Comic-Con 2026: Full Schedule

10:00am PDT

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

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

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

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

4:00pm PDT

Transgender and Nonbinary Creators Stay Relevant and Proud

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

Room 9

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

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

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

4:00pm PDT

No Latency LIVE: Cyberpunk Red Live Play

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:45pm PDT

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

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Fandom, Games, LGBTQIA+, Omni Programs, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TTRPG, Writers & Writing

6:30pm PDT

Gay Geeks and Where to Find Them

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

Room 26AB

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

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

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

8:00pm PDT

Sam Kieth: Celebrating an Artistic Life

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

Room 3

Sam Kieth was a unique talent. Several of Sam's friends and colleagues share memories and celebrate a truly wonderful person who left us much too soon. There will be a slideshow presentation featuring many images by Sam that were scanned from his original art. Attendees are welcome to share their memories of Sam Kieth. Moderated by Scott Dunbier, with others to be announced.

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 3

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic-Con How To, Comics, Historical, LGBTQIA+, Superheroes, Tributes, After Dark

10:30am PDT

Creators Assemble: Charisma Check, A Networking Event

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

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

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

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

12:00pm PDT

Diversity & Dungeons: Making Your Table Inclusive

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

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

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

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

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

12:00pm PDT

Drawing Courage: YA Graphic Novels That Speak Up

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

Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

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

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

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

1:30pm PDT

BOOM! Comics for You: Behind the Scenes

Friday July 24, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT

Room 5AB

What does it take to turn a deliciously twisted comic concept into a book readers can't put down? Writer Marguerite Bennett (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, Gastronomique) offers an inside look at the comic-publishing process, featuring the upcoming queer, erotic horror series Gastronomique. From editorial development and creative collaboration to marketing, sales, and distribution, if you've ever wondered how bold, boundary-pushing comics get made, this is your chance to hear directly from the people who help bring them to life, including editors Elizabeth Brei and Maya Bollinger, senior designer Madison Goyette, special projects design manager Crystal White, operations associate manager Nicholas Romeo, and marketing manager Alya Kronsberg.

Friday July 24, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 5AB

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Books, Comics, Education, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Mysteries & Crime Dramas

2:00pm PDT

LGBTQIA+ Activism in Comics

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

Room 4

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

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

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

3:00pm PDT

The Characters We Deserve: Youth Talk Gender and Orientation in Popular Arts

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

Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Youth across a range of gender expression and sexual orientation discuss how well popular media keeps up with culture. Have they seen themselves accurately represented? In what ways is pop culture still behind the times? What kind of characters would they like to see? How has media representation of sexuality and gender helped them understand themselves? Gender and sexuality experts Dr. Heather Berberet and Dr. Stacy Watnick facilitate the conversation as Terra Hardesty (age 13), Mars Watson (age 16), and Mikayla Buhbe (age 23) speak from the heart, with audience questions and experiences included.

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs

3:00pm PDT

What Now?! Comics Censorship in Schools and Libraries

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

Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

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

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

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

4:30pm PDT

Pro Writers AMA: Ask Me (Almost) Anything!

Friday July 24, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT

Room 24ABC

Dreaming of a career as a professional writer? Whether your goal is screenwriting, animation, video games, comics, graphic novels, or prose fiction, this panel of industry veterans offers an honest look at the realities of building a career with words. From breaking into the business and finding representation to indie publishing, branding, marketing, crowdfunding, and convention sales, no topic is off the table. Should you pursue traditional publishing or go independent? Do you need an agent? Is Amazon an opportunity, a challenge, or a trap? This interactive Q&A features practical advice, hard-earned lessons, and insights from the front lines of today's publishing and entertainment industries. Panelists include Neo Edmund (Power Rangers, Red Riding Alpha Huntress Chronicles), Brian Freyermuth (Fallout, Epic Micky 2), Melissa Flores (Power Rangers, Spider-Gwen: Smash), Doc Harry Kloor (Star Trek, Quantum Quest), Francesca Lia Block (House of Hearts, Weetzie Bat), and Amy Linsamouth (The Savior, Spirit House). Moderated by Prof. Adira Edmund (Terra Tarot, Red Riding Alpha Huntress Chronicles).

Friday July 24, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1: Programs, Animation, Books, Comics, Education, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

5:00pm PDT

Cosplay Is a DRAG: The Draggening

Friday July 24, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

1: Programs, Comics, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Fandom, Historical, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Superheroes, Television, Video Games

6:00pm PDT

Unmasking Cultura: Latino Legends in Cosplay

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

Room 32AB

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

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

6:30pm PDT

Queer Horror

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

Room 10

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

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

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

8:00pm PDT

By Creed, Not Blood

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

Room 7AB

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

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

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

8:00pm PDT

The Psychology of Minions

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

Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

1: Programs, Animation, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, After Dark

12:00pm PDT

Societal Storytelling: Fandom's Activist Role in Evolving Culture

Saturday July 25, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 23ABC

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

U: Updated, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Web | 1: Programs, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Web

1:30pm PDT

How to Draw an Octopus . . . Returns!

