While all four days of Comic-Con International in San Diego are jam-packed with events for the comics conesuier and the pop culture lover alike, things really pick up on Friday.
And as the show rolled out its Friday programming, it became clear that the weekend proper would begin with some of the biggest franchises in the nerd world. Taking the stage at the show will be both iterations of AMC's "Walking Dead" series, the full cast of HBO's "Game of Thrones," the creators of "My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic" and geek luminaries like Joss Whedon and Brad Bird.
But alongside that big pop culture flash comes some of the smartest and coolest comics programming in town with appearances by Golden Age veteran Allen Bellman, alternative comics icon Chester Brown and scads of publishing panels. Check out CBR's picks for highlights below!
Geek Girls & Catbirds
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am
Room 25ABC
Comics professionals come together to discuss their unique contributions to their beloved medium in this star-studded panel. Topics include creating engaging characters with Margaret Atwood (Angel Catbird), transitioning from artist to writer/artist with Joëlle Jones (Lady Killer), and going from Kickstarting to book deal with Hope Nicholson (The Secret Loves of Geek Girls). Sure to be a great panel for the budding cartoonist eager to explore the craft of making comics!
Keeping it Short: Short Form Comics
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am
Room 28DE
Kate Beaton (Step Aside Pops: A Hark! A Vagrant Collection), Emily Carroll (Through the Woods), and Lisa Hanawalt (Hot Dog Taste Test) are three of the most critically acclaimed cartoonists working today. All three are masters of the short form, imbuing great narrative depth into a few panels or a few pages of comics. Beaton, Carroll, Hanawalt and Abraham Riesman (associate editor of Vulture) will discuss how keeping things short can make for great stories.
Marvel: Civil War II
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am
Room 6DE
he biggest event of the year, Civil War II, is under way and the Marvel Universe is reeling from the shocking events! Learn more about what's to come with editor-in-chief Axel Alonso, director of content & character development Sana Amanat, and Marvel talent scout Rickey Purdin, as well as Sanford Greene (Power Man and Iron Fist), Matthew Rosenberg (Civil War II: Kingpin), David Walker (Power Man and Iron Fist), and G. Willow Wilson (Ms. Marvel).
Spotlight on Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:00am
Room 29AB
Moderator Alex Segura (crime novelist and Archie writer) conducts a freewheeling discussion with acclaimed comic book writer, playwright, and screenwriter Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa, spotlighting his time at Archie Comics, including the creation of the hit Afterlife with Archie and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina comics and writing other beloved comic book properties like the Fantastic Four; his prolific television (Glee, Supergirl), theatrical (American Psycho, Spider-Man on Broadway), and movie (Carrie and Town that Dreaded Sundown remake) work; and the upcoming Riverdale TV series from the CW.
The Giant's Dream: Documentary Screening & Chat with Brad Bird
Friday July 22, 2016 10:00am - 11:30am
Room 24ABC
From hundreds of hours of archival footage and myriad modern-day interviews comes a documentary that puts an in-depth spotlight on the beloved 1999 animated film The Iron Giant . Director Brad Bird (Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol, The Incredibles, Ratatouille) will lead a discussion following a final cut screening of this fascinating documentary that examines the intricate, behind-the-scenes details of the creative process in bringing this critically acclaimed film to the big screen. Author Ramin Zahed moderates.
Cartoon Network: Steven Universe
Friday July 22, 2016 10:15am - 11:45am
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Cartoon Network is bringing together the talents of Steven Universe for a first-of-its-kind live musical experience for fans at San Diego Comic-Con! The series cast and musical minds behind Steven Universe will give a never-before-seen performance of the series' critically acclaimed music, as well as exclusive previews from upcoming episodes and an extended Q&A. Scheduled to appear are Steven Universe gems Rebecca Sugar (creator), Jeff Liu (writer and storyboard artist), Zach Callison (voice of Steven), Estelle (voice of Garnet), Michaela Dietz (voice of Amethyst), Deedee Magno Hall (voice of Pearl), Charlyne Yi (voice of Ruby), and Ben Levin (writer), accompanied by series composers Aivi Tran and Steven "Surasshu" Velema and moderated by former supervising director Ian Jones-Quartey.
My Little Pony
Friday July 22, 2016 10:30am - 11:30am
Room 6A
The cast and creatives behind My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic and My Little Pony Equestria Girls share details of the making of the popular animated series. Fans will also get a sneak peek into the rest of season 6, the new My Little Pony Equestria Girls: Legend of Everfree movie coming this Fall, and more, followed by a Q&A.
Image Comics: Defining New Worlds
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm
Room 23ABC
Comics are capable of anything, if you give them a chance. Joe Harris and Kelly Fitzpatrick are creating near-future sci-fi in Snowfall, Chris Burnham showed us a vision of hellish horror in Nameless, and Steven Seagle and Jason Adam Katzenstein brought us an all-ages monster-themed coming-of-age tale in Camp Midnight. They create new worlds that readers fall into and love forever, and they share their expertise here.
