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Friday, March 27
 

2:00pm PDT

Bootleg Cosplay: Hacking it Together
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Are you a cosplay goblin? Have you thrown together more than one cosplay on a hope and a prayer? Or are you perhaps a cosplay perfectionist trying to embrace the "perfect is the enemy of good" philosophy? The cosplayers of SheProp share how to create amazing cosplays on a budget, as well as how to make sustainable crafting choices while building. The panel covers garment hacking, thrift cosplay, and other sustainable costuming practices. Panelists are pros at creating amazing cosplays without breaking the bank (or even without knowing how to use a sewing machine). Audience participation is highly encouraged, with plenty of time for questions.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

2:00pm PDT

Comic-Con Lost Videos of the 1980s Part ll: The Trilogy
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
This panel explores how digitizing media can help preserve the histories and legacies of creators and loved ones who are no longer with us and considers the question: Will A.I. help? This important issue for collectors, videographers, and archivists is highlighted through new, previously unseen videos that aim to educate and entertain, with additional surprises in store. Greg Koudoulian (Shel Dorf Archives) and Ron McFee (archivist for Comic-Con) can help answer your questions on preservation for the future.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

2:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #1: Defining the Superhero Today: Mission, Identity, and Community in Comics
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
What makes a superhero a superhero, and why does it matter now? Building on Peter Coogan's defining criteria of mission, powers, heroic identity, costume, and generic distinction, this interactive panel examines how these elements shape both classic and contemporary understandings of the superhero genre. Antero Garcia (Stanford University), Susan Kirtley (Portland State University), and Peter Carlson (Green Dot Public Schools) introduce a practical, classroom-tested rubric for analyzing superhero construction, drawing from their comics pedagogy framework and community-centered activities. After modeling how Coogan's criteria illuminate characters across publishers and eras, panelists guide attendees through hands-on evaluation and rapid-creation exercises. Participants name, assess, and finally design their own superheroes rooted in real-world identities, communities, and needs. This session invites scholars, educators, and fans to rethink the superhero not merely as a genre figure but as a cultural tool for storytelling, self-authorship, and collective imagination.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 210

2:00pm PDT

Identity, Growth, and Graphic Novels
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
From first crushes and friendships to family, culture, and finding your voice, moderator Grace Sheehy (senior librarian of library resources at Mission Viejo Public Library) speaks with authors James Burks (Box Tales: Super Terrific Showtime!), Joshua Pruett (Phineas and Ferb: A-MAZE-Ing Creature Double Feature), Richard Ashley Hamilton (Leo Da Vinci: Renaissance Kid), and Michael Grover (Jake Spooky and the Wolves Within Him) as they explore how they craft powerful coming-of-age stories centering on identity, change, and self-discovery, ultimately helping young readers navigate their own journeys.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 209

2:00pm PDT

Special Showcase of the 24 Hours Animation Contest for Students
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
The annual 24 Hours Animation Contest is an international event in which students from around the world compete in teams to produce a 30-second animated film in just 24 hours. A screening of the top 50 animated films will be followed by a Q&A with select filmmakers from these films, as well as the contest's founder, Aubry Mintz. Moderated by Eric Bauza (voice actor, Adventure Time, Teen Titans Go!) and Caro Buermann (Saturday Morning Cartoons United).
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

2:00pm PDT

Spiritual Themes in Comics
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Casey Robin (illustrator), Travis Hanson (Beanleaf Press), Spiritual themes continue to be an essential component in comics, television, and movies, with series like Avatar: Fire and Ash, Ironheart, and Win or Lose all having spiritual themes as an important element of their stories. Leo Partible (comic book creator), Buzz Dixon (G.I. Joe), Matt Agosto (pastor), Ralph Miley (New Creation Comics), and Kyle Keene (moderator) will discuss the importance of spiritual themes in storytelling and the future of these themes as they are interwoven in the culture and in creative expressions.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 211

2:00pm PDT

RPG Gamemaster Workshop
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
From the team behind Darrington Press's Daggerheart, this workshop focuses on how to facilitate collaborative, exciting, impactful stories with players around the table. Game designers Spenser Starke (Alice Is Missing, Kids on Brooms) and Rowan Hall (Sunderfolk, Candela Obscura) lead a hands-on environment to hone participants' proficiency in running story-forward games like Daggerheart.
Special Guests
avatar for Spenser Starke

Spenser Starke

D-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Spenser Starke is a WGA screenwriter and the senior game designer at Darrington Press. He is best known for Daggerheart, Alice Is Missing, Candela Obscura, and Kids on Brooms. Additionally, he has worked on video games like Sunderfolk and is currently adapting a number of tabletop... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 151

2:00pm PDT

Crafting Pop Culture Content to Educate
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
In a world of fast edits and even faster social media virality, crafting educational social media content has become increasingly important; audiences are constantly looking for the next video or article to take their knowledge even further. This panel examines what it takes to craft unique and memorable educational content and how audience reactions can guide the creation of more impactful work. Host Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) (pop culture educator and consultant, InterMyth) is joined by Sarah Berman (manager and creative producer, The Pacific Pals), Goldie Chan (branding expert and author, Personal Branding for Introverts), Kurosh Jozavi (games journalist and host, Savepoint Stories), Cynthia Marie (TTRPG performer and lifestyle/mental health advocate), and Luke Richmond (artistic director, The Pacific Pals) to address appropriate research methods for content, differentiation through marketing and brand approach, and strategies for responding to anti-intellectual comments and bad-faith commenters on social media.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300A

2:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Charisma Check, A Networking Event
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Tabletop roleplaying and board game creators, publishers, performers, game shop owners, teachers, and library workers have brought greater acceptance to TTRPGs and fan culture. Attendees can take a break from hectic convention life to experience speed-dating-style networking with diverse TTRPG and board game professionals and enthusiasts from all backgrounds. This year's lineup includes Ivy B., Celeste Barclay, Bryan Borgman, Reuben Bresler, Kade Brittain, Doriam Couto, Ruel Gaviola, Sammy Glicker, Candice Harris, Lemar Harris, Cody Heath, Anais Morgan, Momo Meas, Ryan Omega, Amanda Pand8ngel, Jenni Powell, Ross Thompson, Andrea Santoyo, Anjuli Smith, Dustin Staats, and Joseph Young, along with TTRPG and board game educators and enthusiasts Matt Atherton, Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, Moni Barrette, and Dan Wood.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 152

2:00pm PDT

Slugblasting Is Not a Crime 2: Slambulance!
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
In this actual-play session of the award-winning Slugblaster RPG by Mythworks, the L0ZRS sneak off on their hoverboards to a dangerous dimension hosting a wild spring break party and encounter more than they bargained for. Will they escape dangerous metasaurs and mathpanthers before the cops and/or their parents show up? Players Jackson Lanzing, Max Isaacson, Mayanna Berrin, David Telstra, and Alex Klimavich are joined by slugmaster Edward Doty (director, Life Is Strange: Two Moons Rising, Little Nightmares: Sickly Sweet) and a surprise guest or two in this new adventure from the upcoming Slime, Warp, and Solder expansion.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 153

2:00pm PDT

Helping Dragons Fly: Real Science in Animation
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Dragons may not be real, but they can still look realistic with help from scientific advisors. The filmmakers of How to Train Your Dragon consulted paleontologist Stuart Sumida, who will share how his knowledge of fossil and living animals helped DreamWorks animators, including Dane Stogner, design different species of dragon and their behavior. Human anatomy professor Elizabeth Rega, who has consulted on other animated projects, including The Lion King and World of Warcraft, will also share her insights about human diversity and motion in animation. Moderated by science writer Melissa T. Miller and presented as part of the Science on Screen movie series, this event includes a screening of the 2010 animated film, followed by this panel discussion starting around 4:00.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 207

2:00pm PDT

Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
The annual Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival begins with three full days of short films from around the world for all ages, featuring animation, live action, and documentaries. Animators and filmmakers will talk to the audience following their films, including giving advice for kids on how to become a professional animator or filmmaker. For the full LAICFF schedule, click here.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 303CD

2:30pm PDT

Brandon Davis Show LIVE
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Brandon Davis (formerly of ComicBook.com) brings his first-ever live edition of The Brandon Davis Show to WonderCon for a fun conversation with a main character. BD and a celebrity guest discuss an upcoming project and also take a walk down memory lane, looking back at some of their greatest moments and characters, boldest career choices, and the human experience of creating art and sharing it with the world.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
North 100B

2:30pm PDT

Charles M. Schulz and Peanuts
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and their friends have been part of the American family for 75 years. Peanuts experts Mark Evanier and Nat Gertler attempt to explain why this is, and if they cannot, they will at least try to answer audience questions about the most widely read newspaper strip in the history of mankind.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

2:30pm PDT

Creating a Local Comics Community
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Members of the North County Cartoonists Collective (NCCC) discuss the process of forming their group, a collection of dedicated comics creators in San Diego's North County who meet regularly, share work, go on field trips, and twice yearly publish the comics anthology Jollies. Moderator Rocco Versaci (2025 Eisner judge/English professor) is joined by fellow NCCC members Mary Fleener, David Clark, Wendy All, Dean LeCrone, and Nick Ivins to provide valuable insights into the hows and whys of forming a supportive comic arts community.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 300C

2:30pm PDT

Star Wars: Inside the Creatures, Droids, and Puppetry
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
This panel explores the Star Wars galaxy as the actors and puppeteers behind some of its most iconic aliens, droids, and creatures reveal how the magic is created. Christine Galey, Chris Bartlett, TaMara Carlson Woodard, Jasper J. Anderson, Dawn Dininger, and Jacob Roanhaus provide an inside look at puppeteering, practical effects, and performance and how these elements bring Star Wars to life on screen. Hosted by Crystal Rose Schaefer and Sean Shaw.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 208

3:00pm PDT

Alternative Career Options in Video Games
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Many people today aspire to work in the ever-growing and popular video game industry. However, not everyone has the skills in art, design, writing, or programming that typically form the core creative teams that conceive and develop the games. But there is hope! The game industry is full of many types of jobs and needed skills that may not directly affect the creative vision but are just as important to the success of the team and the game. Game industry professionals with nontraditional backgrounds share their experiences and answer questions about what it takes to leverage unique skills into a potential career in games.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

3:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #2: Focus on Lee Marrs
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
As a cartoonist and animation director, 2026 Eisner Hall of Fame inductee Lee Marrs' legacy is wide-reaching and topical. Marrs was one of the first women underground cartoonists, serving as a founding mommy of Wimmen's Comix, the first all-women comics series, and created her infamous underground series The Further Fattening Adventures of Pudge, Girl Blimp. In the 1980s, she was one of the first women to work for both Marvel and DC, and in the 1990s, she worked for Dark Horse, writing two Indiana Jones miniseries. Lee and moderator Sydney Heifler (The Ohio State University) will discuss Marrs's contributions to underground, mainstream, and fantasy comics and how her comics have sparked conversations about women's bodies, sexual orientation, and race within feminist and comic book narratives. This spotlight concludes with a look at Marrs' latest work and her ongoing effort to create comics that speak to important social, cultural, and political moments.
Special Guests
avatar for Lee Marrs

Lee Marrs

B-01, WonderCon Special Guest
As the first woman to work for both DC Comics and Marvel simultaneously, Lee Marrs was one of the founding mommies of Wimmen’s Comix. Lee’s art styles have ranged from illustrative (Heavy Metal magazine, Epic Illustrated, Star*Reach, Prince Valiant, Li’l Orphan Annie) to hu... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 210

3:00pm PDT

Eco-Friendly Cosplay
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Rachael Sanderson Rachael Sanderson (LuckyGrim, SyFy fantorials) and Philip Odango (Canvas Cosplay, SVP ambassador) discuss their endeavors to create fantastic costumes while being eco-friendly. Fashion and costume production can be extremely wasteful, but this panel highlights ways to help the environment while making amazing cosplays.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

Felicia Day: Creating Outside the Box
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Multi-hyphenate Felicia Day (Supernatural, The Guild, Eureka) engages in a one-on-one discussion about her passion for creating independent content. She discusses her new graphic novel, The Lost Daughter of Sparta, and her web series The Guild, which is being revived with a reunion movie Kickstarter this summer.
Special Guests
avatar for Felicia Day

Felicia Day

WonderCon Special Guest
Felicia Day is a prolific multi-hyphenate. She's the New York Times bestselling author of You're Never Weird on the Internet (Almost) and the creativity book Embrace Your Weird, and she wrote the Audible series "Third Eye" that won Best Audio Drama at the Audie Awards in 2024. H... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300A

3:00pm PDT

TMNT 1990 Movie Screenwriter Turtle Gabfest
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Screenwriter Bobby Herbeck leads a discussion on the making of the first 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, highlights from the last 36 years, its recent 35th-anniversary nationwide re-release, and what lies ahead for this iconic film.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 211

3:00pm PDT

Toddlers to Teens: Writing Kidlit, from Picture Books to Young Adult
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Bestselling and award-winning kidlit authors discuss the craft and business of writing for young audiences, with Marcie Colleen (Kitten Ninja, Love, Triangle), Amber Morrell (The Alchemy of Letting Go), Dan Santat (A First Time for Everything, The Adventures of Beekle), Leanne Schwartz (To a Darker Shore, A Prayer for Vengeance), Sherri L. Smith (Candace, the Universe, and Everything, Pearl), Joey Spiotto (Max, a Little Axolotl; Grumpy Unicorn series), and Greg van Eekhout (Happy Town, COG).
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

3:00pm PDT

Willie Ito: A Conversation with an Animation Legend
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Willie Ito is known for his work for Disney, Hanna-Barbera, and Warner Bros. Mindy Johnson, award-winning author and historian, speaks with Willie about his five-decade career in animation art.
Special Guests
avatar for Willie Ito

Willie Ito

A-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Willie Ito began his 50-year career in animation working on Disney’s iconic spaghetti-kissing scene in 1953's Lady & The Tramp. He continued to work at Warner Bros., Hanna-Barbera, Bob Clampett Productions, and other studios before returning to Disney in the early 1970s. After... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 209

3:00pm PDT

Our Seats at the Table: BIPOC Representation in Tabletop
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
A Jordan Lambert (blogger and dungeon master, Blackness and Dragons), Cai Kagawa (game consultant and game master), Kai Grayson (screenwriter and game master, Roles for Initiative LA), Kawika Aguilar (actor and writer, Snowbright Studio), Markeia McCarty (nerd culture and gaming host, Something Scary, Critical Role), and  Masood Haque (comedian and actor, The Rivals of Waterdeep, Idle Champions) discuss being people of color in the world of professional tabletop gaming: what it takes to get a seat at the table, to move into positions of power, to generate momentum, and to maintain hope.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 151

3:00pm PDT

Success in Creativity Mixer: Meet Other Creatives and Get Time with the Experts
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
This mixer brings together creatives from across television and film, animation, podcasts, cosplay, fan groups, music, illustration, blogging, writing, and comics to connect with peers both within and outside their own fields. Attendees can network across disciplines to find collaborators whose skills support every stage of a project, from creation through promotion and marketing. The event also offers dedicated one-on-one time with experts from the Success in Creativity panels—including Luke Cheesman, James Frye, Ron Coleman, Ph.D., Renah Wolzinger, Ed.D., Stephen Burns, Marsia Powers, Batt Rivera, Gene Turnbow, and Topher Davila—who can address questions on topics ranging from digital art, writing, and podcasting to management, accounting, taxes, event planning, and more. Attendees receive resource postcards drawn from past panels and have a chance to win a One by Wacom tablet. Bringing business cards or contact information is recommended to make the most of the networking opportunities.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 204C

3:00pm PDT

Hyde Unleashed: First Comic from Mechanical Cake, Ridley Scott, and Johnny Depp
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
This panel explores the Hyde comic and upcoming graphic novel series, including the original black-and-white comic featuring Johnny Depp in Japan and an exclusive color release of that comic at WonderCon. Panelists Jesse Negron (Mechanical Cake), Tom Moran (Scott Free), and Jason Forman (Infinitum Nihil) discuss the project’s development and what comes next for HYDE .
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 200A

3:30pm PDT

Crossing Bold Lines: Spotlight on Liana Kangas, Illustrator and Comic Artist
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Working in the comics industry can be challenging, especially when you're racing against the clock to break in within a decade. Sarah Gailey (The Echo Wife, Know Your Station, White Widow) interviews Liana Kangas (Know Your Station, Godzilla's 70th Anniversary, TRVE KVLT, HBO's Fantasmas) about navigating the industry, breaking into comics, and maintaining their passion while dealing with burnout, big wins, and work-life balance, all while striving to support and uplift their communities.
Special Guests
avatar for Liana Kangas

Liana Kangas

C-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Liana Kangas is a comics creator and illustrator specializing in neon noir storytelling across such genres as sci-fi, horror, music, and film. They’ve worked with major publishers including BOOM! Studios, Image, IDW Publishing, Dark Horse, and Vault, co-creating such acclaimed series... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Gailey

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest
Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 208

3:30pm PDT

Deaf Representation in Popular Culture
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Yvonne Hunt introduces panelists CJ Jones (actor, Baby Driver), Awet Moges (writer/artist, Pantheon), and Austin Chapman (novelist, filmmaker). Host and moderator Brandon Carmedy leads a discussion of the realities and current state of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community in popular culture.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 300C

3:30pm PDT

The Groo Panel
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
The all-time dumbest warrior in comics—the creation of cartoonist Sergio Aragonés—has been captivating audiences for decades. What is it about this stupid character and his stupid dog and their stupid adventures in a stupid world that causes smart people to follow them? Sergio's collaborators, Mark Evanier and Carrie Strachan, try to make sense out of all that stupidity, and if they need help, they will phone Sergio and see what he makes of it.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

3:45pm PDT

Aliens 40: The 40th Anniversary of One of the Best Sequels Ever Made
Friday March 27, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
This panel marks the 40th anniversary of Aliens (1986), honoring James Cameron's sequel and its lasting impact on science fiction action and pop culture. Members of the cast, including Michael Biehn, Jennette Goldstein, and Mark Rolston, share behind-the-scenes stories, discuss groundbreaking effects, and reflect on the evolution of Ripley into an action icon. Moderated by Mark Atkinson (actor, filmmaker), the panel features anecdotes, audience Q&A, and retrospective insights designed to engage longtime fans and introduce new audiences to this influential film.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:45pm - 4:45pm PDT
North 100B

4:00pm PDT

From Cult Classic to Modern Revival: Bringing Legacy Games Back
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Hannibal Tabu (D&D, Stranger Comics), Brian Lambert (Wingless Entertainment), and Macauley Christian (Children of Eternity) discuss what makes a game last for decades. Why is everything old new again? Topics include video games, tabletop, and more. Moderated by Rick Hernandez (Esports, Variety).
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

4:00pm PDT

Hello Maggie Film Premiere
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
WonderCon special guest animator Willie Ito is joined by Tony Tarantini (faculty member in Sheridan College's animation program with production work on Beetlejuice and The Care Bears), James Lopez (a Disney animator whose projects include Hercules and The Lion King), Logan Christie (director of operations for the Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation, which produced the film and Anthony Keith (an entrepreneur, event sponsor, and former Comic-Con department head) to discuss their roles in the creation of the film Hello Maggie , as well as the involvement of Nemo Art Academy and Italian composer Carlo Chiarotti in the film's creation.
Special Guests
avatar for Willie Ito

Willie Ito

A-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Willie Ito began his 50-year career in animation working on Disney’s iconic spaghetti-kissing scene in 1953's Lady & The Tramp. He continued to work at Warner Bros., Hanna-Barbera, Bob Clampett Productions, and other studios before returning to Disney in the early 1970s. After... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 209

4:00pm PDT

Old Stories, New Voices: The Art and Risk of Modern Fairy Tale Retellings
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Stacia Deutsch (New York Times bestselling author), Trond Hildahl (editor, Stay Awhile: Scenes from Temecula Valley Volumes I and II), and Chris Bannor discuss adapting fairy tales for modern, diverse audiences. Panelists will address what it takes to assemble a contemporary fairy tale retellings anthology, from selecting source material to navigating cultural sensitivity, representation, and outdated tropes. Moderated by Theresa Halvorsen (Warehouse Dreams, Dreams under Glass).
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

4:00pm PDT

Spotlight on Tom King
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Eisner Award–winning writer Tom King had an extensive run on Batman, giving us a story to truly remember. His other credits include Batman/Catwoman, Grayson, Heroes in Crisis, Mister Miracle, The Omega Men, Rorschach, Strange Adventures, and The Sheriff of Babylon for DC and The Vision for Marvel. His most recent projects have included Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, and Human Target.
Special Guests
avatar for Tom King

Tom King

F-02, WonderCon Special Guest
Tom King is the New York Times bestselling author and multiple Eisner Award–winning writer of Batman, Mister Miracle, Strange Adventures, The Sheriff of Babylon, The Vision, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Helen of Wyndhorn, and many others. He recently served as co-creator of th... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 211

4:00pm PDT

The Five Secrets of Cosplay Leathercraft
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Cosplayers interested in working with leather but unsure where to start can learn how to approach a project from concept to completion using a fantasy leather armor piece (a shoulder pauldron) as an example. Amy and Brayton Carpenter (owners, Legendary Costume Works; Fallout Season 2) reveal their methods and techniques in this lecture and demonstration.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

Women in Comics: Is It Finally Our Time?!
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Or are we going backwards? Expect a lively discussion with editor/journalist Heidi MacDonald (Comics Beat, Publishers Weekly), writer Amy Chu (Emma Frost, Carmilla: The First Vampire, Red Sonja), and some surprise guests.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300A

4:00pm PDT

Crowdfunding Best Practices for Tabletop Games
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Crowdfunding continues to be an effective way to bring funding to tabletop games, with multiple campaigns launched each week that bring tabletop games directly to players. Industry experts Andrew Marks (senior producer, Riot Games), Kailey Bray (executive producer, Kappa House Productions), Peter Vaughan (co-founder, Cardboard Alchemy), and Ivan Van Norman (founder, Hunters Entertainment) discuss best practices and trends and share stories from recent tabletop game crowdfunding campaigns.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 153

4:00pm PDT

Tabletop Role-Playing Game Design for Publishing
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
There are fantastic tabletop role-playing games coming to store shelves. Industry experts Elise Rezendes (senior RPG producer, Darrington Press), Anais Morgan (product development specialist, Renegade Games), Kimi Hughes (owner, Golden Lasso Games), Johnny O'Neal (president, Brotherwise Games), and Spenser Stark (senior game designer, Critical Role) share how to bring storytelling to publishing in the tabletop game industry. Moderated by Ross Thompson.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 151

4:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #3: The President Is a Hulk
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
How have comics responded to the Trump era? Adam Adler (Super Babies v. DC Comics) and Peter Coogan (Institute for Comics Studies) explore how comics use metaphor, abstraction, and larger-than-life characters to express controversial or politically charged ideas and show how the response to Trump is the latest in a long line of comics-based activism.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 210

4:15pm PDT

Exploring the Music of Teen Titans
Friday March 27, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
The beloved animated series Teen Titans premiered in 2003 and continues to receive acclaim and enjoy popularity among both original fans and those who discover it on streaming. A driving force for the series was the music, composed by the Emmy Award–winning Dynamic Music Partners, who have been responsible for many of DC's biggest animated hits. You are invited behind the scenes with the talented trio that crafted the series' stellar music—Kristopher Carter, Lolita Ritmanis, and Michael McCuistion—as well as some of the series' highly regarded production and voice talent. Moderator Gary Miereanu will offer special giveaways during the Q&A, so have your music questions ready.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm PDT
North 200A

4:30pm PDT

Afrofuturism: "Black to the Future VIII: How to Pitch to Hollywood"
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
It doesn't matter whether you've written the most brilliant and entertaining script the industry has ever seen; if you can't pitch it, you're dead in the water. Do you have what it takes? If you found yourself on an elevator with Steven Spielberg and he was getting off on the eighth floor, what would you say to him? What could you possibly pitch to him that would motivate him to say, "Wow! That's an intriguing idea. Let's go to my office and discuss it some more?" Let's find out. In this panel, a handful of individuals will be selected to pitch an idea to the moderator and fellow WonderCon attendees, as the panel simulates that stressful yet promising elevator ride. Each pitch will be judged on its merits and voted on by the audience. Moderated by Jimmy Diggs (original content producer, screenwriter for Star Trek: Voyager and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine).
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 300C

4:30pm PDT

Cartoon History
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Is there anything about cartoons or animation that audiences have always wondered about? Animation experts Jerry Beck and Mark Evanier do their best to explain things, whether the questions involve how Wile E. Coyote pays all those bills from the Acme Company or how the kids who drive around with Scooby-Doo can be so bright but not recognize that one of the suspects in their current case is wearing a rubber mask. Jerry and Mark will do their best to enlighten the audience.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

4:30pm PDT

Fear Between the Lines
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Peer into the void and learn how these authors transform the familiar and the fantastic into fear-inducing fiction. WonderCon special guest Sarah Gailey, Kathleen S. Allen (The Resurrectionist), Collin Armstrong (Polybius), Hiron Ennes (The Works of Vermin), and Racquel Marie (If We Survive This) discuss the art of repulsing readers in ways that keep them coming back for more. Moderated by librarian Judy Neeb.
Special Guests
avatar for Sarah Gailey

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest
Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 208

