New York Comic Con is coming up fast — October 7-10 to be exact — and while this year’s show may be smaller than in the past, it’s still going to be one of the largest comics events in the pandemic era. And to get us in the mood, ReedPop just announced some of the programming highlights.
The most exciting news about NYCC 2021 is that the Javits Center expansion will be open! The new wing will include more than 500,000 sq. ft of contiguous exhibition space, a 5000-seat theater, a roof top farm, and (we’re told) lots of restrooms. This new space is absolutely going to change everything about events at the Javits for the better, pandemic be darned.
NYCC will be holding their programming in the expansion building, including the return of the Empire Stage as NYCC’s signature stage. And some big events will be held here: two panels with the cast and crew from fan-favorite STAR TREK: DISCOVERY on Saturday, October 9th and a special screening of new series STAR TREK: PRODIGY on Sunday, October 10th. Comedy Central block panel will also return on Friday, October 8.
The complete schedule of both live and virtual events will be released in the coming weeks.
Here’s a peek at some other highlights:
- ComiXology Originals presents: CONversations with Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo
Join celebrated comic book writer Scott Snyder (Batman, American Vampire, Wytches) and legendary comic book artist Greg Capullo (Batman, Dark Nights: Metal, Spawn) as they discuss their first creator-owned creation together from comiXology Originals: We Have Demons as well as their longtime friendship and working relationship in the comic book industry.
Saturday, October 9
- StarTalk Live- Science in Science Fiction
Science comedy and pop culture collide on Neil deGrasse Tyson’s award winning and Emmy-nominated talk show StarTalk. The show is hosted by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, the Director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. He is joined by celebrity comedian co-hosts, scientists and experts from around the world as well as his celebrity guests to discuss the science within science fiction. StarTalk Radio was the first popular commercial radio program devoted to astronomy, physics and everything else about life in the universe. Now in its 12th season as a radio show and podcast.
Thursday, October 7
- VIZ Media Official Panel
VIZ Panels are back! Come get the latest news on popular manga and anime like MY HERO ACADEMIA, ONE PIECE, YASHAHIME, and many more. Joining us are super-talented voice actors Johnny Yong Bosch, Cristina Vee and more! Come play games, win prizes, and have a blast!
Saturday, October 9
- The Shows That Changed the Way We Watch TV
Inspired by Rotten Tomatoes’ new book The Ultimate Binge Guide, this panel will look at the most influential – and totally bingeable – series of all time, from Game of Thrones all the way back to The Twilight Zone. Rotten Tomatoes editor-in-chief Joel Meares will sit down with some of the sharpest TV critics in the game and dig into the shows that shaped history, the role technology has played in how serialized stories are told, and which super producers are pushing the form forward today.
Friday, October 8
- GHOST HUNTERS LIVE!
This is the revival of the series that started it all. discovery+ presents the paranormal investigators and stars of mega hit series Ghost Hunters, LIVE! at Comic Con! Join original team leader Jason Hawes and Steve Gonsalves, Dave Tango and Shari DeBenedetti, along with special guests Amy Bruni and Adam Berry on the ultimate panel for the superfans of the paranormal OGs. Those in attendance will have the chance to ask their own burning questions and get a sneak peek of the new season with the team back together. Plus, they’ll receive an EXCLUSIVE giveaway and be among the first to hear an exciting announcement from the team!
Saturday, October 9
- Cosplay Central Crown Championships 2021 – NYCC Qualifier
The EuroCosplay Championships and the Crown Championships of Cosplay have joined forces to create one global competition: The Cosplay Central Crown Championships!
As previously announced, extensive health and hygiene protocols will be in place for the event – including proof of vaccination and mandatory mask wearing. For those who are unable to attend in person, digital tickets for the event are available, which give access to livestreams of major panels, audio streams for smaller panels, and VOD access to the recordings for 30 days after the event.