Mattel's DC Comics Collector Figures: The Rebirth of Multiverse
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm
Room 25ABC
Mattel designers Bill Benecke, Steve Redinger, and Jason Langston, Four Horsemen Studios principles Jim Preziosi, Eric Treadaway, and Eric "Cornboy" Mayse, and Warner Bros. VP of global toys Julian Montoya discuss the design and creation of DC Comics Multiverse collector figures. Moderated by Daniel Pickett (Action Figure Insider).
Star Wars Publishing
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm
Room 7AB
Get the latest info on all the new books and comics set in a galaxy far, far away! Authors, artists, and editors from Del Rey, Disney-Lucasfilm Press, Marvel, and others discuss their upcoming stories and the future of Star Wars publishing. Moderated by Lucasfilm's Michael Siglain.
The Official Aspen Comics Panel 2016
Friday July 22, 2016 11:00am - 12:00pm
Room 9
Frank Mastromauro (publisher), Peter Steigerwald (co-owner), Vince Hernandez (vp/editor-in-chief), Mark Roslan (vp/director of design and production), Siya Oum (Lola XOXO), J.T. Krul (Aspen Universe: Revelations), Joshua Hale Fialkov (Aspen Universe: Revelations), Paolo Pantalena (Jirni), and Aspen creators will discuss upcoming titles and reveal projects for 2016 and beyond. The Aspen team will partake in a Q&A session with fans. All panel attendees will receive a gift courtesy of Aspen Comics.
Bones
Friday July 22, 2016 11:15am - 12:15pm
Ballroom 20
Come bid farewell to Bones. It's the final Comic-Con Q&A for fan-favorites Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, TJ Thyne, Michaela Conlin, Tamara Taylor, and John Boyd, as well as executive producers Jonathan Collier and Michael Peterson as they begin production on the 12th and last season of FOX's long-running comedic procedural beloved by millions of fans around the world.
DC Suicide Squad: Most Wanted
Friday July 22, 2016 11:15am - 12:15pm
Room 6DE
What is it about the tales of villainy that keep us interested and coming back for more? The DC Villains are in the spotlight as the creative teams behind Harley Quinn and Suicide Squad (Amanda Conner, Chad Hardin, Jim Lee, Jimmy Palmiotti, Philip Tan, and Rob Williams) are front and center. Come get a glimpse on how they make evil look so good!
Kramer's Ergot and the Art of the Comic Anthology
Friday July 22, 2016 11:30am - 12:30pm
Room 24ABC
Few anthologies have done as well a job of capturing modern cartooning and visual storytelling than the Kramer's Ergot series, edited and compiled by Sammy Harkham. Learn about the history behind the series, the process of wrangling over 15 artists, and the importance of anthologies in the comics medium, with contributors Johnny Ryan, John Pham, Matt Groening, and Steven Weissman.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: It's Morphin Time
Friday July 22, 2016 11:30am - 12:30pm
Room 5AB
In January, BOOM! Studios launched Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, a new comic series based on Saban Brands' hit '90s live-action children's TV series about a group of ordinary teenagers who "morphed" into superheroes to save the world from evil. Series writer Kyle Higgins, cover artist Goñi Montes, The Ongoing Adventures of Bulk and Skull writer Steve Orlando, editor Dafna Pleban, Saban Brands director of development and production Melissa Flores, and Saban Brands director of global consumer products Jason Bischoff talk about the series, the spinoff Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Pink, and the everlasting popularity of these "teenagers with attitude." Moderated by stunt performer and actor, long-time Power Rangers superfan, and Blue Ranger on the current season of Power Rangers Dino Super Charge, Yoshi Sudarso. Plus everyone in attendance will receive a free Power Rangers item!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles - Return to New York
Friday July 22, 2016 11:45am - 12:45pm
Room 6A
They traveled through time and space to save planet Earth and now the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles return home! Executive producers Ciro Nieli and Brandon Auman share sneak peeks at the epic adventures and new characters that await the turtles when they return to the streets of New York. On hand will be the extraordinary voice actors of theTMNT world: Rob Paulsen (Donatello), Greg Cipes (Michelangelo), Mae Whitman (April O'Neil), Eric Bauza (Tiger Claw) and Gwendoline Yeo (Shinigami). But that's not all: Witness the world premiere of two never-before-seen TMNT animated shorts presented by TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman. Moderated by Andre Meadows (Black Nerd Comedy). Booyakabunga!