5:00pm PDT

35 Years of Indie Animation Production: Ron Diamond, Highlights from His Career as a Producer
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
What does a producer do? Most people think it's about handling production and the funds necessary to complete it, but it's more than that. Ron Diamond has worked tirelessly representing mostly little-known artist animators and seeking out opportunities for them. Many of these directors live outside the U.S. and would not necessarily have been discovered had it not been for their working with Ron, allowing him to introduce them to the advertising market in the U.S. and oversee their productions. This panel presents examples of the personal work of several directors and the commissioned work they created for American and international markets.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
North 100B

5:00pm PDT

Comic Pitch Review Friday
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Most creators have no trouble coming up with great ideas for new comics, but they often struggle to speak clearly and concisely about those ideas to other people. Giving a good pitch is a vital skill in bringing your project to life. Fortunately, it's also a skill you can learn and improve with practice—and Pitch Review is a great place to do that. If you're someone who wants to get better at pitching your work (and especially if you're a writer or artist attending the Comic Creator Connection immediately after this event), this is your chance to practice giving your pitch and get some invaluable help from a professional writer and speaker coach. Pitch reviews will be conducted by Douglas Neff, a professional speechwriter, speaker coach, and host of the Comic Creator Connection. This is not a typical panel. These are three- to five-minute individual coaching sessions for as many people as can be accommodated in the scheduled time. Spaces are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, and everyone is welcome to watch and learn from the sessions.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 204C

5:00pm PDT

Cosplay Photography 101: The Dos and Don'ts
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Pat Loika (published photographer; author, Four Color Realities, Photo Works), Jim Donnelly (published photographer), Amanda Lynne (cosplay cover model, X-Men), Sara Moni Cosplay (published model, streamer), Maid Of Might Cosplay (cosplayer, actress), Amazing T Cosplay (cosplayer), and moderator Taffeta Darling (podcaster, cosplayer) share their best practices and approaches in the realm of cosplay and cosplay photography. What should you always carry with you? When is the best time to take photos at a con? Panelists answer these questions and more.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300E

5:00pm PDT

Masks, Myth, and Meximalism: The World of Jorge R. Gutierrez
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
From El Tigre and The Book of Life to I, Chihuahua, and El Guapo vs. the Narco Vampires, Jorge R. Gutierrez has built one of the most unmistakable visual worlds in modern animation—where Lucha Libre spectacle, Mesoamerican mythology, bold Meximalist design, and raw emotional storytelling collide. In this exclusive WonderCon conversation presented by ASIFA-Hollywood, Gutierrez reveals how the theatrical energy of wrestling—its masks, archetypes, legacy, and larger-than-life drama—transforms into unforgettable animated characters and richly layered worlds. He is joined by character designer and voice actress Sandra Equihua (El Tigre, The Book of Life, Maya and the Three, El Guapo, and I, Chihuahua,) and art director/visual development artist Roman Laney (El Tigre, The Book of Life, El Guapo, and I, Chihuahua). This creative team shares behind-the-scenes insights into their collaborative process, artistic evolution, and the fearless world-building that defines their work.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300A

5:00pm PDT

Original Comic Art: An Open Discussion with the Insiders
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Moderated by Mickey Finnegan (founder, Swagglehaus Entertainment; host, The Ungraded Truth podcast) this panel features Dinesh Shamdasani (former CEO and CCO, Valiant Comics; current CEO and CCO, Bad Idea), Patrick A. Reed (curator of Marvel: Earth's Mightiest Exhibition, Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing, and Jack Kirby: Heroes and Humanity), and Carl Choi (publisher, 247 Comics; producer, Six Studios). They will examine current trends in comic art collecting, share methods and tips for entering the hobby, and answer audience questions.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

5:00pm PDT

Ray Harryhausen: An Animated Life
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
When it comes to motion picture special effects, there is one name that personifies movie magic: Ray Harryhausen (1920–2013). Film historian Dr. Mark Glassy examines the work of the master animator and special effects creator, who produced stop-motion animation effects known as "dynamation," in which animated stop-motion characters interact with the live-action world. Some of Harryhausen's films include Earth vs. the Flying Saucers, The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, and Jason and the Argonauts. The stop-motion battle between Jason and seven skeletal figures in Jason and the Argonauts is considered one of the greatest frame-by-frame sequences ever filmed.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 207

5:00pm PDT

Spotlight on Jasmine Guillory
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
New York Times bestselling writer Jasmine Guillory is in conversation with author and screenwriter Alanna Bennett as they discuss Jasmine's career path, writing romance for adults and young adults, and continuing to find the joy in writing amidst the ups and downs of publication.
Special Guests
avatar for Jasmine Guillory

Jasmine Guillory

WonderCon Special Guest
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 209

5:00pm PDT

The Wonderful World of Williamson
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Joshua Williamson (DC K.O.) has his hands full these days as he writes tentpole ongoing series for DC (Superman), Image/Skybound (G.I. Joe), and Marvel (Iron Man). Just how does he do it? This spotlight on one of the top writers in comic books highlights his process and career as he shares insights and maybe a few secrets.
Special Guests
avatar for Joshua Williamson

Joshua Williamson

F-03, WonderCon Special Guest
Joshua Williamson is a New York Times bestselling writer who has worked for nearly every comics publisher. One of the pillars of the modern DC Universe, with an iconic run on The Flash, he has written such titles as Robin, Green Arrow, and Batman/Superman. With his role as on... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 211

5:00pm PDT

Discovering Careers in the Tabletop Game Industry
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
There are many kinds of jobs and roles in the tabletop professional space. It's more than just a game designer or marketing manager. This panel highlights the different roles that fill the roster of a tabletop game company and how they help create the games we all play.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
North 153

5:00pm PDT

How to Fight Comic Bans and Win
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
The Comic Book Legal Defense Fund's Jeff Trexler, writer and CBLDF board member Amy Chu (Emma Frost, Carmilla: The First Vampire, Red Sonja), attorney Britton Payne, and librarian, educator, and author Moni Barrette discuss the latest developments in comics censorship and what can be done to defend the comic arts. Book bans in schools and libraries, victories and defeats in recent court cases, new legislation targeting comics, and arrests, prosecutions, and other legal risks now facing comics retailers, creators, publishers, and fans are among the issues addressed. Comics censorship continues to surge, but understanding what's happening can help the community prevail.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

5:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Together, creators, publishers, comic shop owners, teachers, and library workers have brought greater acceptance to comics and fan culture. Attendees can take a break from hectic convention life to experience speed-dating-style networking with diverse comics enthusiasts from all backgrounds. This year's lineup includes comics industry insiders Meghan Fitzmartin, Gabriel Valentin, Kristen Parraz, Charlie Stickney, Eric Gladstone, Francis Stokes, Michelle Montrose, Omar Morales, Jonathan Chance, Jeffrey Snow, Keith Foster, and more. Comics librarians and educators include Theresa Rojas, Matthew Atherton, Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, Moni Barrette, Elias Campos, Janie Ghinazzi, Jenni Powell, Sophia Juarez, Annie Fite, Jack Phoenix, and Dan Wood.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 206B

5:00pm PDT

From Daggers 'Till Dawn: A Daggerheart Actual Play
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Outlaws, bandits, and brigands have been terrorizing the frontier settlement of New Hope, but there is a new sheriff in town. During a sunset duel, a supernatural threat arrives, and old enemies must work together to survive until dawn. This actual play uses the Daggerheart TTRPG system from Darrington Press and involves audience participation. Shaun Leonard (tabletop creator and game designer) will GM our story with Kylie Rose (tabletop creator), Kim Wong (actor), Kevin Roy (tabletop creator), and Kai Miller (actor/creator), combating their fanged foes.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
North 151

5:00pm PDT

Designer First-Play Friday
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Ever wanted to play a board game before it becomes a hit? The First Play Game Lab offers a look behind the curtain with an open-house playtest session where attendees can dive into the next generation of board and card games, give input, and help shape the next big thing in gaming. Designers with prototypes to share are invited to grab a table. Whether a game is polished and ready for retail or just a wild new idea scrawled on index cards, it is welcome at this lab.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
North 152

5:30pm PDT

Creating Comics: Ask the Pros
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Chris Ryall (Dread the Halls, Lock and Key), Jordan Hart (Dread the Halls, The Cabinet), Keithan Jones (Dread the Halls, The Power Knights), and Corinna Bechko (Blood Type, The Space Between) join Brock Smith (The Ferryman, Payne) and Christian Pedersen (The Ferryman, Payne) to discuss the ins and outs of forging a path and finding success in the comic book industry.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 208

5:30pm PDT

From Concept to Reality: A Creative's Journey into Unreal Engine & Blender 3D
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Stephen Burns (3D artist and author) and Nikolai Svakkin (Adobe lead 3D engineer) demonstrate the possibilities of using Blender 3D to design and create concepts that aid in telling great stories. They also explain how this technology allows concept and 3D artists to collaborate in bringing their visions to life.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 210

5:30pm PDT

Gay Geeks and Where to Find Them
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Nicole Maines (actor, writer), Nathaniel Dolquist (actor, cosplayer), Jesse Ledina (artist), and Ember Vain (drag queen, cosplayer) discuss how favorite geeky fandoms can become flourishing careers, the challenges and rewards of growing up LGBTQIA+, seeking diversity and representation, and how being part of the community has influenced their work. The panel includes a special performance by Ember Vain and is moderated by Julian Jetson (stylist and host).
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 300C

5:30pm PDT

JAKKS Pacific and Disguise Costumes: Exclusive First Look at Upcoming Releases
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
This panel offers a preview of new figures and collectibles based on Nintendo, Sonic the Hedgehog, The Simpsons, and more. Disguise Costumes also unveils a lineup of costumes scheduled to hit stores this year. After the reveals, the session features a Q&A and a trivia challenge that gives attendees a chance to win special prizes. Panelists include Danielle McLachlan, Kevin Feely, Jeremy Sueper, Amritz Lay, Alex Tello, Jennifer Gracia, Maddie Gerety, and Chelsea Tenney.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

5:30pm PDT

Regular Show Q&OOOHHHHHH!!
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Creator and executive producer J. G. Quintel, executive producer Sean Szeles, and others celebrate the characters, moments, and catchphrases that turned Regular Show into an award-winning cultural phenomenon. The panel features good vibes, behind-the-scenes stories, and a conversation that will be anything but regular. The session includes audience Q&A and may also offer a glimpse into the new series coming soon.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
North 200A

6:00pm PDT

A World Without Film Remakes
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Film audiences have heard the critique before, that too many sequels, remakes, and similar projects are released each year, with little-to-no push toward more original ideas and stories. But how much truth do these positions hold, and what would a world without film remakes look like? The hosts of Nothing New: A Remake Podcast, Andrew Linde and Justin Quizon, are joined by Alix Catherine (podcast and livestream host, The Welcome Party), Becky D'Anna (podcast host and marketing executive, Sony Pictures), and Ashley Maria (writer and director, Super Human Anxiety) to discuss the impact of remakes on the film industry, how to foster original storytelling in film, and how the best, most original stories still contain an homage to what has come before.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

6:00pm PDT

Bridging The Expanse: Who Doesn't Love a "Good" Villain?
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Moderator Michael Pea (senior writer, Friends of Comic-Con) and villainous experts Glenton Richards (staff writer, The Expanse), Krys Blackwood (principal designer, NASA JPL), Julius Francisco (Southern CA School of Writing 2.0), and Dr. Robert Hurt (astronomer, Caltech) explore the nuanced realm of villainy in The Expanse universe, where characters challenge traditional notions of good and evil. While some of these antagonists may pursue worthwhile goals, their methods delve into our inner darkness, leaving audiences to question the high cost of justice and the shadowy depths of greed. Every "good" villain thinks that they are right.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 209

6:00pm PDT

Comic-Con Museum: What's on and What's Next
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Curious about how to keep the fan appreciation going all year round? This panel highlights Comic-Con Museum's current and upcoming exhibits, programming, events, and more. Moderated by Senior Director of Programming Eddie Ibrahim, the session features Comic-Con Museum leaders, contributors, and community advisors discussing the exciting present and future of Comic-Con Museum in San Diego's historic Balboa Park.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300E

6:00pm PDT

Comics Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
These comics teams are a dream come to life, gathering in Anaheim to talk about their work. WonderCon special guests Sarah Gailey, Tini Howard, Liana Kangas, and Babs Tarr provide an insightful and educational look into what it's like to work on comics together. Through the ups and downs, late-night calls, and early-morning coffees, these creators do what it takes to make the comics you love. Moderated by Michael Gorman (Improv Killed My Dog).
Special Guests
avatar for Liana Kangas

Liana Kangas

C-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Liana Kangas is a comics creator and illustrator specializing in neon noir storytelling across such genres as sci-fi, horror, music, and film. They’ve worked with major publishers including BOOM! Studios, Image, IDW Publishing, Dark Horse, and Vault, co-creating such acclaimed series... Read More →
avatar for Babs Tarr

Babs Tarr

F-06, WonderCon Special Guest
Babs Tarr is a professional comics artist and illustrator best known for her run on Batgirl of Burnside, her creator-owned comic Motor Crush, and the Overwatch—Tracer: London Calling miniseries (Dark Horse). She is also co-host of Critical Role's Pub Draw. Babs provided the cover for this year’s WonderCon Events Guide... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Gailey

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest
Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →
avatar for Tini Howard

Tini Howard

F-05, WonderCon Special Guest
Comics writer Tini Howard was an architect of the 2019 Krakoan X-Men reboot with her books Excalibur, X of Swords, and X-CORP, and she has enjoyed long runs on Harley Quinn and Catwoman at DC Comics. She lives and writes in Los Angeles, where she has names for all of the local cats... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 211

6:00pm PDT

Fallout: The Okey Dokey Law of the Wasteland
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
What is the state of the law after a nuclear war? How could the Enclave be held accountable for starting the Great War 200 years later? What is the liability for Vault-Tec, RobCo Industries, West Tek, REPCONN Aerospace, and Big MT for their part in ending the world? What is the legal status of the New California Republic and the Legion? Can the Brotherhood of Steel go around killing ghouls? A panel of lawyers and judges' journeys into the Wasteland to discuss the medical ethics of human experimentation, ghoul rights, child labor, and more. Featuring U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Wright (U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota), Judge Carol Najera (Los Angeles County Superior Court), Katrina Wraight, Esq. (Best Best & Krieger LLP), Vanessa Palacio, Esq. (Greenberg Traurig, LLP), and Kate Bridal (Now It's Ruined podcast). Moderated by Joshua Gilliland, Esq. (The Legal Geeks). Panel organized by The Legal Geeks.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 207

6:00pm PDT

Finding Your Passion . . . and Get Paid!
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Whether you are trying to write a novel, illustrate a new comic book, create a new product, or launch a new website, starting a new business can be daunting and intimidating. Hosted by Tony B Kim (Hero Within), this group of entrepreneurs and professionals share tips, tricks, and skips for establishing and sustaining a new business. Featuring Priscilla Wilson (artist), Arthur Ebuen (writer/publisher), and Jeff Lawber (Marmals creator).
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

6:00pm PDT

Dungeons & Dragons 101: How the Game Actually Works
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Curious about Dungeons & Dragons but not sure how it actually works? This beginner-friendly session breaks down the fundamentals of the world's most popular tabletop role-playing game in a clear, practical way. In Dungeons & Dragons 101, attendees learn what players actually do at the table, how dice determine outcomes, what a Dungeon Master is responsible for, and how storytelling and rules work together to create unforgettable adventures. The session walks through character basics, combat flow, skill checks, spells, and the rhythm of a typical session without overwhelming jargon. Whether you've only seen D&D in shows like Stranger Things or you're thinking about starting a group with friends, this session gives you the confidence to understand the mechanics and jump in. Curiosity—and maybe a sense of adventure—is encouraged.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
North 153

6:00pm PDT

The Vertical Drama Format Powers Up with Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Horror, and Adventure
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Verticals are everywhere! Filmed in the upright format for cell phone viewing, saucy CEO and billionaire movies with a hook-you cliffhanger at the end of each 1- to 3-minute episode have been surging, grabbing millions of views and millions of dollars. Now creators are stepping forward into this space, bringing compelling stories—tales of sci-fi, fantasy, superheroes, horror, and more. This panel goes behind the scenes of the format. It wouldn't be a vertical experience without a cliffhanger and a surprise or two, and actors and creators exploring this new universe share how they approach it: Gabe Armentano (Hear My Love Again), Evan Camacho (Game of Choice), Andre Philip Coleman (writer/director/producer, Milestone), Molly Flanagan (Tangled up in Christmas, OMG I'm Surrounded by Three Princes), Jake Hobbs (When I Was Gone, He Went Mad), Emily Lisa Jones (Callsign: Legacy), Jaki Lauper (Their Brother Lost in Space, Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.), Riley Nottingham (Hive, Love Me Like You Hate Me), and Rosa Singerman (Blood and Bones of the Disowned Daughter, Dracula's Daughter 2). Moderated by Michael Day (Talented Universe).
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300A

6:15pm PDT

Toonstock 17: We're Singing Again . . . with the Dynamic Music Partners!
Friday March 27, 2026 6:15pm - 7:15pm PDT
Toonstock returns for a 17th entertaining panel, featuring the celebrated creative composers of copious cartoon music, the Emmy Award–winning Dynamic Music Partners. Perk up your ears for an hour of animated musical fun discussing the likes of Justice League, Teen Titans, Batman Beyond, The Zeta Project, The New Batman Superman Adventures, Marvel's Avengers Assemble, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, and more with DMP's terrific trio—Kristopher Carter, Lolita Ritmanis, and Michael McCuistion—alongside The Archive Guys Podcast hosts Matthew Patterson and DW Ferranti, and moderator Gary Miereanu. Prepare to raise your own voice during the beloved Batman: The Brave and the Bold sing-along to the landmark "Mayhem of the Music Meister" episode.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:15pm - 7:15pm PDT
North 100B

6:30pm PDT

Collecting, Documenting, and Displaying 50 Years of Captain Canuck Comics
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Trevor Alvord (curator, BYU Library), Sharolyn Swenson (cataloger, BYU Library), and Dainan Skeem (curator, BYU Library) explore the history and cultural influence of the Captain Canuck comics, its creator Richard Comely, and the efforts of Brigham Young University Special Collections to preserve Comely's work and the importance of building library comic collections. The panel will conclude with a discussion on developing an exhibit celebrating Captain Canuck's 50th anniversary, highlighting how the Canadian-themed comic fostered a sense of belonging and connection among students.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 300C

6:30pm PDT

Comic Book Law School®: The ABCs of Copyright and Trademark Law
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Creative passion and keen business sense don't always go hand in hand, and that's one of the reasons why many creators put off taking steps to protect their rights. But with an ever-growing appetite for new content and artificial means for laypersons to generate creative works with simple prompts, it has never been more important for creators to "get their ducks in a row" as soon as they can to protect themselves and their creations. But comics creators have their own Defenders they can turn to—and not just Jennifer Walters and Matt Murdock—as noted IP attorney Michael Lovitz (author of The Trademark and Copyright Book comic book) returns to WonderCon along with IP attorney Alana Friedman to bring attendees the information needed to protect their creative works. This Comic Book Law School session tackles the basics of protection and ownership of ideas, works of authorship, characters, names, and branding, giving creators information to help them protect their creative works from conception through publication and beyond. Attendees will participate in an interactive discussion about rights available to authors and creators under U.S. copyright and trademark laws, as well as some of the problems and pitfalls they may face, some important contract “dos and don'ts,” and (time permitting) a brief discussion on why written agreements can be unsung heroes and why not all generative A.I. programs are villains. Please note: The Comic Book Law School seminars are designed to provide relevant information and practice tips to practicing attorneys, as well as practical tips to creators and other professionals who may wish to attend. However, the seminar is presented for information and entertainment purposes only, and the information presented and opinions expressed at the seminars do not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. [This program is approved for one credit of California MCLE.]
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 210

6:30pm PDT

G-Man Comics: How We Published 100 Comics in Seven Years and How You Can Too
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
G-Man Comics' Rik Offenberger (editor-in-chief), Chris Squires (managing editor), and Ray MacKay (associate editor) offer an inside look at how a group of passionate fans grew into an independent superhero universe. In just seven years, G-Man Comics has launched over 100 issues, built a cohesive shared universe, coordinated dozens of creators, and delivered 12 successful crowdfunding campaigns. Panelists explain how they built a production pipeline that allows them to release comics consistently; how they coordinate teams of writers, artists, colorists, letterers, and editors across multiple countries; and how they manage crowdfunding, fulfillment, and fan engagement—and how you can, too.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 208

6:30pm PDT

Nacelle's Star Trek Action Figures
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Brian Volk-Weiss (The Toys That Made Us, Disney's Behind the Attraction) and the Nacelle Toys team offer an intergalactic deep dive into their officially licensed Star Trek action figure line, featuring a look at their most ambitious project yet, the Build-A-Bridge play set. Brace for impact, because Nacelle's materializing something stellar for your Star Trek collection.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

6:45pm PDT

Marvel Rivals: Meet the Cast
Friday March 27, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
This panel highlights some of the outstanding voice talent behind Marvel Rivals. Panelists include Alpha Takahashi (Psylocke), Daniel Marin (Namor), Eliah Mountjoy (Winter Soldier), James Mathis III (Black Panther), Jordan Reynolds (Adam Warlock), and Brittany Cox (Angela). The panel will be moderated by Chandler Poling of Giant-Size Productions.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:45pm - 7:45pm PDT
North 200A

7:00pm PDT

Dread the Hall H: (Fictional) Convention Horror Stories
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Image Comics' Dread the Hall H, the one-of-a-kind comic convention/horror anthology, returns this July. In this special panel co-hosted by the co-creators Chris Ryall and Jordan Hart and key guests, panelists will discuss the reality behind the fiction, share con stories both real and imaginary, and preview this summer's oversized annual.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 211

7:00pm PDT

How to Win the War on Truth: The Panel
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
For centuries, people shared stories to explain the world and our place in it. But in a public sphere that's increasingly online, storytellers are no longer tribal elders or Hollywood screenwriters. They're marketers, political strategists, and troll farms weaving stories designed to misinform, mislead, and manipulate. So what can be done about it? Using humorous comic art from his graphic novel, author Samuel C. Spitale (How to Win the War on Truth) will provide a crash course in media literacy to help concerned citizens become more savvy media consumers.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 207

7:00pm PDT

Panick: The Next Wave in Horror
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Get an exclusive first look at wave 2 of Panick Entertainment, including a special peek at The Accessories by Leah Kilpatrick and David Dastmalchian. From the people who brought you T.A.M.A., Black Diamond, and Savager comes a special first look at what's next for the publisher.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

7:00pm PDT

Secrets of a Successful Pop Culture Podcast
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Are you thinking about starting a pop culture podcast, or have you started one and find yourself facing challenges? Or are you just podcast-curious? A panel of successful pop culture mavens share experiences and insights about every element of podcasting, including recording, interviewing, and building and maintaining an audience. The co-hosts of the award-winning podcast The Writers Block, David Avallone (Elvira) and Rylend Grant (Banjax), are joined by Derek McCaw (Fanboy Planet), Aaron Nabus (Hall H Show), and Heidi MacDonald (The Beat).
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300A

7:00pm PDT

Thrift, Upcycle, and Cosplay
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Cosplayers BethCosplay, SindirooCosplays, Pepperjaq, AgeOfAmber, Katerpillerkosplay, and Cosbunnycosplay will explore transforming everyday objects into extraordinary costumes and props through thrifting, upcycling, and creative repurposing.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300E

7:00pm PDT

What Would Buffy Do?: Why We Need Buffy the Vampire Slayer More than Ever
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Later this year, iconic hero Buffy Summers will return in the revival TV series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer: New Sunnydale. Moderated by Bryant Dillon (president, Fanbase Press), this panel—featuring Juliet Landau (actress, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel), Sarah Gailey (writer, The Vampire Slayer, Eat the Rich), Marsia Powers (president/co-founder, Fandom Charities; HellmouthCon), Amy Chase (writer, Fixation, Archie Horror: Welcome to Riverdale), and Don Aguillo (cover artist, Spawn, King Spawn)—will examine the power and endurance of Buffy, how Buffy never truly left pop culture, and why today's challenges require a return from everyone's favorite Slayer.
Special Guests
avatar for Sarah Gailey

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest
Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

7:00pm PDT

Evolution of Fanzines
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Zines are a staple of the sci-fi and comic community, and if not for Trekkie housewives, we wouldn't have the fanfiction and shipping culture we see today. This panel features Hazel and Emily, long-time fandom girls and zine writers, who will explore zine origins in fandom spaces while offering guidance on how to start a zine.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 209

7:00pm PDT

Comic Creator Connection Friday
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Are you a writer with a great idea for a comic book series, but you can't draw? Or maybe you're an artist looking to illustrate an incredible story, but you can't write. WonderCon is proud to once again host the Comic Creator Connection, a fast-paced networking event that puts writers and artists together to help them meet new creative partners. Here's how it works: In a two-hour period, writers and artists will sit down across from each other at a table. (And by artists, we mean pencillers, inkers, colorists, etc.—all are welcome!) Then, in five-minute sessions, you will talk one-on-one with each other about your ideas and skills. At the end of each five-minute period, you will get up and move on to the next person. If you're interested in furthering the conversation, you'll exchange contact information. Think of it as speed-dating but for writers and artists! Pro Tip: The room often fills up, so come early for the best chance at getting in. Seating begins at 6:45 PM.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 204C

