Day Three of CinemaCon 2026 Brings Universal and Amazon
Jeri Jacquin
Here we are on the third day, and the hits keep on coming. Next to the stage is Universal and Focus Features with their slate of films. This is going to be huge for me since four of the films I am really eager to see are covered.
It seems Snoop Dogg is going to get his chance at the bio-pic scene, and he’s making it known by showing up in the theatre to give us “Drop It Like It’s Hot.” Joined onstage to talk about the film directed by Craig Brewer, Jonathan Davis stepped out to talk about it. The film is being produced by Brian Grazer. Snoop says, “After my brothers told their story in STRAIGHT OUT OF COMPTON, it’s my turn!” He also happened to mention that the fire department was sent out to his bungalow ‘a few times’ due to the ‘smoke.’ Way to go, Snoop! The film is slated for 2027.
I couldn’t be any more excited about Christopher Nolan onstage talking about his upcoming film THE ODYSSEY. He told the audience he had wanted to make an “epic IMAX format” movie since he was a kid. The story is about family and homecoming, and anyone into the story will understand it. The cast includes Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron, and Tom Holland.
No CinemaCon would be complete without a visit from the world’s favorite yellow…ummm…dudes. Illumination big boss Chris Meledandri brings to the screen MINIONS & MONSTERS. Think Minions on horseback, minions on airplanes, minions dressed up like Vikings, I think you get the drift. Christoph Waltz makes a vocal ‘appearance’. The film is out July 1, 2026. Monica Barbaro and Callum Turner take on two people trying to find love in ONE NIGHT ONLY.
OTHER MOMMY is due in theatres this October with Jessica Chastain as a child is being watched by, you guessed it, the other mommy. If that’s too cute, how about a little Christmas upheaval with VIOLENT NIGHT 2. Santa has his naughty list, and he’s on it. Because of that, Santa loses his mojo. David Harbour returns, along with Jared Harris. When a kid asks what happened, he replies, “Maybe I killed too many people, I don’t know.” What a fun way to start the holiday season, right?
Ben Stiller is bringing the Fockers back with FOCKER IN-LAW. Being outdone, Robert DeNiro walks onto the stage, bringing the audience to a huge uproar. After a bit of back and forth, Stiller decides to joke with DeNiro, “We’ll see you in 15 years for the next one, Project: Hail Focker.” The film focuses on Stiller, who is now a father who is having to deal with their kid bringing home someone to meet the parents. Ariana Grande and Skyler Gisondo are also in the film.
Focus Features, one for bringing some of my favorite stories to the screen, is up with director Georgia Oakley’s SENSE AND SENSIBILITY. I don’t care how many renditions are done of this film; I love them all. Robert Eggers WERWULF stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Lily Rose-Depp. The film looks and feels very dark, and Taylor-Johnson does transform. The film is seen to be brutal and everything one would expect of a goth-like werewolf film. I’m interested in seeing how this film plays out.
Another film on my wish list is Steven Spielberg’s DISCLOSURE DAY. Spielberg’s first time at CinemaCon is introduced by Colman Domingo. It is not a shock to hear that he believes we are not alone in the universe, especially with his films about extraterrestrials. He also says that DISCLOSURE DAY is closer to the truth than the fiction of CLOSE ENCOUNTERS. “It is an experience. All you need to get from the beginning to the end is a seat belt,” Spielberg says.
Next for presenting last of the evening is Amazon MGM Studios, the stage takes off with Jon Batiste playing piano and footage of THOMAS CROWN AFFAIR. Clips shown include Adria Arjona and Kenneth Branagh. Jordan tells the audience that he’s been wanting to make this film for years. He also shared that he saw both McQueen and Brosnan’s versions of the film.
I’m not surprised to see Ryan Gosling come on stage with Mike Hopkins, Head of Amazon MGM Studios, and they speak on the success of PROJECT HAIL MARY. Just crossing $525 million, Gosling tells the audience that the film has been extended in theatres. That means I’m going to see it for a third time! More Rocky and Grace is all anyone needs.
Now for MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE. Now, I get I’m no spring chicken, but I do remember my kids watching the cartoon. “I have the power!!!!” rang out. I am well aware of the story. Not a cartoon, the new offering begins with Adam in a police car until Beastman starts a fight. Then Teela adds to the beginnings of the adventure, especially with the return to Eternia. Don’t worry, Jared Leto’s Skeletor is there as well. Director Travis Knight and stars Nicholas Galitzine and Camilia Mendes are there as well. The film is in theatres on June 5th.
Jason Statham is back with a video introducing the audience to BEEKEEPER 2, referring to all of us in the audience as CinemaCon nerds. That gave me the best laugh. The film also stars Jeremy Irons and Pom Klementieff. Sharing a bit of the film, it is what Statham does best, especially with flamethrowing a guy, saying, “Don’t be so hot-headed!” Release slate is January 15, 2007.
Head of Film at Amazon MGM Studios, Courtenay Valenti, takes on the questions about James Bond. “Now, I know you’re all wondering when we’re going to announce who’s playing James Bond. Don’t get too excited. Please know that we’re taking the time to do this with care and deep respect…I can tell you this: when you pair one of the most beloved franchises in history with a world-class filmmaking team, including brilliant director Denis Villeneuve, you are setting the stage for something truly worthy of the Bond legacy. That film is coming, and when the time is right, we’ll have much more to share.” So…we wait!
For the family, Hugh Jackman and Nicholas Braun talk about the film THE SHEEP DETECTIVES. Jackman tells everyone that “the film will surprise you with how funny it is and how much it will move you.” You have to trust Wolverine on that, right? The film will be in theatres on May 8th.
