Comic-Con 2026: Full Schedule

10:00am PDT

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

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

Battle for Dream Island, the web series with more than 2.6 billion views that has played in theaters across the country, comes to SDCC with behind-the-scenes stories, insights into the making of the show, advice for aspiring indie animators and voice actors, a fan Q&A, and never-before-seen footage. Moderated by Multi Puliyze (voice actor for BFDI), with Michael Huang and Cary Huang (creators, directors, and writers of BFDI), Samuel Thornbury (showrunner, director, and writer for BFDI), and Satomi Hinatsu (director, writer, and voice actor for BFDI).

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:00am - 11:00am PDT
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, Kids, Library Programs, Movies, Web, Writers & Writing

10:30am PDT

Comic Book Law School® 101: Basic Training . . . in IP Rights

Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 11

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

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, Games, Movies, Music, Podcasts, Seminars & Workshops, Television, Video Games, Web, Writers & Writing

11:15am PDT

Bite Me: Calling All Vampires

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:15am - 12:15pm PDT

Ballroom 20

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

1:00pm PDT

On the Mic Podcast with Tim Drake LIVE from SDCC

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

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

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

3:00pm PDT

Neon Ichiban: Live Digital Remarques

Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 25ABC

Neon Ichiban is a new multi-publisher digital comics and manga platform revolutionizing how fans read and collect. Designed by Comixology veterans David Steinberger and Chip Mosher, this all-in-one hub brings the convention experience directly to fans through Digital Remarques, an innovative feature that allows creators to sign and sketch directly onto digital comics, creating a one-of-a-kind collectible edition. DSTLRY founding creator Jock (Gone), Martin Simmonds (The Department of Truth), Jordan Blum and Heath Corson (Minor Threats) and premier variant cover artist Björn Barends appear for a special live demonstration as he sketches in real time while David, Chip, and crew discuss the coming of the 24/7 artist alley, where fans and creators can connect in new ways, and creators can find a new revenue stream. Moderated by Chris Ross, head of remarques at Neon Ichiban.

Thursday July 23, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 25ABC

U: Updated, Art and Illustration, Comics, Technology - Science - STEM, Web | 1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

4:00pm PDT

Buffy Podcast: Re-Vamped with Juliet Landau

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

Room 7AB

This is the first Buffyverse podcast to be hosted by a cast member. Juliet Landau played Drusilla on both Buffy and Angel. Re-Vamped with Juliet Landau has just crossed 370,000 downloads in a short time. The panel features a live discussion of all things Buffy and the panelists' love of the show, with never-before-seen clips and footage. Juliet Landau will be interviewed by Deverill Weekes, who will moderate the panel.

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 7AB

1: Programs, Podcasts, Web

4:00pm PDT

Tabletop GOATs: The Best Games of All Time

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

Room 29AB

What are the greatest board games ever made? Grant Lyon (Grant's Game Recs), Amanda McKnight (VampX13), Daryl Andrews (Best in Play), Banzainator (Twitch streamer), and Jay Cormier (Off the Page Games), with moderator Alexa Cappiello, break it down across 12 categories, sharing top picks, hot takes, and hidden gems. Whether you're new to tabletop or a seasoned gamer, learn the language of tabletop and find your next favorite game.

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 29AB

1: Programs, Games, Seminars & Workshops, Web

4:00pm PDT

Weirder Together: Meow Wolf + Titmouse

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

Room 25ABC

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, Art and Illustration, Comics, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Web

4:30pm PDT

How Webtoons Have Changed the Comics Industry

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

Room 24ABC

Webtoons, vertical-scrolling comics, are changing how people read comics. Deb Aoki (Mangasplaining), Kalai Chik (K-ComicsBeat), and Heidi MacDonald (The Beat) are joined by Leanne M. Krecic (Let's Play) and Derek V. Song (Fantasy High) to talk about the latest trends coming from Korea to the U.S. and how U.S. publishers are adapting traditional comics to the format. From a $1.3 billion industry in Korea to one of the fastest-growing storytelling platforms around the world, the panel looks at how people are making and reading webtoons, and what that means for the future.

Special Guests

Derek V. Song

Comic-Con Special Guest

Derek V. Song is an Asian American writer from Boston. Since debuting in 2023, Derek has amassed millions of readers across various titles on WEBTOON, including The Last Bloodline, The Primal Hunter, Paranoid Mage, and the recent adaptation of Dimension 20’s hit D&D series, Fantasy... Read More →

Thursday July 23, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 24ABC

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Web

5:00pm PDT

A Master Class in Comic Coloring

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

Room 3

Brian Haberlin (Spawn, Witchblade), award-winning comic coloring pioneer, will take you behind the scenes on coloring comics. The panel will cover color theory and process, then final production techniques to get your work looking how you want it to in print or on the web, and will explore new methods and techniques.