7:00pm PDT

The Last Light of Barrowfield: A Candela Obscura Actual Play
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Kevin Roy (writer, producer, filmmaker) runs a live Candela Obscura session set in The Riverlands, joined by Shaun Leonard (actor, pro GM), Kylie Rose (pro GM, Dicescape), Lemar "TheconGuy" Harris (host, comedian, GM), Markeia McCarty (Critical Role, Something Scary), and John Wayne Constance (actor). In this audience-friendly actual play, investigators confront a haunted lighthouse, a grieving spirit, and an impossible moral choice.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
North 151

7:30pm PDT

Concept to Creation: A Writers Forum
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Are you passionate about writing, creating, and storytelling? Do you have a book, script, or idea in need of some TLC? Creative professionals join for an engaging, audience-led discussion designed for independent authors, creators, and artists like you! Featuring host April Wahlin (author, Pandora Syndrome), Doc Farrow (actor, Young Sheldon), Jessica Maison (comics publisher, Wicked Tree Press), Aristotle Dreher (content creator and performer, Aristotle Full Throttle), Laurine Price (producer and writer, Phoenix), Dr. Travis Langley (writer, Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight), and Tessa McFionn (novelist, Star-Crossed Negotiations).
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 210

7:30pm PDT

Making Film Magic: From Script to Screen in 2026
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
You'd like to break through to have a successful film career, but where do you begin, and what should you know up front? It's time for a frank, honest discussion about the dos and don'ts from those industry pros who have done it before. Award-winning writer/filmmaker Tim Chizmar (First Comics News, director of Naked Alien Massacre, WWE ghostwriter) moderates this panel of industry professionals who will tell you the truth about adapting your ideas from a piece of literature or comic series into a successful visual medium. Panelists include Alan Ng (editor-in-chief, Film Threat), Grant Offenberger (Naked & Not Afraid, Grant Me Peace), Mark Savage (director, Jeffrey Dollmer, Naked As Created: The Pastor Jim Moore Story), Mo Kelly (radio and television commentator), Derek Sulek (Fade to Black Films, director, Dead of Night, Chaos on the Farm), and Chris Jericho (AEW, Fozzy, WWE).
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

7:30pm PDT

The Anime Hero's Journey: How Anime Heroes Inspire Fans
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
The classical structure of storytelling has existed across the world for ages. In the modern day, many have grown to love the heroes that come from anime and manga. This panel explores how the classical structure applies to modern anime heroes and how those heroes inspire us with their adventures.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 208

7:30pm PDT

The Greatest Cartoons Ever!
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
ASIFA-Hollywood teams with renowned animation historian Jerry Beck (CartoonResearch.com, MeTV Toons) for a big-screen celebration of classic theatrical shorts featuring Popeye, Bugs Bunny, and legendary work by Chuck Jones and Tex Avery. Presented with historical context and live commentary, this screening invites audiences to rediscover why these cartoons became foundational to animation fandom and why they still resonate today.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
North 100B

7:30pm PDT

Women of Avatar The Last Air Bender and What They Taught Us
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Michelle Maka (cosplay/content creator) hosts a discussion with Avatar fans Cali__tea (content creator), Universallygeeky (content creator), Thundercat_naps (cosplayer), and Kenessa J about the women who graced our screens and how they used their element(s) in very thoughtful ways.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 300C

7:30pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm PDT
Meet educators who bring academic, social, and emotional lessons to life using the popular arts. Everyone is welcome, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. Which popular arts characters resonate with learners and inspire creativity and engagement? How about discussing superhero themes in the classroom? Share how various fandoms can enhance academic curriculum and instruction. With super 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), Lorran Garrison (school psychologist, Little Brainstorm), Justin Tracy (drama teacher, Little Brainstorm), and Jaime Diego Chavez (counselor, San Diego Unified). Mingle with them, other teachers, and life-long learners in a fun and informal setting.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 206B

8:00pm PDT

Cosplaying as a Couple
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Four couples—Shawn Richter and Lisa Richter, Miguel Capuchino and Lucy Capuchino, Trevor Newton and Wendy Newton, and Ed Gonzalez and Shelly Grace—describe their experiences and challenges and answer questions about what it's like cosplaying together. These couples all have many years of experience at conventions and provide countless hours of community support through cosplay.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300E

8:00pm PDT

Golden Healing: K-Pop Demon Hunters
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Irene Yu (credentialed counselor) appears as Rumi for an uplifting discussion. She unpacks self-worth, identity, and belonging through K-Pop Demon Hunters' storytelling and fandom. Attendees gain simple, powerful ways to talk about self-worth while celebrating fandom's joy and creativity. The session closes with a Golden Singalong, sealing The Honmoon in song, unity, and joy.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300A

8:00pm PDT

Quests & Queries!
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
The Welcome Party—Alix Catherine, Cole Garrison, and Jason Patrick Galit (JPG)—host this afterparty game of wordplay and clever query crafting where participants answer questions and question answers. Kimberley Wong (actress and voice actress, Queen of Tears) and Movie Mija (Emily Baeza) (producer, filmmaker, and content creator) will test their pop culture knowledge and put that knowledge into practice by crafting new questions, generating different answers to the same questions, and breaking down questions to find the answers they seek. With guest host Law Sharma (actor and entertainment journalist), this education- and comedy-focused battle of wits emphasizes that the thought process behind crafting an answer is just as important as the answer itself.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 209

8:00pm PDT

She's Alive! The Bride of Frankenstein at 90!
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Julian David Stone (author of the novel It's Alive!) and Antonia Carlotta (host of the Universally Me web series) celebrate The Bride of Frankenstein's 90th anniversary with a special presentation and discussion on the making and influence of the greatest of all Universal Monster films.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 211

8:00pm PDT

So Fetch! The Ultimate Showtune Showdown
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Calling all Broadway buffs, musical nerds, and casual showtune lovers! In this bracket-style game, a panel of musical theater lovers—Angela DiMartino (musical theater aficionado), Kelly Dreyer (costumer), Lauren Emery (show quality specialist), Aimee Tushinsky (cosplayer), and Chris Tushinsky (actor)—invite you to cast your vote as Broadway songs go head-to-head to crown the greatest showtune of all time. Will it be a chandelier drop of a song from The Phantom of the Opera? Or even a quirky hit from Beetlejuice or a jukebox musical like Mamma Mia!? Let the Showstopper Showdown begin!
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

8:00pm PDT

The Great Comic Book Reading Debate!
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Floppies vs. tablets! Kirk Kushin (Hello Kitty, PAW Patrol), Mark Fujita (Young Justice, WWE NXT), Denise Downer (Batwheels, Marvel's Amazing Spider-Man), and Britton Payne (entertainment attorney, Warner Bros./Nickelodeon) debate the best way to read comics in all their many formats. All are welcome—from "slabbers" to "flagrant page benders." This fun-filled discussion about the medium we all love welcomes fans and their comics.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

8:00pm PDT

Dune: Psychology of the Hero's Journey and Losing Innocence
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
In so many fantasy and sci-fi stories, the moment where the protagonist comes into their power is an event of excitement and unfettered joy. So why does it feel differently in Dune? This panel of psychology nerds and experts—Dr. James Poole (The Relational Nerd), Dr. Kile Ortigo (existential psychologist; author Beyond the Narrow Life), Dr. Isaac Taitz (president of All Mind Health) and David Carzell (actor, content creator)—explore various perspectives on what it means to grow up. While it can sometimes be a beautiful moment where we develop our independence and show the world our voice, it can also be a time of loss. Panelists will explore the loss of innocence in Paul Atreides as he becomes Lisan al-Gaib, the dream and humor he gives up, and what it means to fulfill a sense of duty and obligation to the world writ large. And be sure to be there at the start to be welcomed in by a psychologist who will lead attendees on a Bene Gesserit-themed mindfulness breathing exercise.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 207

8:30pm PDT

Draw Me Like One of Your Disney Girls
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
See figure models Lucy Smith (director of SoCal-based figure drawing series Library After Dark Presents) and Kia Watson pose live for Lisa Dosson (storyboard artist for Disney TVA, Sesame Workshop, and Dan Harmon's Krapopolis), Orpheus Collar (storyboard artist for Disney's Percy Jackson and Heroes of Olympus), and Jose Pimienta (comic book artist and story artist for Disney and Random House). Artists and models will discuss their unique perspectives on working in the animation industry. Attendees can pose and take home a sketch or two. Moderated by Lucy Smith.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 210

8:30pm PDT

Neighborhood Nightmares
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Vampires and werewolves, the most popular monsters in movies and literature, exist because of folklore—local legends passed on from generation to generation to explain the weird and unknown. Small towns and regions around the globe are rich with these legends, and they can be ground zero for storytellers looking to create the next great thriller. The panelists of Neighborhood Nightmares share their knowledge and experience with small-town horror and talk about ways to use these legends to create compelling stories that keep readers and viewers up at night. From a haunted house in Amityville to the Jersey Devil to Rougarous, there are plenty of legends to explore, terrify, and inspire your creativity. New York Times bestseller Peter Clines (Gods Junk Drawer, The Broken Room), Nebula and BSFA Award finalist Jendia Gammon (Atacama, Doomflower), award-winning producer and comic book writer Rodney Barnes (Killadelphia, Blacula), and horror/paranormal author Denise Tapscott (Gypsy Kisses and Voodoo Wishes) will join moderator and award-winning horror and urban fantasy author Dennis K. Crosby (Death's Legacy, Death's Debt) for a deep dive into the thrilling tales that added to their love of horror and helped guide some of their storytelling.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 300C

8:30pm PDT

On the Mic Podcast with Tim Drake Live from WonderCon
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
The popular entertainment and comedy podcast, hosted by Tim Drake (Demonetize, Bundy Manor, Funny or Die), heads back to WonderCon. He is joined by Lucasfilm award-winning guest co-host Alex Watson (Demonetize, Bundy Manor, Star Wars Fan Film). A special celebrity guest will also be on hand to talk film, TV, and comedy.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

8:30pm PDT

The Trial of Thanos
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
How would real-world courts handle the trial of Thanos? How would statutes of limitations work in a world of time travel? Could the Joker really obtain early release? Attorney Adam Adler (Superbabies v. DC Comics) explores the strange legal puzzles hiding inside comic capers and shows how lawyers can use comics to pressure-test and improve the law.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 208

8:45pm PDT

Taskmaster LA: Bring Your Own Bestie
Friday March 27, 2026 8:45pm - 9:45pm PDT
Taskmaster LA returns to WonderCon with a new twist: All team tasks! Three pairs of partners will have their friendship tested by Taskmaster Ryan Omega and assistant Reuben Bresler, for arbitrary points and comedy, based on the internationally popular TV show. Join Angelique Rockwood and Kiri Callaghan, Aki Benson and Shoshanna Ruth Green, and Dan Wood and Efran Nava for an evening of Taskmaster-style challenges and laughs.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:45pm - 9:45pm PDT
North 100B

9:00pm PDT

Bad Medicine in TV and Film: Med Drama-rama
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
The physicians of Hi Everybody! A Bad Medicine Podcast are back to discuss what medical dramas (and comedies!) get right and wrong about medicine. They'll cover everything, from House to Grey's Anatomy, from ER to The Pitt, from Scrubs to . . . well, Scrubs.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

9:00pm PDT

Browncoat Meeting Room
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Calling all fans of Firefly and Serenity! Time to catch up with the Browncoat family, explore what's new in the 'verse, and connect with invited guests. A shiny time to be had by all, as Browncoats prove they're still flyin'.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 211

9:00pm PDT

Dune: Where Do We Go From Here?
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Gareth Von Kallenbach and members of Skewed and Reviewed look at what the future of the Dune franchise may hold. From the upcoming movie and television series to possible new films, shows, games, books, and more, this lively panel includes an audience participation segment.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 207

9:00pm PDT

KHAAAANN!!!: Inside the Mind of Star Trek's Most Beloved Villain
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
For generations, Khan Noonien Singh has captured the minds and imaginations of countless Trekkies. Who is Khan? How did he get to be who we see? And most important, what happened after that fateful encounter with Kirk? The new podcast series Star Trek Khan dives into the minds of Khan, Marla McGivers, and the rest of the augment colony after being left behind by Kirk. Through their own words, we can start to understand them. Dr. Sara Roldan (Our Oasis Community Podcast), Dr. Shelly Clevenger (Sam Houston State University), Dr. James Poole (The Relational Nerd), and Dr. Benjamin Taitz (NerdNite OC) boldly go where no one has gone before: into the mind of Khan.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300A

9:00pm PDT

Star Wars After Dark Trivia Party
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Teams compete in spirited rounds of Star Wars trivia hosted by Richard Woloski and Sarah Woloski (Skywalking Through Neverland podcast/YouTube). Each side of the room works as a team to answer quirky trivia questions ranging from movies and TV series, behind-the-scenes nuggets, and parody songs to sliced appendages. You don't have to be a trivia expert, and you might walk away with new Star Wars fun fact knowledge. Contestants will receive a raffle ticket to win prizes.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 209

9:00pm PDT

The Great Geek Debate
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
From holiday movie controversies (Die Hard?) to fandom-defining rivalries (Star Wars versus Star Trek). GG4G superfan panelists Brian Slape, Peyton Slape, Jason Wilkerson, Robert Lanuza, Stephen Fromm, and Joe Queen take part in a fast-paced, lighthearted, and interactive debate as they tackle some of pop culture's hotly contested questions of all time. No topic is off limits as the panelists and audience weigh in to challenge each other's logic. This debate is not just about winning, but about what makes fandom fun.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300E

9:00pm PDT

Dreadful: Interactive Tabletop Terror!
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
In this interactive liveplay, the Dreadful Crew—Hailie Rose (TTRPG performer and content creator), Kai Miller (TTRPG performer and cosplayer), Kawika Aguilar (actor and writer, Snowbright Studio), Matt Caudel (actor and voice actor, TTRPG performer), and Morgan Moessinger (actor and TTRPG performer)—are ghost-hunting in a graveyard. While they roll for actions, the Dame of Dread, Sarah Durnesque (producer and game master, Pick Your Poison Productions), narrates, and the audience pulls blocks from the Dread Tower to increase the terror. If the tower falls, someone dies.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
North 151
 
Saturday, March 28
 

11:00am PDT

4th Annual Scene Breakdown: Behind the Camera of Film and TV Shows
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Directors, editors, producers, composers, writers, and other industry experts share insights into their craft and break down memorable scenes from iconic film and television projects, exploring how they bring stories to life. Panelists include producer/actor Edgar Damatian, director Gedaly Guberek, creator/showrunner James McNamara (The Artful Dodger), film director/producer/CEO Kelley Kali, cinematographer Wesley Cardino, and composer Kenny Wood (Nobody Wants This, Locker Diaries: Zombies, A Winter's Song, Ricky, Shadow of the Mages). Moderated by writer/director Chris Rodriguez (Puffing Iron, They'll Find Him in the River). Part 1 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300A

11:00am PDT

Alien Influence: Set Decoration for Extraterrestrials
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Ever since philosophers first asked existential questions, aliens have been an integral part of the cultural zeitgeist. Set decorators create the visuals that bring these sci-fi stories to life. Ashley Michelle Marsh (SDSA, Pluribus) and Lauri Gaffin (Captain Marvel) discuss the challenges and joys of decorating extraterrestrial environments and their interaction with our world. Moderated by Rae Deslich (SDSA) and Michelle Hall (SDSA).
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 207

11:00am PDT

Autism in Comic Books
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Representation matters, but it comes with complications. Moderator Britton Payne (entertainment attorney, executive director of The Autism Scene) details the sometimes-troubling history of autistic characters in comic books and how comics as a medium can foster a modern understanding of autism among its readership. Fourth grader and inclusion advocate Eleanor Payne discusses YA books featuring autistic characters. Bex Burgess (YA graphic novel Speak Up!) addresses their experiences as an autistic comic book creator and creating autistic comic book characters, including Speak Up!, which features an autistic main character navigating her way through high school.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

11:00am PDT

Comics, Collaboration, and Co-Writing
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Tini Howard (Sirens: Love Hurts, Marian Heretic) and Blake Howard (Archie Horror, Vampire: The Masquerade) write comics both independently and together. Tini and Blake discuss the collaborative process of writing with a partner, versus writing alone, what makes a great collaboration, and a Q&A session.
Special Guests
avatar for Tini Howard

Tini Howard

F-05, WonderCon Special Guest
Comics writer Tini Howard was an architect of the 2019 Krakoan X-Men reboot with her books Excalibur, X of Swords, and X-CORP, and she has enjoyed long runs on Harley Quinn and Catwoman at DC Comics. She lives and writes in Los Angeles, where she has names for all of the local cats... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 209

11:00am PDT

Pop Culture in Museums: Comics, Film, Animation, and More
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In recent years, pop culture exhibitions have exploded, with blockbuster productions reaching audiences around the world. This panel brings together curators, creators, designers, and other professionals to discuss displaying and celebrating popular arts in museum settings and will also feature an exclusive sneak peek at the Skirball Cultural Center's next comics-focused show.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

11:00am PDT

Secrets of Writing Science Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
What inspires the stories that shape the stars? In the quiet spaces where imagination stirs, science fiction takes root—born of longing, courage, and the lure of the unknown. Legendary authors and visionary screenwriters David Brin (The Uplift War, Existence), Jimmy Diggs (Star Trek: Voyager, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine), Doug Drexler (Star Trek, Battlestar Galactica), and Andre Bormanis (Star Trek, The Orville) reveal the magic behind writing futures both beautiful and strange. Moderated by Mark O'Bannon (Imperium, Whiskers).
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 211

11:00am PDT

Showcasing Your Culture Through Fandom Cosplaying
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Lucy Capuchino (costume designer, cosplayer), Giraffe (educator, podcaster, cosplayer), Shelly Grace (content creator, cosplayer), John Phung (traveler, budget cosplayer), and Lonnie Lucas (writer, army veteran, cosplayer) discuss how they celebrate their cultural heritage while overcoming the challenges of cosplaying their favorite fandoms, especially given the limited representation in pop culture. Moderated by Miguel Capuchino (internationally known cosplayer, content creator).
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300E

11:00am PDT

Spotlight on Ben Brode
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Ben Brode (Marvel Snap, Hearthstone), co-founder of Second Dinner and game director behind some of the most notable digital card games of the last decade, shares stories, humor, and behind-the-scenes design insights. From the early days of Hearthstone to the creation of Marvel Snap, he talks about how great card games are built and what he's learned about creativity, community, and taking big risks.
Special Guests
avatar for Ben Brode

Ben Brode

WonderCon Special Guest
Ben Brode is one of the most recognizable card game designers, thanks mostly to his side gig as a rapper. Mostly known for leading the creation of MARVEL SNAP, Brode was also the first game designer and eventual game director of Hearthstone while at Blizzard Entertainment. As chief... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
North 151

11:00am PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #4: Adaptation and Collaboration
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm PDT
Panelists examine the process of adaptation into and out of comics and how those adaptations navigate audience responses. Adriana Griot (California State University, Long Beach) analyzes fan response on social media to the graphic novel adaptations of the Dungeons & Dragons live-play campaign The Adventure Zone. Audrey Garcia (University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) investigates how readers can "close play" comics alongside video games, considering Alien: The Illustrated Story alongside Alien: Isolation as a case study. Rachelanne Smith (Liberty University) explores how the graphic novel Trick 'r Treat: Day of the Dead connects to the original film and expands on its lore. Sierra Schiano (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) considers Reimena Yee's digital comic The God of Arepo, which adapts a collaborative short story written spontaneously and anonymously on Tumblr into an original Classical myth.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 210

11:00am PDT

Rolled Table: Improvised D&D Comedy
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
The cast of the Knights of the Rolled Table podcast performs a completely improvised comedy D&D adventure in which audience members shape the story, make key decisions, and influence the fate of the heroes. Expect fast-paced fantasy, ridiculous characters, terrible puns, and spontaneous chaos from a cast with deep roots in the San Diego improv scene. Family-friendly and designed for adventurers of all ages—no two shows are ever the same. Carlos Guzman-Verdugo, Jeff Frank, Jen Stopper-Crespo, Matt Messerman, Zach Stones, and Chris Daily (Dungeon Master, Dungeonheads) bring the adventure to life.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
North 153

11:00am PDT

Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 9:00pm PDT
The annual Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival continues with its three days of short films from around the world for all ages, featuring animation, live-action, and documentaries. Animators and filmmakers will talk to the audience following their films, including offering advice for kids on how to become a professional animator or filmmaker. For the full LAICFF schedule, click here.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 9:00pm PDT
Room 303CD

11:00am PDT

Designer First-Play Saturday
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 9:00pm PDT
Ever wanted to play a board game before it becomes a hit? The First Play Game Lab offers a look behind the curtain with an open-house playtest session where attendees can dive into the next generation of board and card games, give input, and help shape the next big thing in gaming. Designers with prototypes to share are invited to grab a table. Whether a game is polished and ready for retail or just a wild new idea scrawled on index cards, it is welcome at this lab.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 9:00pm PDT
North 152

11:30am PDT

Fantastic Flights
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Becoming a hero often means leaving behind the only world they know. WonderCon special guest Robin Hobb, Petra Lord (Queen of Faces), ND Stevenson (Scarlet Morning), and LaDarrion Williams (Bones at the Crossroads) discuss the leaps of faith they—and their characters—must take to find their next fantastic adventures. Moderated by Bree Steffen.
Special Guests
avatar for Robin Hobb

Robin Hobb

WonderCon Special Guest
Robin Hobb is a fantasy author best known for The Farseer Trilogy (Assassin’s Apprentice, Royal Assassin, and Assassin’s Fate) and the sequels that make up The Realm of the Elderlings fantasy epic. Her current work in progress, untitled as yet, will continue the history of... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 208

11:30am PDT

Focus on Jim Cummings
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
This intimate conversation with Jim Cummings explores his 40-plus-year career giving voice to a diverse array of landmark animated characters, including Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Darkwing Duck, and Star Wars' Hondo Ohnaka, as well as providing the singing voice of Scar in The Lion King. A two-time Annie Award winner and recipient of the prestigious Winsor McCay Award, Cummings is joined by moderator Chris Judge, producer of the incredibly popular Toon'd In! with Jim Cummings podcast.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
North 200A

11:30am PDT

Rey Mysterio vs. the Darkness: From Screen to Comics
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
The masks behind the epic animated series, now turned into an epic comic book, take fans behind the scenes of their latest comic based on the Mexican animated series. Wrestling superstar Rey Mysterio and animators Calavera Hermanos share how the story evolved from screen to page.. The conversation is moderated by director, writer, animator, and ASIFA-Hollywood Advisory Board member Jorge R. Gutierrez.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 300C

11:30am PDT

The Mighty Crusaders
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
In 1939, MLJ Comics, the company later rebranded as Archie Comics, published Blue Ribbon Comics and entered the world of superheroes with Bob Phantom. The company went on to create a pantheon of superheroes, including the first patriotic superhero, The Shield, and fan favorites such as The Comet, Hangman, The Fly, Lancelot Strong, and many more. These heroes have appeared in both Archie Comics and DC Comics. Their stories have been reprinted in England, France, Germany, and Brazil, and the characters have crossed over into radio, film, and the pulps. This panel presents the 80-year history of some of the greatest superheroes of the Archie universe with Rik Offenberger (Archie Comics), Chris Squires (Archie Comics), and Mighty Crusaders experts Ray MacKay (Big Bang Comics) and Tim Chizmar (Spooky Ninja Kitty Comics).
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

11:30am PDT

Art Directors Guild/IATSE Portfolio Review
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Acclaimed professionals from the Art Directors Guild, IATSE Local 800, will offer inspiration and practical suggestions on the work of those in pursuit of a Hollywood art department career.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 206B

11:30am PDT

The Game Pitch Review
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
The game pitch review is conducted by a panel of professional game developers who will offer their invaluable advice and insights to those seeking to further their dreams of making their game idea a reality. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch a game for around 5 minutes and then receive constructive feedback on how it went. This session will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis, and sign-ups will be taken on-site.
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
Room 204C

12:00pm PDT

6th Annual "It's Alive!": Designing Sci-Fi, Horror, and Comic Book Genre Film and TV
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
"It's Alive!" returns to WonderCon with an exploration of the creative work behind horror, anime, thriller, and comic book–inspired films and TV shows. Industry professionals reveal how they bring worlds and characters to life through the artistry of music, editing, and more in this deep dive into the creative process. Panelists include composer Daniel Rojas (Marvel's Hit-Monkey), editor Eric Litman, ACE (One Piece), composer Ian Arber (Drops of God season 2), editor Kristi Shimek (Wardriver), composer Sam Boase-Miller (Good Boy), and composer Sam Jones (Didn’t Die). Moderated by editor Maura Corey, ACE (Gen V). Part 2 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300A

12:00pm PDT

Bad Idea: The WonderCon Panel
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The next wave of Bad Idea comics continues right here. Mastermind David Yarovesky (director of Brightburn), and Bad Idea impresarios Dinesh Shamdasani and Benjamin Simpson offer an exclusive look at the company’s biggest slate yet. See new art from The Olympus Saga: Megalith, Warbird, The Hab, The Oddball's Odyssey, Tankers vs Ancient Aliens, Project: GOAT, and more. Plus, look for surprise guests and a convention-exclusive giveaway.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

12:00pm PDT

Merri Hour Live
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The Merri Hour is a show designed to feel like you're hanging out with friends talking about the movies and shows you love most. Now you can have that experience in person at the first-ever live-recorded Merri Hour panel with Perri Nemiroff (Collider) and Matt Donato (Fangoria). Attendees can pick their brains in person about highly anticipated releases, the latest movie and TV news, their journeys as critics, and more.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 207

