masquerade Desk after 3:00. A ticket guarantees a seat but is not required, and those without tickets are welcome after the ticketed line has gone in. Overflow viewing on large screens is available in the Sails Pavilion and Ballroom 6A. Emcees will once again be five-time Hugo Award-winning writers and artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio, with intermission entertainment from The Saber Guild Star Wars performance group and The Corps Dance Crew.
Saturday July 25, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT
Ballroom 20

9:00pm PDT

EC Fan-Addict Club: The Crypt of Covers!
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Noted authors and EC historians Thommy Burns (Foul Play and Other Stories by Jack Davis, Spawn of Venus and Other Stories by Wallace Wood), Josh Burns (co-founding admin, EC Fan-Addict Club on Facebook), Grant Geissman (The Complete Moon Girl, Taschen Weird Science), and Jon Gothold (My Gun Is the Jury and Other Stories by Jack Davis and Wallace Wood, The Bitter End and Other Stories by Reed Crandall) reveal the stories behind EC Comics' most legendary and notorious covers, discussing the work of Johnny Craig, Graham Ingels, Harvey Kurtzman, Frank Frazetta, and more. Moderated by Mike Catron (senior editor, Fantagraphics' EC Artists Library).
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 28DE

9:00pm PDT

Trivia for the Rest of Us: Let's Play!
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Everyone is welcome; appropriate for all ages. Use your own device to play in this inclusive session covering topics like superheroes, video games, movies, princesses, Stan Lee, and more. Winners receive prizes. Featuring Debbie Kunes and Jeff Kunes (directors), Owen Kunes (monitor), Tyler Kunes (creator), David Fong and Karen Huang (producers), Diana Steinman and Connor Welch (research), Amy McKee and Jaymes McKee (tech), and Mark Elliott and Ivan Garcia (development).
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

9:00pm PDT

Saturday Hall H and Ballroom 20 Panel Playback
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Didn't get into either Hall H or Ballroom 20 today? The pain is real. What are you gonna do about it? If your Saturday night is free, 26-year Comic-Con veteran Tommy Goldbach (programming coordinator for Comic-Con) hosts as Comic-Con rebroadcasts some of the day's popular panels from those two giant rooms. Best of all, those in attendance will get to vote in a show of applause on what they want to see. It's democracy at its finest, and it's a second chance to see these panels. Hopefully we have it dialed in at this point . . . (Please note: These playbacks will include only the panel discussions. No trailers or clips from films or TV shows will be shown.)
Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Room 23ABC
 
Sunday, July 26
 

10:00am PDT

'90s Cartoon Draft 2026
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
This is a live sports-inspired draft of '90s nostalgia where four comedians vie for their top five, with Justin Jordan (Still Scrolling Podcast), Joshua Ling (Comic Talk Podcast), Paige Blackcloud (content creator), and host Dimithri Perera (The Keeg Podcasts). They'll share their personal tastes and childhood memories, all while working with the crowd to create a "perfect team."
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

10:00am PDT

GeekEd: Is the Juice Worth the Squeeze? When Pop Culture Becomes Pedagogy for First-Gen Students
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
What does it mean for educators and student-support professionals to write about the work that shaped them? Moderator La'Tonya "LT" Rease Miles (My Tribe Media and Santa Clara University) is joined by panelists Martha Enciso (My Tribe Media and University of Redlands), Ariela Canizal (University of San Diego), Brenda Bran (California State University, Dominguez Hills), and Jennifer Henriquez (California State University, Dominguez Hills) for a conversation about identity, scholarship, and the power of bringing your full self into professional spaces. Inspired by First Gen & Juice: Exploring First Generation College Student Narratives in Pop Culture and Mass Media (2026), this panel explores how contributors, many of whom are first-generation college graduates themselves, used pop culture, fandom, and lived experience to reflect on their careers, affirm their identities, and reimagine what counts as meaningful professional knowledge. Attendees are also invited to share the stories that shaped their own educational journeys.
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