Thursday July 23, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 3

1: Programs, Comic-Con How To, Comics, Web

5:00pm PDT

The Future of Collecting

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

Room 28DE

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

1: Programs, Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles, Art and Illustration, Comics, Fandom, Games, Podcasts, Superheroes, Technology - Science - STEM, Video Games, Web, Writers & Writing

6:00pm PDT

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

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

Room 5AB

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

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

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

8:00pm PDT

Trivia for Chocolate

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

Room 28DE

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

1: Programs, Comics, Fandom, Web, After Dark

8:00pm PDT

The Comic Shop Series Roundtable

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

Room 25ABC

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

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

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

8:00pm PDT

The 29th Annual Superhero Kung Fu Extravaganza

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 10:30pm PDT

Room 6A

Martial arts movie consultant Ric Meyers (Films of Fury), commentary beast Frank Djeng (Bruce Li and I), and That Phat Samurai Guy Preston Downey (Movie Dojo Podcast) and their awesome Extravagang are back with a whole new slew of the best fight scenes, sneak peeks, world premieres, surprise guests, and more.

Thursday July 23, 2026 8:00pm - 10:30pm PDT
Room 6A

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, International, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Web, Writers & Writing, After Dark

10:00am PDT

Love in Every Universe: The Great Romance Trope Debate

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

Room 32AB

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

1: Programs, Books, Comics, Fandom, Movies, Television, Web, Writers & Writing

10:30am PDT

Comic Book Law School® 202: Show Me the Money!

Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 11

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

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, Games, Movies, Music, Podcasts, Seminars & Workshops, Television, Video Games, Web, Writers & Writing

11:00am PDT

What If Artists' Alley Never Closed? The Dawn of Digital Remarques

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

Room 23ABC

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

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Fandom, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

1:00pm PDT

Bringing Fantasy High to WEBTOON: Spotlight on Derek V. Song

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

Room 32AB

Derek V. Song discusses adapting webnovels into webcomics and bringing Dimension 20's Fantasy High to life as a webcomic on WEBTOON. Reed Sights (WEBTOON senior producer) joins the conversation on adapting a beloved D&D campaign into a webcomic with millions of views, as well as Song's career and work on webnovel adaptations, including Paranoid Mage and The Primal Hunter.

Special Guests

Derek V. Song

Comic-Con Special Guest

Friday July 24, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 32AB

1: Programs, Comic-Con Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances, Comics, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TTRPG, Web, Writers & Writing

5:00pm PDT

The Collapse of the Billionaire Hero

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

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

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

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Library Programs, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Web

6:00pm PDT

Best and Worst Manga of 2026

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

Room 4

There is a great deal of manga available in English now, but what is really worth reading? A panel of opinionated manga bloggers and comics critics discusses favorite manga, disappointments from the past year, anticipated releases for fall 2026 and beyond, and underappreciated manga gems. Panelists include Shaenon Garrity (Otaku USA, Publishers Weekly), Laura Neuzeth (YouTube and TikTok vlogger; social media influencer), Leslie Flynn (Austin Public Library), Luke Berger (San Diego Public Library), and Deb Aoki (Mangasplaining).

Friday July 24, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 4

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Comics, Web

6:45pm PDT

Mega64 Panel in Large Format 70mm Ticket Upcharge

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

Room 6DE

The cast and crew of Mega64, the long-running internet video collective creating comedic and eccentric gaming media from San Diego, return again for their favorite hometown event. They'll show new and unseen videos, answer questions, and maybe even show something they weren't supposed to.

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

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Games, Humor & Satire, Podcasts, Web

8:00pm PDT

Bat in the Sun: Legend of the White Dragon and Super Power Beat Down

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

Room 6DE

The Bat in the Sun team unveils a major Beat Down surprise and offers an exclusive look at Legend of the White Dragon ahead of its August 28 theatrical release. A live Q&A follows, along with a discussion of creating YouTube content, building a global fanbase, and bringing an independent feature film to life.

Friday July 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 6DE

1: Programs, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Web, After Dark

8:30pm PDT

Dr. Horrible Screening and Karaoke

Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm PDT

Room 6A

Join in this sing-along screening of Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, followed by karaoke featuring songs from the web series. Individuals and small groups can sign up for karaoke at the California Browncoats booth before 7:00 p.m. on Friday and in the screening room just prior to the screening. Space and time are limited.

Friday July 24, 2026 8:30pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 6A

1: Programs, Movies, Television, Web, After Dark

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

Room 11

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

Middle Eastern/North African Representation in Media

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

Grand 10 & 11, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

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

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

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

11:00am PDT

Next Stages of Movie and Theater Evolution

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

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

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

1: Programs, Animation, Education, Fandom, Library Programs, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Web

11:00am PDT

The Guild Web Series: Back as a Movie!

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

Room 25ABC

Felicia Day (Supernatural, Eureka) and members of the cast and creative team of The Guild pull back the curtain on the next chapter of the groundbreaking series. The panel covers the crowdfunding campaign, previews for Comic-Con attendees, and details about the 20th anniversary reunion movie, coming in 2027 with fan support through Kickstarter.