12:00pm PDT

Storytelling Across Games, Comics, and Beyond
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Storytelling doesn't live in just one medium anymore. From Mass Effect, League of Legends, and Fallout to Call of Duty, Mortal Kombat, and award-winning comics, this panel reveals how characters are created, performed, and adapted across games, comics, and beyond. Featuring Courtenay Taylor (voice actor), Julie Nathanson (voice actor), Keith Arem (president and creative director at PCB Productions), Matthew Yang King (actor and voice actor), and Pornsak Pichetshote (comic creator and writer), and moderated by Carrie Keranen (voice actor and voice director).
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

12:00pm PDT

Where Do Ideas Come From? For Artists and Writers Who Get “Stuck”
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Veteran editor/creator wrangler Barbara Randall Kesel (Inkpot Award recipient; writer, Hawk & Dove, Marvels Snapshots: Avengers) slings rapid-fire tips, tricks, and strategies for vanquishing those blocked brain cells and deadline demons. Part information, part motivation, all entertaining!
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 211

12:00pm PDT

The Artistry Behind Tabletop Games
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Art brings gaming to life, and illustration meets imagination in tabletop gaming. Industry illustrators and artists Kendall Hale (WonderCon special guest, illustrator and artist), Sam Rusk (tattooer and TTRPG artist, SINK!), and Kwanchai Moriya (illustrator and painter) explore the artistry behind creating captivating visuals for tabletop games, sharing insights and stories on bringing worlds and characters to life from concept to execution. Moderated by Ross Thompson.
Special Guests
avatar for Kendall Hale

Kendall Hale

E-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Kendall Hale is an illustrator and character designer currently living in Los Angeles. He is best known for his work on the trading card game Disney Lorcana, for which he has done the art on over 30 cards since its release in 2023. Kendall also works as a character designer in animation... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
North 151

12:00pm PDT

The DisneyBound Blog: Styling for Fandom Fashion
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
In the 15 years since The Disneybound Blog became a viral sensation, it has brought together a global community sharing their love of Disney fandom and creative fashion expression by incorporating both into daily styling. Disneybounding pros Logan Allison, Shannon Kiang, Jazmine Liew, Clarione, and Tory Hatcher present tools for bringing whimsy and favorite fandoms to personal wardrobes. Moderated by Kelsey Walmer.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300E

12:00pm PDT

Your Superpower and How It Fits in Animation
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
The good folks at The Animation Guild (TAG) are here to show that if you're interested in a career in the animation world, drawing isn't the only thing they're looking for. Eric Robles (Stranger Things: Tales from '85), Christian Streaty (Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures), Jason Mayer (The Wild Robot), Chris Battle (Teen Titans Go!), Kristen Gish (Star vs. The Forces of Evil), and Ian Graham (Stranger Things: Tales from '85) discuss how your strengths might fit into the many and multifaceted roles that bring animation to life. Moderated by David Avallone (Batwheels), the panel covers screenwriters, storyboard artists, production workers, CG animators, designers, and more to show that there is a place for everyone in the exciting world of animation.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 209

12:15pm PDT

Bat in the Sun
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
The Bat in the Sun crew presents an exclusive sneak preview of their upcoming Super Power Beat Down, followed by a Q&A where attendees can ask questions and suggest future battles. The panel also includes an update on the highly anticipated film Legend of the White Dragon.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
North 100B

12:30pm PDT

Legendary Comics: Godzilla x Kong, Dune, Pacific Rim, and More!
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Legendary Comics, the publishing arm of the studio behind the Dune and Monsterverse franchises (including Monarch and next year’s Godzilla x Kong: Supernova), as well as Trick 'r Treat, Pacific Rim, and the upcoming Street Fighter movie, offers a behind-the-scenes look at their graphic novels, art books, and other tie-in publishing across all of the company’s franchises. A special giveaway is planned.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 208

12:30pm PDT

Travel Sketching 101: Patrick Ballesteros
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
WonderCon special guest Patrick Ballesteros (Little Batman, Month One) will take you along a sketch journey, showing you the materials and process behind many of his travel sketches. Great for all levels, this talk is aimed at giving you the tools to start drawing and to illustrate how these sketches can apply to your own stories and illustrations.
Special Guests
avatar for Patrick Ballesteros

Patrick Ballesteros

A-08, WonderCon Special Guest
Patrick Ballesteros is an illustrator and instructor based in San Diego. He is known for his whimsical illustrations that combine childhood nostalgia, pop culture, and his Filipino roots. In addition to being the cover artist for Little BatmanMonth One, he’s also created concert posters for musical groups Dead & Company and AJR. When he is not working, you can catch him at the local coffeeshop sketching up his new creations while drinking a flat white... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

12:30pm PDT

Designing Worlds: Careers in Games, Costumes, Sets, and Art Direction
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
iAsia Brown (senior producer, gaming consulting), Juda Escalante (specialty costume manufacturer), Chris Gilman (founder of Global Effects), KC Mancebo (producer/art director Sailor Moon, Clamorhouse), David Tobocman (composer, film and TV) offer insights and advice on building careers in games, costumes, set design, and art direction. Moderated by Heather Cook (speaker and community builder, Microsoft).
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 300C

12:30pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #5: The Horror of It All: Exploring Pain, Trauma, and Loss in Horror Comics
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm PDT
Why do we like stories about ghouls, darkness, and other assorted horrors? Some of us can't stand to be spooked, yet others can't get enough. What can we learn about the human condition from tales of horror? Delving into the darkness are Shelly Clevenger (Sam Houston State University), Daniel Jun Kim (PopMythology.com), and Alex Langley (Spider-Man Psychology: Untangling Webs). They explore pain, trauma, and resilience in the Ice Cream Man series, Home Sick Pilots, and Nice House on the Lake. Panelists use the genre of comics to help us understand how horror can illustrate both the worst and best of the human experience.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:30pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 210

12:45pm PDT

Tiny Chef Cooks Up Some Surprises
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm PDT
The creators of The Tiny Chef Show take you on a 45-minute journey through the handmade, frame-by-frame process that brings Tiny Chef's miniature world to life. Fresh from Chef's inauguration as the new Mayor of Pioneertown, CA, co-creators Rachel Larsen, Ozi Akturk, and Jason Kolowski, alongside actor Matt Hutchinson, the voice of Tiny Chef—and maybe a surprise guest or two—discuss how small ideas turn into big adventures. Plus, the team will share a few hints about what's coming next, answer your biggest questions, and send you home with an exclusive Tiny Chef x WonderCon mini-poster! Apprentice chef Gary Miereanu will moderate the feastivities.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm PDT
North 200A

1:00pm PDT

1st Annual Behind the Cut: Postproduction in Film and TV
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Experts go behind the scenes of film and television to reveal how stories are finalized in the postproduction process. Through real-world examples, editors and composers break down their creative process and the decisions that shape stories into the final project. Panelists include editor Chris Rodriguez, ACE (Love Is Blind, Project Runway) , editor Daysha Broadway, ACE (The AI DOC or How I Became an Apocaloptimist), editor/director Jon Dudkowski (Star Trek: Starfleet Academy), composer Joy Ngiaw (WondLa), composer Kristen Personius (Tyler Perry's Finding Joy), and Max Davidoff-Grey (The Witcher season 4). Moderated by Ben Urquhart (California Post Alliance). Part 3 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock, in partnership with the California Post Alliance.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1:00pm PDT

Meet Tarzan Author Joe R. Lansdale plus Esteemed Guests
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Three decades ago, Edgar Rice Burroughs' grandson found a lost Tarzan manuscript in a vault in Tarzana, California, and selected rising-star author Joe R. Lansdale (Bubba Hotep, Hap and Leonard) to complete it. Now, Lansdale is a legend in his own right, discussing new Tarzan projects as well as the 30th anniversary edition of Tarzan: The Lost Adventure, a convention exclusive debuting at WonderCon. The panel also features Llana Jane Burroughs, ERB's great-granddaughter, whose father recovered the lost manuscript and worked tirelessly to promote ERB's legacy. Next, Tom Akel of Rocketship Entertainment offers a glimpse at a new epic Tarzan comics project. Also on hand are Wolf Larson (former Tarzan TV star and VP of ERB Entertainment) and the ERB, Inc. team to discuss upcoming books, comic books, merchandise, and movie and TV series in development. Attendees will receive a Tarzan: The Lost Adventure 30th anniversary bookmark!
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 211

1:00pm PDT

Structuring the Swoon
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
There's no HEA without the "Oh, no way!" WonderCon special guest Jasmine Guillory, Suzanne Enoch (Better Than a Duke), Erin La Rosa (Not You Again), J. Penner (Death Meets Cute), and Addie Thorley (Burn the Kingdom Down) discuss turning tropes into stumbling blocks that lead their characters to fall in love. Moderated by author Leanne Schwartz.
Special Guests
avatar for Jasmine Guillory

Jasmine Guillory

WonderCon Special Guest
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 209

1:00pm PDT

The Characters That Raised Us: Creators of '90s Animation
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
The creators behind Hey Arnold!, Daria, and Johnny Bravo, along with SpongeBob SquarePants director Derek Drymon, come together to share how the characters that defined the 1990s were born. From first sketches to cultural impact, Craig Bartlett, Susie Lewis, Derek Drymon, and Van Partible offer an inside look at the creative process, plus a live Q&A with fans.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300E

1:00pm PDT

Her Universe Portfolio Review
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Interested in submitting your designs to the Her Universe Fashion Show? Are you looking to break into the fashion industry? Attendees can bring their portfolios to meet with industry professionals from Her Universe and Hot Topic for personalized feedback, tips, and advice on how to best prepare a fashion portfolio. All ages are welcome.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 206B

1:00pm PDT

Designing Tabletop Board Games
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Taking an idea from the prototype phase to the publishing shelf is no small feat. Game designers Moe Popular (Dark Heists), Manny Vega (Flamecraft), Ben Brode (Marvel Snap), Ian Clayman (Exploding Kittens), and Candice Harris (Rivals of Rock) share experience and advice about how to design tabletop games, from building your prototype, game development, and playtesting to publishing. Moderated by Ruel Gaviola.
Special Guests
avatar for Ben Brode

Ben Brode

WonderCon Special Guest
Ben Brode is one of the most recognizable card game designers, thanks mostly to his side gig as a rapper. Mostly known for leading the creation of MARVEL SNAP, Brode was also the first game designer and eventual game director of Hearthstone while at Blizzard Entertainment. As chief... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
North 151

1:00pm PDT

DC Comics: What's Next
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Top DC storytellers dive deep into DC's comics, including DC: Next Level, DC Vertigo, DC's Absolute comic books, and more. Discover what's coming next from the writers and artists shaping the future of the DC Universe, get behind-the-scenes insights into upcoming series, and learn how these creators are expanding the scope of DC storytelling.
Special Guests
avatar for Tini Howard

Tini Howard

F-05, WonderCon Special Guest
Comics writer Tini Howard was an architect of the 2019 Krakoan X-Men reboot with her books Excalibur, X of Swords, and X-CORP, and she has enjoyed long runs on Harley Quinn and Catwoman at DC Comics. She lives and writes in Los Angeles, where she has names for all of the local cats... Read More →
avatar for Scott Snyder

Scott Snyder

F-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Over his 15-year career, Scott Snyder has written such blockbuster bestselling comics as Batman (with Greg Capullo) and Absolute Batman (with Nick Dragotta), as well as critically acclaimed creator-owned titles American Vampire (with Rafael Albuquerque) and Wytches (with Jock; Amazon Studios animated adaptation in production). He is the recipient of two Eisner Awards, a Harvey Award, an Eagle Award, three Stan Lee Awards, and an Inkpot Award. Scott lives on Long Island with his wife and three sons. He's an avid, non-ironic fan of Elvis Pre... Read More →
avatar for Babs Tarr

Babs Tarr

F-06, WonderCon Special Guest
Babs Tarr is a professional comics artist and illustrator best known for her run on Batgirl of Burnside, her creator-owned comic Motor Crush, and the Overwatch—Tracer: London Calling miniseries (Dark Horse). She is also co-host of Critical Role's Pub Draw. Babs provided the cover for this year’s WonderCon Events Guide... Read More →
avatar for Joshua Williamson

Joshua Williamson

F-03, WonderCon Special Guest
Joshua Williamson is a New York Times bestselling writer who has worked for nearly every comics publisher. One of the pillars of the modern DC Universe, with an iconic run on The Flash, he has written such titles as Robin, Green Arrow, and Batman/Superman. With his role as on... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 207

1:00pm PDT

Ink & Melanin: A Writer's Roundtable
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Andra Gunter (Netflix Animation), Tiffany Thomas (The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder), and Shakira Pressley (Craig of the Creek, Ben 10, We Baby Bears) offer a candid conversation on animation, authorship, and navigating major IP while protecting their storytelling voices. The panel explores craft and the emotional engine behind building stories within the studio system. Moderated by Anise Overton (Black N Animated).
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1:00pm PDT

The Comic Art of David Lynch
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Iconic director David Lynch is best known for his films and Twin Peaks, but he was also an accomplished artist, including in the comic arts. Award‑winning comics creator Jeff Lemire, author and former Los Angeles Reader editor Dan Barton, author and professor Michael Dooley, and the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund's Jeff Trexler discuss Lynch's comics and cartoons, connections to comics in Lynch's films, and Lynch's influence on comics, manga, anime, and fandom. From The Angriest Dog in the World and the animated webseries Dumbland to the quest for justice in a creative multiverse, the panel examines what can be learned from Lynch's dreams.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

1:00pm PDT

StoryQuest Live: Oops, All GMs
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Anais Morgan (Renegade Game Studios), Mayanna Berrin (Dispatch), David Tilstra (StoryQuest), Reed Sights (StoryQuest), and Jordy Martin (StoryQuest) go on an epic D&D adventure where everyone is the dungeon master and the fate of the story is decided by the ring of a bell.

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 153

1:30pm PDT

Stack YA Shelves: From Fantasy to Horror, Must Reads for 2026
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
From intergalactic enemies-to-lovers tales to dark academia set at a cutthroat magical academy, from Frankenstein retellings to apocalyptic horror, readers can discover their next favorite read to "stack their shelves" with some of the biggest voices in YA. S. G. Prince (If All the Stars Go Dark), Petra Lord (Queen of Faces), Racquel Marie (If We Survive This), and Kathleen S. Allen (The Resurrectionist) discuss their newest and most anticipated books. Moderated by Dahlia De La Vega.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 208

1:30pm PDT

The Writer's Journey: Your Intellectual Property Is Your Future
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
The entertainment industry has shifted in ways no one could have predicted. This panel explores how rapidly the entertainment industry has changed and what displaced writers have done to rejuvenate their careers by doubling down on their original material. Writers and producers give examples of how they changed their mentality and offer solutions for writers who feel confused and frustrated. Featuring Brandon Easton (Iyanu), Roye Okupe (Iyanu), and other creators.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1:30pm PDT

Writing for Animation
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Who writes cartoons, and how do they do that? Writers who create stories and gags for some of your favorite shows, will do their best to enlighten attendees. Panelists Brooks Wachtel (X-Men), Cynthia Harrison (Spider-Man: The Animated Series), Robert Skir (Batman: The Animated Series), and Mark Evanier (The Garfield Show) discuss their work and experiences, and maybe attendees will learn something valuable for their lives or careers.
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

1:30pm PDT

X-Men Fandom
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
This panel celebrates all things related to the X-Men as mutants gather once more at WonderCon. Entertainment professionals discuss how they became involved in the world of X and what it means to them. Panelists include Laura Post (Emma Frost in Marvel Rivals), Crystal Lee (Jean Grey in Marvel Rivals), Gui Agustini (Sunspot in X-Men ’97), and Steven E. Gordon (artistic director of X-Men Evolution). Audience members can expect surprise giveaways. The panel will be moderated by Giant-Size Production's Chris Riley and Chandler Poling, co-creators of The Uncanny Experience.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
North 100B

2:00pm PDT

Artist's Editions (and More) Coming from Act 4 Publishing
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Scott Dunbier and Amanda Dunbier fill in attendees on what's been going on with all things Artist's Editions. Their playful banter is accompanied by lots of beautiful original art and fun trivia. Every attendee who arrives within the first 10 minutes receives a free raffle ticket for one of Act 4's books—winners are drawn before the end of the panel. Additionally, Act 4 poker chips featuring Walter Simonson's art will be handed out (while supplies last).
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 209

2:00pm PDT

Cinematic Storytelling: The Art of Visual Effects and Speculative Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
A panel of award-winning visual effects artists turned science fiction and fantasy authors explore how the language of film translates into the written word. You will learn how elements of cinematic storytelling, timing, framing, rhythm, spectacle, and emotional focus can shape unforgettable prose. Featuring Eric Wilson (VFX, The Matrix; author, The Murder Algorithm), Jim Hillin (VFX, Thor: Love and Thunder; author, Horace Gumshoe), and Scott Kilburn (VFX, Life of Pi; author, The Fey Forest Chronicles), with moderator Theresa Halvorsen (author, Warehouse Dreams, Lost Aboard)
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

2:00pm PDT

For All Mankind Cast and Creators
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Season 5 of For All Mankind picks up in the 2010s, years after the Goldilocks asteroid heist. Happy Valley has grown into a thriving colony with thousands of residents and a base for new missions that will take humanity even further into the solar system. But with the nations of Earth now demanding law and order on the Red Planet, friction continues to build between the people who live on Mars and their former home. Cast and creators from the show offer behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive teases, and a celebration of the ambition that propels this epic drama forward.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 200A

2:00pm PDT

Pitching to Hollywood
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Screen and TV writers Douglas J. Eboch (Sweet Home Alabama, The Hollywood Pitching Bible), Shireen Razack (Shadowhunters, Haven), and Spiro Skentzos (Arrow, Grimm) discuss pitching original ideas as well as pitching to win assignments for movies and television. They delve into how to identify what is unique and marketable about a concept, how to construct a compelling pitch, and how to present it effectively.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

2:00pm PDT

What Is Funlosophy?
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Funko founder Michael Leo Becker shares stories of the good, the bad, and the "funley"—from building a business to hard-earned life lessons.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300A

2:00pm PDT

Shattering the Fourth Wall: Breaking into a Gaming Career
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Gaming industry professionals lead an open conversation around recruiting, partnerships, and marketing. Attendees will learn how charities are helping to make a difference in gaming, followed by an open Q&A.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 151

2:00pm PDT

Prime-Time Animation: How Cartoons Grew Up
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
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Prime-time animated television changed the perception of what cartoons could be. This panel explores how shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy helped transform animation into a vehicle for satire, social commentary, and long-form storytelling aimed at general audiences rather than children. Moderated by voice actor Eric Bauza (Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck), panelists include director Cecilia Aranovich (Harley Quinn, Bob’s Burgers), supervising producer Mike Hollingsworth (BoJack Horseman, Tuca & Bertie), producer Monica Mitchell (Rick and Morty, South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut), John Semper (Spider-Man: The Animated Series, Justice League Action),and production designer/colorist Carol Wyatt (Rick and Morty, The Simpsons).
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 207

2:00pm PDT

What's the Buzz with The Beat?: Behind the Headlines
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
The folks behind The Beat, the Eisner Award–winning comics news site, go behind the scenes of all the hottest stories in comics and entertainment. Editor-in-chief Heidi MacDonald is joined by Kalai Chik (K-ComicsBeat), Taimur Dar (ComicsBeat), Greg Weisman (Gargoyles), Nat Gertler (About Comics) and Patrick A. Reed (curation/consultation, Jack Kirby: Heroes And Humanity) to give attendees the inside scoop.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

2:00pm PDT

Diversity in Fantasy
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
John Wells III (The Kalib Andrews Chronicles), Leon Langford (StarLion), Antoine Bandale (TJ Young and the Orisha's), Kaj Kuntsmann (Warhead), Pamuela Halliwell (Grieving Still), Vince Alvendia (Horrorgasm comic anthology; Dark Agents: Violet and the Trial of Trauma), Alexandra Walker (Spider-verse Unlimited, Don't Tell The Children), and Simone Nobili (Lizard Life) discuss diversity in fantasy and what diverse authors owe their own cultures when writing diverse characters. Moderated by Dimithri Perera (podcast creator, host).
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 211

2:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #6: The Changing Face of the World's Favorite Superhero: Superman, Batman, Spidey, and Beyond
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
What makes a superhero timeless? From the Man of Steel soaring into comics in 1938 to the masked vigilantes and webslingers dominating popular culture today, each taps into something essential in the human imagination. Experts and industry pros explore why these icons became cultural mainstays, how their appeal has shifted across eras, and what their evolving popularity reveals about the societies that embraced them. The discussion looks at the characters' mythic roots, their psychological and cultural resonance, and how fans—across generations and around the world—have reinterpreted them. Whether it is Superman's embodiment of hope, Batman's brooding complexity, or Spider-Man's neurotic relatability, the panel unpacks the formulas that made them unforgettable and considers how newer heroes are building on that legacy.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 210

2:00pm PDT

Gaming Creator Connection
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
The Gaming Creator Connection is an opportunity for game developers—whether currently working in the industry or aspiring to do so—to receive valuable advice, insights, and mentoring from seasoned veterans of the game industry representing diverse professional backgrounds. The GCC is a perfect opportunity to seek expert guidance in art/design, narrative, and business. Participants will have 15 to 20 minutes to speak with a mentor and will be able to rotate between mentors in their field of interest in order to maximize the amount of feedback.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 204C

2:30pm PDT

Spotlight on Kendall Hale
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Best known for his work on Disney's new trading card game Lorcana, Kendall Hale revisits the years of scrappy struggling to make it as an artist. From working on failed feature films to Ponzi scheme video game companies to finally breaking into major animated TV series (SpongeBob SquarePants, Haunted Hotel) and working on a hit TCG, Kendall shares a message of resilience and hope for aspiring creatives.
Special Guests
avatar for Kendall Hale

Kendall Hale

E-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Kendall Hale is an illustrator and character designer currently living in Los Angeles. He is best known for his work on the trading card game Disney Lorcana, for which he has done the art on over 30 cards since its release in 2023. Kendall also works as a character designer in animation... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

2:30pm PDT

Storyboarding for Commercials, TV, and More
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Rafael Navarro (storyboard artist on The Batman and creator of Sonambulo), Eddie Lin (ADG 800 senior artist, A Minecraft Movie, The Mandalorian and Grogu) Chris Kawagiwa (ADG 800 senior artist and creator of Sunless Circus comics and Pawsmonauts), Ralph Miranda (ADG 800 senior artist and co-creator of Oh, Bubba Lu!), and others discuss the evolving entertainment industry and how storyboarding differs between visual genres. Get insights, tips, and lessons on how to stay productive, motivated, and vital as human storytellers. Moderated by Brian Luhmann, Psy.D. (faculty, Hope International University; owner/therapist, The New Normal Mental Health Services).
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 300C

2:30pm PDT

Storytelling Through Costuming with Babs Tarr
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
WonderCon special guest Babs Tarr (Sirens: Love Hurts, Batgirl of Burnside, Critical Role Pub Draw) and moderator Dani Carr (Critical Role, The Witch Wolf) explore the art of costuming and character design and how it can tell a deeper story beyond the plot. Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Love Hurts.
Special Guests
avatar for Babs Tarr

Babs Tarr

F-06, WonderCon Special Guest
Babs Tarr is a professional comics artist and illustrator best known for her run on Batgirl of Burnside, her creator-owned comic Motor Crush, and the Overwatch—Tracer: London Calling miniseries (Dark Horse). She is also co-host of Critical Role's Pub Draw. Babs provided the cover for this year’s WonderCon Events Guide... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 208

2:30pm PDT

Bad Bunker Portfolio Review
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
The Bad Bunker creative team reviews portfolios and provides feedback to aspiring artists who are looking to take their art to the next level.
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:30pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 206B

2:45pm PDT

Tidings from Middle-earth: Film and TV in 2026
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
The internet's longest-running Tolkien community, TheOneRing.net (TORn), brings together Nicole Roberts (TORn outreach coordinator), Nancy Steinman (graphic artist and writer), Clifford Broadway (host of TORn Tuesday), Cathy Udovch (TORn special events coordinator), and Kristi Fojtik (founder of Tolkien Forever) to share the latest news about the film The Hunt for Gollum, The Rings of Power on Prime, and Magic: The Gathering's new Hobbit expansion, among many other Middle-earth-inspired endeavors. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the release of Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, celebrated with theater screenings of the trilogy films earlier in the year. Panelists discuss upcoming celebrations and how Tolkien's works have been expanded since the film's release in 2001. Cosplay is always encouraged and appreciated. Moderated by Justin Sewell (producer of TORn Tuesday).
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
North 100B

3:00pm PDT

How to Build a Droid 101
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Panelists discuss how you can begin your journey of building full-size droids from the Star Wars universe. They will take you through how to join their clubs and forums and discuss materials and costs.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

Iyanu Returns: An Exclusive Look at Season 2
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
The Iyanu creative team presents a first look at season 2 of the award-winning animated series Iyanu on Cartoon Network and HBO Max, featuring never-before-seen footage and new reveals. The panel also offers a sneak peek at the next Iyanu movie coming this summer as Iyanu and Team Chosen confront Queen Adura of the People of the Deep. Panelists Brandon Easton, Kerri Grant, Vincent Edwards, and Ivory Floyd discuss the series and film with moderator Karama Horne.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 207