10:00am PDT

Pop Culture and the Christian Church
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Hosted by the Christian Comic Arts Society for 28 years at Comic-Con International, this panel will explore the effectiveness of the Christian church in reaching out to the comic book, anime, and gaming communities. Where has the church been successful? Where has it fallen short? What strategies could help the church be more effective? Panelists include Alexander James (pastor), Brendan Prout (Geeks for God), Karyn Keene (educator/youth leader), Christopher Stewart (pastor, Jesus House), Bryan Mero (Fix-it Felix, cosplay repair), Joe Queen (Geeky Guys/Gals 4 God), and Kyle Keene (moderator).
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 7AB

10:00am PDT

Writing Cozy Villains
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Everyone knows how to write terrifying villains, but creating villains audiences want to root for is a whole different skill. As cozy fiction continues to take over bookshelves and streaming platforms, readers are falling in love with charming criminals, lovable monsters, and morally gray characters. This panel explores crafting cozy villains with humor and heart and how to create unforgettable antagonists readers end up rooting for. Panelists include Dr. Janina Scarlet (The Villains Club, Dark Agents), Jonathan Maberry (V-Wars, the Joe Ledger series), Deric Hughes (Arrow, Quantum Leap), E. M. Noller (The Villains Club), Robin Talamas (The Villains Club), Dennis K. Crosby (Death's Legacy, The Villains Club), M. B. Bruce (The Villains Club), and Dave Beaudrie (The Villains Club). Dustin McGinnis (Superhero Therapy Podcast) moderates.
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:00am PDT

Mixer for Science-Minded Geeks
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Pop culture science questions are welcome at this informal mixer, with scientists and fellow fans discussing how science overlaps with favorite fandoms. Attendees can mingle with friendly scientists, including AAAS If/Then ambassadors, as well as experts from Cosplay for Science, Fleet Science Center, Nerd Nite San Diego, the San Diego Science Writers Association, and other science-minded groups.
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

10:30am PDT

Cineverse: Air Bud Returns
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Nearly three decades and 15 movies later, Air Bud is returning to the big screen and taking the stage at Comic-Con. Like the original, Air Bud Returns is a quintessential family movie that is sure to be a multigenerational event. It's not a sequel or a remake; it's the next chapter in the Air Bud franchise, with an all-new story and characters, reimagined by writer, director, and franchise creator Robert Vince. Air Bud Returns is set in the original town of Fernfield, "where anything is possible." Yes . . . there still ain't no rule that says a dog can't play basketball. Robert Vince and Air Bud share a sneak peek at the film, coming to theaters on January 22.
Sunday July 26, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Room 6BCF

11:00am PDT

GeekEd: Behind Batman's Mask: Rigid and Flexible Masculinity in Pop Culture and on College Campuses
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
When are we wearing masculinity, and when is it wearing us? The tropes we see in stories like Batman, Star Wars, Steven Universe, and He-Man present examples of both rigid and flexible versions of the many forms masculinity can take. Panelists explore what masculinity can look like through the lens of popular culture, examples we can draw from iconic characters, and the ways these representations can contribute to the socialization and performance of gender for college students. Featuring Emilie Iannarelli (UC Berkeley), Dylan Pugh, MPH (UC Berkeley), Dr. Billy San Juan (Pop Culture Psychology), Dr. Alfred Day (UC Berkeley), and Sabrina Van Zuiden, LCSW (Sweet Mango Therapy).
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

11:00am PDT

Harvey Pekar's American Splendor at 50
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Harvey Pekar (1939–2010) created and wrote American Splendor comics, which debuted 50 years ago in 1976. American Splendor also inspired a branch of memoir comics and the 2003 American Splendor film. Joyce Brabner (1952–2024), Pekar's wife and creative partner, collaborated on American Splendor, along with artists including R. Crumb, Gary Dumm, Frank Stack, Joe Zabel, Joseph Remnant, Spain Rodriguez, Dean Haspiel, and Josh Neufeld. The work influenced generations of graphic novelists. Panelists include Joe Zabel (American Splendor artist), Peter Kuper (Insectopolis, who knew Pekar in 1970s Cleveland), Arie Kaplan (From Krakow to Krypton), Jackie Estrada (Comic-Con International, friend of Harvey’s), Andrew Kunka (USC Sumter), and moderator Danny Fingeroth (Disguised as Clark Kent: Jews, Comics, and the Creation of the Superhero).
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 4