Director Gareth Evans is remaking the 1967 film A COLT IS MY PASSPORT, no release date has been set yet. It’s the story of a Vietnam Vet who takes on a mob boss in the 1970s. I can’t wait to see that era on screen. Another film waiting for release is YOUR MOTHER YOUR MOTHER staring Mahershala Ali says the film is brutally intimate. VERITY is a film starring Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson with an emotional plot and shocking horror. The film is set to be in theatres on October 2nd.
For a comedy that looks like it will have us in stitches, Pete Davidson and John C. Reilly star in HOW TO ROB A BANK. The group of robbers decides it’s smart to post their robberies on the internet. The film also stars Nicholas Hoult and Zoe Kravitz. Look to be robbed on September 4th.
SPACEBALLS 2 is set for release in April of 2027. The film is directed by Josh Greenbaum, but it is the writers who caught me off guard. Mel Brooks, obviously, but none other than Olaf himself, Josh Gad. Other names everyone might remember are Bill Pullman, Daphne Zuniga, Lewis Pullman, and Rick Moranis, who was brought on stage by Spaceball troopers! Getting the band back together, theatre seats will be sold out for weeks for this one.
Henry Cavill (insert swoon here) came to CinemaCon via video message to talk about HIGHLANDER. He tells the audience that they are halfway through production. He says, “We are creating something truly special.” Dave Bautista is seen in a clip as Kurgan and saying he is a very big fan of the HIGHLANDER original. Russell Crowe has his moment telling Cavill, “This is your purpose, you are the one.”
One more day of CinemaCon 2026, which leaves the last two studios. Paramount will start off the morning and end with Walt Disney Studios!
Final Day of CinemaCon 2026 with Paramount and Disney
Jeri Jacquin
It is the final day of CinemaCon here in Las Vegas and jumping right in this morning after a late night is Paramount and Disney.
David Ellison, Paramount Skydance CEO, took the stage to talk about the acquisition of Warner Bros, saying that the goal with combining the companies is to release 30 films across them both in a year. He says that Paramount is looking at a 45-day window for theatrical releases and streaming release after 90 days.
The first film up is James Mangold’s THE HIGH SIDE and CALL OF DUTY films, although no release date yet. Also in the hopper is STAR TREK, G.I. JOE, TRANSFORMERS, WORLD WAR Z (Yaaaaassss!), PARANORMAL ACTIVITY, POSESSION, LONGLEGS (Another Yaaaaaas!), and JACKASS.
The big announcement, however, is that TOP GUN 3 with Tom Cruise is in development. Along with GET LIFE, THE NAUGHTY LIST, and the Korean action film THE GANGSTER, THE COP, THE DEVIL, with James Wan’s English remake.
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 4 has James Marsden and Tika Sumpter showing the first footage via video of the fourth in the series. Look for Sonic, Knuckles, Shadow and Amy along with my family’s favorite Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. Especially when Robotnik screams, “Robotnik…Saves…World!”
If you are wondering about the Turtles in a Half Shell, Seth Rogan lets the audience know they are working on the next film. I have a grandson who is waiting, dudes, get on that!
Love the A QUIET PLACE films? Then you’ll be thrilled to know that a part 3 is on its way. Krasinski is scouting locations, but did not reveal much else. Now that’s not cool, dude, still excited about it though!
CALL OF DUTY brings a short teaser with director Peter Berg sending his regards, mentioning that Taylor Sheridan is also working on the film. “Taylor and I are both very attached to the special operations community.” That, translated, means the film is going to be intense. Release date is June 30, 2028.
James Cameron gets into the docu-music genre with the 3D Billie Eilish concert film HIT ME HARD AND SOFT. Speaking about the film is a theatrical experience; he expresses that he used tools that he didn’t even have for the AVATAR movies.
SCARY MOVIE 6, which has sprinkles of it around Caesar’s Palace, has Shawn Wayans and Anna Faris talking about their R-rated comedy. This time, they are out to parody GET OUT, WEAPONS, and other films. This time, Ghostface gets a big, ummm, appendage in his gullet, and the ‘Wazzzzaaaap!’ makes a return. Johnny Knoxville intros his new film JACKASS film showing all his intros but adding this time a new cast member, Larry. Steve-O is also there. Of course, there is going to be a popcorn bucket being designed for the film, and all I can think of is that everyone is going to want one, at least those of us who love JACKASS.
For the family, Paramount hasn’t forgotten them at all. The lineup includes PAW PATROL: The Dino Movie with music from The Backstreet Boys and ANGRY BIRDS 3 (and parents love it too!) with Jason Sudeikis. Both of these are the reasons families go to the theatres, because it may be for kids, but adults have a great time as well.
Not to be outdone with musical guests in the films, ‘Sabotage’ by The Beastie Boys rolls out for the film STREET FIGHTER. Bringing a trailer for the film, Eric Andre, Cody Rhodes, and the cast appear on stage looking as badass as they want to be. Phil Simms hits the stage to talk about the film MR. IRRELEVANT: The John Tuggle Story. Starring David Corenswet of SUPERMAN fame, the film is definitely going to be tissue-worthy.
Director David Ayer is back directing THE HEART OF THE BEAST about an ex-special forces soldier and the dog served beside him. Brad Pitt stars in the film of survival and loyalty between the two with, “One last mission. I’m not going to let you die out here.”
Are you ready for the holidays already? Ti West brings video to talk EBENEZER: A Christmas Carol. Johnny Depp once again comes to CinemaCon and this time says the Dickens story has made his obsessed since he was a kid. The trailer shows Depp doing what he does best, embracing a character with a darkness that only he can do. The film also stars Ian McKellen.
Depp says, “When I was approached by Ti West [director], my first thought was there’s no one who can do it as well as Alastair Sim (1951) did. It’s a magical performance. But, then I thought, that’s no reason not to attempt something. I think Ti really did something very special.”
Director Gina Prince-Blythewood brings CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE with the cast of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Damson Idris, Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, and Regina King. Viola Davis also stars as Mama Agba in a struggle of an African kingdom without magic. I think it’s cool looking!