3:00pm PDT

LGBTQ-Inclusive Storytelling for Young People
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Comics, graphic novels, and YA books are universal mediums that have grown consistently in their support of LGBTQ-inclusive stories and characters for young readers. These trailblazing successes have created new opportunities for LGBTQ+ creators. Join Prism Comics, panel moderator Cort Lane (My Little Pony, GLAAD Kids & Family Advisory Council), and a group of queer publishing storytellers as they discuss their projects and answer questions, including: How did new LGBTQ+ creators find their voice and get their start? How do they approach LGBTQ content and characters for tweens, teens, and young readers? What's the best advice they've received along their journey? How do they stay hopeful in a challenging landscape and challenging times? Creators include Tilly Bridges and Susan Bridges (Star Trek Voyager: Homecoming; Monster High), Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Library), Jose Pimienta (Luminous Beings, Halfway to Somewhere), Jasmine Walls (Brooms, The Last Session, Vol. 1: Roll for Initiative), and Shannon Watters (Lumberjanes, Hollow).
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 211

3:00pm PDT

Monstrous Alliances: How Indie Creators Thrive Beyond Corporate Giants
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
In an industry dominated by massive corporations, how do indie creators fight back? Leaders from comics, toys, skateboarding, and gaming—Shannon Eric Denton (Monster Forge), Bill Murphy (Big Bad Workshop), Eagle Barber (Madrid Skateboards), Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), and Armando Roque (Spin Master)—unleash bold collaborations and monstrous cross-promotions fueled by skateboarding grit and a punk rock attitude. Discover how these creative monsters are carving out space—and real success—across film, comics, toys, and games, from beloved IP like The Rocketeer to their own original monstrous creations.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

3:00pm PDT

Set Decoration of Marvel's Wonder Man
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Marvel dropped its newest show in January, set in the weird world of Hollywood and the MCU. Set decorator Lizzie Boyle, SDSA and members of the set decoration department (assistant set decorator Nicole Riley and set dec buyer Avery Ferguson) talk about the sets of this stylish show. Moderated by Rae Deslich, SDSA and Michelle Hall, SDSA. Part of the Set Decorators Society of America's series of panels on film and TV set decoration.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300A

3:00pm PDT

Tales from My Spinner Rack LIVE!
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
March 30th marks the 87th anniversary of the premiere of Batman in the pages of Detective Comics #27. That first story, "The Bat-Man: The Case of the Chemical Syndicate"—just six pages long!—introduced one of the most iconic comic book characters of all time, created by artist Bob Kane with writer Bill Finger. Tales From My Spinner Rack LIVE! returns to WonderCon with Gary Sassaman (former director of programming and publications, San Diego Comic-Con) and special guest Mark Evanier (comics historian, Kirby: King of Comics) to discuss the artistic history of the character, looking back at some of the incredible artists who illustrated the adventures of the Caped Crusader over the years. The first 100 attendees receive a limited-edition set of three Tales from My Spinner Rack Collector's Cards!
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 209

3:00pm PDT

Watchers Cinematic Universe: New Sci-Fi/Fantasy TCG Debuts
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
The Watchers Cinematic Universe (WCU) uses a visceral and original sci-fi and fantasy approach to trading card gaming (TCG). This clean, balanced, and fast-paced game brings players back to the roots of TCG. Learn about the heroes and villains of this universe and how you can craft in this galactic war spanning world. Through bio-forging the most ferocious and intelligent creatures to populate the world of a TCG, you will help shape the expanding mythology of the WCU. The Watchers are descending. See the world premiere of the official trailer and meet creators Justin Waldner and Alexander Gray as they guide you through the WCU. Moderated by Gary Miereanu.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

3:00pm PDT

Creating Seats at the Table: Producer and GM Responsibility for Diverse Spaces in Tabletop
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Jordan Lambert (blogger and dungeon master, Blackness and Dragons), Kai Grayson (screenwriter and producer, Roles for Initiative LA), Kelly Lynne D'Angelo (dungeon master, D&D in a Castle; producer, Critical Role), Jade Valkyrie (player and producer, Feywild and Out), and Sarah Durnesque (producer and game master, Pick Your Poison Productions) discuss the responsibility of producers and DMs/GMs in professional and streamed tabletop games to create and maintain diverse tables. Moderated by LemartheConGuy (professional game master and convention host).
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 153

3:00pm PDT

Venture Forth: An Immersive D&D Actual Play
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
The cast of Venture Forth—Russel Bartek, Rodney Campbell, Kat Harris Mojica, Rebecca Hausman, and Shane O'Loughlin—led by dungeon master Seth Fowler, demonstrate their role-playing prowess, keen storytelling skills, creative gameplay implementation, cohesive ensemble performance style, and the impact of their immersive ruleset in a homebrew one-shot session. Expect drama, laughs, and detailed descriptions of violence.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 151

3:15pm PDT

From Indies to Blockbusters: The Storytelling Power of Diversity
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Panelists 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 the search for greater inclusion, empathy, and equity. Rob Edwards (writer, Captain America: Brave New World, Treasure Planet), Andres Useche (writer/director, ICE: No One Is Safe, Marching into the Light), Caitlin Glass (actor/director, Fullmetal Alchemist, Neon Genesis Evangelion 1.0), Dan Lebental (editor, Iron Man, Spider-Man: Far from Home), Gennie Rim (producer, Over the Moon, Love, Death + Robots), Stephanie Filo (editor, Daredevil:Born Again, Monster), Kavi Ramachandran (actor/producer, East Bay, The Sex Lives of College Girls), Aaron Butler (editor, Euphoria, Cries from Syria), Kathy Wu (actor, Call Me by My Name, Bosch: Legacy), and Shannon Baker Davis ( editor, Marvel’s Ironheart, The Beauty), Moderated by Kimberly Woods (voice actor, Archer, X-men ‘97).
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
North 200A

3:30pm PDT

Breaking into Entertainment Media and Content Creation
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Fans-turned-entertainment-media-superstars share stories of how they got their starts in journalism, content creation, and the movie world in general. Brandon Davis (Phase Hero), Joe Deckelmeier (MovieWeb), Perri Nemiroff (Collider), and Taya Miller (content creator) offer stories from press and influencer trips, experiences working with brands, and tips for breaking into a media outlet or winning the algorithm's favor, drawn from a combined five-plus decades of working the biggest entertainment events, interviewing the biggest stars, and collaborating with major movie studios.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 300C

3:30pm PDT

Figure drawing for Popular Media
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Emilio Soltero, Ph.D. (John Buscema: A Life in Sketches, Gorillas in da Mix) presents a primer on drawing the figure for popular media, including drawing for comics and character design. Professionals and beginners are welcome. Bring your drawing supplies to draw during this interactive presentation. Come ready to take notes and to draw.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 210

3:30pm PDT

Spotlight on Claudia Gray
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
WonderCon special guest and author Claudia Gray (Lost Stars, Bloodline, The Murder of Mr. Wickham) and moderator Kiersten White (The Dark Descent of Elizabeth Frankenstein, Hide) present an in-depth retrospective of Claudia's writing career.
Special Guests
avatar for Claudia Gray

Claudia Gray

F-04, WonderCon Special Guest
Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of Amy Vincent. She is the writer of multiple young adult novels, including the Evernight series, the Firebird trilogy, and the Constellation trilogy. In addition, she’s written several Star Wars novels, such as Lost Stars and Bloodline. Her debut... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

3:30pm PDT

Not So Strange Bedfellows: The Relationship Between Comics and Pro Wrestling
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Some have called the spectacle of pro wrestling "a comic book come to life." That is not far from the truth. From the heroics of Hulk Hogan to the anti-heroics of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and the villainy of Ric Flair, this panel explores the parallels in character development and storyline advancement between these outrageous forms. Featuring Francis Szyskowski (creator, The Massacre Twins), Jonathan London (Hero of the Prophecy), Michael Mondragon (founder, Punk Rock Art School), Flobo Boyce (26 Stone: BIGGER, LONGER, & UNCUT), Anthony Ray Bench (associate editor, Ultima Comics), Scott Lost (creator, The 2nd Shift), Rik Offenberger (editor-in-chief, First Comics News), and Hunter Jackson (co-founder of GWAR). Moderated by Joshua Waldrop (founder/publisher, Ultima Comics).
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 208

4:00pm PDT

Cartoon Voices
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
For the 64th time at WonderCon, Comic-Con, or online, Mark Evanier assembles a panel of folks who supply the voices, grunts, and groans for many fan-favorite cartoon characters. They’ll demonstrate what they do, explain how they got to do it, and then massacre a fairy tale for the audience's edification. Featuring Brian Hull (Hotel Transylvania), Cheryl Chase (Rugrats), Kamali Minter (Shark Tale), and Piotr Michael (Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures).
Special Guests
avatar for Mark Evanier

Mark Evanier

WonderCon Special Guest
Mark Evanier attended his first San Diego Comic-Con in 1970 and has been to every one of these annual events ever since. He was then an assistant to the great Jack Kirby, whom he wrote about in his book Kirby, King of Comics. Mark has also written for live-action TV shows, animat... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 207

4:00pm PDT

Family Is Community: Middle-Grade Graphic Novels
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Moderator Erinn Pascal (author stewardship manager at PJ Library) and creators Gabriel Valentin (Digital Lizards of Doom Volume 5), Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Library), and Scott Peterson (Phineas and Ferb: A-MAZE-Ing Creature Double Feature) explore how relationships—at home, at school, and beyond—shape their characters and highlight that stories grounded in connection and belonging help middle-grade readers grow.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 211

4:00pm PDT

How The Toys That Made Us Inspired a Toy Company
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Brian Volk-Weiss (The Movies That Made Us, Disney's Behind the Attraction) and the Nacelle team share how The Toys That Made Us docuseries launched Nacelle Toys, who now produce action figures for Star Trek, Biker Mice from Mars, RoboForce, The Expanse, C.O.W.-Boys of Moo Mesa, Sectaurs, and more. Fans will get a sneak peek of the upcoming "Polly Pocket" episode from of The Toys That Made Us.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 100B

4:00pm PDT

How to Build Cosplay Armor and Props with Anvil Station
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
With more than a decade of Halo cosplay and beyond, the crew of Anvil Station share guidance on where to start and how to choose among the many available techniques and tools. The panel reviews common methods used today to construct armor, props, and costumes, including 3D printing, casting and molding, foam construction, laser cutting, microcontroller programming, and more. Featuring Cary Gunnar Lee (Legacy Effects), JP Polilo (Legacy Effects), Chris Loomis (CrazedOneCosplay), Matt Hendricks (Matterhackers), and James Hall and moderated by Benedict Choy (SpacemeatTheCosplay).
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

Level-Up: Taking Your Comics to the Next Tier
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Comics creators discuss strategies for creating comics that stand out, digging into what separates good ideas from great projects and why so many comics fall short despite solid art or writing. Marcus McNeal (editor-in-chief, Odyssey Comics), Rob Pilkington (writer, Slight Return), April Connors (creator, Everybody's Happy Nowadays as Prof. Raco), Arthur N. Ebuen (writer, California, Inc.; animator The Simpsons), and Amy Linsamouth (writer, Jackie and the Magical Guys; Byte Me) share insights on 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 March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

4:00pm PDT

Re-Vamped with Juliet Landau Live from WonderCon Podcast
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Re-Vamped with Juliet Landau is the first Buffyverse podcast to be hosted by a former cast member and has recently crossed 330,000 downloads in its first year. Audience members are invited to be part of the podcast as the hosts discuss all things Buffy, sharing stories about their love of the show and how it has helped and changed lives.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

4:00pm PDT

Strange Love: Writing Romantic SFF/H
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Genre-blending in books is booming, and mixing the speculative and the swoony offers opportunities for engaging readers, from monster romance to paranormal paramours, from touches of fabulism to full-out fantasy. Leanne "L. A." Schwartz (A Prayer for Vengeance, My Kind of Trouble), Mallory Marlowe (Love and Other Conspiracies, Love at First Sighting), Shelly Page (Brewed with Love, Charmed and Dangerous), Megan Jauregui Eccles (Sing the Night), Justine Pucella Winans (How to Survive a Slasher, Your Boyfriend Needs an Exorcist), and Gretchen Schreiber (All the Stars Align, Ellie Haycock Is Totally Normal) discuss their newest and most anticipated books.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300A

4:00pm PDT

Daggerheart: Behind the Scenes
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Darrington Press's Spenser Starke, Rowan Hall, and Elise Rezendes discuss the creation of Daggerheart, the new fantasy tabletop role-playing game from the publishing wing of Critical Role, including a sneak preview of the upcoming Hope and Fear expansion. The roundtable discussion will be followed by a short Q&A in which attendees can pose questions directly to the creators.
Special Guests
avatar for Spenser Starke

Spenser Starke

D-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Spenser Starke is a WGA screenwriter and the senior game designer at Darrington Press. He is best known for Daggerheart, Alice Is Missing, Candela Obscura, and Kids on Brooms. Additionally, he has worked on video games like Sunderfolk and is currently adapting a number of tabletop... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 153

4:00pm PDT

Deadweight with Bobby Lee: A Universe in the Making
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Step into the chaos, comedy, and cosmic weirdness behind Deadweight, the new graphic novel universe from GUNGNIR and comedian Bobby Lee. This panel dives into how a wild, character-driven story becomes a full-blown multimedia world—blending humor, heart, and high-concept storytelling. Matthew Medney (co-creator of the Deadweight universe) will be joined by Ernie Altbacker (writer, Aztec Batman: Clash of Empires) and Deric Hughes (co-EP and writer, Quantum Leap) to talk franchise building across comics, film, animation, and beyond, They'll break down the origins of the series, the process of building a universe around a singular comedic voice, and what it takes to launch a new franchise across formats. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, creative insights, and a few surprises as this strange, hilarious world begins to take shape.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 209

4:30pm PDT

Discovering Our Unique Superpowers: A Creative Workshop for Families
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
What superpowers of the body, mind, or heart do you have? This family-friendly interactive workshop is led by Angel Halo Chang, a former preschool teacher and children's book author-illustrator who is passionate about creating diverse and inclusive spaces for all children and families. Pencils and paper provided. Coloring pencils and crayons are encouraged, not required.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 210

4:30pm PDT

Next Gen Nerds
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
What happens when big nerds raise little nerds? Do powers multiply with each new generation? A panel of professional geek and nerd parents—Christy Black (Hero's Journey Fitness), Todd Stashwick (Picard, VisionQuest), Reynaldo Macias (Three for the Founders), Dinah McClean (Team Click), and Barbra Dillon (Fanbase Press)—discuss how their nerdy jobs, hobbies, and fandoms inform their parenting and help guide them in raising the next generation of physically and emotionally healthy nerds.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 300C

4:30pm PDT

Science of Disneyland
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Disneyland is just down the road, so this panel takes a virtual field trip to explore the parks from a different point of view. Topics will include physics, the psychology of play and Disney adults, the history of witches and magic, and the role of technology and automation in the happiest place on Earth. Panelists include astrophysicist Lisa Will, historian Beth Pollard, psychologist Drea Letamendi, art historian Roland Betancourt (author, Disneyland and the Rise of Automation: How Technology Created the Happiest Place on Earth), paleontologist Stuart Sumida (advisor, Matterhorn animations and co-author, Disneyland Rocks! The Geology of Disneyland and California Adventure), and biologist Elizabeth Rega (consultant, Hall of Presidents). Moderated by science writer Melissa T. Miller. All are Disney fans eager to help attendees experience Disneyland from a whole new angle.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 208

4:30pm PDT

Ted the TV Series
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Everyone's favorite foul-mouthed teddy bear is back. Peacock's comedic prequel series to the hit film franchise Ted finds us in the 1990s, and Ted the bear's moment of fame has passed. He is now living back home in Framingham, Massachusetts, with his best friend, 17-year-old John Bennett, along with John's parents, Matty and Susan, and cousin Blaire. Ted may be a lousy influence on John, but at the end of the day, he's a loyal pal who's always willing to go out on a limb for friendship. Cast members Max Burkholder (Parenthood), Alanna Ubach (Euphoria), Scott Grimes (American Dad!), and Giorgia Whigham (The Punisher) take the stage to discuss the latest season from UCP.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
North 200A

4:30pm PDT

Vampire Hunter D: The Legacy and Future
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
The classic Japanese sci-fi/horror franchise Vampire Hunter D has 54 novels in the main book series, two movie adaptations, nine manga adaptations, and a graphic novel, with some potential surprises on the horizon. The current producers of VHD material at Unified Pictures, Kurt Rauer (producer), Anton Pardoe (writer), Ryan Benjamin (artist), and Brandon Easton (writer), discuss the character's history and the direction of the new adaptation work, including unseen art and release details for the upcoming comic series.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

4:30pm PDT

2nd Annual Behind the Camera House: An Entertainment Industry Mixer
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
The Behind the Camera House returns to WonderCon for an entertainment industry mixer dedicated to bringing together entertainment professionals and creatives looking to build connections and community. Whether an editor, composer, director, artist, agent, manager, or other creative contributor, attendees can network with like-minded talents, exchange ideas, and spark new collaborations. This evening of conversation and inspiration celebrates behind-the-scenes creatives shaping film, television, animation, video games, comic books, and more, featuring creatives behind Nobody Wants This, One Piece, Good Boy, The Witcher, Love Is Blind, WondLa, and others.
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 206B

5:00pm PDT

Avengers Assemble! Suiting Up and Serving Others with Marvel Causeplay
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Marvel fans! Are you interested in cosplay but not sure where to begin? Or have you suited up before and want to learn how to use your fandom for a good cause? Members of the Avengers Initiative, a national fan organization of Marvel cosplay volunteers, fill you in on how to get started in cosplay and how to give back to communities via charity service events, visiting kids in hospitals, and more. The panel also explores how cosplay can be used to inspire and support others. Bryan Lee (head executive officer, Avengers Initiative) hosts Karen Katich (head membership officer, Avengers Initiative), Ron Alix (volunteer member, West Coast Avengers of California), Tom Iwata (membership officer, West Coast Avengers of California), Kate Tidwell (executive officer, West Coast Avengers of California), Coby Thornton (executive officer, Avengers Mid-Pacific of Hawaii), and Victor C. Joe, M.D., MBA, FACS (UCI Health Regional Burn Center).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300E

5:00pm PDT

Comic Pitch Review Saturday
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Most creators have no trouble coming up with great ideas for new comics, but they often struggle to speak clearly and concisely about those ideas to other people. Giving a good pitch is a vital skill in bringing your project to life. Fortunately, it's also a skill you can learn and improve with practice—and Pitch Review is a great place to do that. If you're someone who wants to get better at pitching your work (and especially if you're a writer or artist attending the Comic Creator Connection immediately after this event), this is your chance to practice giving your pitch and get some invaluable help from a professional writer and speaker coach. Pitch reviews will be conducted by Douglas Neff, a professional speechwriter, speaker coach, and host of the Comic Creator Connection. This is not a typical panel. These are 3- to 5-minute individual coaching sessions for as many people as can be accommodated in the scheduled time. Spaces are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, and everyone is welcome to watch and learn from the sessions.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 204C

5:00pm PDT

Crowdfunding Comics Today
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Jordan Plosky (co-founder and CEO, Zoop) and Eric Moss (co-founder and COO, Zoop) are joined by guests who straddle the worlds of comics and music. Artist and guitarist Ven Adams (Fangbanger) and cartoonist and musician Luke McGarry (Morrissey, PopNoir) discuss their experiences with crowdfunding, share real-life examples, and answer audience questions about funding creative projects of all kinds.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 211

5:00pm PDT

From Batman to Basquiat: Contemporary Art and Comics
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Comic book characters are a deep source of inspiration for visual artists as avatars of social commentary and contemporary symbolism. Alma Villegas (senior director of development, Inner-City Arts), Kenny Keil (artist/writer, MAD magazine, Smoove City), John Jennings (author/artist/professor; Black Kirby, Kindred), and James Reitano (animation director/comics creator; 1985, 1987, music videos for Quasimoto, Czarface, MF DOOM) discuss their work at the intersection of contemporary art, community, and comics, as well as the work of Andy Warhol, Dulce Pinzon, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and others. Moderated by Gustavo Alberto Garcia Vaca (writer/artist, MoMA, LACMA, Beyond Warriors).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

5:00pm PDT

Middle Eastern/North African Representation in Media
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
The importance of Middle Eastern/North African (MENA) representation in arts and entertainment remains strong today, but there is still more to be done and much to recognize and celebrate. A panel of talented MENA American artists and entertainers explore how their backgrounds and experiences have shaped them and the progress still to be made toward further representation. Moderated by Jasmin Joestar (content creator/cosplayer, Twitch). Q&A to follow.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 209

5:00pm PDT

Spotlight on Scott Snyder
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
After a historic run on titles like Batman and American Vampire, Scott Snyder (Absolute Batman) made his return to DC Comics in 2024 with the release of DC All In Special and a celebrated launch of the Absolute Universe. But what's coming down the DC pipeline from Snyder after the colossal DC K.O. event? This spirited discussion of his thoughts and process just might yield an answer or two.
Special Guests
avatar for Scott Snyder

Scott Snyder

F-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Over his 15-year career, Scott Snyder has written such blockbuster bestselling comics as Batman (with Greg Capullo) and Absolute Batman (with Nick Dragotta), as well as critically acclaimed creator-owned titles American Vampire (with Rafael Albuquerque) and Wytches (with Jock; Amazon Studios animated adaptation in production). He is the recipient of two Eisner Awards, a Harvey Award, an Eagle Award, three Stan Lee Awards, and an Inkpot Award. Scott lives on Long Island with his wife and three sons. He's an avid, non-ironic fan of Elvis Pre... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 207

5:00pm PDT

The Business of Animation Careers: Agents, Managers, Lawyers and How Creators Build Teams
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Behind every successful animation career is not just artistic talent, but a smart professional team helping navigate opportunities, contracts, and long-term growth. Talent manager Sam Goff joins her clients—Malia Jennings (Iyanu, Charlotte and Buckingham Park), Karen Drastal (Maxxie LaWow), Sam King (DuckTales, Overwatch), and John Rauschelbach (Outer Scouts)—to break down what agents, managers, and entertainment attorneys actually do, how they work together, and what that means for creators. Through real-world experiences, the panel demystifies representation and talks about when it makes sense to build a team and how to approach it strategically.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300A

5:00pm PDT

Story Over Stats: The Narrative TTRPG Shift
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Moderator Kevin Roy (RolePlay GrabBag, TV/film director) leads a discussion with Shaun Leonard (actor, tabletop creator), Kylie Rose (professional GM, editor, Dicescape), Ross Thompson (director of media and events, GAMA: The Tabletop Game Association), Kailey Bray (VP of marketing, Infinite Stories), and Ivan Van Norman (Hunters Entertainment) on how actual-play shows and streaming culture have fueled a surge in narrative-driven tabletop role-playing games, how that shift is influencing modern play styles, and how groups who enjoy tactical, crunch-heavy systems can incorporate stronger storytelling without losing mechanical depth.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
North 153

5:00pm PDT

Scaring Audiences to Death
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Now in theaters and hitting streaming soon, Scared to Death is a new horror/comedy film featuring horror legend Lin Shaye (Insidious franchise) and Bill Moseley (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre Part 2, Rob Zombie's Firefly trilogy, The Devil's Rejects). Hear Shaye discuss a celebrated career in the genre, and get the inside scoop about the intricacies of blending comedy with horror from director/writer Paul Boyd (Vicious Circle), Legacy Effects visual effects master J. Alan Scott (Ahsoka, Skeleton Crew), and actors Victoria Konefal (Days of Our Lives), Kurt Deimer (Halloween), B.J. Minor (Bel-Air), and Olivier Paris (A.P. Bio). Noted horror journalist Brian Collins (Fangoria, Bloody Disgusting, Horror Movie A Day) will moderate.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

5:00pm PDT

Not Another Horror TTRPG One Shot
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
A ragtag group of adventurers—including Cai Kagawa (performer on Transplanar), Harli Kane (model, actor, cosplayer), Jake Lionheart (music producer, composer), and Jes Wade (TTRPG producer, ChariTTRPGs)—attempt to survive a Dread actual play GM'd by Kim Tsuyuki (marketing manager/cast member, 5 GMs in a Trenchcoat) that brings the audience along for the thrill and, if they're lucky, a kill. Combining their collaborative storytelling skills, the cast will lean into horror tropes and spoof up the genre.
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
North 151

5:15pm PDT

Four Decades of Robotech
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
Harmony Gold U.S.A. celebrates Robotech entering its fourth decade of growth. Get the latest news and updates on new toy lines from Toynami, ThreeZero, KitzConcept, Unix Square, and Sentinel, tabletop games from Strange Machine Games, the latest comics from Titan Comics, and a new video game license (yes, you read that right).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
North 100B

5:30pm PDT

From Weird Jobs to TV Writing Jobs
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Do all screenwriters get their first writing job right out of college or as soon as they move to Los Angeles? Usually, no. Not only that, many screenwriters have worked some of the oddest jobs imaginable. TV writers Patrick Rieger (Batwheels, Frog and Toad), Mark Fujita (Hello Kitty Supercute Adventures, WWE NXT), and Alyssa Stratton (Firebuds, Batwheels) chat about that one weird job they had before they got that first writing credit and how those odd jobs affect their careers today. Moderated by Alyssa Feller (Universal Basic Guys, Frog and Toad).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 300C

