New York Comic Con 2025: A Pop Culture Extravaganza Awaits!

The Panels: A Comic Lover’s Dream Lineup

NYCC 2025 is pulling out all the stops with a stacked lineup of comics panels that will leave fans buzzing and creators inspired. Here’s a rundown of some of the must-see panels, as highlighted by Bleeding Cool and other comics news sources like Comic Basics and The Popverse:

Thursday, October 9: Kicking Off with a Bang

• Celebrating Five Years of The Department of Truth (11:15 AM – 12:15 PM, Room 1C03)
  James Tynion IV and Martin Simmonds take the stage to reflect on the Eisner-nominated The Department of Truth, a series that feels more like a chilling prophecy than fiction. Moderated by Steve Foxe, this panel will dive into the past five years and tease what’s next for this conspiracy-laden masterpiece. Perfect for fans of mind-bending storytelling

• DC Black Label, and Beyond! (12:30 PM, Room 409)
  DC Comics is redefining adult graphic fiction with its Black Label imprint. Expect surreal explorations of identity, dystopian visions, and genre-defying stories. Moderated by DC Executive Editor Chris Conroy, this panel will showcase unique voices in horror, fantasy, and speculative drama. If you love comics that push boundaries, this is your spot

• NacelleVerse Unleashed: Biker Mice from Mars, RoboForce & More (12:45 PM – 1:45 PM, Room 1C03)
  Brian Volk-Weiss (The Toys That Made Us) and the Nacelle team unveil their animated universe, connecting fan-favorite franchises like Biker Mice from Mars and RoboForce. Expect sneak peeks at new shows, toys, and comics—a nostalgic treat for ’90s kids and creators looking to tap into retro-inspired storytelling.

• Go, Speed Racer, Go!: The Return of an Icon (2:30 PM – 3:30 PM, North-Room 406.2)
  Mad Cave Studios revs up with a new Speed Racer comic series. The creative team will discuss reimagining this iconic anime and manga for a new generation. Fans of high-octane action and creators interested in adapting classic IPs won’t want to miss this

• Marvel Comics: Spider-Man and His Venomous Friends (3:30 PM, Room 405)
  Spider-Man in space? Mary Jane as Venom? Buckle up for a wild ride with VP & Executive Editor Nick Lowe, Senior Editor Jordan D. White, Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski, writer Al Ewing, and more. Get the scoop on Amazing Spider-Man, Venom, and the return of Knull, plus an exclusive giveaway comic for attendees

• Comixology Presents: Lights, Camera…Comix! (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM, North-Room 406.3)
  Join actor Thomas Jane (The Punisher), writers Marc Bernardin, Steven DeKnight, Gary Phillips, and Pornsak Pichetshote to explore the intersection of comics and film/TV. Moderated by Rob Salkowitz, this panel is a goldmine for creators bridging mediums and fans who love multimedia storytelling.

• BAD IDEA: The New York Comic Con Panel (5:15 PM – 6:15 PM, Room 1C03)
  BAD IDEA brings the heat with masterminds like Derek Kolstad (John Wick), Matt Kindt, and Joshua Dysart. Expect exclusive looks at Planet Death, Ordained, Survive, and more, plus a convention-exclusive giveaway. This panel is a must for fans of bold, unconventional comics and creators pushing the envelope.

Friday, October 10: Superhero Showdowns and More

• DC Comics: Gotham City (12:30 PM, Room 409)
  Walk the dark streets of Gotham with top DC creators, including Alex Segura (The Question), Christian Ward (Batman: City of Madness), and Dan Watters (Nightwing). Moderated by DC Group Editor Rob Levin, this panel promises news and surprises for Batman fans and creators fascinated by gritty urban narratives.

• A Live Comic Podcast Crossover Event (12:45 PM – 1:45 PM, Room 1C03)
  The Short Box, Comic Book Couples Counseling, and The Oblivion Bar unite for a live crossover podcast, celebrating the best comics and creators of 2025. Expect surprises and lively discussions—a perfect blend for fans and creators who love the community vibe of comics fandom.

• Marvel Fanfare with C.B. Cebulski (2:00 PM, Room 405)
  Marvel’s Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski chats with artist J. Scott Campbell about his iconic style and new J.S.C. Variant Covers. Attendees score an exclusive giveaway comic featuring Campbell’s art. A must for Marvel fans and aspiring artists looking to break into the industry

• Marvel Comics: X-Men (3:30 PM, Room 405)
  The Age of Revelation dawns for the X-Men! Join Nick Lowe, Tom Brevoort, C.B. Cebulski, Jed MacKay, and Ryan Stegman for secrets, first looks, and cover reveals. Stay for an exclusive giveaway comic and get ready for a bold new mutant future.