11:00am PDT

The Paleontology of Pokémon
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Reysuka (the cosplaying paleontologist, Ph.D.) shares her expertise on the dinosaur science of Pokémon. Reysuka studies dinosaurs and has been on expeditions to collect dinosaurs in China, Denmark, and South America. She shares her knowledge of paleontology on social media while combining it with cosplay and comedy to make learning accessible.
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

11:30am PDT

Comic-Con Museum: Bringing the Popular Arts to Balboa Park
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Comic-Con Museum is Balboa Park's newest museum, bringing the popular arts to broad audiences year-round. Kevin Miserocchi (Tea and Charles Addams Foundation) and Taylor Henderson (Pechanga Arena San Diego) present new and upcoming exhibits, including Chas Addams: Family and Friends and Center Stage: The Art of Mel Marcelo. Moderated by Eddie Ibrahim, with Ashley Eckstein (Star Wars, Ahsoka Tano), who provides insight into the semi-permanent museum exhibit Masquerade: The Art of the Costume, sharing how the artistry of geek fashion has long merited recognition and what the exhibit has meant for the community. These exhibits also anchor educational and public programming available year-round.
Sunday July 26, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 25ABC

12:00pm PDT

From Blackbeard to Netflix: Pirates in Modern Media
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Bryan Cantrell (author, Pirates of the Wild West), Dr. Rebecca Simon (Why We Love Pirates, historian), Isaac C. Singleton Jr. (actor, Pirates of the Caribbean), Zach McGowan (actor, Black Sails), and Lukas Ettlin (director, One Piece) explore how pirate history evolved into pirate mythology and continues to influence storytelling across film, television, comics, books, and video games. Moderated by Cantrell.
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Omni San Diego Hotel, Omni Grand Ballroom DE, 4th Floor

12:00pm PDT

The Choice Behind the Voice
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Voice actors including Candi Milo (Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends), Eric Bauza (Looney Tunes), Frank Todaro (The Cuphead Show), Piotr Michael (Young Jedi Adventures), and Shelby Young (LEGO Star Wars)share the process that went into crafting the voices for their most famous characters in a Q&A hosted by writer/producer FM De Marco (DreamWorks Dragons).
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

12:00pm PDT

Ball Jointed Dolls 101: Creating, Customizing, and Collecting
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
Doll creators, owners, and enthusiasts discuss the world of ball-jointed resin dolls from companies such as Volks, Fairyland, Luts, Iplehouse, Bergemann Dolls, and others. Panelists discuss the artistic process behind creating and customizing ball-jointed dolls, along with the basics of BJDs, tips on customizing, maintaining, and photographing dolls, and the collector community. From tiny to towering, it's a great opportunity to experience the different types of dolls in the world of BJDs.
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 29CD

12:15pm PDT

Ask an Astronaut: Q&A with NASA Astronaut (and Everest Climber) Scott Parazynski
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
Scott E. Parazynski is a physician, astronaut, and explorer. Trained as an ER doctor, he is a veteran of five Space Shuttle flights and seven spacewalks, including the one dubbed the "Apollo 13 moment" of the shuttle era. He is the first person to have both flown in space and summited Mount Everest. He was also Senator John Glenn's personal space physician during Glenn's historic return to orbit in 1998 and completed the first U.S.-Russian spacewalk. In addition, he is an active volcano explorer, scuba diver, commercial-rated pilot, former Olympic coach, technology inventor, serial entrepreneur, and author of the bestseller The Sky Below: A True Story of Summits, Space and Speed. An extended Q&A is included. Moderated by Susan Karlin (Fast Company).
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
Room 5AB

12:30pm PDT

Artist Brand Collaborations: The Other Side of Merchandise Licensing
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Ever walk through Artists' Alley or the Exhibit Hall and wonder how an artist's illustration ends up on a collectible figure, plush, T-shirt, or accessory? Moderator Kristen Carr (executive director of media and events, Inspired By Chaos), Derrick Baca (chief merchandising officer, The Whatever Company), Liz DeSilva (chief creative officer, The Whatever Company), Ben Butcher (CEO and founder, Kaleidos Creative), and guest artists pull back the curtain on the world of artist brand collaborations. From discovering talent and deciding which artists fit a brand's aesthetic to transforming original artwork into products fans can't wait to collect, this panel explores the creative and business side of licensing that happens beyond the major studios. Artists, collectors, creative professionals, and fans who love discovering new creators can learn about the other side of merchandise licensing during this discussion, which includes a live Q&A and giveaways throughout the panel.
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 6DE

