Comicpalooza is officially returning to the George R. Brown Convention Center in downtown Houston. Conveniently attached to the Hilton Americas-Houston via indoor skybridges, this massive, state-of-the-art venue is perfectly equipped to host one of the most anticipated pop culture events of the year. Over the last decade, Comicpalooza has steadily grown to become one of the premier conventions in the southern United States. Year after year, the event continues to attract top-tier celebrities, legendary comic book creators, and thousands of passionate fans. It has built a reputation on a beautiful tradition: honoring the “old school” roots of retro fandom while simultaneously embracing the “new school” of modern geek culture.
For fans of modern superhero media, the timing of this year’s convention could not be more perfect. Marvel fans are currently riding a wave of massive hype following the recent second-season finale of the Daredevil: Born Again series, which just wrapped on Disney+. For those who can make it to the convention floor in Houston this weekend presents an opportune time to celebrate the expanding street-level corner of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and be a part of the firsthand action.
A Star-Studded Lineup: The New School of Heroism
Keeping with their signature tradition of balancing contemporary hits with nostalgic classics, Comicpalooza organizers have lined up an incredible roster of headliners. Leading the charge for modern television enthusiasts are major stars from the incredible Disney+ series Daredevil: Born Again.
Attendees will have the chance to see Vincent D’Onofrio, whose commanding performance as Wilson Fisk (The Kingpin) has defined the darker side of Marvel television. Joining him is Krysten Ritter, who brought the cynical, hard-hitting private investigator Jessica Jones to life with unforgettable grit. Rounding out this powerhouse trio is Wilson Bethel, known to fans as the volatile Benjamin Poindexter (Bullseye). Having these three powerhouse actors in the same building offers an electric preview of what is to come in the MCU.
Entering the Grid: Classic Sci-Fi and Nostalgia
For those deeply invested in classic sci-fi and retro fandom, the convention offers an unparalleled trip down memory lane. This year features a monumental mini-reunion celebrating the legacy of Wachowski cinema. Fans of The Matrix can look forward to seeing Laurence Fishburne (Morpheus), Joe Pantoliano (Cypher), and Marcus Chong (Tank) in a rare gathering that honors one of the greatest science-fiction films ever made.
The nostalgia does not stop in the digital world. The legendary Lou Ferrigno, who famously brought The Incredible Hulk to life in the classic live-action television series, will meet fans and sign autographs. He is joined by Esai Morales, recognizable for his villainous turn in the Mission: Impossible franchise and his work on Caprica. Pop culture icon Edward James Olmos (Battlestar Galactica) and martial arts star Mark Dacascos, both of whom left an indelible mark on Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., will also be featured guests.
Adding to the eclectic mix of nostalgia are blaxploitation film pioneer Pam Grier and Steve Burns, the beloved original host of the children’s television classic Blue’s Clues.
Legendary Voices and Diverse Creators
Voice acting royalty will also take center stage in Houston. The guest list includes Steve Downes, the unmistakable voice behind Master Chief in the Halo franchise. He will be joined by Rick and Morty stars Harry Belden and Spencer Grammer, alongside Rino Romano, beloved for voicing Batman in the classic 2000s animated series The Batman.
Immerse yourself in an exciting array of activities all weekend long! From amazing guests to panels covering a variety of popular topics and fandoms, plus new and returning special attractions, family-friendly activities, entertaining acts, a live art event, retro gaming, cosplay competitions, and more — there is no shortage of entertainment!
Beyond Hollywood, Comicpalooza will play host to major stars from the world of professional wrestling, comic book illustration, literature, and digital content creation. Whether you are hunting for rare back-issues, looking to network with fellow creators, or eager to see your favorite stars on stage, this year’s event is shaping up to be an unmissable celebration of all things nerd.
Purchase admission, autograph, and photo opportunities here: PASSES / PHOTO OPPS AND AUTOGRAPHS
Friday, May 22
Box Office Hours 1:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hours 2:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. (1:30 p.m. for VIPs)
Programming Hours 2:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Saturday, May 23
Box Office Hours 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hours 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (9:30 a.m. for VIPs)
Programming Hours 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Sunday, May 24
Box Office Hours 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hours 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (9:30 a.m. for VIPs)
Programming Hours 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