• ONI Press: The Loudest Thing in Color (3:30 PM – 4:15 PM, North-Room 406.3)
  Oni Press celebrates its most successful year yet with EC Comics, Adventure Time, and Biker Mice from Mars. Join President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson and creators for a look at upcoming comics and graphic novels. A vibrant panel for fans and creators alike

• TMNT: What’s Next for the Heroes in a Half Shell? (5:15 PM – 6:15 PM, Room 1C03)
  New York is TMNT’s home turf! IDW’s Ninja Turtles comics take center stage with Gene Luen Yang and Freddie Williams II, teasing the Battle Nexus event and more. Fans will be shouting “Cowabunga!” by the end.

• Jim Lee & Friends (6:30 PM, Room 405)
  DC President and Chief Creative Officer Jim Lee hosts a star-studded panel with surprise announcements and top creators. This annual event is a highlight for fans and creators dreaming of big reveals in the DC Universe.

Saturday, October 11: The Comics Crescendo

• Todd McFarlane and J. Scott Campbell: Legends in Conversation (11:45 AM – 12:45 PM, North-Room 406.1)
  Two titans, Todd McFarlane and J. Scott Campbell, share insights on their careers and the evolution of comics. A rare chance for fans to hear from legends and for creators to learn from industry pioneers.

• DC K.O.: What’s Next (12:15 PM, Room 409)
  Dive into DC’s All In initiative with DC K.O., Knightfight, and Absolute comics. Moderated by Paul Kaminski and Rob Levin, this panel features creators like Al Ewing, Jason Aaron, and Scott Snyder. A must for fans and creators tracking DC’s bold new direction.

• Image Comics – Let’s Talk Comics LIVE: Brian K Vaughan (12:15 PM – 1:15 PM, Room 1C03)
  Master storyteller Brian K Vaughan discusses his new OGN Spectators and updates on SAGA. This intimate conversation is a goldmine for fans and creators who admire character-driven storytelling.

• Marvel Comics: Next Big Thing (3:30 PM, Room 405)
  The weekend’s premier comics panel! C.B. Cebulski, Nick Lowe, Wil Moss, and Phillip Kennedy Johnson reveal Marvel’s future, including the climactic Ultimate Endgame. Stay for an exclusive giveaway comic.

• Transformers & G.I. Joe: A New Era for The Energon Universe (Time TBD)
  Robert Kirkman, Joshua Williamson, and more dive into the Energon Universe, connecting Transformers, G.I. Joe, and Void Rivals. Expect big reveals and surprises for fans and creators invested in interconnected universes.

Sunday, October 12: A Grand Finale

• X-Men: Days of Future Past Reunion (12:00 PM, Empire Stage)
  James McAvoy, Nicholas Hoult, and Elliot Page reunite to reminisce about their X-Men roles. This panel is a love letter to fans and a chance for creators to learn from actors who brought Marvel’s mutants to life.

Beyond Comics: TV, Movies, and More

NYCC 2025 isn’t just about comics—it’s a pop culture juggernaut! Here are some non-comics panels that fans and creators won’t want to miss:

• A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms (Thursday, 12:00 PM, Empire Stage)
  George R.R. Martin and stars Peter Claffey and Dexter Sol Ansell introduce HBO’s Game of Thrones prequel. A must for fantasy fans and writers crafting epic worlds.

• Mercy: Exclusive First Look (Thursday, 2:30 PM, Empire Stage)
  Chris Pratt, Kali Reis, and director Timur Bekmambetov unveil the sci-fi thriller Mercy. Perfect for creators interested in high-stakes storytelling and fans of futuristic crime dramas.

• Invincible Season 4 (Thursday, 5:30 PM Empire Stage)
  Steven Yeun, Gillian Jacobs, and Robert Kirkman tease Invincible Season 4. A can’t-miss for fans of animated superhero epics and creators studying adaptation.

• The Running Man (Friday, 11:00 AM, Empire Stage)
  Edgar Wright, Glen Powell, and Lee Pace preview the action-packed The Running Man. A thrilling panel for fans and creators inspired by Stephen King’s work.