AMC's Fear The Walking Dead
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Hall H
Cliff Curtis, Kim Dickens, Frank Dillane, Alycia Debnam-Carey, Lorenzo James Henrie, Mercedes Mason, and Colman Domingo join executive producer and showrunner Dave Erickson, executive producer Robert Kirkman, executive producer Gale Anne Hurd, executive producer Dave Alpert, and special effects makeup supervisor and executive producer Greg Nicotero in a panel moderated by Chris Hardwick (The Nerdist, Talking Dead). The panel will discuss where the series left off in May's finale and what to look forward to when it picks up in August. Join the panelists for a Q&A session and an official sneak preview of the second half of season 2.
God is Disappointed in You 2: Apocrypha Now
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 32AB
It's the second coming! Their first book,God Is Disappointed in You, was an irreverent yet faithful adaptation of the Bible that got everyone talking. Now, Mark Russell (Prez, The Flintstones) and Shannon Wheeler (The New Yorker, Too Much Coffee Man) are back with a follow-up book, Apocrypha Now, about the stories that didn't make it into the Bible. Some of these stories were forgotten, some were suppressed, others were just too freaking weird for the Bible (and that's saying something). Join these two holy heathens for a funny and fascinating tour of what the Bible didn't tell you.
Hasbro Star Wars
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 7AB
Members of the Hasbro team discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars line. Attendees will get an in-depth look at Hasbro's latest action figure offerings. Word on the Holonet is there may also be a few surprises, including a special product reveal.
Mike Mignola
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 23ABC
Mike Mignola returns after the finale of his iconic creation Hellboy, star of comics, movies, and animation. Ask Mike and Chris Roberson (Hellboy and the BPRD 1953, Witchfinder) about the Mignolaverse in this casual Q&A on what's in store for the future of the Mignolaverse!
Space Goat: Evil Dead 2 and Beyond
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 28DE
Evil Dead fans rejoice. The Ash vs Deadites adventures you want are being published by Space Goat. This visual presentation and lively discussion with Space Goat staff Dave Olbrich, Tom Mason, and Jacob Bascle will feature exclusive sneak peeks into the future ofEvil Dead 2 comics. Also meet the team behind award-winning Monster Elementary Nicholas Doan and Gwendolyn Dreyer, Space Goat's newest all-ages graphic novel. Surprise guests! All things Space Goat Publishing, prepared just for you! Certified groovy!
Spotlight on Chester Brown
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 4
Chester Brown (Paying for It, Louis Riel) is one of the most successful and iconoclastic cartoonists working today. Mary Wept Over the Feet of Jesus continues his thoughts on sex work by retelling nine stories from Hebrew scriptures and the Christian New Testament. It is a New York Times bestseller that has received widespread critical acclaim. Brown will read from Mary Wept and Heidi MacDonald (The Beat, Publishers Weekly) will moderate a Q&A.
The British Invasion: Spirit of '86
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 29AB
The British are coming! The British are coming! No, they've already arrived-and they've been the driving force of the comics scene for decades! In the anniversary year of the release of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons's Watchmen, moderator Leonard Sultana (An Englishman In San Diego) talks to Paul Levitz (former DC Comics president) and a panel of special guests about the recruitment of U.K. creative talent in the late-70s/mid-80s, the key titles of the period and their lasting impact on the comics landscape to this day.
The Dark Crystal's World of Publishing
Friday July 22, 2016 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Room 9
J. M. Lee (author), Sierra Hahn (Archaia/BOOM! Studios), Rob Valois (Penguin Young Readers), and others will discuss the extremely creative and imaginative original young adult novels and graphic novels, delving into the magical world of Jim Henson's The Dark Crystal in a Q&A session moderated by Halle Stanford (The Jim Henson Company). Fans will also be treated to a screening of the winning "Dark Crystal Fan Film" submission.
[adult swim]: Robot Chicken
Friday July 22, 2016 12:15pm - 1:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Perk up your feathers and lube your gears; the poultry posse's back to show exclusive, never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes footage of their Emmy Award-winning series! Co-creator/EP Matthew Senreich, EP/co-head writer Tom Root, EP/co-head writer Doug Goldstein, actor/writer Breckin Meyer, and writer/director Tom Sheppard are joined by a very special guest: voice actor Donald Faison (Scrubs). Moderated by Keith Crofford, SVP of production for Adult Swim.
Injustice 2 Sneak Peek
Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Room 6DE
Get a Comic-Con International exclusive look at Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's Injustice 2, the super-powered sequel to the hit game Injustice: Gods Among Us. The newest game in development from the award-winning NetherRealm Studios features the largest roster of DC super heroes and supervillains ever offered, allowing players to build and power up the ultimate version of their favorite DC characters. Battles will take place across arenas that have evolved in scale and span iconic locations, such as Metropolis, Gotham City, and Atlantis. Ed Boon (creative director, NetherRealm Studios, and co-creator of Mortal Kombat) and a stellar group of actors including George Newbern (Scandal) as Superman, Phil LaMarr (MadTV, Futurama) as Aquaman, Laura Bailey (Batman: The Telltale Series, Gears of War 4) as Supergirl, and possibly a few surprise panelists reveal exciting new gameplay and discuss new features and breakthrough customization aspects that expands on the previous title's large-than-life showdown of DC superheroes and supervillains. Also to be discussed are the bestselling Digital First Comic, Injustice: Gods Among Us. Injustice 2 will be available for the PlayStation 4 computer entertainment system and Xbox One in 2017.