5:30pm PDT

How to Get News Coverage
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Small press publishers often wonder what makes the difference between an item that will get news coverage, previews, and interviews and one that will not. Many have no idea what to submit to the press, how to submit it, or why they are being overlooked for coverage. Comics journalist Rik Offenberger (First Comics News, Archie Comics) moderates this panel on what it takes to get coverage, with comic journalists themselves explaining what they look for in submissions. Panelists include Tim Chizmar (Fangoria, co-chair of the Horror Writers Association), Jaesa Evermore (Temple of Geek, First Comics News), Ray MacKay (Fantastic Comic Fan), Grant Offenberger (Grant Me Peace), Alex Raymond (Hollywood Gone Geek), Francis Sky (First Comics News), Chris Squires (iHeartMedia), and Josh Waldrop (Ultima Media).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 208

5:30pm PDT

Paleontology in Popular Media
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Biologists and artists working at the interface of science and entertainment come together to discuss the impact of one of the most publicly popular sciences. Panelists include Stuart Sumida (president, Society of Vertebrate Paleontology; scientific consultant on over 80 animated and VFX films), David Krentz (Prehistoric Planet, two-time Emmy Award winner for Primal), Eric Scott (Encino Man, upcoming BBC evolution documentaries), Evan Boucher (DreamWorks Animation; Los Angeles County Museum of Natural History docent), Elizabeth Rega (Disney's Strange World, Blizzard Entertainment), and Danny Anduza (paleontologist; Twitch ambassador).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

5:30pm PDT

The Art of Voice Directing
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Some of the best voice directors in the industry, including Kristi Reed (Fionna and Cake), Sara Jane Sherman (Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man), and more, are once again stepping out of the booth to share the secrets of their craft with journalist Taimur Dar (The Beat).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 210

6:00pm PDT

Building Cosplay Props on a Budget
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Cosplay prop maker Sesame.cos, pattern creator and LED specialist ChrisekaiCosplay, and master Gunpla cosplayer Eric.craftworks offer an in-depth look at crafting cosplay props without breaking the bank. The panel covers the entire process, from concept and materials to construction and finishing, while sharing practical tips, money-saving techniques, and creative solutions to help you stick to your cosplay budget. The session concludes with an interactive "Cosplay Prop Petting Zoo," where attendees can see the work up close, handle the props, and ask questions during a live Q&A segment with moderator Katerpillerkosplay
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300E

6:00pm PDT

Career Paths into Game Development
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
As the business of video games now surpasses the annual revenues of both film and music combined, public interest in pursuing a career in the game industry has staggeringly increased in recent years. This has spawned a wide variety of educational and vocational options for individuals to pursue game development, but how exactly can someone get the knowledge they need and then find a job in this very competitive industry? Veteran game industry professionals discuss what it takes to launch a game development career and how there are many paths into the industry.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300A

6:00pm PDT

Hip-Hop and Comics: Cultures Combining
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Hip-Hop and comics share numerous connections and exist in constant communication with one another: Rappers and graffiti artists utilize superheroic imagery; DJs and producers create universes of sound; comic creators and animators incorporate Hip-Hop's musical and visual vocabularies; collectors dig through crates for key back issues and rare breakbeats. Both forms reconfigure and remix elements, blend styles, and inspire passionate fanbases. Moderator Patrick A. Reed brings together a group of experts to discuss the bonds between these two creative cultures.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 211

6:00pm PDT

Indie Toy Makers Unite!
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Indie Toy Makers Unite returns to WonderCon with a candid, creative conversation about independently creating toys. Hear directly from creators who are producing and marketing their own independent toys and making their mark on the collectible community. This year's conversation includes Bill Murphy (BigBadWorkshop), Sarah Lynn Reynolds (senior toy designer, Bonkers), Quang Le (Creature Bazaar), Jason Langston (freelance toy and graphic designer), Rocom Toys, and Gavin Hignight (Wandering Planet Toys). Moderated by Jordan Q. Hammer (creator of pop culture news site Toyshiz; expert on Discontinued with Bruce Campbell), and Richard Mayerik (The Toys That Made Us; Secret Compartment Show).
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 209

6:00pm PDT

Star Trek at 60: Starfleet Academy: Real Uniter or Faux Divider?
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Is it 2017 again? Star Trek turns 60 with a host of anniversary plans, but Starfleet Academy has bowed with more controversy than any recent series since Star Trek: Discovery's heated first year. With SFA's first season wrapped, "Dr. Trek" Larry Nemecek (The Trek Files, Portal 47) asks a host of Trek industry vets for their own takes on the series as well as the meta-reaction to it: Neal Hallford (DP, Con of Wrath), Matt Jennings (For All Mankind, 1701: A Blerd Story), Tony Kim (Hero Within), Charlynn Schmiedt (Mission Log: Prodigy, Star Trek & Chill). Is that initial negative reaction by some critics and fans more about clickbait-chasing talkers and review-bombing than actual criticism and nuance? Can we sense whether IRL armchair Trekkies feel as mainstream critics and activist fans do—in support?
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 207

6:00pm PDT

Stranger Things Psychology: Demogorgons N' Diagnoses
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Grab your dice, character sheet, and best friends to re-enter the Upside Down and the right side up. When life feels like the BBEG and Demogorgons could jump you at every corner, you don't need psychic powers to know you can't do it alone. Your party of psychologists/wizards—Dr. Isaac Taitz (All Mind Health), Dr. Sara Roldan (Our Oasis Community, SDSU), Dr. James Poole (The Relational Nerd), and Dr. Travis Langley (Stranger Things Psychology: Life Upside Down, Popular Culture Psychology)—discuss The Party, The Scoops Troop, and the Hellfire Club. They'll also lay down the groundwork for a session 0 on how to use D&D and other TTRPGs as your own therapeutic tool to level up your character and spec into multiple classes. Q&A to follow with giveaways.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

6:00pm PDT

Trans Masculine Representation in Entertainment
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Avi Roque (The Owl House, Cemetery Boys), Simon Lucas Howe (Rick and Morty, Big Mouth), Theo Tiedemann (Transparent, Our Flag Means Death), Maze Felix (Apple TV's Give Me an A, Mascvmasc), and Yas Modares Ghasiri (Sylvester Stallone's MVP, Babysplitters) bring the real talk on trans masculine representation in film and TV. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, industry tea, and a candid conversation on visibility, creativity, and taking up space.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

6:00pm PDT

Worldbuilding for Creators
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
This panel explores how to craft a world that draws in audiences with some of the creative minds behind Darrington Press's tabletop role-playing game Daggerheart, along with other industry guests. Spenser Starke (Alice Is Missing, Kids on Brooms), Rowan Hall (Sunderfolk, Candela Obscura), Elise Rezendes (Session Zero System), and others examines their worldbuilding process in tabletop games, video games, film, TV, and beyond.
Special Guests
avatar for Spenser Starke

Spenser Starke

D-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Spenser Starke is a WGA screenwriter and the senior game designer at Darrington Press. He is best known for Daggerheart, Alice Is Missing, Candela Obscura, and Kids on Brooms. Additionally, he has worked on video games like Sunderfolk and is currently adapting a number of tabletop... Read More →
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
North 153

6:30pm PDT

David Dastmalchian: Comic Book Movie Actor to Comic Book Creator
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Actor and writer David Dastmalchian (The Suicide Squad, Count Crowley) discusses his career across comic books, film, television, and stage, exploring how these storytelling forms connect to his journey.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
North 100B

6:30pm PDT

Making a Living Being Creative
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Star Wars artist and indie comic creator Lee Kohse (Star Wars, Kindergoth, Omicron Fel) talks about his 30+ year career as a professional artist, how he broke into the entertainment industry, optioning his creator-owned comics to Hollywood, adapting to a changing industry, navigating the business of Artists’ Alley, and how to be ready when a lucky break comes. Is it all about who you know? Attendees will learn how to promote themselves, get tips on how to network, and take part in a Q&A for anything Lee may have missed. Moderated by Johnny Kolasinski (Hi Everybody: A Bad Medicine Podcast).
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 208

6:30pm PDT

Star Wars Memories: The Early Days of Star Wars, SDCC, and Fandom
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Star Wars was released in 1977. But almost a year earlier, it was publicized and promoted at San Diego Comic-Con. Craig Miller (Lucasfilm's original director of fan relations and the author of Star Wars Memories) gives a slide show on the early association between Star Wars, Comic-Con, and fandom, including stories about how the film was publicized and promoted at SDCC in 1976 and how fans got involved and were kept involved from even before the film came out, including stories about 20th Century Fox's market research on making Star Wars, George Lucas's original explanation for the Millennium Falcon's 12 parsec Kessel Run, picking Leigh Brackett to write The Empire Strikes Back, Underwear That's Fun To Wear, taking Droids to Sesame Street, and more.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 300C

6:30pm PDT

The Marco Polo Loose Inking Technique
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Comic book artist Cutter Hays will demonstrate and teach his fast methods of achieving cool-looking inks in a flashy, sped-up sumi style. It's fun to watch, he takes questions while doing it, and you, too, can learn to be fast, good, and braver with a brush and ink. Cutter will even take on suggestions for subjects as a fun challenge. If you're a beginner, this can be your launching pad. If you're advanced, you can put a new tool in your arsenal. Many are intimidated by traditional inking—come watch and find out how fun it can be!
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 210

6:30pm PDT

What Peggy Carter Taught Us
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
This March marks the 10th anniversary of the cancellation of Marvel's Agent Carter. Jennifer Redelle Carey, M.A. (educator, Ariadne's String), Dr. Mercedes Samudio (licensed psychotherapist, author, and cultural commentator), Sara Elizabeth Santana (indie YA and romance author, former blogger and professional fangirl), Dr. Janina Scarlet (psychologist; author of Superhero Therapy), and moderator Dawn M. Bourn (The Geek Girl Project) discuss why Agent Carter, as a character and a TV show, continues to be transformative to American culture and why Peggy Carter's iconic quote "I know my value" matters more than ever.
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

7:00pm PDT

Closet Cosplay: Crafting Without Breaking the Bank
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Cosplay in this economy? This panel explores how to use everyday materials to create cosplay looks without overspending. Cosplay creators Sesame.cos, Dianitecosplay, Magicalgirlmarina, and moderator Katerpillerkosplay discuss how to repurpose clothing and accessories and reimagine items from the closet into creative, customized cosplay. These experienced cosplayers share how they transform simple, everyday pieces into distinctive, character-driven looks. The panel concludes with a Q&A segment, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, get personalized advice, and walk away inspired.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300E

7:00pm PDT

Cosmic Call Signs
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
From the fictional Millennium Falcon and Serenity to the real-world Apollo and Galileo, the names given to our spacecraft become iconic. Dr. Lisa Will (astrophysicist) leads a discussion with Dr. Laine D'Augustine (aerospace engineer), Sydney Hamilton (aerospace engineer), Brian Tatosky (VFX supervisor), and Robert Hurt (astronomer) exploring the stories and meaning behind the naming of both real and science fiction spacecraft.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 207

7:00pm PDT

How Video Game Films Git Gud
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
There was once a time when fans would hear of a video game being adapted into another medium and forums would be ablaze with skepticism, jeers, and outright doubt. But with adaptations like Super Mario Bros., The Last of Us, and Sonic the Hedgehog filling theater seats, what has led to the change in fan perspectives? Derick McDuff (host of Underrated Movie Podcast), is joined by Tricia Aurand (award-winning screenwriter and podcast host), Thomas Craig (podcast host of Sick Burn Podcast), Kurosh Jozavi (games journalist and host of Savepoint Stories), Austin Olivia Kendrick (Emmy-nominated film/TV sound editor), and Jeremy "Jaymo" Strauss, (host of The Old Switcharoo) to address the fall and rise of video game adaptations, the tangible creative changes made to the adaptation process, and the growing trust fans are putting back into this industry.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300A

7:00pm PDT

Military Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
U.S. Marine Corps veterans and writers Tom Waltz (G.I. Joe, TMNT) and Benjamin Spada (The Black Spear series) talk about the depiction of the military in various types of media and how their time in the military informs what they write, from pet peeves in the genre to the need for genuine representation. Ronald Coleman, Ph.D. (scientist/writer) moderates.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

7:00pm PDT

Sci-Fi Horror: Where No One Can Hear You Scream
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
From alien encounters and rogue AIs to body horror, cosmic dread, and experiments gone wrong, science fiction and horror have always been an ideal nightmare pairing. Jendia Gammon (Atacama, Dungeon Crawl at the Haunted Mall), Jean-Paul L. Garnier (Space Cowboy Books, Simultaneous Times), Eric J. Guignard (A Graveside Gallery, That Which Grows Wild), Scott Sigler (The Crypt series), and moderator KC Grifant (Monster Gunslingers, Shrouded Horror) explore what makes sci-fi horror resonate. These experts share their insights into crafting and appreciating horrors at the heart of the genre: loss of control, isolation, the terror of the unknown, and the question of what it truly means to be human.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 209

7:00pm PDT

The Power of Color: The Discussion Continues
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Representation in comics and pop culture continues to be at the forefront of the entertainment industry. Does the industry explore the option of looking at new material from independent creators, or does race swapping continue to be used as a method of furthering diversity, equity, and inclusion as it pertains to the topic of race? Featuring Kevin Grevioux (Underworld), Baldwin Chiu (filmmaker), Larissa Lam (actress), Hannibal Tabu (writer/producer), Leo Partible (filmmaker), and Ralph Miley (moderator). 
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

7:00pm PDT

ProgCore: Classic Fantasy Meets Modern RPGs
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
The TTRPG world is changing, abuzz about a return to "old school gaming." But what does that even mean in the modern age of role-playing games? ProgCore Fantasy creators Todd Stashwick (Picard, VisionQuest) and David Nett (Starter Kit, Hero's Journey Fitness) discuss with their collaborators—Drea Letamendi, Ph.D., Jason Charles Miller, Brian Ward, and Charity Stashwick (the Arkham Sessions; Batman: The Brave and the Bold; Final Fantasy XIV; Shout! Factory; screenwriter) about how to bring the joy of classic, old-school fantasy storytelling to RPG sessions while simultaneously caring for and protecting everyone at the table, regardless of the actual game you play.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
North 151

7:00pm PDT

Running TTRPGs for an Audience
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Moderator Kevin Roy (RolePlay GrabBag, TV/film director) leads a discussion with Shaun Leonard (actor, tabletop creator), Kylie Rose (Dicescape, professional DM, editor), Ivan Van Norman (Hunters Entertainment), Kailey Bray (VP of marketing, Infinite Stories), Lemar "TheconGuy" Harris (host, comedian, GM), and Edward Doty (Life is Strange: Two Moons Rising, Critical Role: Campaign 1) on what changes when your tabletop role-playing game becomes a TTRPG show, and how Game Masters and players can balance entertainment, authenticity, and table safety when the cameras are on.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
North 153

7:00pm PDT

Ultima Comics: The Match Beyond!
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Ultima Comics shares updates on upcoming issues of the Founding Four titles, along with a slate of new debut projects from emerging independent comics talent publishing with Ultima. The panel highlights the stories behind forthcoming work featuring Francis Szyskowski (The Massacre Twins), Flobo Boyce (26 Stone: The Movie!), Taylor Hammond (Captain Starfish & the Aquanauts), Tim Peterson (Fire In The Dark), Payton Oliver (Parenthetical Bullet), and Anthony Bench (Ultima Comics). Hosted by Joshua Waldrop (founder/publisher, Ultima Comics).
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 211

7:00pm PDT

Comic Creator Connection Saturday
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Are you a writer with a great idea for a comic book series, but you can't draw? Or maybe you're an artist looking to illustrate an incredible story, but you can't write. WonderCon is proud to once again host the Comic Creator Connection, a fast-paced networking event that puts writers and artists together to help them meet new creative partners. Here's how it works: In a two-hour period, writers and artists will sit down across from each other at a table. (And by artists, we mean pencillers, inkers, colorists, etc.—all are welcome!) Then, in five-minute sessions, you will talk one-on-one with each other about your ideas and skills. At the end of each five-minute period, you will get up and move on to the next person. If you're interested in furthering the conversation, you'll exchange contact information. Think of it as speed-dating but for writers and artists! Pro Tip: The room often fills up, so come early for the best chance at getting in. Seating begins at 6:45 PM.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 204C

7:30pm PDT

Crafting Your Own R2 Astromech
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Droid builders Mike Senna, Michael McMaster, William Miyamoto, Chris Romines, and Victor Franco from the R2 Builders Fan Club discuss how their droids were built and how they work. Topics include materials, blueprints, building techniques, tools, and electronics that bring their droids to life.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 300C

7:30pm PDT

EC Fan-Addict Club: Horror! Science Fiction! and Humor! The EC Art of Wood and Davis
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Thommy Burns (Foul Play and Other Stories by Jack Davis, Spawn of Venus and Other Stories by Wallace Wood), Grant Geissman (The History of EC Comics), and Jon Gothold (My Gun Is the Jury and Other Stories by Jack Davis and Wallace Wood) celebrate two of EC Comics' most prolific artists in a lively panel moderated by Mike Catron (senior editor, Fantagraphics' EC Artists Library) and hosted by Josh Burns (co-founding admin, EC Fan-Addict Club on Facebook).
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

7:30pm PDT

Mold/Resin Making, 3D Printing, and FX Techniques
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Learn techniques from the experts: Fon Davis (25-year veteran of miniature VFX who has worked on over 25 movies, including the Star Wars series and Guardians of the Galaxy), Brooke Wheeler ( technical sales manager/materials specialist with Reynolds Advanced Materials), Sam Girgis (owner of BiggerBoxModels, designing ideas using CAD systems and with a unique focus on the 3D printing environment), Shawn Thorsson (founder of Thorsson & Assoc. Workshop whose props and armor are produced for films and collectors), Julia Jenkins (cosplayer of many characters who is an avid seamstress and builder), and Jeff Broz (in mold production for over 30 years, producing both aerospace and sci-fi projects).
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 210

7:30pm PDT

Spice Club
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
You do not talk about Spice Club . . . unless you find a fellow spice reader. Looking for a safe, spicy space to let your fandom flag fly? Welcome to Spice Club—where the only rule is to have absolutely no shame about your TBR stack of shirtless-vampire-boyfriend novels. Whether it's books, shows, memes, or chaotic fan theories, this panel is your judgment-free zone to recommend reads, share hilarious thirst traps, and discuss the tropes we all secretly (or not-so-secretly) love. Just keep language within the Spicy Terminology Guidelines, so we don't get smited by the convention gods. Come for the spice, stay for the chaos. Featuring April Wahlin, Tessa McFionn, Sienna Harlow, Kristin Erickson, Annie Fite, and Ella Tham.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:30pm - 8:30pm PDT
Room 208

8:00pm PDT

Forensic Fact-Check: Dissecting Bone-Chilling Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Alexa Tanen (M.S. in forensic anthropology, freelance editor) talks autopsies, forensics, and how some authors incorrectly dispose of bodies. Tanen helps attendees learn to create stories with a forensic level of accuracy.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 209

8:00pm PDT

Klingon Lifestyles WonderCon
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
For over 30 years, the crew of the IKV Stranglehold has had some interesting adventures, but events from the past can eventually return and cause new problems for them in their latest special WonderCon mission, which may lead to future missions. All alien races are welcome.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300E

8:00pm PDT

Superhero Cartoon Draft 2026
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Host Dimithri Perera (The Keeg podcasts, Comic Talk) runs a sports draft-style show where guests Justin Jordan (Still Scrolling Podcast), Nikhil Clayton (content creator, X-Men superfan), and Maggie Kingdom (cosplayer) will draft their top five greatest superhero cartoons of all time. Not only will the panelists compete against each other for their top picks, but the audience will have the chance to win big with their picks as well!
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 207

8:00pm PDT

The Dad Batch Podcast: Walking Workbench
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Steven Schultz, John Rodriguez, Luke Yates, David Neth, and Kiefer Jenkins dive into the cosplay scene at WonderCon as they bring the costuming community together to share tips, tricks, and encouragement for costume builds from all around the con.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

8:00pm PDT

The Hero's Journey and Journalistic Integrity
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
One of the most popular frameworks for telling stories is the Hero's Journey, a set of steps that guide heroes from beginning to end to accomplish their goals. In a climate of distrust, disdain, and A.I. use, this panel examines what modern-day journalists and reporters can take from this structure to become trusted sources for new audiences. Monica Duarte (editor-in-chief, Temple of Geek), Victoria Male (writer, producer, and journalist), Madison Morrow (journalist and host, NijiFest, Temple of Geek), Caitlin Tyrrell (journalist, Screen Rant, Temple of Geek), and Nick Williams (content creator and journalist), alongside moderator Christina Silvoso (cosplayer and host), discuss the similarities between stories and scoops, how the Hero's Journey applies to the pursuit of news, and what a journalistic creator needs to survive in their respective climates.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 211

8:00pm PDT

The Psychological Journey of The Lord of the Rings
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
The Lord of the Rings is an epic, high-fantasy tale that centers on fellowship, bravery, and good against evil. What does Aragorn's reluctance to become king say about him? Does the One Ring symbolize addiction? Does Gollum have multiple identities? How (and why) does fantasy storytelling improve mental health? Media psychologist Drea Letamendi, Ph.D. (The Arkham Sessions, UCLA), Miranda (host, Tolkien Tuesdays), and Todd Stashwick (actor, Marvel's VisionQuest; co-founder, ProgCore Fantasy) explore and explain the psychology of Middle-earth's riveting and unforgettable characters—both from the page and on-screen. Moderated by Brian Ward (The Arkham Sessions).
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300A

8:00pm PDT

Turn Your Hobby into a Career: The Art of Toy Photography
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Raymond Montemayor (founder, PixelPlex; stop-motion animator at Star Wars Toy Stories), Jax Navarro (owner and founder, Plastic Action), Isaiah Takahashi (artist and toy photographer, BLKSRS), and Jason Yang (toy photographer, Work More Or Less; creative director, Invisible Element) discuss toy photography through breakdowns delving into the equipment and techniques involved in the art, as well as their journeys elevating their hobbies to a professional level. Susan Damon (marketing director, Elhoffer Design) moderates and closes with an audience Q&A.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

8:00pm PDT

The Gauntlet: A D&D Comedy Adventure
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Mighty heroes, taken from different pop culture realms, have been trapped in the Gauntlet by a mysterious game master. To secure passage home, they must race through arenas inspired by film, TV, and video game worlds and fight until only one hero remains. Shaun Leonard (tabletop creator and game designer) serves as the game master, Kylie Rose (tabletop creator) and Lemar Harris (actor/tabletop creator) are the competitors, and the audience helps decide who lives, who dies, and who gets the glory.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
North 153

8:30pm PDT

Moon Prism Poptarts: A History of Sailor Moon in North America
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Erica Victoria Espejo (author of The Fangirl Diaries) and Stan Oh (VTuber) set up your VCR and fight evil by moonlight in this look back at the iconic 1990s magical girl series. These Moonies discuss what happens when you bring Sailor Moon to American shores in the 1990s and explore how the series was adapted and received. The panel looks back at the “meatball head” fans love and adore.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 208

8:30pm PDT

Selling the Hit: What You Always Wanted to Know About the Stunt Industry (In Memory of Eric Cajiuat)
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Stuntmen and stuntwomen from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Lift, Avengers: Endgame, Snowfall, Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Cocaine Bear, Walking Dead, 9-1-1, God of War Ragnarok, and many more break down stunt scenes from prep to shooting, discuss their experiences, and offer advice in navigating the stunt industry. Panelists include Janeshia Adams-Ginyard (stunt double for Danai Gurira), Brian Danner (stunt coordinator/weapons expert), LeRoyal Tutt (stunt double for Kevin Hart), Joette Orman (stunt double for Rebel Wilson), Michael DeCamp (dreamy stuntman), and Thekla Hutyrova (martial arts badass). Moderated by Justin T. Bowler.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 300C

8:30pm PDT

Life Drawing on the Go
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Artists Brenda Chi (IDW variant cover artist, TMNT, Transformers, Godzilla Rivals), Don Nguyen (Pablo the Gorilla; sketchcard artist, Marvel, DC Comics, Star Wars, Spongebob), Marcus Newsome (Lightning Strike, Sincere: American Nightmare; sketchcard artist, Marvel, Halo, X-files) and Nathaniel Osollo (Dark Mouse, Sewer Boyz) lead the audience in a life-drawing session featuring cosplayers Crystal Rose, Patricia Rabago, Warpath_Dylan, Jimmy Sherfy, and Jeanie Herger. Attendees are encouraged to bring their preferred drawing tools, whether digital or analog. All skill levels are welcome, and there may be surprises.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 210

8:30pm PDT

The Art of Movie Posters
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
This panel goes behind the scenes with movie poster artists who are keeping that great tradition alive and well today. Kyle Lambert (Stranger Things) and Nima Neemz Nakhshab (Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) take attendees through their processes step by step and dive deep into the storied history of movie poster art. Moderated by Tom Racine.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

8:30pm PDT

The WonderCon 2026 Masquerade
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT
The annual onstage costume competition celebrates the amazing cosplay creativity and talents of WonderCon attendees. This is not a dance or party, but a series of onstage presentations of fan-crafted costumes, with trophies, generous cash prizes, and other awards, judged by professional costume designers. The show emcee is Ashley Eckstein, founder of the Her Universe fashion and lifestyle brand and the voice of Ahsoka Tano for Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels, Star Wars: Forces of Destiny, and more. There is also special entertainment during the judging break, with a new performance by the talented Corps Dance Crew and a big new Star Wars–inspired show by the Lucasfilm-approved Saber Guild lightsaber group. Doors open at 8:00 for audience seating, but the line for choice seating always starts to form earlier. No flash photography, please.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 11:00pm PDT
North 200A

