Join writer Christian Gossett (The Red Star, Cthuhutown) and artist Kyle Higgins (Batman: Gates of Gotham) for a unique behind-the-scenes look at how comics are made. Watch as Kyle Higgins scripts a scene live on stage while Christian Gossett brings it to life on the page in real time. From story beats and pacing to character design and visual storytelling, this interactive panel reveals the creative process behind comics and the audience may even help shape what happens next.

From selecting fabrics to assembling complex costumes, this panel explores sewing techniques and construction methods used by experienced cosplayers!

The comic book publishing landscape is rapidly shifting to self-publishing. Whether established writers and artists or up-and-coming indie folks, creators have been fine-tuning their approach to publishing themselves. With fewer barriers to entry, empower yourself by learning tips, best practices, common obstacles, and hear the real-life experiences from panelists Ray Anthony-Height (Studio Skye-Tiger), Jessica Maison (Wicked Tree Press), and Charlie Stickney (White Ash Comics), moderated by Arthur N. Ebuen (Studio 12-7) all who have paved their own way into the industry, built their fanbase, and controlled their own destiny!

Planning to compete? Learn how to prepare for cosplay contests, from craftsmanship judging to stage presentation with Zerggiee Cosplay!

Step into a stylish journey across the centuries as this panel explores the evolution of fashion through the lens of cosplay. From historical silhouettes to modern interpretations, discover how cosplayers bring iconic looks from different eras to life with creativity, research, and flair.

A special panel with actor, writer, producer, and celebrity voice impressionist Jamie Costa. You may know him for his spot-on impressions of Robin Williams and Harrison Ford. Or maybe you played a video game with him as Captain America or watched him on the big screen alongside Sam Neill and Barry Pepper. Join Jamie as he shares his creative journey from posting viral Vine videos to becoming a working actor, voiceover artist, writer, and producer. Moderated by Jamie's producing partner at Half-In Productions, Jared Duke, this panel will delve into Jamie's unique path in the entertainment industry, his current productions, and maybe even a sneak peek at things to come! The panel will include a special screening of his short film tribute to Robin Williams entitled Robin and conclude with an audience Q&A.

Join the West Coast Avengers to learn more about how you can use your cosplay for good by suiting up and serving others as a volunteer in your community! They'll discuss what it takes to become an Avenger with their group, what it's like doing community events versus hospital visits and share some memorable moments. Come find out how you can be one of California's Mightiest Heroes!

Cosplay can be fun for all ages. This panel explores how families and younger fans can safely and creatively participate.

Great cosplay is more than a costume. Learn how to embody your character through posing, performance, and stage presence.

Are you ready to take your cosplay pictures to the next level? Get ready to unleash your inner photographer and model with our expert tips and tricks! From capturing the perfect shot to nailing every pose, we've got you covered. Let's get started on your journey to amazing, professional-looking pictures!

"There's room for everyone in these stories." - Stan Lee. Join members of the West Coast Avengers as they dispel common cosplay myths, share stories about cosplaying within a diverse community of Heroes, and why representation is important when you volunteer with a wide variety of communities.

A crash course to 3D printing pop culture props and costumes from your favorite comics, movies, and videogames! This panel covers the basics of designing, printing, and finishing cosplay armor and accessories with practical tips and tricks from experienced makers. Come learn how to take a digital concept to a convention-ready reality! Perfect for beginners and seasoned cosplayers alike.

Experience an unforgettable encounter with a comic legend at our John Romita Jr. Exclusive VIP Meet & Greet. This elite package offers a rare chance to connect with John Romita, Jr. in a private setting and includes an original, hand-drawn sketch to complete your collection. This is an exclusive ticketed event limited to only 60 attendees.

Experience an unforgettable encounter with a comic legend at our John Romita Jr. Exclusive VIP Meet & Greet. This elite package offers a rare chance to connect with John Romita, Jr. in a private setting and includes an original, hand-drawn sketch to complete your collection. This is an exclusive ticketed event limited to only 60 attendees.

Have you ever wondered how your favorite cartoon characters, animated heroes, and video game stars get their voices? Join Jamie Costa for a fun, interactive panel where kids can learn the basics of voice acting! Discover how actors create different character voices, bring animated characters to life, and use their voices to tell exciting stories. Perfect for young performers, animation fans, and any kid who loves cartoons, games, and storytelling.

Every superhero has to start somewhere! Join acclaimed comic book artist Ray Anthony Height (Marvel, DC Comics) for a fun, creative workshop where kids can learn how superheroes are designed, from their powers and personalities to their costumes and signature look. Ray will share how artists turn simple ideas into bold, unforgettable heroes and show young creators how to sketch their own original superhero step by step.