As CinemaCon is famous for, that is keeping me on the edge of my seat. Walt Disney Studios is the final presentation, and I’m here for two things in particular. Can you guess? Well, lets get to some of the other films first.
With THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 mere weeks away (hurry up!!!), a video message from star Anne Hathaway thanks theatre owners and announces, “Twenty years later, we are back!” Yes, and looking good girl!
Yes, this is the biggest reason I am here right now, Jon Favreau, writer and director, arrives to talk about the how the original STAR WARS film made an impression on him. The trailer for THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU shows Pedro Pascal’s Mando, doing what he does best and is moving on to his bounty hunting. As a STAR WARS fan since I was 16 (do the math kids), I haven’t been this excited for another installment in a long time. THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU is due in theatres in May. Are you ready?
Another film that has become so iconic and generational has a new story with TOY STORY 5. Buzz and the gang are going through growing pains as Bonnie begins to turn away from the toys to become tech savvy, but a Lily Pad. Of course, Woody is going to come help his friends. On stage, to the cheer of the audience, are Tim Allen and Tom Hanks. Tim Allen says, “We love playing Buzz and Woody, and we can’t believe how lucky we are to be able to continue telling these stories that keep people moving from infinity to beyond!” A duo that lives in our hearts.
In 2016, audiences were introduced to a young girl named Moana and the curly-haired Maui. The animated MOANA film was a massive hit, and now, in 2026, the live-action MOANA film is coming to the screen. Returning as Maui himself, Dwayne Johnson, makes his way to the stage. It is so sweet that he says his performance is inspired by his grandfather. Also joining Johnson is Catherine Laga’aia, Moana herself. Johnson says of the power of the film, “The hero of our story is not a princess; she’s a warrior. All men of all ages, we should empower, support, and champion all women. That’s what real masculinity looks like.” The trailer looks amazing!
Ridley Scott's film THE DOG STARS is right up my alley. Jackob Elordi, Margaret Qually, and Josh Brolin star in this story about the world after a pandemic (sounds eerie, right?) Hig, played by Elordi, lives along with his dog and now has a friend in Brolin’s character. When they get a weird radio transmission, off they go to find out what it means.
The film WHALEFALL looks totally amazing! It is the story of a scuba diver looking for his father, who gets, well, swallowed by an 80-foot whale and only has an hour of oxygen. I’m just grateful it isn’t a shark. Director Brian Duffield and star Austin Abrams hit theatres in October.
HEXED stars Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones as a teenage girl and her mom who discover magic and a secret world that is going to turn their lives into chaos. The animated film is due out in November, just in time for the season.
The band is back together! Taking the stage are the voices of Manny in the form of Ray Romano, Diego in the body of Denis Leary, and Ellie looking lovely as Queen Latifah for ICE AGE: Boiling Point. Now, as wonderful as that is, and it is – it is baby Scratch that just took my heart. Let's hope Scratch jr. has more luck than his parental unit.
Dropping like a bomb is Kevin Feige taking over the stage to talk about-yes-AVENGERS:Doomsday. He also brings news of INFINITY VISION. Infinity Vision sets a new benchmark for theatrical presentation, certifying auditoriums that meet rigorous technical standards, including a focus on: The largest screens for maximum scale, laser projection for superior brightness and clarity, and premium audio formats for fully immersive sound. Translated folks? That means AVENGERS: Doomsday is going to blow us all away. Added gasoline to the fire, directors Anthony and Joe Russo come to the stage. As always, there is only one person to take their thunder – Robert Downey Jr., who gets the audience going, teasing that he would love to give away “37,000 spoilers” but shows ‘The Trailer of Doom’. Good choice!
The trailer shows the Fantastic Four, Gambit, Shang-Chi, Mystique/Yelena, Thor and Dr. Doom. But wait, there’s more because that’s not all, and not to be outdone, Chris Evans walks on stage and when asked about returning to his role, he says, “I’d only come back if there was a real reason. The Avengers really needed Steve Rogers.”
Well, that’s it! CinemaCon 2026 is in the books. The studios have upped their game, bringing announcements, surprises, and everything theatre owners want to bring to the audiences that visit their seats. The movie theatre is still the most epic place to see film, and the stories, directors, actors, and studios are working hard to make that experience everything we want it to be. Until then, see you next year!
The Final Day of San Diego Comic Con 2026
Jeri Jacquin
The final day is here, and families are everywhere, taking the opportunity to not only enjoy the San Diego sun but all the events that have been going on since Wednesday. My own granddaughter has put on her homemade costume and is making her way through all the fun and taking pictures with people, which is one of the highlights of SDCC. While she wanders, I am back in Hall H for one final time.
Starting the morning with Emily the Strange panel experience brings the fictional teenage goth girl created by Rob Reger in 1991. I can relate to her black-and-red aesthetic, but she is also known for her humor and her cats. The Cineverse: Air Bud Returns has a panel that is followed up by 35 Years of Sailor Moon. Created by Naoko Takeuchi, who has also done the illustrations, the Japanese manga series was in the Nakayoshi magazine from 1991-1997. How Pokemon Captured Our Hearts for 30 Years was a fun look into all things Pokemon, and yes, my family and I ran all around San Diego ‘trying to catch them all,’ and it was so much fun. We spent hours running around, being together and sharing in an experience that hasn’t been repeated since.
As a juror for the San Diego International Children’s Film Festival, I had to take time to visit all that they had to offer. What I got to experience was animated shorts, stories, and such creativity that I am excited to see more of what is coming up when the SDICFF arrives in the weeks to come. The Lord of the Rings and the New Age of Adaptations is something any LOTR fan needs to experience. It is interesting to listen to the intensity of creators and what is possible in J.R.R. Tolkien's world.