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

1: Programs, Anniversaries, Games, Movies, TTRPG, Video Games, Web

11:30am PDT

What's Next from WEBTOON Entertainment

Saturday July 25, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT

Room 24ABC

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

1: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, Books, Comics, Fandom, International, Movies, Superheroes, Television, Web, Writers & Writing

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

12:30pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #11: Endless Scrolling, Timeless Stories: A Panel Exploring the Comic Platform WEBTOON

Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 26AB

Released globally in 2014, WEBTOON rose to popularity for providing accessible digital comics in a world where renting physical copies was more realistic than owning them. This platform was designed with PC, cellular devices, and any form of technology in mind. Fast forward 12 years, and it has become the largest webcomic platform today, with a consistent 155 million active users. This panel explores various webcomics from WEBTOON and demonstrates how this web platform has brought comics into the digital world. Solei Johnston (Colorado State University) and Adam Kwon (Colorado State University) explore the relationship between reader feedback and narrative development in Heartstopper, emphasizing the collaborative dimensions of meaning-making that emerge when serialized media are produced and consumed in highly networked, feedback-driven environments. Emma Fletcher (Colorado State University) conducts a thematic analysis of Scorching Romance to reveal how the comic challenges notions of gender, personality, and emotions, entering a conversation normally dominated by social media. Vance Medeiros (Colorado State University) considers the politics of innocence in Everything Is Fine and how the comic contrasts its cute art style with its horrific themes to critique domestic uniformity, the pressure to assimilate, and the ubiquity of suffering.

Saturday July 25, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Comics Arts Conference, Education, Web

1:30pm PDT

Neon Ichiban: Welcome to the Future of Digital Comics

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

Room 24ABC

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

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Fandom, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

3:30pm PDT

Neon Ichiban: The Future With Digital Remarques

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

Room 5AB

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

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Fandom, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

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

6:45pm PDT

The Hillywood Show: A Star Wars Parody Panel

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

Room 6A

Hilly Hindi, creator of The Hillywood Show, appears with Richard Speight, Jr. (actor/director, Supernatural, Dead Boy Detectives) and Matt Cohen (actor, Supernatural, General Hospital) to mark the release of Hillywood's latest Star Wars parody. The new parody screens, followed by a Q&A with behind-the-scenes stories. The parody is strong with this panel . . .

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

1: Programs, Cosplay, Costuming, Humor & Satire, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Web

7:30pm PDT

Taking Off with Rocketship Entertainment

Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT

Room 26AB

Rocketship Entertainment, the 2021 Ringo Award winner for favorite publisher, is an industry leader in publishing hit webcomics and webtoons and a growing force in independent publishing. Tom Akel (CEO and publisher), Leeanne M. Krecic (aka "Mongie," Let's Play, Dragon King Oath), Ryan Benjamin (founder, Comic Pro Boot Camp; Frostpunk), Sanford Greene (1000), Brandon Lee (a.k.a. "TurtleMe," The Beginning After the End), and David K. Wilson (Empiria) discuss the transitions from webcomics to print and back, and what is coming to Rocketship, T-Minus 10 tabletop, and Bottlerocket! all-ages comics. The panel also includes a look at upcoming Rocketship games and series, including Angry Birds, Frostpunk, and Tarzan.

Saturday July 25, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 26AB

1: Programs, Books, Kids, Web

8:00pm PDT

Cyanide & Happiness: Stuff We Shouldn't Draw

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

Room 6DE

Adam Nusrallah (producer, writer), Connor Murphy (director, writer), Mike Salcedo (director, writer), and Rob DenBleyker (creator, writer) draw live using audience prompts and topics. Never-before-seen Cyanide & Happiness animations are previewed, with a Q&A throughout.

Saturday July 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 6DE

1:00pm PDT

The Best Pop Culture Vacation Destinations

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

Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library

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

1: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, Comics, Fandom, Games, Humor & Satire, Library Programs, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Web

1:30pm PDT

Development to Distribution: Thinking Outside the Box

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT

Room 25ABC

Angela Oh (actor/writer, UDriveMe on Tubi, Castle, Scream Queens), Dawn Higginbotham (filmmaker, UDriveMe, Night of the Templar, Morning Person Pictures; author), Kumari Bakhru (postproduction producer, UDrive Me, AFI, and NYFA, author), Susan Spohr (postproduction supervisor, associate producer, author), and Valerie Lettera-Spletzer (DreamWorks Animation; teacher), with moderator Renee O'Connor (filmmaker, ROC Pictures; actor, Xena: Warrior Princess), discuss creatively navigating the workflow from development and previs through new media and film production to marketing, deliverables, and distribution for independent films.

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 25ABC

4:00pm PDT

Everyone's a Critic: Being a Journalist in an Online Age

Sunday July 26, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Room 4

The past decade has seen an increase in the scope of journalism, from the rise of citizen journalism to blogging, vlogging, podcasting, and online-only news sources. Writers and hosts from CBR, Geek Magazine, The Digital Bits, Bleeding Cool, Film Threat, and others discuss the roles new media play between their readers and the industries and communities they serve. Topics include varying levels of informality versus classic ideas of professionalism, show-specific outlets versus general news sites, and more. The panel offers insight into the challenges behind the scenes and how to become a writer.

Sunday July 26, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 4

1: Programs, Historical, Web, Writers & Writing

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