Get inspired to create incredible cosplay without breaking the bank! This panel explores how young creators can transform thrifted clothing and everyday materials into standout costumes. Learn tips on sourcing, modifying, and assembling unique looks, plus creative problem-solving techniques that bring big ideas to life on a budget. Perfect for aspiring cosplayers who want to build skills, express their creativity, and make something truly their own.

Kids need a break? Come pop in for some fun games and stories get get the wiggles out! Some fun kid-friendly characters will be reading from a variety of picture books & playing some games with the kids so you can come in and recharge before the next big event! *Each session features different stories and a variety of games, for a new experience each time! Presented by The Fairytale Connection and Legend Fresh Entertainment.

Sharing your cosplay online can be excitingbut staying safe is key. This panel is designed for young cosplayers and their families, offering practical guidance on navigating social media responsibly. Learn about privacy settings, setting boundaries, handling online interactions, and protecting your personal information while still celebrating your creativity. A must-attend for anyone looking to build a positive and safe online cosplay presence.

Ever wanted to design your own starfighter, battle cruiser, or intergalactic explorer? Nows your chance! Join acclaimed artist and designer Christian Gossettknown for his work in comics, film, and animationas he shows young creators how to imagine and draw their very own starships. Learn simple tricks for designing cool shapes, powerful engines, and futuristic details that make a spaceship look ready to blast off. Then grab some paper and follow along as Christian helps you turn your ideas into an awesome original spacecraft. Perfect for young artists, future engineers, and anyone who loves spaceships!

Every great hero needs an unforgettable villain! Join award-winning cartoonist Mike Kunkel (Herobear and the Kid, Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam!) for a fun, interactive workshop where kids will learn how to design their very own comic book villain. What makes a villain truly memorable? Is it their look, their powers, their personalityor their sneaky plan to take over the world? Mike will show young creators how artists develop striking character designs, expressive faces, and bold visual details that bring villains to life on the page.

Kids need a break? Come pop in for some fun games and stories get get the wiggles out! Some fun kid-friendly characters will be reading from a variety of picture books & playing some games with the kids so you can come in and recharge before the next big event! *Each session features different stories and a variety of games, for a new experience each time! Presented by The Fairytale Connection and Legend Fresh Entertainment.

Do you want to create your own characters and write and draw their amazing adventures? Come join Jetpack Jules creator and Super Siblings cartoonist Patrick Scullin as he teaches how to make original picture books. Bring your imagination and some drawing supplies, and Patrick will guide you through the steps of creating a story and putting it to paper. No drawing experience is required for this family-friendly session. Even if you don't like to draw, come join the fun!

Get ready for a parade of imagination as young fans take the spotlight in this all-ages cosplay showcase for participants under 15! From superheroes to original creations, this fun and supportive event celebrates creativity, confidence, and the joy of dressing up because every great costume deserves its moment to shine.

From terrifying vampires to fantastical beasts and otherworldly creatures, some of the most memorable characters in comics arent human at all. Join Ben Templesmith (30 Days of Night) and Joel Gomez (La Muerta, Lady Gunfighter) for a discussion about the art of creating monsters and creatures for the page. From anatomy and silhouette to mood, personality, and worldbuilding, these artists explore how unforgettable beasts are designed and how they help bring comic book worlds to life.

Fan favorite writer Timothy Zahn is a Star Wars legend! As the author of the original Thrawn trilogy in the early 90s (and numerous subsequent Star Wars novels), Zahn helped keep the Star Wars flame lit during the franchise's post-Return of the Jedi slumber. Join Timothy in this 1 on 1 discussion as he shares stories about the creation of Grand Admiral Thrawn, Mara Jade and other characters, how he first got the chance to write Star Wars stories, what he thinks of his Extended Universe novels becoming Star Wars Legends, and much more!

Working on beloved franchises comes with both exciting opportunities and unique creative challenges. Join Mike Collins (Disney, Netflix, Nickelodeon) and Christian Gossett (Star Wars, Marvel, Hasbro) for a discussion about what its like to create stories and artwork within established universes. From navigating brand guidelines and editorial approvals to capturing the voice and visual style of iconic characters, these creators share how they bring new ideas to worlds fans already love.

Two legendary creators who helped shape modern superhero comics come together for a rare conversation about the stories that defined a generation. Join Chris Claremont (X-Men, Dark Phoenix Saga) and Dan Jurgens (Superman, The Death of Superman) as they discuss the creative decisions, industry shifts, and storytelling philosophies behind some of the most influential comics of the 1980s and 90s. From building iconic characters to navigating the rivalry between Marvel and DC, this panel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the era that changed comics forever.