For some lighter fun, Buffy: Once More, with Feeling The Musical Experience always brings in people who want to not only talk Buffy, but have so much fun singing along. I always end up laughing so hard my sides hurt. Before heading back outside one more time, the family decided to see what the Anime Screenings had to offer. It is a nice respite for our feet and a chance to see some of the best Anime that SDCC had brought for fans.
Thank you to San Diego Comic Con International for another successful event that has brought comics, entertainment, fun, and a great time reconnecting friendships, making new friends, and sharing creativity in the one time a year where it happens. The one thing you can be sure of: the excitement starts with Preview Night, but it doesn’t stop until late Sunday afternoon. It is a continual time for it all, and even when standing in long lines, it is so worth it.
Also, thank you to the staff and volunteers who go out of their way to make Comic Con a safe and fun experience. They were helpful to me in so many ways when things were going a bit wrong, and they made it right, and they did it with smiles and grace. For such a large event, I heard over and over stories of how the staff and volunteers were not only fun, but very funny, which means everyone took care of everyone. Again, thank you.
That’s it! It’s a wrap for another year, and now, if you will excuse me, I need to go soak my feet and get them ready for San Diego Comic Con International 2027!
Day Three of San Diego Comic Con Brings Marvel
Jeri Jacquin
Once again, it is hard to believe that we are only one day away from finishing San Diego Comic Con International 2026. Saturday is going to be such a busy day as more people, thank you weekend, are going to be downtown to immerse themselves in everything SDCC has to offer. Inside the convention center is always bustling, and outside, well, outside is where fun can be had by everyone because many of the events do not require a hard-to-get badge. I will be back in Hall H, so let's go!
First up, hosted by Ron Diamond, an animation producer himself; he is also the 1990 founder of Acme Filmworks. He spoke on international animation festivals where new talent is found. Also, connecting with directors of indie film for ad agencies. Sharing the vision behind the athletics, Diamond spoke on how the industry and fine-art animation have helped make Acme Filmworks a leader.
STAR TREK UNIVERSE is celebrating its 60th anniversary with an opening by Rod Roddenberry. A panel including Michael Dorn, Robert Picardo, Dominic Keating, Cirroc Lofton, Doug Jones, Michelle Hurd, Jerry O’Connell, Christina Chong, Karim Diane, and my excitement to finally see George Takei. Karim Diane got the opportunity to bring up Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, a reveal that new Academy cadet Ruaridh Aldington will be joining as Keats, a young alien with a mysterious past. Just know, he’s more than he seems. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds brings executive producer Akiva Goldsman, and he shows the crowd a trailer showing what is coming for the U.S.S. Enterprise in season four. The panel included executive producers/showrunners Akiva Goldsman, Henry Alonso Meyers and Alex Kurtzman. Also included are Anson Mount, Rebecca Romijn, Ethan Peck, Christina Chong, Celia Rose Gooding, Melissa Navia and Paul Wesley.
Scott Mantz announces that the first original animated YouTube series, Star Trek: Scouts, will be available on Star Trek Day on September 8th. The show tells the story of three eight-year-olds, JR, Sprocket, and Roo, who are training to be Starfleet Explorers. Going on epic journeys, the series is produced by Nickelodeon Digital Studios.
Apple TV makes its first-time appearance in Hall H of San Diego Comic Con. I am a huge fan of the streaming service with so many favorite shows and movies, so I’m excited to see what they are bringing here. Moderated by Josh Horowitz, Apple TV brings a list of films, sci-fi, and comedy. In its second season, Dark Matter brings creators Blake Crouch along with Matt Tolmach, Jacquelyn Ben-Zekry, the panel also includes stars Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Connelly, and Dayo Okeniyi. If you haven’t seen Dark Matter, put it on your must-see watch list because it is amazing. If you love stories about alternate realities and multiverses, then this is the show for you. John Cena is up for MATCHBOX: The Movie, also starring Jessica Biel, Arturo Castro, Sam Richardson, and Teyonah Parris. After a long time away, Sean returns to his small town and no one knows that he’s an undercover CIA agent.
My excitement came when Silo came to the panel. Showrunner Graham Yost brings the damn stellar cast of Rebecca Ferguson, Common, Tim Robbins, Ashley Zukerman, Jessica Henwick, and Alexandria Riley show up for the third season. Season 3 has already started, and the panel discusses what they call the “Before Times” story in flashbacks and conspiracies from long ago. Ferguson talks about what happened to Juliette when she was forced out to clean and the continual problems with the new power. She describes her character as a hero who is “sedimented with trauma” (which is so true). Yes, there will be a season four, but it will be the final season. It is just amazing to see the camaraderie between the cast, especially for a show that is so dark, dangerous, and tense. Directors John Francis Daley and Johnathan Goldstein are up to talk about their Ryan Reynolds/Kenneth Branagh movie MAYDAY. Reynolds plays Troy “Assassin” Kelly who flies a mission over Soviet Airspace in 1987, and when things go wrong, he meets Branagh’s character Nikolai Ustinov.
WIDOW’S BAY is celebrating 19 Emmy nominations for Apple TV. The series is a story created by Katie Dippold and stars Matthew Rhys as a Mayor Tom Loftis who is trying to make a New England island that is supposedly cursed into a tourist spot. The only problem is the supernatural evils and legends that might have something to say about it. The show also stars Kate O’Flynn and Stephen Root. Rhys came to the panel through Zoom, and on stage is O’Flynn, Stephen Root, Kingston Rumi Southwick, Kevin Carroll, and Dale Dickey. Root decided to start off the panel with “Let’s get started. – with cannibalism, right Mayor?” Rhy reminded him that “we don’t talk about cannibalism!” He also says that his character Tom has a lot of enthusiasm and wants what is best for the island.