12:30pm PDT

When Comics Meet Indigenous Art
Sunday July 26, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
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

1:00pm PDT

Bring on the Bad Girls!
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Thirty years ago, the original "Bad Girl" comics spawned legions of devoted fans and multitudes of pale imitations. Three decades later, the genre not only survives, but it also thrives. Inkpot Award recipients Amanda Conner, Jimmy Palmiotti, Brian Pulido, Billy Tucci, and Top Cow's Matt Hawkins—the creators behind Lady Death, Shi, Painkiller Jane, Vampirella, Harley Quinn, and Witchblade—offer their perspective on the genre and discuss why the Bad Girls are back on top.
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1:00pm PDT

How to Group Cosplay
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ever wondered what it's like to be in a group cosplay that goes viral? Content creators and cosplayers Dare Taylor (content creator, cosplayer), Chrissy Lynn (makeup artist, cosplayer), Jacqueline Goehner (costume designer, cosplayer), and Ashlynne Dae (costume fabricator, cosplayer) discuss early planning and coordination, from concept to execution, including what worked, what did not, and how group cosplay can build community.
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1:00pm PDT

Needful Things: Collecting Stephen King
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Richard Chizmar (co-author, Gwendy's Button Box; owner, Cemetery Dance Publications), Robert Wiener (president, Donald M. Grant Publisher), David Williamson (owner, Betts Books, online S. King resale store), Tomas Krynsky (owner, SK Collector), Jackie Matyas (founding member, KingCon LLC; administrator, Stephen King Rare Editions Facebook Group), and Jesse Lankford (fanboy/moderator) share their passions for collecting rare and limited-edition books by the world's number-one selling horror author, Stephen King, along with behind-the-scenes information about producing and selling collectible books.
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1:00pm PDT

The Best Pop Culture Vacation Destinations
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
The pop culture digital magazine The Pop Break hosts a family-friendly, bracket-style debate on the best pop culture vacation destinations. Alex Marcus (podcast network director, The Pop Break), Amanda Rivas (podcaster and senior editor, The Pop Break), Gigi Ford (cosplayer, podcaster, and content creator), Jason Patrick Galit (JPG; pop culture educator and consultant, InterMyth), Brandon Jackson (content creator and photographer, Chief Geek Photography), and Derick McDuff (podcast host, Underrated Movie Podcast) debate amenities, tourist sites, and street food from favorite pop culture locales. Could a place like Atlantis convince someone to take a trip under the sea, or could Mount Olympus take the top spot? Audience participation is encouraged and rewarded throughout the debate.
Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

2:00pm PDT

Comics GOAT: Tribute to Archie Goodwin
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
For many DC and Marvel big names of the '70s–'90s, the answer to "Who was your comics guru?" is the same: Archie Goodwin. Explore the indelible influence—and hilarious "war stories"—of the Marvel editor-in-chief and DC group editor who guided Star Wars, Epic Comics, Batman: The Long Halloween, and more. Jordan B. "Gorf" Gorfinkel (Batman, Batguys Return podcast) moderates a who's who of Archie's colleagues and collaborators, including Paul Levitz (DC Comics president), Charles Kochman (editorial director, Abrams ComicArts), and Chuck Kim (Archie's DC assistant editor), with appearances by Mike Carlin, Howard Chaykin, Klaus Jansen, Jeph Loeb, Bill Sienkiewicz, and Walt and Louise Simonson.
Special Guests
avatar for Paul Levitz

Paul Levitz

Comic-Con Special Guest
Paul Levitz has been a comics fan (The Comic Reader), editor (Batman), writer (Legion of Super-Heroes), executive (decades at DC Comics, ending as president & publisher), historian (Will Eisner: Champion of the Graphic Novel) and now teacher of subjects related to comics and tra... Read More →
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 4

2:00pm PDT

From Page to Scream!: Horror Across Media
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
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

2:00pm PDT

Stan Lee and The Grindhouse Radio
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Hosts of the official Stan Lee podcast Hazel Avivah (Stan Lee Universe brand manager and podcast executive producer), Brimstone (podcast main host and producer), Dayna Pereira (podcast co-host), Tom Greer (podcast co-host), and Kim Adragna (podcast co-host), along with surprise visits from celebrity guests, discuss Stan Lee's legacy and how it continues to inform conversations about where pop culture has been and where it is headed.
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