What makes someone pick up a comic off the shelf? Join Kenneth Rocafort and Cat Staggs for a behind-the-scenes look at how comics are designed to catch readers attention. From cover composition and character design to titles, branding, and visual storytelling, these creators discuss the creative and marketing decisions that help a comic stand out in a crowded marketplace.

From manga storytelling rhythms to anime-inspired visuals, Japanese pop culture has had a profound influence on modern comics around the world. Join Dustin Nguyen (Descender, Robin & Batman), Dave Baker (Mary Tyler MooreHawk), and Christian Gossett (Cthulhutown) for a conversation about how global influences shape todays comics. From visual storytelling and pacing to character design and worldbuilding, these creators explore how Eastern and Western traditions continue to inspire and evolve alongside one another.

How do you turn a comic idea into a project that a publisher wants to make? Join Amanda Deibert and Christian Gossett for a behind-the-scenes look at the pitching process. From loglines and pitch decks to artwork, story outlines, and finding the right publisher, these creators share practical advice on how to develop comic pitches and what makes editors say yes.

Speed into the world of Sonic the Hedgehog with the voices behind the characters fans love! Join Pete Capella (Silver the Hedgehog), Jason Griffith (Sonic the Hedgehog/Shadow the Hedgehog), Kate Higgins (Tails), Dave B. Mitchell (Knuckles the Echidna), Mike Pollock (Dr. Eggman), and Kirk Thornton (Shadow the Hedgehog) for a high-energy conversation about bringing the Sonic universe to life. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from the recording booth, learn how these actors developed their iconic character voices, and maybe even hear a few fan-favorite lines performed live.

Welcome to the Superfan Podcast, where the people who make the comics you love talk about the things they love that are not comics. Join co-hosts Christian Gossett (The Red Star, Eyes of Wakanda) and Kristen Simon (Exec Editor at Mad Cave Studios: Nakama Press), along with superstar artist Dave Johnson for a free-wheeling, candid conversation about what they are superfans of, plus a surprise or two!

Boldly go where no panel has gone before! The hosts of broadcast Televisions exclusive Star Trek talk show, Bryan Kreutz and Lili-Fox Lim (A Captain's Log), welcome Mark Riccardi, the man who stunt doubled Jonathan Frakes Commander Riker in TNG plus in the film Star Trek: Generations, also performing countless stunts and roles, notably Franklin phaser-ing the borg on the bridge in Descent from Star Treks most popular spin off series, (stunt double, stunt performer on Star Trek: TNG, DS9, VOY). Also, as a panelist, is Mr. Datas genderless android child Lal, plus Trent in episode Angel One guest actor Leonard Crofoot (Star Trek: TNG, VOY). They share their favorite stories, photos, and rare moments behind the scenes and will open it up to questions from the audience about their Trek journey. Fiercely fashioning the boldness of mankind into the final frontier, this panel re-lives Star Trek stories both new and old and promises entertaining anecdotes never before shared with fans.

In 1992, The Death of Superman became one of the most talked-about comic book events in history, capturing worldwide media attention and redefining how superhero stories could be told. Join Dan Jurgens (Superman; The Death of Superman) for a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process behind this landmark moment in comics. From the development of Doomsday to the massive crossover that shook the DC Universe, the panel explores how this era transformed superhero storytelling and helped shape the modern comics industry.

From novels and animation to live-action and iconic character design, the Star Wars universe has been shaped by creators working across many forms of storytelling. Join Timothy Zahn (creator of Grand Admiral Thrawn), Jim Cummings (Hondo Ohnaka in The Clone Wars and Rebels), and Christian Gossett (Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi; designer of Darth Mauls double-bladed lightsaber) for a behind-the-scenes look at how new stories and characters come to life in a galaxy far, far away.

Makeup and special effects tips for cosplayers levels beginner to advanced. Bring your cosplay makeup and SFX questions! Host Brooque Creative brings 10 years of professional makeup artistry experience to this panel. She will begin with a short presentation on some of her favorite cosplay makeup tips. After that, the floor is yours!

Teams compete in spirited rounds of Pop Culture trivia hosted by Richard and Sarah Woloski from Skywalking Through Neverland (podcast/YouTube/Skywalking Press). Each side of the room will work as a team answering quirky trivia questions focusing on the 70s-90s. Topics range from movies, TV series, Saturday morning cartoon themes, food mascots, and more! You don't have to be a trivia expert, and you may even walk away with new pop culture fun facts! Winning contestants will receive a raffle ticket to win prizes! May the Farce be with all of us!