Finally, MARVEL and H.E.R.B.I.E. get to kick off the presentation, having everyone singing Don’t Stop Believin’. Kevin Feige takes over the stage, and what all those people who stood in line for days to see. AVENGERS: Endgame is going to be re-released, which will have Doomsday peeks. “In 2019, one cinematic event brought the world together; this is the encore.” Of course, if you’re going to be part of Marvel, you can trust that Doom masks and green cloaks will be part of the fun. That means over 7,000 people turned Hall H green with a wave of doom! He announces that Shawn Levy of DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE fame will be directing Ryan Gosling jumps into the franchise in the new GHOST RIDER film slated for a 2028 release date. Gosling says that Levy is the man behind the film, adding, “As you know, this is a character I’ve wanted to play for a very long time.” Feige also took time to congratulate Gosling on STAR WARS: Starfighter. Spider-Man: Brand New Day brings Jon Bernthal to the stage. The last time I saw him at Comic Con was in 2010 for THE WALKING DEAD, so I cheered a little bit louder for his return. He brought exclusive footage of Spider-Man and the Punisher fighting an out-of-control Smart Hulk!
Directors Jo and Anthony Russo are up for AVENGERS: Doomsday. Feige says he feels bad for people in the back of the hall, but then two platforms show the cast of the film. On one side are the X-Men and the other are the Avengers. New footage of DOOMSDAY is shown with Doctor Doom sitting on a throne. I enjoyed watching Reed Richards, played by Pedro Pascal, go against Robert Downey Jr. I swear this movie is going to be fun. It seems most of the audience side with Doom when Robert Downey, Jr. says “It’s not easy being green!” I’m sure Kermit the Frog can attest to that comment. Let’s not forget Ryan Reynolds taking his shot at the stage wearing what he called a “Canadian Tuxedo,” which was really Deadpool's suit, but instead of the regular colors, it was totally grey. He also didn’t want to mess up his tux with anything Doom-related.
To wrap up the Marvel panel, a Black Panther III logo shines as Feige and director Ryan Coogler announce that David Jonsson will take up the role of the new Black Panther as the son of T
Challa, with a release date of December 15, 2028. Coogler says, “The last time we were together, we got to make a movie; we introduced a character that was the son of the character that the late Chadwick Bosem played.” The crowd gave him an amazing welcome.
It has been another long but very eventful and informative day packed with so many surprises, so many announcements, and ending with some of the coolest Marvel surprises. Tomorrow is the last day; hold your tears because you still have time to get there for deals on the last day and all the outside fun you can handle. Don’t worry, I’ll be there as well because I want to get slimed!
Until then….
Day Two of Comic Con 2026 Brings Rings and Zombies
Jeri Jacquin
The second day of San Diego Comic-Con International has the lines full and longer to get into Hall H today, and for the Marvel panel tomorrow. The sun held off long enough to get in the doors, but the cooling down has to wait until everyone settles. That’s difficult when six thousand nine hundred and ninety-nine people are finding a seat – yes, that would make me number seven thousand. It is time to rekindle friendships that come together once a year but feel like we were together just yesterday. It’s also a chance to see more costumes all in one place, and they, as always, are amazing and creative.
The morning begins with two of Prime’s upcoming slates, starting with BLADE RUNNER 2099. Premiering on November 25th on Prime Video, the eight-episode series (streaming all at once) is a 2017 sequel to BLADE RUNNER 2049. The panel includes Executive Producers Silka Luisa, Andrew Kosove, and Broderick Johnson, as well as Michelle Yeoh as Olwen and Hunter Schafer as Cora. The future world has made humans second-class citizens. The replicants won the past war, and the reborn Los Angeles is being run by non-humans. Cora is a human who has been running and changing identities and takes on the identity as a Blade Runner. Partnering up with Olwen, they have no time to waste as she is fading. Hall H is treated to an exclusive scene from the series. A messed-up Cora is being dragged into an interrogation room, and Olwen enters. After seeing Cora, she wonders if she has what it takes!
Yeoh says of her role, “Blade Runner is iconic, visionary, and one character that always stayed with me was Roy Batty. So when I was offered to play a replicant, I was like, yes! I really want to explore the character that I would never gotten the opportunity, who was not human. What is being human after all, at the end of the day.” Schafer also speaks on her role, “So Cora has been grinding and trying to survive under the sort of new order of the world. And that’s sort of where we meet her. She has to endure quite a lot to come out of it on the other side.
The next panel, THE LORD OF THE RINGS: The Rings of Power brings moderator Benjamin Walker and cast members Cynthia Addai-Robinson as Queen Miriel, Daniel Weyman as The Stranger, Jamie Campbell Bower as Celeborn, Ismael Cruz Cordova as Arondir, Charlie Vickers as Sauron/Halbrand, Benjamin Walker as Gil-galad and Owain Arthur as Prince Durin IV. Speaking about becoming part of the cast, Bower says, “It came forward, and I just jumped at the opportunity. I got the phone call in my car, and I burst into tears and Facetimed my brother and, yeah, and it’s felt like that ever since. It really has. I have felt so grateful to be here, and you guys have done an amazing thing. It’s a privilege, it really is, so thank you.” Cordova follows that emotional moment up with, “Can I add something here real quick because there are a lot of Jamie-fans out here. He is one of the best things that has happened to us, I think, having Jamie join us on the cast. He is one of the most special people, folded right in, the biggest heart, the greatest actor, and we are just incredibly grateful to have you, really.” You could hear hearts melting through the whole room, especially when the two actors give a warm bro-hug.
