12 JULY 2026
Think fast: what's your favorite, can't miss, #1 SDCC panel pick for 2026?
If your answer is that you're indifferent to panels, well, this isn't for you. Everyone else: what did you think? Did your existing SDCC plan get blown to smithereens? Or is it looking like more of a steady, enjoyable blend of interesting plans with free time for offsites, the floor, and your hotel pool?
What we already knew
That Marvel and Apple TV were going to make Saturday Hall H a beast. While Friday programming and Friday night events are appealing in their own right, many people will sacrifice both in favor of lining up for a wristband and organizing their battle plan for a front section seat.
We recently learned Kate McKinnon was coming but it was still exciting to see her name in a panel description.
Mike Flanagan bringing Carrie to the Con was something we knew - but why isn't there a bloody prom offsite? Or actual nerd prom, where you can vote for your most annoying hotel roommate to be crowned/dumped pig's blood on? Missed opportunity.
The animation panels weren't surprising - but it's comforting to see that continuity.
What we didn't know - at least, I didn't
The Midnight Universe. Did everyone know about this but me? I'm intrigued - I think we all need a new enthralling comic book world to disappear into right now.
Meow Wolf partnering with Titmouse. I'd heard MW was coming to SDCC but not that they were working with Titmouse. Their panel with AREA15 on creating immersive experiences sounds interesting too.
David Lynch's art getting a moment in the SDCC sun. I believe he sent a taped message for a Twin Peaks panel years ago, but this was unexpected and I'm really looking forward to it.
The screening of Stuart Fails to Save the Universe. I don't think I realized it was at this stage already.
Batman: Knightfall Part 1 - I was surprised and thrilled to see this. I also didn't know Saucer Country was becoming a TV show but that's my failure to keep up with the news.
Overall verdict: a solid but not exceptional year. Not much in the way of jaw-dropping news but I think most of us who like panels will find enough to hold our interest. Most of the comic panels were predictable but still welcome news. Star Trek fans especially have some choice offerings, including a chance to celebrate the 60th anniversary (!) with George Takei - and I have to mention my friend's panel, Stars of Star Trek, which will revisit the actual stars and science of Star Trek.
Me personally: I sensed in advance this year would not yield much on my wishlist - news about the Dark Shadows animated series, a sneak peek at Sex Criminals, literally anything about Other Mommy, the list goes on. But I'm at peace because I've attained an SDCC serenity in which it's really more about the experience and seeing friends and discovering new things than hunting down specific items and panels. 2009 me, who shapeshifted into a jaguar every Preview Night, would not have believed it.
What about you? Are you more excited than ever? Do you have that one (or seven) top item or panel, the acquisition of which will drive your entire Con? Did you confirm your secret celebrity crush is coming?
I saw a mix of reactions online, so I'm curious. (Comic-Con is dying! Comic-Con is better than ever!) I'm ready for whatever - and I have to say again, as I do constantly, that often the best panels and parts of San Diego Comic-Con are unexpected. Looking back, it's very rare that I anticipated something at SDCC and then it turned out to be my new obsession. Often it's something I hear about late at night in a hotel bar, maybe catch it or not, and then hunt it down and fall in love with it.
I love that inherent spontaneity and surprise of SDCC - and if you're new, I bet you will too. So organize your panels, make your plans, but be ready for the unexpected. It might be the best part of your Con.
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