9:00pm PDT

Decrypting Kryptonians: The Science of Superman, Supergirl, and Their Little Dog Too
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
As Superman and Supergirl soar onto the big screen, accompanied by a misbehaving superdog, this panel explores the science and "schmience" of their powers, their humanity despite extraterrestrial origins, and the reality of science fiction and fantasy elements. How do writers address the mechanics of superspeed, superstrength, space travel, time travel, psychological science, and trying to control that dog? Do they make it up, look up the real science, or find a creative mix somewhere in between? Dr. Travis Langley (Batman and Psychology; Star Wars Psychology) asks a panel of experts how—and if—any of it adds up: Kristi Korzec (Superman & Lois), Sterling Gates (Superman, Supergirl), Jonathan Butler (The Flash), Ray Utarnachitt (Legends of Tomorrow), Chelsea Ballinger (physicist/engineer), Ronald Coleman (scientist/writer), and maybe a surprise alien invader or two.
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 207

9:00pm PDT

HahaHorror
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
The difference between horror and comedy may be the music, but these two genres truly are made for each other. Moderator Anastasia Washington (Grind, Addams Family) leads a discussion with actors, filmmakers, and genre creators Teri Gamble (Horror Movie Survival Guide, Modern Family), Gina Hendry (Deadhead, Gaslighter), Ned Kirschman (Scissor Sleepover), Brea Grant (Grind, Lucky), Andrew Scott Bell (Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey), Sarah Nicklin (VHS Halloween, Popeye the slayer man), Matt Glass (12 Hour Shift, Grind), and Brandon Espy (Mr. Crocket) as they discuss what makes audiences laugh in fear.
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 209

9:00pm PDT

Psychology of Horror
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Why do we pay to be terrified? From the nostalgic chills of Nightmare on Elm Street to the modern-day blockbuster of Stranger Things to the sinister streets of Derry, the horror genre has captivated audiences on the big and small screens alike since even before the penny dreadfuls. From Frankenstein's gothic angst to the moral shadows of Sinners, horror keeps us coming back for more. This panel rips the mask off fear to reveal what is underneath: how monsters mirror cultural anxieties and why horror thrives when the world feels uncertain. Expect jump-scare science, pop culture deep dives, and a few surprises that will make attendees rethink what is lurking in the dark. Featuring Dr. April Fugett (executive director, Center for Teaching and Learning, Marshall University), Dr. Britani Black (assistant professor of psychology, Marshall University), and Dr. Keith W. Beard (professor of psychology, Marshall University). Ready to face your fears? They promise . . . probably . . . nothing will follow you home.
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300A

9:00pm PDT

StreetPass OC: Nintendo Quizbowl XI Revenge of the Quiz
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Nintendo Quizbowl invites attendees to test their Nintendo knowledge and make their way to the top of the hill. Hosts Kiet Pham, Ryan Lu, and Adam Shere lead a round of pain, laughs, and challenging video game trivia as participants compete for an opportunity to win prizes. Let the Quizzening continue!
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

9:00pm PDT

Welcome to Starfleet Academy
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
What does it take to teach and inspire the next generation of Starfleet officers? The new hit show Starfleet Academy fulfills many Trekkies' dreams by taking viewers inside the classroom to learn alongside the cadets. The series also highlights the challenges faced by their instructors, Captain Ake, Jett Reno, the Doctor, and Lura Thok. To answer this question, professors Aaron Weinstein (California State University, Fullerton), Dr. Sara Roldan (San Diego State University), and Dr. Brenda Lara (San Diego State University) illustrates the challenges and joys of training new generations. Moderated by Benjamin Taitz (NerdNite OC). Class is now in session!
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300E

9:00pm PDT

Whodunnit? Locked-Room Mysteries in Comics
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
At times, comic books feel tailor-made for a memorable mystery, whether it is a master detective or a fly-by-night gumshoe uncovering clues; the nature of the medium is primed for suspense. So, where is a good place to start experiencing private eyes on the page, or where might a veteran armchair detective search for new conundrums? The hosts of the Tangential Giants Podcast, Kareem Anderson, Patrick Kellenberger, and Ken Rolow, along with Jenna DeWitt (writer and editor, Invisible Cake Society), Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) (pop culture educator, InterMyth), and Magical Girl Marina (fandom and cosplay content creator), talk about what makes a mystery perfect for comics, how comics mysteries compare to other mystery staples in pop culture, and some of the best locked-room mysteries in comics and pop culture history so far.
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 211
 
Sunday, March 29
 

11:00am PDT

Cos-Ability: Cosplaying While Disabled
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Creating cosplays and attending cons can be as fun and exciting as they are stressful and exhausting, and those stressors are amplified when working with a disability. This panel features cosplayers who create, compete, and volunteer while working with mental or physical disabilities. The discussion explores the crafting techniques they use to build, how they pattern and create to accommodate themselves, and how they navigate cons with their varying abilities.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300E

11:00am PDT

Cosplay Is a Drag V: Drag Queens: First Class
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Chad Hatter (Queer for Fear, Robot Chicken) sits down with Pam Demic (costume designer, Workaholics; drag performer since 1989) and Broadway diva headliners Claire Voyance (Voyance Productions, Broadway Divas SCFTA), Leeko Rae (headliner at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts), Mama St. Merman (Broadway Divas SCFTA; headliner, Long Beach Pride), and April Showers (Showers Productions, Late-Night Divas @ Hamburger Mary's) to discuss the crossroads where cosplay meets drag, as well as navigating these artforms in the modern world.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

11:00am PDT

Filipino Mythologies of Future Past
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Dive into the next wave of Filipino mythmaking as Benjamin DeGuzman (Anito: Book of Entropy), Ebony Soy (Maloles: The Reckoning), Joe Arciaga (DK New Icons), Earl Baylon (Doug Marcaida's Lineage), and Herbert De Leon (Alamat) unveil fresh takes on epic battles, divine intrigue, and heroic journeys. Moderated by Patricio Ginelsa (LUMPIA Deep Fried Universe film/comic book series). The session includes a free print giveaway.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 207

11:00am PDT

Pop Culture and the Christian Church
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Hosted by the Christian Comic Arts Society for 28 years at Comic-Con and 6 years at WonderCon, this panel will explore the effectiveness of the Christian church in reaching out to the comic book, anime, and gaming communities: where the church has been successful, where it has fallen short, and what strategies can be implemented so that the church can be more effective. Featuring Christopher Stewart (pastor), Karyn Keene (educator/youth leader), Bryan Mero (Fix-it-Felix Cosplay Repair), Joe Queen (Geeky Guys/Gal 4 God), and Kyle Keene (moderator).
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 211

11:00am PDT

Question and Answer Session: Robin Hobb
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Robin Hobb (The Realm of the Elderlings) has taken readers from Assassin's Apprentice to Assassin's Fate, from Buckkeep to the Rain Wilds, traveling with Fitz and the Fool, Bee, Althea, and Brashen for over 16 books and 40 years. Ask Robin anything, and she might answer. Moderated by Kat Ogden ("The Season of the Dead Girl" and other stories).
Special Guests
avatar for Robin Hobb

Robin Hobb

WonderCon Special Guest
Robin Hobb is a fantasy author best known for The Farseer Trilogy (Assassin’s Apprentice, Royal Assassin, and Assassin’s Fate) and the sequels that make up The Realm of the Elderlings fantasy epic. Her current work in progress, untitled as yet, will continue the history of... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 209

11:00am PDT

Supporting Women's Rights (and Wrongs!) in Comics
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Comic book history is filled with both heroic and destructive women building memorable pop culture moments, from Harley Quinn's crime sprees to the Phoenix Force destroying entire civilizations, as fans have enjoyed the power of women for decades. But at the end of the day, we're all just girls supporting girls, right? . . . Right? Author and host of Lady Comic Book History Alexandrea Callaghan is joined by Alix Catherine (podcast and livestream host, The Welcome Party), Tamara Brooks (contributor and comics expert, DCComics.com, BBC Radio), Sabeen Faheem (actor, cosplayer, entertainment host), and Magical Girl Marina (fandom and cosplay content creator) for an entertaining and humorous conversation on iconic storylines in women's comics history, tropes in women's power fantasies, and why it is important to support women's rights (and wrongs!).
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300A

11:00am PDT

The Choice Behind the Voice
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Notable voice acting talents Candi Milo (Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends), Eric Bauza (The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie), Kaitlyn Robrock (Minnie's Bow-Toons), Frank Todaro (The Cuphead Show), Cassandra Lee Morris (Marvel Rivals), and Piotr Michael (Young Jedi Adventures) share the process that went into crafting the voices for their most famous characters. Hosted by writer/producer FM De Marco (DreamWorks Dragons).
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
North 100B

11:00am PDT

Writing for Indie Comics
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Whether self-publishing or working for an independent publisher, writing indie comics presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities to share your creative vision with the world. Learn the tricks and tips of the trade from writers Katrina E. Kunstmann (Warhead), Ray-Anthony Height (Midnight Tiger), Amanda Deibert Staggs (Death Mask), Pat Jankiewicz (Cosplayer! Vs Shark), and Mary Zorilita Bellamy (Faux Facts: The Truth Can Be Strange!) Hosted by David Lucarelli (Tinseltown). Free comics for everyone who asks a question!
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

11:00am PDT

Spotlight on Spenser Starke
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Game designer and WGA screenwriter Spenser Starke (Daggerheart) and moderator Rowan Hall (Sunderfolk) discuss the intersection of the film and gaming industries. From selling his first tabletop game to a publisher to writing a screenplay for a major Hollywood studio, Spenser discusses what he has learned about working in both worlds.
Special Guests
avatar for Spenser Starke

Spenser Starke

D-01, WonderCon Special Guest
Spenser Starke is a WGA screenwriter and the senior game designer at Darrington Press. He is best known for Daggerheart, Alice Is Missing, Candela Obscura, and Kids on Brooms. Additionally, he has worked on video games like Sunderfolk and is currently adapting a number of tabletop... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
North 151

11:00am PDT

Creators Portfolio Review: For Comics, Storyboard Artists, and Writers
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm PDT
Artists are encouraged to bring sample work, ideally sequential pages and/or storyboard sequences. Writers should bring two pitchable ideas for discussion. Emmy Award–winning TV writer, storyboard artist, and New York Times bestselling author Joshua Pruett will provide mini feedback sessions, offering guidance toward immediate and long-term career goals.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 206B

11:00am PDT

Designer First-Play Sunday
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Ever wanted to play a board game before it becomes a hit? The First Play Game Lab offers a look behind the curtain with an open-house playtest session where attendees can dive into the next generation of board and card games, give input, and help shape the next big thing in gaming. Designers with prototypes to share are invited to grab a table. Whether a game is polished and ready for retail or just a wild new idea scrawled on index cards, it is welcome at this lab.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
North 152

11:00am PDT

Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 5:00pm PDT
The annual Los Angeles International Children's Film Festival continues with its final day of short films from around the world for all ages, featuring animation, live-action, and documentary. Animators and filmmakers will talk to the audience following their films, including offering advice for kids on how to become a professional animator or filmmaker. For the full LAICFF schedule, click here.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 5:00pm PDT
Room 303CD

11:30am PDT

Art Department of Marvel's Wonder Man
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Go behind the scenes of Marvel Studios' newest Disney+ series Wonder Man, with the Art Directors Guild artists who brought its world to life. Production designers Cindy Chao and Michele Yu, supervising art director Jacqueline Kay, and members of the Wonder Man art department pull back the curtain on their creative processes, from initial concept to finished sets. Discover how the team captured the texture, glamour, and grit of Los Angeles while building a world that feels both authentically grounded and unmistakably Marvel. Johnny Recher moderates.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

11:30am PDT

The Future of Fandom: VHS to 4K to Now What?
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Fandom is evolving faster than ever, blurring the lines between physical and digital, ownership and experience. What does the next era of fan connection really look like? Creative industry leaders behind work for Disney, Paramount, Netflix, and more explore where fandom, collectability, and community are headed next. Vicki Tunkel and Dino Espinosa (creative directors at Foundry LA), Jaraad Virani (filmmaker, motion designer), Chris Kawagiwa (narrative illustrator, ADG 800), and Pablo Romero-Estevez (Deeper Issues Nerdcast) take part in a forward-looking conversation. Moderated by Kasey Yee (CEO of Foundry LA).
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 300C

11:30am PDT

What Is All This For?: Spotlight on Author Sarah Gailey
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Sarah Gailey (Spread Me, Know Your Station) and Liana Kangas (Know Your Station, TRVE KVLT) take a deep dive into burnout, the function of fear, Gailey's recent work, and the purpose of creative work in a turbulent world.
Special Guests
avatar for Sarah Gailey

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest
Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 208

11:30am PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #7: Metaphor and Interpretation
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
Daniel Ambord explores how the figure of the monstrous CEO centaur Dario Agger in Thor playfully deconstructs the narrative limits of the superhero genre to examine predation and exploitation, institutional structures of money and power, and the very real predators that dwell within them. Elke Defever (Binghamton University) traces how French cartoonist Moebius blends ancient mythic storytelling with 20th-century political tension to create a new kind of speculative visual language, not to escape reality, but to interrogate it. Logan Uber (Once Upon a Time) builds upon McCloud's definition of comics to examine the sequential artistry of illustrated Medieval texts and marginalia as juxtaposed images in sequence.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:30am - 1:00pm PDT
Room 210

12:00pm PDT

Building Tiny Droids for Love and Learning
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
This session introduces why small 3D-printed droids are an ideal starting project for droid builders of all ages. Panelists cover the basics of 3D printing, simple electronics, radio controllers, and painting—the skills needed to get tiny droids moving right along. These projects are well suited for STEAM school assignments or for taking to conventions everywhere. Presenters are Matt Greenberg and Anastasia Hunter.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300A

12:00pm PDT

Comics as Counter-Narratives: Teaching the History They Tried to Erase
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Barbra Dillon (Fanbase Press), John Jennings (Eisner Award–winning creator and NAACP Image Award winner), Tara Madison Avery (Stacked Deck Press), Shane Hawk (Bram Stoker Award nominee), Samuel C. Spitale (How to Win the War on Truth), Justin Tracy (Little Brainstorm), and moderator Lorran Garrison (school psychologist and educator) discuss how comics and graphic novels challenge dominant histories and amplify overlooked voices. They will explore how visual storytelling supports counter-narratives, critical thinking, empathy, and student storytelling in classrooms and communities.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

12:00pm PDT

From Burnout to Brainstorm
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Comic book editor Amanda Meadows (Andrews McMeel Publishing; she/her), cartoonist and librarian Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Librarian; they/them), and zine-maker and artist MLOU (Explaining My Gender in Tagalog; they/them) discuss what's good in what's real—from making art by hand, to writing stories and corresponding with people in one’s own words to showing up for each other, naming truths and preserving histories—and why it's vital that everyone participate in the defense of reality. Moderated by Christine Pasalo Norland (writer, founder, Hello Barkada; she/her).
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 211

12:00pm PDT

Nerdy Arts and Crafts for All Ages 20 to 80 and Beyond
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Arts, crafts, and cosplay are fun for all ages. Sarah Scheidegger (artist/cosplayer), Amber Frakes (seamstress/cosplayer), and Summer Pull (crafter/cosplayer) participate in a discussion with Q&A moderated by Phil Acosta (cosplayer), answering questions about painting, sewing, crafting with reclaimed items, among other topics.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

12:00pm PDT

Panels, Prose, and Personality in Graphic Novels
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
From visual storytelling choices to character-driven voice, moderator Ashley Ferguson (My Girlfriend the Witch) speaks with fellow authors Dora Wang (Pocket Peaches: Game On), Eugene Yelchin (I Wish I Didn't Have to Tell You This: A Graphic Memoir), Joey Spiotto (Max, a Little Axolotl), and Raúl the Third (Tough Times) as they break down the craft behind the page, revealing how their experiences and personalities create immersive worlds, emotional impact, and unforgettable reading experiences.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 209

12:00pm PDT

Solutions for a Cosplay Universe
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Ed Gonzalez (30 years in the film/TV industry; cosplayer), Brooke Wheeler (20+ years working with Smooth-On products; materials and applications specialist in mold making), Mike McGee and Alex McGee (special effects makeup artists/prop makers/costume designers), and Lucy Capachino (textile specialist/costume designer; cosplayer) discuss what it takes to get your cosplays to the next level.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300E

12:00pm PDT

How to ACTUALLY Start an Actual Play: Roundtable Discussion
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Leading industry producers and creatives T.J. Chambers (executive producer/host, Mythical Entertainment), Jake Michels (creative director/co-founder, Good Time Society), Jes Wade (TTRPG producer, ChariTTRPGs), Reed Sights (StoryQuest), and Shane O'Loughlin (creative director, Venture Forth D&D) discuss what is involved in the foundation of a successful Actual Play. Attendees will find real-world context along with philosophical approaches and tips for aspiring creators. Led by Rebecca Hausman (producer/founder, Venture Forth D&D).
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
North 151

12:00pm PDT

The Jack Kirby Tribute Panel
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
People who knew the man some call "The King of the Comics" or know about him and/or are even related to him to talk about the extraordinary creative talent that is Jack Kirby. Talking about Jack this time are John Morrow (editor-publisher of The Jack Kirby Collector), Tom Kraft (from the Jack Kirby Museum & Research Center), Paul S. Levine (attorney), Tracy Kirby (Jack's granddaughter), and others.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 207

12:00pm PDT

The Wandering Path: D&D Live!
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
It's quick-fire challenge time! Sharpen your knives and ready your stations. Mischa Stanton (Multitude), Bex Taylor-Klaus (Voltron: Legendary Defender), Mayanna Berrin (Dispatch), Lyn Rafil (Brimstone Valley Mall), and Ian McQuown (StarTripper!!) compete in the grim beastly baking show—a delicious D&D live play sure to delight.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
North 153

12:15pm PDT

Long Away Short Film Screening
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
Victoria travels into her past to meet a man she never knew, her father, to bond over comics and see if he would accept her for who she really is. The award-winning queer trans sci-fi short film Long Away is followed by a Q&A with the filmmakers. Featuring writers and directors Tilly Bridges and Susan Bridges (Star Trek Voyager: Homecoming, Just Another Summer), Erin Macdonald (Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, Star Trek: Prodigy), assistant director/VFX lead Jessie Earl (Identiteaze, the Jessie Gender YouTube channel), and stars Griffin Kelly (HBO's Book of Queer, Two Cats on a Date) and Justin Lawrence Barnes (Juilliard, Steve Yokey's Sleeping Giant). Suitable for all ages.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:15pm - 1:15pm PDT
North 100B

12:30pm PDT

After 50 Years, Why Do Spidey Super Stories Comics Still Matter to Autistic Kids and Everybody Else?
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
In the fall of 1974, the Children's Television Workshop teamed up with Marvel Comics to publish the Electric Company Spidey Super Stories comic books. The simple, fun, diverse, and relatively nonviolent stories were designed to help 6- to 10-year-olds learn to read, and have aged surprisingly well. They continue to have great developmental value, especially for young autistic and special needs readers. Panel moderator Britton Payne (entertainment attorney, executive director of The Autism Scene), John Jennings (writer/editor, Marvel Super Stories), and Hannah Bogen Novak, M.S., CCC-SLP (speech and language therapist) discuss the origin of the venture, the structure of the stories, the "far-out" concepts (including the first black Spider-Woman, Spider-Man vs Jaws, and the infamous Thanos-Copter), and the modern developmental value of the 57-issue run and its impact on modern comics for kids.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 300C

12:30pm PDT

Superhero Shop Talk
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Comics greats and WonderCon special guests Tom King and Tini Howard discuss all the behind-the-scenes details about your favorite supes. Don’t miss the chance to hear these industry giants share an informal chat about all things comics. Moderated by Comic-Con’s own superhero expert, Eddie Ibrahim. **Scott Snyder will no longer be appearing on this panel.**
Special Guests
avatar for Tini Howard

Tini Howard

F-05, WonderCon Special Guest
Comics writer Tini Howard was an architect of the 2019 Krakoan X-Men reboot with her books Excalibur, X of Swords, and X-CORP, and she has enjoyed long runs on Harley Quinn and Catwoman at DC Comics. She lives and writes in Los Angeles, where she has names for all of the local cats... Read More →
avatar for Tom King

Tom King

F-02, WonderCon Special Guest
Tom King is the New York Times bestselling author and multiple Eisner Award–winning writer of Batman, Mister Miracle, Strange Adventures, The Sheriff of Babylon, The Vision, Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow, Helen of Wyndhorn, and many others. He recently served as co-creator of th... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 208

12:30pm PDT

Fallout: Props of the Wasteland
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Brad Einhorn, PMG (property master, Fallout season 2; MacGuffin Award recipient for Perry Mason season 2), Nathan Longest (partner and head of design, There You Have It 3D), and Carolyn Lassek (assistant property master, Fallout season 2, Spider-Man: Homecoming) discuss their process of adapting video game props for the Fallout TV series. Moderated by Michael Corrie (Props to History).
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 1:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

12:30pm PDT

The Writers Coffeehouse: WonderCon Edition
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Formed by New York Times bestseller Jonathan Maberry, this is a moderated Q&A about the latest industry trends in writing fiction, the craft of writing, markets, pitching and selling, conquering frustration, and all the good things that come from the community of writers. No previous publishing experience necessary. Panelists include bestselling authors, editors, and publishers: Peter Clines (God's Junk Drawer), Jendia Gammon (Dungeon Crawl at the Haunted Mall), Henry Herz (Combat Monsters: Untold Tales of World War II), Lisa Kastner (27 Stories: An LA Wildfire Anthology), Scott Sigler (Voidstrike), and Ben Spada (FNG).
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 204C

1:00pm PDT

Armor and Prop Building: From Cosplay to Industry Techniques
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Panelists Juda Escalante (The Mandalorian, Fallout), Nathan Seekerman and Ayla Fox (Seeker Design Group), Scott Winn (StarWinnProps), Sean McKinley, Jenna Bergstrom, and Autumn Mrozik (L Garage) work professionally across film and television with practical effects including painting, molding/casting, 3D design, basic Arduino sketches, and sewing. They will break down the techniques used to create characters from concept to use on set and explore real-world workflows, common mistakes, and smart shortcuts used by professionals. Whether you are just starting out or looking to level up your skills, you'll leave with practical knowledge and creative inspiration.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300E

1:00pm PDT

Breaking into Voice Acting for Games and Animation
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
A team of award-winning veterans from the voiceover industry discuss their experiences and how they started their careers. Deneen Melody (Sandrone in Genshin Impact, Gammamon in Digimon Ghost Game), Isaac Robinson-Smith (Bishop in X-Men '97, Mushu in Disney Dreamlight Valley), Debi Derryberry (Draculaura in Monster High; Jimmy Neutron in Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius), Kaitlyn Robrock (Minnie Mouse, Felicia Sundew in Amphibia), and Stephanie Southerland (Jean in Genshin Impact, Tess Bailey in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6) share stories and offer advice for those interested in voice acting. Moderated by Shawn Strider.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 207

1:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #8: Fear and Loathing in Aztlan: Hunter S. Thompson, the Chicano Movement, and Comics
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
This panel looks at the continued and intertwined impact of both the writings of Hunter S. Thompson (author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and other books) and the Chicano Movement (including the Chicano Moratorium against the Vietnam War) on comics. Librarian Xaviera Flores (UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center), cartoonist and producer Lalo Alcaraz (La Cucaracha), and animator Jeaux Janovsky (Orwell: 2+2 = 5) discuss the Chicano art journal Con Safos, the writings and activist work of Oscar Zeta Acosta, the art of Ralph Steadman (illustrator of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and other books), and prints from the East L.A. Art center Self Help Graphics. Moderated by Gustavo Alberto Garcia Vaca (Museum of Modern Art).
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 210

1:00pm PDT

Help! I'm in Love with an Artist
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Brian Luhmann, Psy.D. (faculty, Hope International University; owner/therapist, The New Normal Mental Health Services) facilitates a discussion between creatives and their supportive partners about the headaches and collective wins of making and sharing art. Featuring Ralph Miranda (senior storyboard artist; co-creator, Oh, Bubba Lu!), Jen Ha Lu, MA, PHR, SHRM-SCP (co-creator, Oh, Bubba Lu!), Paolo Encarnacion (owner/artist, PaoWorks), Amber M. Sotomayor (litigation paralegal, Klinedinst PC; operations, PaoWorks), and Crystal Ishihara, Ph.D. (author; therapist; artist, IshiharaInk).
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1:00pm PDT

Making Something Borrowed Something New
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Making the familiar feel fresh is no easy feat. WonderCon special guest Claudia Gray, Megan Jauregui Eccles (Sing the Night), Keala Kendall (How Far I'll Go), Aimee Lim (The Thread of Destiny), and Kiersten White (The Fox and the Devil) break down how they bring their own voices and views to beloved classics. Moderated by Mysterious Galaxy's Michelle Bucud.
Special Guests
avatar for Claudia Gray