• It: Welcome to Derry (Saturday, 11:00 AM, Empire Stage)
  Andy Muschietti and cast members like Taylour Paige and Jovan Adepo share never-before-seen footage from HBO’s It prequel. Horror fans and creators, this one’s for you

Other Things to Do at NYCC 2025

NYCC is more than just panels—it’s a full-on pop culture immersion! Here’s a rundown of other experiences to make your con unforgettable:

• Artist Alley: Meet superstar creators like J. Scott Campbell, Brian K Vaughan, and Gene Luen Yang. Perfect for fans seeking autographs and creators looking to network or pitch ideas. Bring your portfolio for feedback or snag a sketch

• Cosplay Central: Show off your costume or marvel at others’ creations at the Cosplay Central area. Participate in the Cosplay Championship or join photo ops. It’s a vibrant space for fans to express themselves and creators to draw inspiration from fan creativity.

• Exhibitor Floor: Browse booths from Marvel, DC, Image, Oni Press, and more for exclusive comics, merch, and collectibles. Check out Marvel Contest of Champions for hands-on demos or grab limited-edition items like the Peach Momoko Spawn #357 at Spectral Comics.

• Interactive Experiences: From gaming demos to VR setups, NYCC’s exhibitor floor offers hands-on fun. Try out new games or explore brand activations for immersive storytelling experiences.

• Autographing and Photo Ops: Meet celebrities like Chris Pratt, James McAvoy, or Steven Yeun for autographs and photos (details at NewYorkComicCon.com). A dream come true for fans and a chance for creators to connect with industry stars.

• Livestreamed Panels: Can’t make it to NYC? ReedPop and Paragon Creative Agency are livestreaming select Main Stage panels for free, so you can join the fun from anywhere

Experiences for Creators

NYCC 2025 is a creator’s paradise, offering unparalleled opportunities to learn, network, and grow:

• Portfolio Reviews: Publishers like DC, Marvel, and Image often host portfolio reviews in Artist Alley or at their booths. Bring your best work to get feedback from industry pros and maybe even land a gig

• Panels on Craft: Panels like Comixology Presents: Lights, Camera…Comix! and Todd McFarlane and J. Scott Campbell: Legends in Conversation offer insights into storytelling, art, and breaking into the industry. Aspiring writers and artists can learn from the best.

• Networking Opportunities: The Wednesday professionals-only day (October 8) is perfect for comic industry pros to connect with publishers, editors, and fellow creators. Plus, the show floor and after-hours events (like bar meetups) are great for casual networking.

• BAD IDEA’s Bold Approach: The BAD IDEA panel showcases innovative storytelling and unconventional publishing. Creators looking to think outside the box will find inspiration here.

Experiences for Fans

Fans, NYCC 2025 is your playground! Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Exclusive Giveaways: Panels like Marvel Comics: Spider-Man and His Venomous Friends and Marvel Fanfare offer exclusive comics. Arrive early to snag these collector’s items

• Celebrity Sightings: Rub elbows with stars like Glen Powell, Peter Claffey, or Elliot Page at panels or autograph sessions. The X-Men: Days of Future Past Reunion is a fan-favorite for mutant lovers.

• Community Vibes: Join the live podcast crossover at A Live Comic Podcast Crossover Event or connect with fellow fans at cosplay meetups. NYCC is a place to celebrate your fandom and make lifelong friends.

• Anime and Gaming Galore: Crunchyroll’s panels, like the One Piece discussion, and gaming booths like Marvel Contest of Champions cater to anime and gaming fans. Expect trailers, demos, and surprises

Tips for an Epic NYCC Experience

• Plan Ahead: The NYCC schedule is packed (check NewYorkComicCon.com for the full lineup). Prioritize must-see panels and use the NYCC app to stay organized.

• Arrive Early: Popular panels like Marvel Comics: Next Big Thing fill up fast. Get in line early to secure a spot.

• Stay Safe and Healthy: With large crowds, bring a mask and hand sanitizer to avoid “con crud.” Stay hydrated and take breaks to recharge.

• Explore NYC: After the con, check out comic shops like Midtown Comics or Forbidden Planet, or grab a slice at Joe’s Pizza to soak in the city’s nerdy vibe.

Why NYCC 2025 Is Unmissable

New York Comic Con 2025 is more than an event—it’s a celebration of creativity, fandom, and community. Whether you’re a fan screaming “Cowabunga!” at the TMNT panel, a creator pitching your dream comic to an editor, or a cosplayer strutting your stuff, NYCC has something for everyone. With panels featuring industry legends, exclusive previews of comics, TV, and movies, and a vibrant show floor buzzing with energy, this is the place to let your geek flag fly.

Tickets are on sale now (since June 25, 2025), so don’t wait—grab yours at NewYorkComicCon.com and join the pop culture takeover at the Javits Center! Whether you’re there for the comics, the celebs, or the sheer joy of being surrounded by 200,000 fellow nerds, NYCC 2025 promises to be an unforgettable adventure. See you in the Big Apple, true believers!