Marvel NOW!: Divided We Stand
Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Room 5AB
With the effects of Civil War II being felt across the Marvel Universe, how will their heroes pick up the pieces and move on? Find out what's in store for Marvel NOW! this fall with editor-in-chief Axel Alonso and director of content & character development Sana Amanat, as well as Jason Aaron (Mighty Thor), Ryan North (Unbeatable Squirrel Girl), David Walker (Nighthawk), Jim Zub (Thunderbolts), and other Mighty Marvel guests.
The 100 Special Video Presentation and Q&A
Friday July 22, 2016 12:30pm - 1:30pm
Ballroom 20
Following the climatic events of the season finale, join The 100 as the critically acclaimed series returns to Comic-Con. ALIE has been defeated, and The City of Light destroyed, but The 100's victory is bittersweet as a new threat comes into focus. With the clock ticking and Earth's radiation levels rising, our heroes must put aside their differences to save what remains of humanity. Will The 100 go quietly into that good night, or will they find hope and faith in each other, as they face their darkest chapter yet? Be among the first to find out what's in store for season 4. See a special video presentation followed by a Q&A with series stars and producers. From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Alloy Entertainment and Warner Bros. Television, The 100 returns midseason with all-new episodes on The CW. The 100: The Complete Third Season will be available on DVD on July 19.
AMC's The Walking Dead
Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Hall H
Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Steven Yeun, Lauren Cohan, Danai Gurira, Chandler Riggs, Sonequa Martin-Green, Michael Cudlitz, Josh McDermitt, Ross Marquand, Christian Serratos, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan join executive producer and showrunner Scott M. Gimple, executive producer Robert Kirkman, executive producer Gale Anne Hurd, executive producer Dave Alpert, and special effects makeup supervisor and executive producer Greg Nicotero in a panel moderated by Chris Hardwick (The Nerdist,Talking Dead). The panelists will discuss the shocking finale of season 6 and a sneak peek into season 7, debuting in October on AMC.
Captain America: Civil War Screenwriting Q&A
Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Horton Grand Theatre
Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely (writers of Captain America: The First Avenger and Captain America: Winter Soldier) discuss the joys and challenges of adapting the beloved comic tale into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Backstory Magazine publisher Jeff Goldsmith (host of The Q&A with Jeff Goldsmith podcast). Bring your questions!
Dynamite Entertainment: The Female Perspective
Friday July 22, 2016 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Room 4
It is no secret that Dynamite Entertainment has published some of the most iconic female characters in comics, from Vampirella to Red Sonja to the Warlord of Mars herself. Now, as the industry reaches a turning point in both creative and readership, the publisher brings together some of the brightest stars in comics to discuss the changing role of women on and off the page! Join comics superstars for a continuation of one of the most important discussions happening in the industry today.
DC Rebirth: Superman
Friday July 22, 2016 1:45pm - 2:45pm
Room 6DE
The Man of Steel is one of the most recognized pop culture icons of all time, and thanks to DC Rebirth, Superman is set to soar to new heights, Learn what makes The Last Son of Krypton the hero that he is with the DC writers and artists, including Pat Gleason, Dan Jurgens, Tyler Kirkham, Peter Tomasi, and others who bring him to life in the comics.
Dave McKean Black Dog: The Dreams of Paul Nash New Graphic Novel
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Room 7AB
Black Dog: The Dreams of Paul Nash is a new graphic novel published by Dark Horse and Les Humanoids in October and is a commission from the Imperial War Museum, the 14-18NOW Foundation and the Lakes International Comic Art Festival in the UK. It's one of 26 original artworks (and the only comics project) commissioned in every medium to commemorate the anniversary of the First World War. Paul Nash was a war artist and modernist who transformed his experience at Ypres into iconic landscape paintings, turning trees into bones and muddy battlefields into flesh. This book is part biography, part war memoir, and part exploration of the transformative nature of the trauma of war told as a series of dreams. The book was premiered in Jendal and Amiens with a live, hour-long performance work of original music, projects, and dramatic scenes; performed by Dave McKean (piano/voice), internationally renowned soloist Matthew Sharp (cello/voice), and Clare Haythornthwaite (violin/voice).