The premiere date is set for November 11th on Prime Video (November is a big month then!). The teaser shown in Hall H finally shows the forging of the One Ring at Mount Doom and the outbreak of the War of the Elves and Sauron. Ringwraiths are not just on screen but stand on the Hall H stage as Sauron corrupts the Nazgnagol! There are reunions that get interrupted, open war in Middle-Earth, the Elven kingdom, and a weird Orc alliance that I want to see play out. Now, with a five-year time jump since Eregion has fallen, include (omg!) Simon Pegg as The Balrog, Eddie Marsan as Thrain, Andrew Richardson as Anarion, Zubin Varlar as Khamul the Easterling, Adam Young as Marnukh, and Daniel Weyman as the one and only Gandalf the Grey. LOTR: The Rings of Power will be released in three parts: four episodes on November 11th, two episodes on November 18th, and two on November 25th.
AMC grabs the next two panels beginning with THE WALKING DEAD: Dead City. Moderator Dalton Ross from Entertainment Weekly, also Executive Producers Scott M. Gimple, Seth Hoffman, Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Negan, and Lauren Cohan as Maggie. Other cast members on stage are Aimee Garcia as Renata and Raul Castillo as Omar. So much has been brought up about the third season, and a few are that the fourth and final season of THE WALKING DEAD: Daryl Dixon with Norman Reedus and Melissa McBride will come in 2027. Gimple surprised the audience with the announcement that Emily Kinney will return as Beth during Season 3. Let’s see how that plays out. Aimee Garcia also gives her video diary on set along with a first look at Season 3. Of course, the few lucky ticket holders will be at The Loft later tonight to see the premiere of the show and have a little fun while they are at it.
This season, Maggie and Negan want to start a community in Manhattan, but that’s hard to do when there is always someone around the corner who wants to take what you have. Hopefully, the characters of Maggie and Negan have finally calmed down a little and gotten to the point of survival. Hoffman is the showrunner, and he seems to be guiding the ship in a good direction. Having been around the franchise for years, his writing has led to some stellar episodes. Morgan says there is an underlying shift in the new season and that Negan moves away from conflict into a more “multidimensional” person. “We are making the show we have wanted to do three years ago,” says Morgan. Also, his new bestie is none other than Jimmi Simpson as Dillard; check out the bar trailer for that juicy (literally) bit of info.
Conrad also talks about the reunion with sister Beth for an alternate-reality episode. She stresses that it is “incredibly deep and moving,” telling the audience they will need tissue. I always love a tissue warning. She also talks about the change in Maggie, and it is in part to Aimee Garcia’s character Renata, who helped her get through garbage “buried under years of hurt and resentment.” (Let’s hope that applies to Negan!) I’d like to see a calmer Maggie that’s for sure. I’ll find out soon since the wait is almost over as THE WALKING DEAD: Dead City premieres July 26th on AMC and AMC+.
The next panel from AMC is the smash hit LESTAT, moderated by Jacqueline Coley. Also on stage are Executive Producers and Showrunners Hannah Mascovitch, Mark Johnson, and Rolin Jones, along with Jacob Anderson as Louis, Assad Zaman as Armand, Eric Bogsian as Daniel, Sheila Atim as Akasha. So where is Lestat himself, Sam Reid? Well, he is in Australia doing the stage production of Doubt. Before diving deeper into the panel, there are some incredible announcements that must be shared. First, (hold your breath) the series will officially be returning for a fourth season, but (wait for it), it will return as ANNE RICE’S QUEEN OF THE DAMNED (yes, you can scream now!). It will be taken from her third book, The Vampire Chronicles. “We cannot wait to continue the journey with QUEEN OF THE DAMNED, one of the most iconic stories in Anne Rice’s mythology. Watch our established and beloved characters confront Akasha with their world, and ours, very much hanging in the balance,” says AMC's Dan McDermott.
Save a little scream because there is a sizzle reel of Sam Reid’s performing at a New York concert with The Vampire Lestat: One Night Only LIVE. The exclusive trailer shows Atim as Akasha calling upon the women of the world to basically get rid of men completely. If you have read any of Anne Rice’s books, you know why she is the way she is. She makes her stance fairly clear with, “And I say this to you now, do not let them shape you into the size of their cage. Women, get up out of the ditches where they have thrown you, and come with me now to where the men are gathered, and do what you have long longed to do, kill them all.” Atta girl!! I mean, that’s what happens when you touch things that shouldn’t be touched, Lestat!
HBO’s LANTERNS is the next panel set to premiere on August 16th in an eight-episode season and air weekly (also on Max). Josh Horowitz is the host of the panel that includes executive producer Damon Lindelof, co-creators Chris Mundy and Tom King, along with cast Kyle Chandler, Aaron Pierre, Garret Dillahunt, and Poorna Jagannathan. Chandler plays Hal Jordan, and Aaron Pierre is John Stewart, and they are partners in an investigation into terrestrial murder. This happens Earth-based but across two distinct timelines, 2016 and 2026 (wouldn’t Loki and the TVA love that!). Dillahunt and Jagannathan are William and Zoe Macon who cross paths with Hal and John. Other cast include Ulrich Thomsen as Thaal Sinestro and, as the audience lost its mind about, Nat Fillion as Guy Gardner. If that wasn’t enough, Fillion dropped by, sending the audience into a frenzy as he reminded us all that he had an obligation to be in Hall H. “So sorry, somebody left my email off the invite list to this event. I don’t know if you know this, but I’m kind of a big deal. There is a building outside with my face on it legally; I’m required to be here. I brought my rig.”