How do creators bring authentic voices and perspectives to the page? Join Amanda Deibert (DC Super Hero Girls), Nicole Goux (DC's Shadow of the Batgirl), and Cat Staggs (Wonder Woman 77) for a conversation about representation in comics and the power of inclusive storytelling. From character design and worldbuilding to writing voices and visual identity, these creators discuss how thoughtful representation helps stories resonate with readers and reflect the diversity of the real world.

Great comics can captivate readers of any age. Join Mike Kunkel (Herobear and the Kid), Patrick Scullin (Super Siblings), and Beth Sotelo (Grump) for a discussion about crafting stories that resonate with both young readers and longtime fans. From expressive characters and visual storytelling to tone, humor, and emotional depth, these creators explore what makes all-ages comics some of the most enduring and beloved stories in the medium.

Great stories transport audiences to unforgettable worlds. Join Kelly McMahon, Stephan Franck (Marvels What If?), and Joel Gomez (The Labyrinth; The Wraith of the Woods) for a conversation about how artists build immersive environments and visual narratives for comics, animation, and beyond. From character design and atmosphere to action staging and visual pacing, these creators explore the craft of bringing fictional worlds to life.

How does a comic page evolve from rough sketches into the fully finished art readers see in print? Join Ben Templesmith (30 Days of Night), Danny Miki (GHOST MACHINE and HYDE STREET), Norm Rapmund (DC Comics inker), and Beth Sotelo (DC Comics colorist) for a behind-the-scenes look at the collaborative process that brings comic art to life. From penciling and page layout to inking techniques and the power of color, these creators explore how each stage of the artistic pipeline shapes the final look and storytelling of a comic.

Breaking into comics can feel mysterious, but there are more paths than ever before. Join Ray-Anthony Height (Studio Skye Tiger), and Travis Hanson (The Bean) for a practical conversation about how creators actually build careers in comics today. From webcomics and crowdfunding to indie publishing and working with major publishers, these creators share real experiences, portfolio advice, and lessons learned on the road to making comics professionally.

From expressive faces to dynamic poses, great cartooning can make characters leap off the page. Join Mike Kunkel (Herobear and the Kid), Travis Hanson (Life of the Party), and Stephan Franck (Marvels What If?) for a lively discussion about the art of cartoon storytelling. Learn how creators use gesture, exaggeration, and visual acting to bring characters to life in comics and animation.

The importance of Middle Eastern/North African (MENA) representation in Western arts and entertainment remains strong today, but there is still more to be done with also much to recognize and celebrate. This panel features a group of talented MENA Americans discussing how their background and experiences shaped their careers as well the progress to be made for more positive representation in the future.

Many of us celebrate our fandoms through toy collecting. And some of us find that we can elevate displaying and playing with toys to another level through stop-motion animation. With the cell phones in our pockets and poseable characters from our collections, we can breathe life into our favorite heroes and villains. Our panelists will discuss their journeys into stop-motion animation, how anyone can get started, and how they've advanced their tools and techniques over time to produce professional work for major brands and toy companies. Panelists include popular stop-motion animators Raymond Montemayor, Jax Navarro, Zach Moore, and Lance Anderson. Actor Jamie Costa will moderate the panel and give his perspective on voice acting for animation.

Are you a film fan who wants to work in the movies? Would you like to know how you can start your career in Hollywood and maybe work on a Marvel movie? This panel features several seasoned crew members sharing the dos and don'ts of getting your start as a production assistant (PA) and discussing their experiences working in film and television, from writing to crew to editing.

Join Irene, the Cosplay Counselor, as she leads this uplifting discussion as Rumi from KPop Demon Hunters. As a credentialed counselor, she explores relatable themes of selfworth, identity, and belonging through the lens of Kpop storytelling and fandom culture. Attendees will gain simple, powerful ways to talk about selfworth in their own lives while celebrating the joy and creativity of fandom. To close, there will be a Golden Singalonga final moment for everyone to seal the honmoon together in unity, reflection, and joy.

Jump into the ever-expanding universe of Doctor Who and explore how fans transform its iconic characters, creatures, and timey-wimey aesthetics into unforgettable cosplay. This panel dives into creative interpretation, DIY techniques, and how to make the Whoverse uniquely your own -- no TARDIS required.