How It Should Have Ended
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Neil Morgan Auditorium, San Diego Central Library
An exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the popular web series and YouTube channel How It Should Have Ended. Featuring the debut of a never-before-seen episode, "How X-Men Apocalypse Should Have Ended," which was written by the fans! Come hear a Q&A with creators Daniel Baxter (artist/writer) and Tina Alexander (producer/writer) along with Otis Frampton (artist), Junaid Chundrigar (creator of Bad Days and Hero Swap), and Chris Oldenburg (animator).
Modern Romance Comics
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Room 32AB
Once a staple of the Golden Age, romance comics have faded into the background in recent years, but now they're making a comeback and tackling a wider variety of love stories than ever before! Carrie Sessarego (Smart Bitches, Trashy Books), Janelle Asselin (Rosy Press publisher), Sarah Kuhn (Heroine Complex, Fresh Romance), Thom Zahler (Love and Capes, Long Distance), and Cecil Castellucci (Shade the Changing Girl, The Plain Janes) discuss both classic and new romance comics, some of comics' most enduring love stories, and the challenges and joys unique to creating romantic stories in comics!
People of Earth & Powerless
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Room 6BCF
From Emmy winners Conan O'Brien (Conan) and Greg Daniels (The Office) and creator David Jenkins comes People of Earth, a half-hour single-camera comedy series about a support group for alien abductees. Join series star Wyatt Cenac (The Daily Show), co-executive producer David Jenkins and executive producer Greg Daniels for a screening of the pilot episode followed by a Q&A. People of Earth centers on skeptical journalist Ozzie Graham (Cenac) who investigates a support group to write about the member's supposed alien encounters. The more he digs into their oddball claims, however, the more he realizes a semblance of truth to their stories and, possibly, even signs that point to his own alien abduction. The onetime outsider now finds himself a part of this eclectic group of misfits, all the while struggling with the idea of knowing that life could exist beyond our world. Produced by Conaco LLC in association with Warner Horizon Television,People of Earth is coming this fall to TBS. Next up it's a superhero's world. Cast members Vanessa Hudgens (High School Musical), Danny Pudi (Community), and Alan Tudyk (Suburgatory) along with executive producer Ben Queen (A to Z), and executive producer/director Michael Patrick Jann (Reno 911) present a screening of the pilot episode and Q&A covering the first comedy series set in the DC universe. Powerless is the story of Emily (Hudgens), a young insurance adjuster specializing in regular-people coverage against damage caused when superheroes and supervillains treat the city like their own personal battleground. Taking care of insurance needs one by one, Emily and her team of co-workers might not have any superpowers but they are out to make a difference in people's lives and prove that you don't need to have powers to be powerful! From Warner Bros. Television, Powerless premieres midseason on NBC.
Spotlight on Ronald Wimberly
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Room 4
For the past 14 years, Ronald Wimberly has been telling stories that pair his world view with his strong storytelling instincts, resulting in works like the Eisner Award-nominated Lighten Up and The Prince of Cats, his collaborations with brands like Nike and Mishka, and even designing for animation like Black Dynamite. Wimberly will share his perspective on designing stories, agitprop and the politics of aesthetics, culture and appropriation, the importance of iconoclasm and why he suspects he'll never work for Marvel or DC again. Moderated by David Brothers.
Teen Superheroes: Hormones & Super Powers
Friday July 22, 2016 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Room 25ABC
Imagine if hitting puberty brought on more than acne and burgeoning awkward feelings. What if it brought on super powers too? Teen superheroes are always fan-favorites due their relatability; maybe the audience can't understand what it is like to have super speed, but everyone knows what growing pains feel like. Hear firsthand from the creators who navigate the world of hormones and super powers with panelists Kieron Gillen (Young Avengers), Marjorie Liu (Monstress), Jamie McKelvie (Young Avengers), Noelle Stevenson (Runaways), Babs Tarr (Batgirl), and G. Willow Wilson (Ms. Marvel), with moderator Jessica Tseang (comics historian).
[adult swim]: Rick and Morty
Friday July 22, 2016 2:15pm - 3:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Executive producers Dan Harmon (Community) and Justin Roiland (Adventure Time), writer/producer Ryan Ridley (Community), and voice talent Spencer Grammer (Greek), Sarah Chalke (Scrubs) and Chris Parnell (Archer, The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show) invite fans for a sneak peek at the highly anticipated third season. Moderated by Brian Q. Quinn (Impractical Jokers).
Game of Thrones Panel and Q&A Session
Friday July 22, 2016 2:15pm - 3:15pm
Hall H
Based on the bestselling fantasy book series A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin, HBO's Emmy and Golden Globe-winning series Game of Thrones concluded its 10-episode sixth season in June and will begin filming its seventh season later this year. The series, executive produced and written by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss, is an epic story of treachery and nobility, set on the continent of Westeros, where summers and winters can last years. Cast panelists include (in alphabetical order) John Bradley as Samwell Tarly, Liam Cunningham as Davos Seaworth, Nathalie Emmanuel as Missandei, Conleth Hill as Varys, Faye Marsay as The Waif, Hannah Murray as Gilly, Kristian Nairn as Hodor, Iwan Rheon as Ramsay Bolton, Sophie Turner as Sansa Stark, and Isaac Hempstead Wright as Bran Stark. Moderated by Rob McElhenney (It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia).