Finally, to close off Day Two of Hall H, it's just something so amazing and spectacular; I’m just a kiddie gal. The whole place is in an uproar for SPACEBALLS: The Comic Con Panel. The cast is on stage, but first, the audience has to be combed to find Rick Moranis, and the audience could not get enough of him chanting “Rick! Rick! Rick”; it was amazing! Back on stage, Mel Brooks sent his greetings via video message, but hey, the guy just turned 100; give him a break. In his message, he said the sequel could not be called The Search for More Money because he actually found the money. “It was in my basement. So, we don’t need any more money at this point.” He signed off his message with “May the Schwartz be with you.” I laughed and cried at the same time. Besides, Mr. Moranis, Bill Pullman's son Lewis Pullman, Daphne Zuniga, Josh Gad, and director Josh Greenbaum all take a seat. A bit of footage has debuted, and even though the film is still several months away, I’ll take what I can get. The story? Well, it seems Lone Starr and Barf are missing as Princess Vespa needs a new group to go find them before Dark Helmet gets his little, tiny, black-gloved hands on them. Of course, Dark Helmet still wants the Schwartz, but who wouldn’t, right?
I love that Bill Pullman’s son is playing the son of Lone Starr. I’ve become a big fan of Lewis Pullman since his film opposite Sally Field, Remarkably Bright Creatures, which is on Netflix (definitely check that out). Lewis talked about how “incredibly bizarre and special it was to act alongside my father.” Pullman says of returning to the film four decades later that “the experience is amazing but now requires more naps and coffee.” Lewis Pullman read a very funny letter from his father as well! SPACEBALLS: The New One will be in theatres April 23, 2027, marking exactly 40 years from the 1987 iconic and classic film. Mark your calendars for this one!
That’s it for me on a full Day Two of San Diego Comic Con. It was a day full of surprises, trailers, announcements, and fans having the best time. Tomorrow is going to be insane, as the line outside Hall H can attest to. The line for the Marvel panel is long and getting longer, but always worth the wait.
See you then!
Day One of San Diego Comic-Con Has Begun
Jeri Jacquin
The day is sunny, and the sidewalks are buzzing with everything that Comic-Con is and has to offer. The lines started out a bit long, but that’s what happens when so many want to be the first in the door for exclusive merch! Where am I? Well, in Hall H, of course. That’s where my fun always is, and day one is no exception.
Hall H starts out with a bang as PERCY JACKSON AND THE OLYMPIANS brings their panel to the stage. Moderated by superfan Juju Green, the audience was treated to the cast with Walker Scobell as Percy Jackson, Aryan Simhadri as Grover Underwood, Charlie Bushnell as Luke Castellan, Tamara Smart as Thalia Grace, Levi Chrisopulos as Nico di Angelo, and Olivia Abercrombie as Bianca di Angelo. Executive Producer Craig Silverstein talks about the optics of the new season. “I think we felt the pressure of doing it right. I remember feeling good early on when we were showing Rick the concept…it was good, next step forward, next step forward, and we were conscious of that going into it, saying this is the first time we are going to see everything. I felt the pressure.”
Young Charlie Bushnell talks about his first time at Comic-Con. “It is crazy. I have never done something like this. It is crazy; it’s really wild. I’m glad I get to do it with all the cast.” Olivia Abercrombie also adds, “I’ve finally read all the books, trying to be the biggest nerd like all of you. It is incredible; I’ve never done anything this big, and seeing how much it means to people and it’s so neat to see how people love this. Walker Scobell talks about his character saying, “I think when you have been playing a character- we are on Season 3 now- you start to add things to your character that you don’t really do it on purpose. When you are not really thinking about acting like Percy, I think going into Season 3, I wasn’t thinking about being Percy or trying to think about how to make this story better. Things just come out, and that’s the cool part of doing this for the past five years. It’s crazy.”
Next Panel is MARVEL’S Wolverine: Deep Cuts with a panel that includes moderator Naomi Kyle, Marcus Smith, Mike Daly, Walt Williams, Jess Reiner-Reed of Insomniac Games, Eric Monacelli of Marvel Games, Liam McIntyre as the voice of Wolverine and Krizia Bajos as the voice of Jean Grey. Monacelli says of the story, “We made a deliberate choice in this game that the X-Men are part of this world; it is a new foray into the world of humans. We wanted to go with Team X. So Team X, it is a 1980’s ops that was formed in the 1960s, and it had a lot of mutants in there. It had Logan, it had Sabertooth, and for our game…” He holds off handing the reins to Marcus Smith, who continues, “So X-Men don’t exist in our universe; the mutants, they are out there and under threat. They need heroes; enter our team, Team X.” So this is the origin of Logan, Jean Grey, Mystique and Sabretooth called Team X and led by Mister Sinister. Look out for uber villains Bolivar Trask and Lady Deathstrike, along with the Reavers. That is a handful of information, so prepare yourself!
Marvel isn’t quite finished yet, their panel for Tokon: Fighting Souls is up next. Moderated by fighting game commentator and streamer Sajam, the panel also includes Takeshi Yamanaka, Amber Seitz from Arc System Works, Michael Francisco, Mike Deodato from Marvel Games and Comics, and voice actor Josh Keaton. Sajam asks the panel about the vision for the story. Michael Francisco speaks on the question with, “I think that’s a great question. Every great Marvel game starts with the story of the big bad. The person who motivates everyone into action. Then the core gameplay mechanics, and that’s how we landed on the Champion. He is obscure enough and reinvents himself into a version. Also, the Champion is an elder god, who has mastered every fighting style across the cosmos. He invites the values of core competition.”
The animated movie AVATAR AANG: The Last Airbender from Paramount+ is the next panel moderated by Janet Varney (the original voice of Korra) with co-creators Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko, director Lauren Montgomery, Eric Nam, who is the voice of Aang, Dave Bautista as Targa, Jessica Matten as Katara, Dionne Quan as Toph, and Roman Zaragoza as Sokka. Bryan Konietzko says the film is 2-D animation and to be patient to see what they have put together for next year. He says there isn’t anything else like it. On October 9th is when the film will be released.
