WRITER | LISA BECKER CAMPBELL

Celebrating 30 Years

Motor City Comic Con is turning 30 and planning the most impressive convention in its history, May 17-19.  An expansive list of celebrities and more than 60,000 devotees are expected to pack the 180,000-square-foot Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.

“Our fans have been so supportive over the years, and I am grateful,” stated Michael Goldman, founder and convention promoter. “I am happy to be here 30 years later and to offer more content and interaction than I could ever have dreamed of.”

“We really wanted to blow this out of the park, with bigger celebrities and new content,” stated executive director Miriam Kruger.

When founded in 1989, the fledgling Motor City Comic Con attracted just a couple of thousand like-minded fans. Last year, the event drew 60,000, and even more are expected this summer. Keeping pace with a nationwide trend, this exhibition promises to be fun for the whole family, featuring beloved traditional events, exhibitors, vendors, and actors from television and movies as well as exciting new concepts.

Kruger is most excited by a new yoga session with two stars of the FX Network drama series Sons of Anarchy, Charlie Hunnam (who portrays ‘Jacks’ Teller) and Ryan Hurst (Opie Winston). “Yogis of Anarchy” is an introduction to Kundalini yoga that will take place Sunday morning. Limited spots are available and are open to event attendees only. Hunnam and Hurst will also host a panel discussion.

Another amazing first-time event is the appearance of three BBC Doctor Who stars — David Tennant, Billie Piper, and Freema Ageyman — for a joint signing on Sunday. Sporkle Trivia and Geek Speed Dating are also new this summer.

Even the program guide is exceptional! Renowned comic book artist and animator Esad Ribic, who is well known for work on various Marvel Comics titles, created a special-edition cover.

Of course, legendary media and comic celebrities from galaxies far, far away will be hosting panels and Q&A sessions and be available for autographs and professional photo ops.

This summer’s highlights include iconic Star Trek star George Takei as well as Rainn Wilson of Star Trek: Discovery and The Office. Wilson will be joined by fellow Office coworkers, stars Leslie Baker (who portrayed curmudgeon Stanley Hudson) and Creed Bratton (the clueless quality assurance director).

Additional popular headliners include:

  • Two stars of Superman and Superman II: Sarah Douglas (Kryptonian supervillain Ursa) and Jack O’Halloran (Non)
  • Kristian Nairn, who plays Hodor in the HBO fantasy series Game of Thrones
  • Tom Ellis, star of the American television series Lucifer
  • Shawn Michaels, who is regarded as one of the greatest professional wrestlers in history

In addition to the expansive list of celebrities, the event will deliver traditional favorites such as an Anime Room, a Cosplay contest with celebrity judges, an official Cosplay photographer offering complimentary photos, an after-party on Saturday night, and many kid-friendly activities.

Book and multimedia dealers from across the country will display their wares; 300-plus comic book creators, writers, and artists will be featured. The marketplace will also offer an extensive variety of pop-culture merchandise from hundreds of eclectic vendors in genres such as steampunk, fantasy, and more.

New to Comic Con?

Thinking of attending this year because you’re a fan of The Office? Here are a few tips for newbies:

Comic Con is like a tailgate at a baseball or football game. The main reason people go is to meet like-minded people. Perhaps you want to chat with others who watched when Star Wars debuted the series that redefined Hollywood blockbusters.

People bond over creative characters and the emotional connections of fictional protagonists. It is likely that one of the heroes or heroines has overcome a challenge that inspires an individual. This year’s debut of Captain Marvel from Marvel Studios grossed $153 million.

Cosplay is one of the most popular events of the weekend. Fans create original costumes based on characters from movies, comic books, TV, animation, and beyond, and publicly celebrate who they are by donning the persona of someone that means something to them, or supports something they care about. Participation is optional, and prizes are awarded. If you go:

  • Don’t hesitate to ask to take a picture when you are impressed by the costume of a cosplayer. Most of them love the attention.
  • Ask your favorite vendor for a “mystery box” if you want a creative souvenir. They are filled with surprises and generally don’t disappoint.
  • Be prepared to be patient. Lines can be long, so plan accordingly. Enjoy!

Visit MotorCityComicCon.com for updates and additional information.