How to Start a Comic Book Company
Friday July 22, 2016 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Room 8
You love comic books, right? Do you love them enough to start your own comics company? Come hear what it takes to make it in comics from publishers who have paved their own path. Trail-blazing comics professionals David Steinberger (comiXology CEO and co-founder), Ross Richie (founder and CEO BOOM! Studios), Dinesh Shamdasani (Valiant entertainment CEO and chief creative officer), Mike Marts (editor-in-chief, AfterShock Comics), Alvin Liu (publisher, Kodansha Advanced Media), Jimmy Palmiotti (co-founder Paperfilms), Joe Glass (Principal, Queer Comix), and Hope Nicholson (publisher, Bedside Press) are primed and ready to give you the info you need to break in and stay in the comics biz.
The Tick: The First 30 Years
Friday July 22, 2016 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Horton Grand Theatre
The Tick first appeared in print 30 years ago. Creator Ben Edlund explores The Tick's history (and future) in a multimedia Event-o-Happening with surprise panelists, mystifying giveaways, and a revealing inside look at The Tick's next big thing!
An Hour with Terry Moore
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Room 28DE
Terry Moore (creator, Rachel Rising, Echo, Strangers in Paradise) discusses the conclusion of his latest hit series, Rachel Rising, and what he has planned for the rest of 2016 and beyond. Don't miss this first glimpse of what is up next for this Eisner Award-winning indie creator! As always, Terry's Q&A is not to be missed!
Breaking Into Comics
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Room 30CDE
With the shifting landscape of the comics industry, this is your invaluable guide to breaking into the comics industry-what it takes, whose attention you're vying for, and how to get it in a productive way, but most important, what you have to do to get up to speed and ready for the big show. Comics Experience founder and publisher Andy Schmidt is joined by Dave Marshall (Dark Horse, EIC), Rickey Purdin (Marvel talent manager), and artist Reilly Brown (Deadpool).
Dark Horse Originals
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Room 7AB
Comics literature has become the voice and visuals for our changing generation, and Dark Horse Originals has it all-from underwater mystery in Jonathan Case's Dear Creature to the surrealist return of Dave McKean inThe Dreams of Paul Nash. Dave McKean (Cages), Fábio Moon and Gabriel Bá (Two Brothers), Peter Hogan (Resident Alien), Cullen Bunn (Harrow County), and Jonathan Case (Dear Creature) discuss pushing the boundaries of what comics can accomplish in literature.
DC Rebirth: Justice League
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Room 6DE
The members of the Justice League take center stage as the DC Rebirth talent behind Aquaman (Brad Walker), Cyborg (John Semper), Flash (Joshua Williamson), and Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps (Robert Venditti) provide the stories behind your favorite characters and give them the justice they're due!
Marvel Television: Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Ballroom 20
Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D executive producer and head of Marvel Television Jeph Loeb and cast members Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Henry Simmons, Elizabeth Henstridge, and Iain De Caestecker, co-creators and executive producers Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen, and executive producer Jeff Bell share the secrets, lies, and dangers of making season 3! See exclusive footage and surprise moments, and be the first to learn what's in store for season 4! The action-packed series from Marvel Television returns this fall, only on ABC.
Spotlight on Allen Bellman
Friday July 22, 2016 3:00pm - 4:00pm
Room 4
Before there was Marvel Comics, there was Timely Comics. Artist Allen Bellman was there, and now you can not only listen to his amazing stories and the history of Timely Comics but also participate in a fantastic Q&A. A short signing will follow.
[adult swim]: Samurai Jack
Friday July 22, 2016 3:15pm - 4:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
Creator/director Genndy Tartakovsky, head writer Darrick Bachman, art director Scott Wills, storyboard artist Bryan Andrews, and character designer Craig Kellman give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming revival of hit animated action-adventure series Samurai Jack. Moderated by Tom Kenny (Samurai Jack, Spongebob Squarepants).
STARZ Original Series American Gods
Friday July 22, 2016 3:15pm - 4:15pm
Room 6BCF
Bryan Fuller (executive producer), Michael Green (executive producer), Ricky Whittle (Shadow Moon), Ian McShane (Mr. Wednesday), Pablo Schreiber (Mad Sweeney), Yetide Badaki (Bilquis), and Bruce Langley (Technical Boy) discuss the highly anticipated series and preview what's to come in the premiere season. Moderated by Yvette Nicole Brown (The Odd Couple).