Max Original brings STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE on stage for their first panel. Giving the audience a first look before it comes to the smaller screen, moderator Felicia Day brings out co-creators, exec producers, writers Chuck Lorre, Zak Penn, Bill Prady, and Kevin Sussman as Stuart, Lauren Lapkus as Denise, John Ross Bowie as Kripke, and Brian Posehn as Bert. Bill Prady promises that the series will have lots of surprises, and to prove that, the first episode might have a few people we all remember from The Big Bang Theory. That isn’t the only new idea, as Chuck Lorre explains. Using a single camera format is a change from the usual sitcom model. “The four-camera audience show is putting on a play every week, and beyond sitting on a couch and talking to one another, there’s not a lot you can do. The simple solution is to shoot it like a movie!”
The storyline is that Stuart Bloom tries to bring back reality after messing up a device built by Sheldon and Leonard. Now he is in Armageddon and now running around an alternate-universe. Taking place in a comic book shop, you can’t be at Comic Con with creating a comic book! The cover art is done by Jim Lee and Alex Sinclair and will be made available to fans who are at SDCC. So, look for your copy while they are out there to be had! That being said, look for STUART FAILS TO SAVE THE UNIVERSE on Max!
Now, it’s time to take in some sun and visit all the sights and sounds of downtown. There is so much to see and experience, but first, I have to hit the Pendry for their amazing artistry in doughnut making, then maybe over to Bob’s Burger place and then over to the Grand! Of course, behind the Convention Center and anywhere else my feet want to take me. See what I mean? So much to do, so little time!
Preview Night Begins San Diego Comic-Con International for 2026
Jeri Jacquin
Yes, it has been a year as San Diego Comic-Con International returns to the Convention Center in Downtown San Diego. That means the streets will be taken over by costumes, comic seekers, specialty item seekers, and those looking for fun in the streets. Preview Night is a chance to be the first to see everything that the next four days has to offer.
This year’s cover for the Comic-Con Guide was done by artist Richard Blake. He chose to turn San Diego into a futuristic place. Currently, he is occupied with the short works Metal Hurlant and Astrolabe. His work can be found on Instagram at @evolvedisguise.
Personally, I’m excited to visit Tribble Toys (#5611). They always have such unusual items, and I am a fan of anything unusual. This year they have limited-edition items, and this year’s exclusive is a Tribble Crew Set. Chronicle Books (#1508) is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Emily the Strange and items that are not available in stores yet. You can also enter to win a Chronicle Books Prize Pack; good luck!
One of the destinations I have to visit is Earthshot (#5526) because I am a huge PROJECT HAIL MARY fan. Sloosh will have real-time telescope viewing for those who want to see the real Tau Ceti and 40 Eridani A. I’m just hoping to see Rocky! Booths that are participating this year include Titan (#5537) with pins, figures and panels that include Night of the Living Dead, Blade Runner Comics, Conan the Barbarian and Smallville’s Kristin Kreuk.
Badali Jewelry (#715) has original jewelry from such iconic works from J.R.R. Tolkien’s LORD OF THE RINGS, as well as Pierce Brown’s RED RISING. Insight Editions (#2129) is offering some amazing exclusives, including Eli Roth’s Ice Cream Man and Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth. There will also be guest appearances and signings. It is VIZ (#2813) 40th Anniversary and you know their exclusive giveaways are going to be amazing and iconic. Genseven Creations (#4804) celebrates such works as The Rescuer, Luna Goes to the Moon, Shelton the Skeleton, and The Behavior Monster.
Don’t forget to make your own Funko Pop (#5045) where you can personalize a Funko Pop to look just like you, or maybe you as your own superhero! It is easy to build it yourself, suit it up just as you see yourself, and get a few accessories. I mean, who doesn’t need a few superhero accessories?
Fun booths also includes DC at #4545, Hasbro at #3231, Mattel #3029, Lego (#2829), and so many more. The studios brings their booths with Hulu Animayhem (#4229), Star Wars (#2913), Nickelodeon (#4113), Pluto (#3729), and Marvel (#2329).
San Diego International Children’s Film Festival is also a participant during SDCC. I have been a juror for many years and seen some of the most amazing shorts, animation, and films. There are works from around the world, and it is a day to hear from the animators and filmmakers. I can’t wait to see what has been submitted this year, and every year I’m always surprised.
San Diego Central Library also has programs related to SDCC. They provide the Comic-Con Conference for Educators and Librarians. Their panels speak on the power of comics in education and speak on what it takes to integrate comics in the classroom. At the Neil Morgan Auditorium, web series and other fan panels with creators offer a chance to see and hear from authors and creators.
There is also the opportunity to participate in the 50th Robert A. Heinlein Blood Drive. The Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel is this year's location. For your donation, there are gifts such as a free Spider-Man T-shirt given out by Marvel Studios, and some donors will be awarded big prizes. So, stop by Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to help someone who needs it and get a little swag as a thank you.
Don’t forget the Comic Con Masquerade on Saturday in Ballroom 20. The on-stage costume competition has been a tradition since 1974. It’s truly an opportunity to see some of the best costumes. There is entertainment and awards, so attend and see what dedicated costuming looks like at Comic-Con. Her Universe also has a Fashion Show at the Seaport Ballroom on Thursday.
Finally, on Friday is the 38th Annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Award ceremony at the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront. Think of it as the Oscars, and it was named for the pioneering comics creator and graphic novelist Will Eisner. The award is given out in 32 categories for works in 2025. Attend the ceremony and cheer on those who have put their heart and soul into their work.
Preview Night doesn’t allow enough time to cover everything in the Convention Hall! Outside, there is so much to see and do; translated, it means it will be a long night. That’s the best part of San Diego Comic-Con International. So much to see, so much to do that it all goes by too quickly!
Now, remember what I say every year: put on your best and most comfortable tennis shoes because you will be breaking records with your steps. Also, this year, San Diego is under a heat advisory, so please dress accordingly and make sure to keep those water tumblers full. Having fun means making sure we all stay hydrated.
Have the best time!!
