Comic-Con Returns to Normal in San Diego

San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is making a strong comeback after years of canceled or scaled-down shows due to the pandemic. The convention will be held at full capacity, with the suspension of mask and vaccination mandates based on local policies.

Taking place from July 19th to 23rd at the San Diego Convention Center, SDCC has already sold out with over 135,000 tickets purchased. The event is expected to attract thousands more pop culture enthusiasts, many of whom will dress up in cosplay.

David Glanzer, the chief communications and strategy officer of Comic-Con International (CCI), the non-profit organization that organizes the convention, mentions that people seem more relaxed this year. While CCI still officially encourages mask usage, there is expected to be less criticism or anxiety about it compared to previous events like April's WonderCon.

The major news for this year's SDCC is the return of DC Comics to the show floor. In 2019, DC combined its booth with Warner Bros., a change that received mixed reviews. After skipping the 2022 show due to budget cuts at Warner Bros. Discovery, DC is making a grand comeback in 2023. They will have a dedicated booth to reclaim their position as the focal point of the media section, featuring signings, photo opportunities, and merchandise sales. DC will collaborate with McFarlane Toys and Cartamundi for exclusive products.

However, the ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike poses uncertainty for SDCC. As of now, there is no settlement in sight, and WGA rules prohibit member screenwriters from promoting projects at the convention. The strike's impact may result in reduced participation from writers and a potential decrease in star appearances, particularly if the Screen Actors Guild joins the strike.

The WGA strike has already influenced Hall H presentations, leading Marvel Studios, HBO, Netflix, Universal, and others to skip their regular panels. Some speculate that this outcome could direct more attention towards comic books, which often get overshadowed by TV and film celebrities.

CCI hopes the strike will be resolved before the convention, emphasizing that Comic-Con will take place regardless. Glanzer acknowledges that the con encompasses various fandoms, including books, video games, toys, and costumes. However, if the strike affects any element of the convention, they will make the best of the situation.

Ticket sales have been a significant source of income for CCI, especially after experiencing a decline over the past three years. The tickets for the canceled 2020 show were honored for the 2022 edition. CCI's assets decreased from $28 million in 2019 to $12 million by 2022, highlighting the financial impact of the pandemic. Nevertheless, the immediate sellout of tickets for July 2023 indicates a positive outlook.