Hermes Press: Jim Davis Talk About His New Book: The Art Garfield
Friday July 22, 2016 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Room 5AB
This panel will kick off the premiere of Jim Davis's new book The Art of Garfield. It will begin with a video presentation chronicling the birth and development of Garfield. Jim Davis will talk about the creation, history, and art of his famous cat. R. C. Harvey (The Art of the Funnies, author of the introduction to The Art of Garfield) and Daniel Herman (publisher, Hermes Press, Silver Age: the Second Generation of Comic Artists) will then join in and talk about the art of everything Garfield. This will be Davis's first appearance at Comic-Con! The panel will end with a Q&A session.
Dark Horse: Conversations with Joss Whedon
Friday July 22, 2016 3:45pm - 4:45pm
Hall H
Joss Whedon has rewarded fans the world over with some of the most compelling characters and plot lines in the history of comics, television, and movies. Here's your chance to find out what he has in store next and get exclusive insight into Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Serenity, and much, much more!
Behind the Curtain: Creating Heroes in All Formats
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Room 25ABC
From secret hero societies to mystery-solving kids, graphic novels prove that a picture's worth a thousand words. Artists Kate Beaton, Raina Telgemeier, Dustin Nyugen, Mike Wu, Greg Grunberg, and Lucas Turnbloom discuss the creation of their new work.
Bob's Burgers
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront
It's always a party when creator and executive producer Loren Bouchard, executive producer Jim Dauterive, and the hilarious cast (including H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, Eugene Mirman, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, and Larry Murphy) bring their Emmy Award-winning animated FOX series Bob's Burgers to San Diego for another unforgettable panel. The cast and creative team behind one of America's most beloved TV families will have you howling with laughter with never-before-seen footage.
IDW Publishing: The Main Event
Friday July 22, 2016 4:00pm - 5:00pm
Room 4
Experience the latest from IDW! Artists Gabriel Rodriguez and David Messina, writers Christos Gage and Paul Cornell, editor Sarah Gaydos, and some surprise guests detail current plans, awesome futuristic plans, and much more. Co-moderated by the two-headed monster that is Dirk Wood and Chris Ryall! Prizes, announcements, and Q&A.
DC Page to Screen
Friday July 22, 2016 4:15pm - 5:15pm
Room 6DE
Never before has DC Entertainment been more popular in TV, video games, home videos, and movie theaters. And with an impressive film slate and countless shows in series and production, it has never been a better time to be a DC fan! The people behind the scenes who translate the page to the screen show how your favorite stories and characters come to life!
Are Heroes Born or Made
Friday July 22, 2016 4:30pm - 5:30pm
Room 24ABC
Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, writers of Captain America: Civil War and the upcoming two-part Avengers: Infinity War, Industrial Light & Magic visual effects art director Aaron McBride (The Avengers, Jurassic World), and others the ultimate question: Who are the greater heroes, those who were born with powers, or those who have none? Moderated by Christian Blauvelt (deputy culture editor, BBC online).
Man of Action Universe Building
Friday July 22, 2016 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Room 23ABC
Man of Action legends Joe Casey (Sex, Officer Downe), Joe Kelly (I Kill Giants, Deadpool), Duncan Rouleau (The Great Unknown, The Nightmarist), and Steven T. Seagle (It's a bird . . ., Camp Midnight) bring their world-renowned workshop on universe building to Comic-Con. They will talk through some of their creative processes for their monster hits, including Ben 10 and Big Hero 6 for Marvel, which became Disney's Academy Award-winning film, and teach the ins and outs of creating compelling intellectual property from the ground up, with hands-on exercises. Attendees will need to bring something to write on, something to write with, and big batch of brain power, as the Man of Action crew and the audience will, over the course of the panel, build a new story universe!
The World of Mouse Guard
Friday July 22, 2016 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Room 32AB
David Petersen's fan-favorite Mouse Guard series has been around for more than a decade, and publisher Archaia, an imprint of BOOM! Studios, is proud to be a part of its legacy! But what's next? Petersen and BOOM! assistant editor Cameron Chittock offer a behind-the-scenes look at the award-winning comics and games, including the recently released Mouse Guard: Art of Bricks, a peek at the forthcoming Mouse Guard Coloring Book, and more! Plus, comedian Hal Lublin (The Thrilling Adventure Hour) will be on hand for a live reading performance of a Mouse Guard short story!