Claudia Gray

F-04, WonderCon Special Guest
Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of Amy Vincent. She is the writer of multiple young adult novels, including the Evernight series, the Firebird trilogy, and the Constellation trilogy. In addition, she’s written several Star Wars novels, such as Lost Stars and Bloodline. Her debut... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 209

1:00pm PDT

Rolling with Story: How to Improv in TTRPGs
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
A panel of tabletop improvisers discuss the benefits and limits of rolling with both the dice and the story as a player character and as a game master. The conversation covers session zeroes, making flexible characters, and the challenging role of the GM when it comes to saying "yes, and" or the dreaded "yes, but." Shaun Leonard (tabletop creator and improviser) hosts Kim Wong (actor and improviser), Sammy Glicker (actor and improviser), Kylie Rose (tabletop creator), and David Carzell (actor and improvisor), making it up as they go along.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
North 151

1:00pm PDT

Set Decoration for Puppets
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Set decoration for movies and television is hard enough, but what if the lead actor is made of felt and controlled by wires? Set decorators talk about the challenges of designing sets to work with puppets, and the puppeteers who move them, with Don Diers, SDSA (set decorator, The Muppets 2015), Julie Drach, SDSA (set decorator, Crank Yankers), and Bethany Barton (set decorator, The Muppet Show Special). Moderated by  Michelle Hall, SDSA and Prerna Chawla, SDSA. Part of the Set Decorators Society of America's series of panels on film and TV set decoration.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1:00pm PDT

The Magical World of LGBTQ+ Fantasy
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
LGBTQ+ fantasy comics and graphic novels have become very popular. The fantasy genre provides a safe space for writers and artists to explore deeply felt real-life stories, challenges, and difficulties that might be much harsher if told in realistic terms. Prism Comics, moderator William O Tyler (We Belong; Theater of Terror: Revenge of the Queers!), and panelists Ben Crane (Cosmic Cadets, Scattered Futures), Nicole Maines (Suicide Squad, Bad Dream), Ajuan Mance (Gender Studies; Living While Black), Emely Corona Sandoval (animator), and Jasmine Walls (Brooms, The Last Session, Vol. 1: Roll For Initiative) discuss how myths, folktales, and fantasy influence queer storytelling in comics and how fantasy helps readers both escape and gain greater understanding and empathy for queer lives and queer experiences.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 211

1:00pm PDT

Manga, Anime, and the New World of Censorship
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Manga and anime have increasingly become the target of censorship around the world, especially in the U.S. In this panel, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund's Jeff Trexler, researcher and USC Annenberg doctoral student Samantha Tecson, and writer and managing editor of KComics Beat Kalai Chikshare the latest updates on manga bans in schools and libraries; the revision of manga and content to conform to national standards; a new law in Texas that is causing manga to be removed from stores; recent legal developments in Japan; arrests for having legal material on phones or laptops while traveling; debanking and other forms of platform censorship; and other developments affecting manga and anime, along with what they mean for all comics media.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

1:00pm PDT

Tabletop Games Pitch Panel
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
This program features live pitches to a panel of experts: Ian Clayman (game designer, Exploding Kittens), Jon Cohn (game designer, Grind House), Ivan Van Norman (game designer, Outbreak Undead), and Nate Murray (game designer, Keep It 100). Pitches are open to everything from fledgling ideas to polished designs, with each designer having roughly 5–10 minutes to present and receive feedback. The goal of the event is to help designers hone their skills in presenting their game ideas and to receive feedback about the game concepts themselves, with a focus on education and skill development in the tabletop game industry. Moderated by Ross Thompson.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
North 152

1:30pm PDT

Breathe Life into Your Toys: The Art of Stop-Motion Animation
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Raymond Montemayor (founder, PixelPlex; stop-motion animator, Star Wars Toy Stories), Jax Navarro (owner and founder, Plastic Action), and Jacob McCann (stop-motion animator, mccannimation) discuss bringing toys to life through stop-motion animation by breaking down shots and delving into the equipment and techniques involved in the art. They will also share their journeys, elevating their hobbies to a professional level. Jamie Costa (actor/writer/producer, Half-In Productions) will moderate and close with an audience Q&A.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

1:30pm PDT

Jaws 50: The 50th Anniversary of Steven Spielberg's Jaws
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Just when attendees thought it was safe to go back to WonderCon . . . This panel celebrates Jaws's 2025 50th anniversary and explores the impact and legacy of Spielberg's iconic film with fellow fans and experts, including Chris Gore (film critic and founder, Film Threat), Pat Jankiewicz (author, Just When You Thought It Was Safe: A Jaws Companion), and Steph Cannon (Fangoria). Moderated by Mark Atkinson (actor, filmmaker, longtime Jaws fan), the panel focuses on the film's enduring influence on popular culture.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
North 100B

1:30pm PDT

Makeshift Mechanics with Long Lost Lore
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Voices from the Long Lost Lore Twitch stream—Philip Schaeffer, Zane, and Lauren Montez—lead a TTRPG-focused conversation on mechanics, education, and combining these concepts to create a safe and entertaining experience. The first part of the panel focuses on crafting mechanical rules and statistics-driven dice choices that go beyond typical homebrew, while a scene-based one-shot brings Bethany Andres (cosplayer, darthpoolbby), Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) (pop culture educator, InterMyth), and Olivia Youngers (actress, Star Trek: Picard) to test a system built by the audience to its limits. Combining storytelling, TTRPG mechanics, and game education, this session incorporates audience participation that influences every aspect of the panel.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1:30pm PDT

Mental Health in Comics
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Chris Ryall (Dread the Halls, Lock & Key), Leah Kilpatrick (The Accessories, DC Horror Presents: 2024), Amy Linsamouth (Jackie and the Magical Guys, Descendants of the Undead), Daniel Gastelum (CHSR, Aria: A Cyberpunk Mystery), and Brock Smith (The Ferryman, Payne) discuss how a life in and around comics has impacted and inspired them to continue taking that next step.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 208

2:00pm PDT

Adaptation: Developing from One Medium to Another
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Moderator Spiro Skentzos (Grimm) leads a discussion with writer/producers Douglas J. Eboch (Sweet Home Alabama), Eric Heisserer (Arrival), Jill Blotevogel (Scream: The TV Series), and Brandon Easton (Iyanu) about adapting a piece of work for another medium. The panel examines what to watch out for, what not to do, and how to stay true to source material.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

2:00pm PDT

All Batmen Are Batman
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Who is Batman? Bruce Wayne. But which one? Earth-1 or Earth-2, New 52 or Rebirth? Dick Grayson in Batman R.I.P. or James Gordon in the Rookie suit? Or Adam West or Batfleck or Pattinson's Emo-Batman? Or the Batman of Zur-En-Arrh? Or Absolute Batman? Every version of Batman is equally Batman. Jim Thompson (Eisner Awards judge), attorney Adam Adler (Super Babies v. DC Comics), and Peter Coogan (Comics Arts Conference) examine how repetition, imitation, and variation of the core brand encode the mythic nature of the superhero genre, are uniquely expressed in the iterations of Batman (including trademark and merch), and are tied to the core conventions of the genre—mission, powers, and identity. When Batman says, "Because I'm Batman," he is, no matter which Batman says it.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

2:00pm PDT

Game of Thrones with Director Jeremy Podeswa
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Return to Westeros to discover the secrets behind memorable scenes and directing the Starks, Lannisters, Targaryens, and White Walkers. Jeremy Podeswa (Game of Thrones, Station Eleven, The Handmaid's Tale) discusses his work on the series in a conversation moderated by Matt Ryan.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 207

2:00pm PDT

How to Build a WALL-E 101
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Panelists discuss how someone can begin their journey of building a full-size WALL-E robot. A panel of builders takes attendees through how to join their clubs and forums and discusses materials and costs.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

2:00pm PDT

Not All Solutions Are Good Ones
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Authors Falon Ballard (Something Wicked), Nikki Erlick (The Poppy Fields), Petra Lord (Queen of Faces), Serra Swift (Kill the Beast), and Kiersten White (The Fox and the Devil) discuss crafting fictional challenges and their accompanying responses with Maryelizabeth Yturralde. Enjoy a lively exploration of how solutions like Science! Magic! Kissing! Stabbing! Kissing with Stabbing! can be beneficial and/or detrimental to the characters.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300A

2:00pm PDT

Queer Gaming: Adventuring with Pride
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
For decades, LGBTQ+ players have put their own spin on tabletop role-playing games and video games. RPGs give queer gamers the chance to create heroes and fantasy worlds in their own image, and it is now impossible for the industry to ignore the impact of their fandom. How can gaming give LGBTQ+ people the opportunity to reimagine themselves? How does queer culture flip the scripts in classic fantasy and sci-fi RPG genres? Where is queer gaming headed? Prism Comics and moderator Tara Madison Avery (Death Saves, Stacked Deck Press), engage in a lively discussion of these questions with panelists Matthew Michael Brown (gamer; marriage and family therapist, Queer Magic Therapy), Bryan Gomez (Twitch affiliate and cosplayer), Ray Lancione (Qweerty Gamers), Sonya Saturday (The Greatest Thing You've Ever Seen in Your Life, J.K. Rowling and the Ungrateful Fans), and Estella M. Stone (Twitch Pride Guild, Electronic Arts Creator Network).
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 151

2:00pm PDT

The Legend of Taylore
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
The Legend of Taylore is an actual-play D&D podcast based on the music, memes, and lore of Taylor Swift, as played by a group of nerdy television writers. Produced by D&D WGA strike day organizers, it is a great adventure for Swifties and non-Swifties alike, where characters encounter dangers, intrigue, and Easter eggs at every turn. Dungeon master Lindsey Allen (Marvel's Agent Carter, MacGyver) is joined by players Casey Fisher (Altered Carbon, Walker), Daphne Miles (Batwoman, DC's Legends of Tomorrow), Ray Utarnachitt (DC's Legends of Tomorrow, Stranger Things: Tales from '85), and Nick Bragg (Death and Other Details, Off Campus), and Katherine McNamara (Shadowhunters, Arrow) to offer insights into the world they have created and discuss their current season.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 153

2:00pm PDT

Spotlight on Floyd Norman
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Disney Legend and WonderCon special guest Floyd Norman discusses a career that helped shape modern animation. From his early work at Disney, beginning with Sleeping Beauty, to beloved classics such as The Jungle Book, Mary Poppins, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, along with later contributions at Pixar on films including Toy Story 2 and Monsters, Inc., Norman’s journey spans decades of industry evolution. Moderated by live action/animation producer and ASIFA-Hollywood vice president David Derks.

Special Guests
avatar for Floyd Norman

Floyd Norman

A-02, WonderCon Special Guest
Venerated animator Floyd Norman is known for his long relationship with the Disney Company, which began in 1959 with Sleeping Beauty and over the years included 101 Dalmatians, Mary Poppins, The Sword in the Stone, The Jungle Book, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, Mulan, and Home o... Read More →
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 211

2:00pm PDT

Storytelling Through Music: The Craft of Writing Music for Film, TV, and Video Games
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Composers are an essential part of the creative process when telling stories through media. An impactful score can elevate the experience for the audience and make a lasting impression. Professional composers across film, television, and video games talk about their creative approach to writing memorable music and how they maintain momentum in their careers. Kara Talve (The Simpsons), Paul Leonard-Morgan (Cyberpunk 2077), Stephanie Economou (Jupiter’s Legacy), and Tori Letzler (Call of Duty). The panel is co-moderated by BMI’s director of film, TV, and visual media, Louie Stephens, and Chandler Poling of White Bear PR.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 209

2:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #9: Representing Identity
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Superhero comics serve as evolving cultural battlegrounds where questions of identity, otherness, race, queerness, disability, and social justice are negotiated and reimagined. Britton Payne (Nickelodeon) uses the Martian Manhunter to explore how superhero secret identities mirror the autistic experience of masking, belonging, and negotiating what it means to be American. Tracing queer themes, Esther Brito Ruiz (American University) examines how American superhero comics have wrestled with—and reshaped—LGBTQ+ identity over time. Focusing on Damian Wayne in The Boy Wonder miniseries, Juan Carlos Fermin (California State University, Fullerton) analyzes how Juni Ba reimagines the Batman mythos through postcolonial and Marxist critique. Mike Bittner (Stanford University) revisits 1990s teen superhero titles to assess how comics of the era tackled hot-button social issues—from LGBTQ+ rights to environmentalism—with varying degrees of insight and misfire.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 210

2:30pm PDT

Hey! Is That an Anime Doll?
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Have you seen dolls around various conventions and in various media that look like anime dolls or even real people? Attendees can see these dolls up close and learn more about the ball-jointed doll (BJD) community. Hosted by Sheila "Haruka" Reyes (San Diego BJD/vinyl collector, lead organizer), Arthur "Sticks" Cordova (SoCal/OC collector, lead organizer), and Art "Acnon" Arresiegor (SoCal/OC collector, organizer). Collectors are welcome to model their dolls on the table during the session.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

2:30pm PDT

Managing Your Duties as a Producer or Showrunner
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Ronnel Ricardo Parham (showrunner, producer, 5R Productions), Jiarui Guo (producer, The Brutalist, Speed the Plow), Danny DeLillo (producer, board chair of New Filmmakers LA, Sweet Humans), and Divya D'Souza (producer, Invention Studios; Producers Guild of America member) discuss managing their duties as producers and showrunners. They share experiences producing film and television and discuss how to manage time and responsibilities to effectively produce single pictures and slates of projects.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 208

2:30pm PDT

Time Travel Writing for Film and TV
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Time travel has been a cornerstone of sci-fi films and TV for years, from The Terminator, Interstellar, and Land of the Lost to Doctor Who, Back to the Future, and Avengers: Endgame. This panel goes inside the writers' rooms of both TV and feature films to discuss the challenges and rewards of writing time-travel stories. Featuring Bill Marsilii (co-writer, Deja Vu starring Denzel Washington), Benjamin Raab (writer, Quantum Leap), and Matthew Maala (producer/writer, DC's Legends of Tomorrow). Moderated by Angela Relucio (actress/writer/producer).
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:30pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 300C

2:45pm PDT

Trailer Park
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
Seize the opportunity to watch some of the best and most exciting genre trailers with hundreds of fellow fans. Cheer for your favorites and discover upcoming hidden gems as this longstanding convention tradition comes to WonderCon.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:45pm - 3:45pm PDT
North 100B

3:00pm PDT

dD Cosplay Club for Persons with Disabilities: A Guide for Inclusive Cosplay
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Learn how dD Cosplay Club promotes adaptive cosplay techniques and activities to encourage persons with disabilities to explore and participate in cosplay. Get the perspective of parents of club members, along with feedback from club members, including dDominator, a.k.a. dD (the superhero ambassador and founder of dD Cosplay Club). Club members take part in a presentation and Q&A session moderated by Chris Birmingham (president of dD Cosplay Club).
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

Navigating Our Differences
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Panelists Stacia Deutsch (New York Times bestselling author, Promise Pets), Raissa Figueroa (Coretta Scott King Honor illustrator, We Wait for the Sun), Kathryn Otoshi (award-winning author-illustrator, One), Amanda Morrow (award-winning illustrator, My Calm Down Book), Joshua Pruett (Emmy Award-winning writer, Phineas and Ferb), and Jeff Waddleton (moderator) discuss how children's authors and illustrators create diverse, authentic characters beyond their lived experience.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 211

3:00pm PDT

Production to Distribution: Thinking Outside the Box
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Susan Spohr (postproduction supervisor, associate producer, author), Valerie Lettera-Spletzer (DreamWorks Animation; animator, content creator), Angela Oh (actress, director, executive producer, UDriveMe TV), Kimleigh Smith (Embrace Your Cape; voiceover artist, actress), and Victoria Blake (Seismic Releasing, distributor) talk about the latest developments in the industry, from developing and producing projects to finding creative approaches to distribution and navigating the production process. Moderated by Dustin Quick (actress, filmmaker).
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300A

3:00pm PDT

The Power of Love: The Rise of Webtoons, Anime, and K-Dramas
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Award-winning creatives, actors, and experts discuss webtoons, anime, and K-dramas that are exploding in the U.S. Rebekah Ganiere (Emmy-nominated, USA Today bestselling author and screenplay writer), Joe Ochman (actor, Digimon, JoJo's Bizarre Adventure), Angel Payne (bestselling author), Brianna Carter (author, graphic designer), and James Ganiere (Emmy-nominated director and producer) share their insights.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 209

3:00pm PDT

Warren Kremer: Harvey Comics' Cover Genius
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
When Casper the Friendly Ghost's artist visited the Marvel Bullpen, Marie Severin remarked, "They don't know it, but this is the best artist that ever walked through these doors." Was she right? Jim Thompson (A People's History of Comics, Eisner Hall of Fame judge), Alonso Nuñez (executive director of Little Fish Comic Book Studio, Eisner Hall of Fame judge), Andrew Kunka (professor at USC Sumter) and Jonny Harvey (Harvey Comics documentarian) look closely at the Eisner Hall of Famer's greatest covers from Casper , Wendy the Good Little Witch , Hot Stuff , Little Dot , Little Lotta, Stumbo the Giant, and Richie Rich . Warren Kremer offers a master class on color, brushstrokes, design, direction, character expression and the art of the gag. 
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

3:00pm PDT

Writing Psychologically Rich Characters
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Are you a writer or have you ever wanted to become one? Have you been struggling with imposter syndrome? Have you ever wondered how you can contribute to social justice through your writing? This panel of writers explores how to create psychologically rich characters to help you boost your writing and make it stand out. Learn how to break free from your imposter syndrome and attend to your creative passions. Panelists include writers Dr. Janina Scarlet (Superhero Therapy; The Villains Club), Deric Hughes (Arrow; Quantum Leap), Kristi Korzec (Superman & Lois), Chris Rafferty (Cobra Kai; Lucifer), Dennis Crosby (Death's Legacy), Sarah Faxon (The Animal Court; Foreign & Domestic Affairs), and Ray Utarnachitt (DC's Legends of Tomorrow). Dustin McGinnis (Creative Community Podcast) moderates.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

3:00pm PDT

Let's Make a Board Game!
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Creating your own board game is not only fun, it's also educational. Attendees learn about game systems and the iterative process, teamwork, time and resource management, research, critical analysis, and even science, history, math, and language development. This workshop takes participants through the rapid prototyping process for a board game, and by the end, they'll have the basics of their own board game. Led by Aaron Vanek, who has been teaching analog game design to middle-school students for ten years.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 153

3:00pm PDT

Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog Interactive Screening
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
WonderCon closes the curtain the only proper way: with villainy, harmonies, and a little light freeze-ray action. Fandom Charities and Hellmouth Events host their annual interactive screening of Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog, marking 14 years as WonderCon's unofficial closing event. This is not a quiet sit-and-watch experience. With on-screen open captions and lyric sheets provided, you are encouraged to cheer, boo, and sing along throughout. Root for Dr. Horrible. Swoon for Penny. Applaud Moist's quiet dedication. Boo "Captain Hammer, Corporate Tool." Make Bad Horse proud.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 207

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Science-Minded Geeks
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Got a science question? This informal mixer invites attendees to ask anything, and a group of friendly scientists will be ready with speculative answers. Among all the pop culture fans at WonderCon, there are plenty of scientists on hand this year. Everyone is welcome, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. What might life be like in a galaxy far, far away? Could gamma radiation produce a Hulk? What would it take for a lion king to sing? Scientists from groups such as Cosplay for Science, Nerd Nite Orange County, and AAAS If/Then ambassadors are ready to talk about how things work in our favorite fandoms. Attendees can mingle with these science-minded folks in a fun, informal setting.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 204C

3:30pm PDT

Art as Stress Relief Instead of Stress
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Doing great art is difficult, right? Training in art is supposed to be hard, right? That's why 99 percent of people don't make it, right? Nope, wrong. Does your brain try to find ways away from art instead of into it? We did the opposite as kids. Why not still? Comic book artist Cutter Hays will give you several good tools to restore the fun and delight to your art, even if it's training hard. Loving it is the first, best way to continue doing it and get good. If it's grueling, or you have trouble sticking with it, if you feel it's never good enough, or you come up with excuses to not do it instead of the other way around, you'll want to hear this. You're not alone—many people, even professionals, have this problem, and it's curable. Come with an open mind and leave loving your artwork again.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 210

3:30pm PDT

Star Wars Trading Card Collecting
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
David Neuhausel (Star Wars trading card collector), Shawn Mullen (Star Wars vintage collector, Science Fiction Coalition founder), and William O'Neill (Star Wars artist) discuss aspects of collecting vintage Star Wars trading cards. From master sets, sketch and chase cards to offshoot sets such as 501st trading cards, they will explore this type of collecting that started back in 1977 with that galaxy far, far away. Plus, enjoy a lively discussion on the most famous Star Wars trading card, if not the most famous overall: the X-rated C-3PO card!
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 300C

3:30pm PDT

The Future of Doctor Who
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
What's next for the long-running BBC sci-fi series Doctor Who in the post-Disney era? Hear from experts and share your opinions with the return of this popular interactive panel, voted by fans as the second-best panel at SDCC 2025. Learn all about the upcoming special and the latest casting news and views. Moderated by CNN's Sandro Monetti.
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 208

3:30pm PDT

WonderCon Talk Back
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Representatives from WonderCon/Comic-Con International will be present to listen to attendees' feedback about the event. What did we do right? What could be improved? We want to hear from you!
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

4:00pm PDT

Breaking and Rebuilding Your Personal Brand
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Being a content creator involves building a personal brand, whether developed with intention or through the work shared with audiences. There are verbal, nonverbal, visual, auditory, and other factors that identify "you" as "you" to fans. But what happens when a personal brand is not serving those goals as well as it could, or when a rebrand would better support a current content direction? Host Jimmy Arias and panelists Hawkilles (streamer and content creator), MagicalBlackGirlAlia (cosplayer and content creator), Colin K. Bass (marketing director and content creator), Mitch Narito (actor and comedian, The Good Place), and Ana Voltage (podcast host and content creator) discuss the steps of tweaking or rebuilding a content creator brand, the reassessment process for understanding a rebrand, and strategies to better represent a brand to potential opportunities.
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

Comics and Healing
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Wayne Lo (character designer, Star Wars: The Clone Wars; Dark Horse cover artist; ILM VFX art director) and Frank Ordaz (Return of the Jedi matte painter) discuss the healing power found through comics. Have you seen someone heal from emotional trauma through story? Have you seen anyone experience physical healing through art? Panelists share eyewitness stories of people healed relationally, in body, soul, and/or spirit.
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 209

4:00pm PDT

Main Character Syndrome: Starring in Your Comic
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
What's it like making a comic strip about yourself? Who do you include, and what do you leave out? How personal is too personal? What do the people in your life think about it? Is it really all about you? Panelists include Jeff Keane (The Family Circus), Eddie deAngelini (Collectors), Gaia WXYZ (Made U Look), Simon Jane Robrock (Butt Planet), and moderator Sonya Saturday (The Greatest Thing You've Ever Seen in Your Life).
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

4:00pm PDT

Masters of Public Domain
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
In a crowded comics marketplace, many creators find public domain characters a great way to appeal to pre-existing fanbases and bring new fans to their work. But what separates the fresh take from a blatant cash grab? How can one breathe new life into old stories? How loyal should one be to established lore? Luis Godoy II (Cthulhu Invades Oz, This Eternal Coil), John Jennings (Shook! A Black Horror Anthology, Silver Surfer), Russell Nohelty (Cthulhu Is Hard to Spell, How to Thrive as a Writer in a Capitalist Dystopia), Tom Pinchuk (Clash of the Classics, Ben 10), and David Schrader (Carmilla Unbound, Nightmare Theater 3D) discuss what to do (and not to do) when using works from the public domain. Moderated by Andy Nordvall (Bad Future Comics, Siren's Song).
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 211

4:00pm PDT

Success in Creativity Talks About Making the Best of Your Resources
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Tailored to support creatives, this interactive panel provides strategies for managing full-time responsibilities while pursuing part-time passion projects. Learn how to enhance your creative collaborations with practical advice on networking and communication, helping you unlock your creative potential and promoting effective resources, workflow, and time management. Be it comic books, TV/film, animation, podcasts, cosplay, fan groups, music, illustration, blogging, or webcomics, you'll find helpful insights here. Each attendee will get a postcard of useful information, tips, and wisdom made from the information collected from the panelists. Moderator Ron Coleman, Ph.D (molecular geneticist, comic writer) hosts panelists Gene Turnbow (founder of SciFi.Radio; author), James Frye (managing editor, TheConGuy.com; screenwriter), Stephen Burns (Photoshop digital artist, author, and lecturer), and Topher Davila (art director, TheJewelryDragon.com; illustrator and producer).
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

4:00pm PDT

Battle Bracket: Which D&D Class Will Win?
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
You are invited to help determine the greatest Dungeons & Dragons class of all time. Panelists present arguments for their favorites, and the audience chooses which classes move forward in the tournament. The bracket is set, but the audience chooses the victor. Shaun Leonard (tabletop creator and game designer) will moderate with Kim Wong (actor), and others, representing their favorite D&D classes.
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
North 151

4:00pm PDT

Story Artists Unleashed!
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Take a peek behind the scenes of animation story art, with never-before-seen storyboards, personal sketches, wild caricatures, funny drawings from the people who worked on your favorite animated films, and lots of stuff you weren't supposed to see! Featuring Steve Anderson (Meet the Robinsons), Jeff Ranjo (Frozen), Chris Ure (Big Hero 6), and Joe Moshier (Across the Spider-Verse); moderated by Tom Racine.
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300A
 

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