(Wristband required: distribution info to be announced) So say we all! Join Battlestar Galactica stars Edward James Olmos (Adama), Mary McDonnell (President Laura Roslin), James Callis (Baltar), Tricia Helfer (Six), Grace Park (Boomer/Athena), and Katee Sackhoff (Starbuck) for a special reunion celebrating the groundbreaking sci-fi series. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from the fleet, reflect on the shows lasting impact, and take part in a fan Q&A with the cast that helped redefine science fiction television.

Return to West Beverly High with stars Gabrielle Carteris, Jennie Garth, Brian Austin Green, and Ian Ziering from the iconic series Beverly Hills, 90210. The cast looks back on the show that defined a generation of television, sharing behind-the-scenes memories, favorite moments, and stories from the set before opening the floor to fan questions. Because some zip codes are forever.

(Wristband required: distribution info to be announced) Run, don't walk back to Central City with stars Grant Gustin (Barry Allen/The Flash), Danielle Panabaker (Caitlin Snow/Killer Frost), Carlos Valdes (Cisco Ramon/Vibe), Tom Cavanagh (Harrison Wells/Reverse-Flash), David Ramsey (John Diggle/Spartan), and John Wesley Shipp (Henry Allen/Jay Garrick) for a special reunion celebrating the hit CW series The Flash. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from the shows nine-season run, revisit unforgettable Arrowverse moments, and join the cast for a fan Q&A about the heroes, villains, and multiverse adventures that made the Scarlet Speedster a television icon. The multiverse is wide open.

Teams compete in spirited rounds of Star Wars trivia hosted by Richard and Sarah Woloski from Skywalking Through Neverland (podcast/YouTube/Skywalking Press). Do you tend to freeze up during trivia challenges? Don't worry, each side of the room will work as a team, matching Star Wars icons and answering quirky trivia questions. Topics range from the movies and TV series to behind-the-scenes nuggets and parody songs. You don't have to be a trivia expert, and you may even walk away with new Star Wars fun facts! Contestants will receive a raffle ticket to win prizes! May the Force and Farce be with all of us!

The Comic Con Revolution tradition continues. Come see the arts of cosplay, costuming, and crafting on display. Fabulous prizes will be awarded, and fun times for all. Hosted by Comic Book Men's Ming Chen, CCRs Cosplay Contest is brought to you by TCC with 3d Prints. If you are interested in being a Cosplay Revolution Contestant, on-site sign-ups for the Cosplay Revolution Costume Contest will be at Angi Viper and Miss Katt's table in Cosplay Corner. Check-In, Orientation, and Pre-Judging is 2:30 PM in Room 202AB.

(Wristband required: distribution info to be announced) The Second Season of X-Men 97 is just weeks away! Join us chatting with Executive Producers of Marvel's hit show who also happen to be three of the creative forces behind the original X-Men: The Animated Seriesthe groundbreaking 1990s show that defined the X-Men for an entire generation. Join X-Men:TAS showrunner Eric Lewald, writer Julia Lewald, and legendary director and producer Larry Houston, as they take fans inside the making of the original series and discuss what it took to continue the series as X-Men '97 nearly thirty years later: from adapting iconic comic storylines to shaping characters, animation style, and moments from both series that still resonate today, the creative team shares behind-the-scenes stories from the ongoing series that has changed superhero animation forever.

This discussion will explore the storyline of Marvels first major crossover throughout all of the mutant titles. The panel will discuss the genesis of the idea, the process of having the story run through the core mutant books of Uncanny X-Men, X-Factor and New Mutants, while also spilling over into the pages of Thor and Power Pack and the ramifications of the events of those issues, including repeating the mutant crossover every year.

The series that launched a television universe returns to the spotlight! Join Katrina Law (Nyssa al Ghul), Caity Lotz (Sara Lance/White Canary), and David Ramsey (John Diggle/Spartan) for a behind-the-scenes celebration of Arrow. From Star City vigilante justice to the League of Assassins and the crossovers that changed superhero TV, the cast shares stories from the set, fan-favorite moments, and what it was like helping launch a DC television legacy.

The multiverse is open and the portal gun is charged! Join Ian Cardoni (Rick), Harry Belden (Morty), and Spencer Grammer (Summer) for a dimension-hopping Q&A about the hit Adult Swim series Rick & Morty. Hear behind-the-scenes stories from the recording booth, learn what its like stepping into these iconic roles, and bring your questions for the Smith family. Warning: Side effects may include existential dread, portal fluid, and Morty panicking.

From their roles in everything from anime to video games to cartoons, working voice actors have quickly become household names. Join us for a discussion with some of todays most popular voice actors, Yuri Lowenthal and Tara Platt, as they discuss everything from breaking into the industry, favorite roles, what it takes to be a working voice actor today, where they see the industry going, and more!