Saturday July 25, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT

Room 3

Pop culture is full of cephalopod characters, from Squidward to Doc Ock, but how accurate is their anatomy? SS Julian (Octopolis), Danna Staaf, Ph.D. (Monarchs of the Sea, The Lady and the Octopus), and Kassandra Cruz (Puppy Knights) share the art of drawing octopods. The panel explores why cephalopods fascinate us, how to combine true anatomy with engaging character design, and practical techniques for committing these elusive invertebrates to ink while avoiding the abyss of artificially hallucinated reference material. Drawing supplies will be provided, but attendees may also bring their own.
All of the necessary supplies to participate in this Comic-Con How To session will be provided.

Saturday July 25, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 3

2:30pm PDT

Women on the Dark Side

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

Room 29CD

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

Special Guests

Stephanie Williams

Artist Alley GG-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

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

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

2:30pm PDT

Narrating Bestselling Audiobooks

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

Room 10

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

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

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

3:30pm PDT

Comics vs. Authoritarianism!

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

Room 10

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

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

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

4:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event

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

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

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

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

5:00pm PDT

Comics and Advocacy

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

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

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

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

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

5:00pm PDT

Level-Up: Taking Your Comics to the Next Tier

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

Room 11

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

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

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

5:30pm PDT

From Indies to Blockbusters: The Storytelling Power of Diversity

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

Room 6A

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

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

6:00pm PDT

From 0 to 50: Pro Tips for High-Speed Webtoon Production and Studio Workflow

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

Room 25ABC

PAJI (Taiwanese comic artist) shares how a small creative team can produce up to 50 full-color webtoon panels per week while maintaining quality and consistency. Drawing from real studio experience, PAJI breaks down collaborative production systems, assistant management, digital workflow tools such as Notion, and the use of 3D assets and technical optimization to streamline weekly serialization. Kane (Taiwanese illustrator) joins the Q&A to discuss rapid illustration techniques and creative efficiency, moderated by Hsin-I Chen (producer of LUSASA Animation).

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

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Comics, International, LGBTQIA+, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

6:00pm PDT

Out in Comics: Year 39

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

Room 4

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

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

6:30pm PDT

The Unsung Heroes of Superhero Films

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

Room 29CD

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

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

9:00pm PDT

Troma Celebrates Independence

Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT

Room 25ABC

For decades, the Troma team has been outspoken about the dangers of media consolidation and censorship. This panel celebrates artists who remain defiant, independent, and committed to standing up to evil in all its forms, with previews of new films and more. Featuring Lloyd Kaufman (president of Troma; creator of The Toxic Avenger), Chuck Tingle (author of Fabulous Bodies), and Michael Varrati (filmmaker and screenwriter). Moderated by Megan Silver.

Saturday July 25, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

1: Programs, Books, Horror and Suspense, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing, After Dark

10:00am PDT

Spotlight on David Gerrold

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

Room 28DE

David Gerrold is the creator of tribbles for Star Trek: The Original Series and the creator of Sleestaks and Pakuni for Land of the Lost. He has written for a dozen science fiction TV shows, including The Twilight Zone, Babylon 5, Sliders, and Tales from the Dark Side. He has written more than 40 novels, including The Man Who Folded Himself and The War Against the Chtorr. And if that weren't enough . . . he's a lot of fun in person. He will be interviewed by an as-yet-unannounced moderator, followed by a Q&A session.

Special Guests

David Gerrold

Comic-Con Special Guest

David Gerrold has been writing professionally for more than half a century. He created the tribbles for Star Trek and the Sleestaks for Land of the Lost. He has written for Babylon 5, Twilight Zone, and other TV series. His most famous novel is The Man Who Folded Himself. His sem... Read More →

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Room 28DE

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

10:00am PDT

Writing Cozy Villains

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

Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

1: Programs, Books, Education, Fandom, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Television, Writers & Writing

10:00am PDT

Race, Gender, and the Comic Book Medium

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

Room 29CD

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

Special Guests

Stephanie Williams

Artist Alley GG-16, Comic-Con Special Guest

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

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

10:00am PDT

Tales from the Brass Dragon

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiley Special Events Suite, San Diego Central Library

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

1: Programs, Comics, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Library Programs, Movies, Superheroes, Television

11:30am PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #14: Enforcing and Challenging Codes of Gender and Sexuality

Sunday July 26, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT

Room 26AB

This panel considers the relationship between comics codes and gender codes, asking how the comics medium has both reinforced and challenged normative depictions of gender. Viola Burlew (University of Colorado) highlights the role women played in running the infamous Comics Code Authority and analyzes the tangible impacts they had on female-led comics series from 1954 to 1971. Michael MacBride unpacks the life of gay cartoonist Joe Johnson and his fabulous creation Miss Thing. Elke Defever (Binghamton University) argues that the asexual paradigm of Moebius' Edena reconstructs humanity through perception, transformation, and relationality beyond the body.

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

1: Programs, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Historical, LGBTQIA+

12:00pm PDT

Color Bind, A BIPOC Actual Play

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

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

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

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

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

2:00pm PDT

From Page to Scream!: Horror Across Media

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

Grand 12 & 13, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

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

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

2:00pm PDT

Streaming Has Changed Media Forever

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

Room 29AB

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

Special Guests

Matt Dinniman

Comic-Con Special Guest

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

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

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

3:00pm PDT

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

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

Room 24ABC

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

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

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

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts

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

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

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

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

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Matt Dinniman

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