2:15pm PDT

The Lord of the Rings and the New Age of Adaptations
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm PDT
It's been 25 years since fans excitedly anticipated Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings movies, and now a new age of adaptations is upon us. Jay Komas (general manager, Middle-earth Enterprises), Clifford Broadway (host, TORn Tuesday), Matt Graf (Nerd of the Rings), Jim Wert (TORn special events coordinator - East), Kellie Rice (Happy Hobbit; author), and Cathy Udovch (TORn special events coordinator - West). TheOneRing.net returns with the latest news and gossip on The Hunt for Gollum, The Rings of Power, games, collectibles, and other LOTR goodies in the works. What a time to be a fan.
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm PDT
Room 6BCF

2:30pm PDT

Pop Culture in Museums: Comics, Film, and Other Fandoms on Display
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
In recent years, comic art and pop culture exhibitions have grown, with new museums opening to showcase these creative fields, existing institutions acknowledging the vitality and importance of these oft-overlooked mediums, and blockbuster shows touring around the world. Moderator Patrick A. Reed (curator, Jack Kirby: Heroes and Humanity and Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing) leads a conversation with distinguished scholars, collectors, artists, and industry professionals about the field's ongoing evolution and how the popular arts are celebrated and elevated through galleries and museums.
Sunday July 26, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 25ABC

3:00pm PDT

In My Y2K Era: Anime Fandom Before Streaming and Social Media
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
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

3:00pm PDT

Thinking Aloud: Live Movie Poster Design Challenge
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Industry professionals Dino Espinosa (creative director, Foundry LA), Chris Kawagiwa (illustrator, ADG 800), and Jaraad Virani (designer and filmmaker) race to create a mock movie poster from scratch. Drawing on experience working with Disney, Netflix, and Paramount, the panelists discuss what makes posters and packaging art memorable, with audience input, real-time creative team dynamics, and design-saving tricks. Moderated by Vicki Tunkel (creative director, Foundry LA).
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 11

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
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

3:15pm PDT

The Official Disneybound Panel: Styling for Fandom Fashion
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
In the 15 years since The Disneybound Blog became a viral sensation, it has brought together a global community sharing their love of Disney fandom and creative fashion expression by incorporating both into their daily styling. Disneybounding pros Dimitri Beauchamp, Kaz Tarshis, Erika Kurzawa, Logan Allison, and Tiffany Sutton offer tools to bring whimsy and favorite fandoms to the wardrobe. Moderated by Kelsey Walmer.
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Room 5AB

3:30pm PDT

Comic-Con Talk Back
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Representatives from Comic-Con will be present to listen to attendees' feedback about the event. What did we do right? What could be improved? We want to hear from you!
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 25ABC

3:30pm PDT

The Power of Color: The Discussion Continues
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Given the current atmosphere, representation in comics and pop culture continues to be at the forefront of the entertainment industry with Harry Potter and The Odyssey. Does the industry explore the option of looking at new material from independent creators, or does race swapping continue to be used as a method of furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion as it pertains to the topic of race?Discussing this topic are Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), Larissa Lam (actress), Hannibal Tabu (writer/producer), Leo Partible (filmmaker), Dr. Thomas Parham (JAG), Baldwin Chiu (filmmaker), and Ralph Miley (moderator).
Sunday July 26, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

4:00pm PDT

Spotlight on Maggie Thompson: Fan Experience
Sunday July 26, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Pop culture has produced creative fans, and long-time fan Maggie Thompson is joined by three of them. Daughter Valerie Thompson, grandson Devon Jaruk, and friend Arthur Kyle, son of science fiction author and historian David Kyle, share memories and resources about fan activity.
Special Guests
avatar for Maggie Thompson

Maggie Thompson

Comic-Con Special Guest
The first ongoing comics fanzines were published in 1961. That was 65 years ago—when Maggie and Don Thompson published the first issue of Comic Art. Five years later in New York City, they attended the first multi-day comics convention. In 1976—two decades after Comic Art #1... Read More →
Sunday July 26, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 7AB
 

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