WonderCon 2026 has ended

Create Your Own Event

WonderCon 2026

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

1: Programs, Animation, Education, Kids, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Technology - Science - STEM

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, Art and Illustration, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Tributes

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television, Video Games

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

1: Programs, Books, Education, Historical, Humor & Satire, Seminars & Workshops

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

U: Updated, Books, Education, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy | 1: Programs, Books, Education, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy

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

1: Programs, Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles, Action/Adventure, Books, Comics, Fandom, Movies, Television, Video Games

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

1: Programs, Fandom, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television

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

1: Programs, Television, Movies

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

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 →

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 →

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 →

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

U: Updated, Art & Illustration, Comics, Writers & Writing | 1: Programs, Art & Illustration, Comics, Writers & Writing

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

U: Updated, Animation | 1: Programs, Animation

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

1: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Humor & Satire, Kids, Television

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

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

1: Programs, Animation, Humor & Satire, Movies, Seminars & Workshops, Television, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

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

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

1: Programs, Comics, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

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

1: Programs, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Anniversaries

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

1: Programs, Education, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Technology - Science - STEM

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

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Podcasts, Superheroes, Television

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

1: Programs, Superheroes, Technology - Science - STEM

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Science Fiction & Fantasy

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

U: Updated, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Fandom, Historical, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Tributes, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances | 1: Programs, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Fandom, Historical, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Tributes, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

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: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, Education, Movies, Seminars & Workshops, Television, Video Games

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

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Television

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

1: Programs, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Music, Television