DC's Young Animal
Friday July 22, 2016 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Room 5AB
Panelists get into the details of DC's Young Animal, a new imprint launching this fall from My Chemical Romance frontman and bestselling comic writer Gerard Way (Doom Patrol), with many of his topnotch collaborators, including Cecil Castellucci (Shade, The Changing Girl), Jon Rivera (Cave Carson Has a Cybernetic Eye), and others.
iZOMBIE Special Video Presentation and Q&A
Friday July 22, 2016 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Ballroom 20
Television's only Zom-Com-Rom-Dram, returns for its third appearance at Comic-Con. After experiencing the heart-pounding season 2 finale, be among the first to get the scoop on what's in store for season 3! Now that Clive is in the know about zombies, how will his dynamic with Liv change? With Ravi's cure robbing Blaine of his memories, what will Major decide to do with his borrowed time? Will Peyton continue her efforts to take down crime lord Mr. Boss? And will Vivian Stoll, new owner of Max Rager, succeed in making Seattle its zombie headquarters? See a special video presentation followed by a panel with series stars as well as executive producers Rob Thomas (Veronica Mars) and Diane Ruggiero-Wright (Veronica Mars). From Bonanza Productions Inc. in association with Spondoolie Productions and Warner Bros. Television and based on characters created by Chris Roberson and Michael Allred for Vertigo from DC Entertainment, iZOMBIE returns midseason with all-new episodes on The CW. iZOMBIE: The Complete Second Season will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on July 12.
Spotlight on J. Michael Straczynski
Friday July 22, 2016 5:30pm - 6:30pm
Room 6DE
Sense8 fans! This is the only SDCC panel where one of the creator/writer/producers of the Netflix series will be appearing to answer your questions. For everyone else: each year, Straczynski (writer for Thor, Superman Earth One, World War Z and other projects) brings announcements to SDCC, and this year is no exception, but the announcements this time are especially big. Be there for news that's going to blow up the Internet.
Vulture: Valiant's Faith
Friday July 22, 2016 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Room 29AB
Faith is the breakout superhero of the year. This stereotype-demolishing character from Valiant Entertainment has won critical acclaim, fan enthusiasm, and now, her own monthly series. But what makes her tick? Faith writer Jody Houser (Orphan Black, Mother Panic) takes a deep dive into this soaring hero's past, present, and future. Moderated by Vulture's Abraham Riesman (associate editor).
AMC's Preacher
Friday July 22, 2016 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Hall H
Executive producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg join comic book co-creator and series co-executive producer Garth Ennis and members of the cast including Dominic Cooper, Ruth Negga, Joseph Gilgun, Ian Colletti and Graham McTavish in a panel moderated by Kevin Smith, to discuss the first season of the hit series. Join the panelists for a live reading of the newest episode, airing Sunday, July 24 at 9pm on AMC, followed by a Q&A session.
Creating Your Own Universe
Friday July 22, 2016 7:30pm - 8:30pm
Room 5AB
Len Wein (co-creator of Swamp Thing and Wolverine) moderates a panel that will discuss the many ways one might create a universe, whether in comics, novels, gaming, television, film and virtual reality. Panelists include James Lopez (creator, Hullabaloo, an animated Steampunk series), Mark Murphy (co-creator, Neil deGrasse Tyson Presents: Space Odyssey), Peter S. Beagle (author, The Last Unicorn), and representatives from cutting-edge VR companies, including HTC Vive and Samsung GearVR.
World Premiere of Batman: The Killing Joke
Friday July 22, 2016 9:00pm - 12:00am
Ballroom 20
Delve into the demented history of the Dark Knight's arch nemesis, The Joker, as he sets out to prove insanity is only a horrifying moment away for anyone in the latest DC Universe Original Movie, Batman: The Killing Joke. Based on one of the bestselling graphic novels of all time, this R-rated, feature-length animated film brings together some of the key creative team behind Batman: The Animated Series with executive producer Bruce Timm (Justice League: Gods & Monsters) at the helm and Kevin Conroy (Justice League), and Mark Hamill (Star Wars) returning to their seminal roles as Batman and The Joker, respectively. Hear how the graphic novel transitioned to animated thriller, and then witness the world premiere of this highly anticipated film. Panelists include Tara Strong (Teen Titans, Batman: Arkham games) as Barbara Gordon/Batgirl and Ray Wise (Twin Peaks, RoboCop) as Commissioner James Gordon, as well as director Sam Liu (Batman: Year One, All-Star Superman) and Harvey and Eisner Award-winning writer Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Batman: Broken City). Produced by Warner Bros. Animation and DC Entertainment, Batman: The Killing Joke arrives from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment July 26 on Digital HD and August 2 on Blu-ray Deluxe Edition, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD.
Celebrating 35 Years of Heavy Metal: The Movie
Friday July 22, 2016 9:00pm - 10:00pm
Room 28DE
35 years ago saw the release of Heavy Metal, a film unlike any other that had come before: a psychedelic animated journey through the pages of the publication that defined a generation of comics fans and science fiction readers! Now we pay tribute to this legendary film with an exclusive live reading from the original script led by Metalocalypse co-creator Jon Schnepp and surprise guests, exclusive news on the new Heavy Metal film, and more! Join Schnepp along with co-CEO Jeff Krelitz and publicist Jeremy Atkins for a fitting tribute to the most metal animated film ever!