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Fan Groups At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Role Playing, Podcaster, Sci Fi, Superhero, Re-Creation Organizations Enhance Experience At Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, August 9-12

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., July 31, 2012 – Bringing their favorite cult movies and TV shows, comics, charities and other interests to life, fan groups will again be on hand at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con.  Organizations supporting Star Wars, Ghostbusters, “Star Trek,” and Jurassic Park are among those who will roam the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center floor, August 9-12, many in elaborate costumes – and all making the day just a little more fun for attendees.

Fan groups scheduled to attend Wizard World Chicago Comic Con include:

  • 501st Midwest Garrison, the Illinois chapter of The 501st Legion, a Star Wars Imperial costuming club. The 501st is dedicated to the movie-quality costumes of the “villains” of the Star Wars universe.
  • Comics4kids, literacy champions who collect, receive, purchase, and inherit comic books and then give them away to children for free in hopes of improving literacy and encouraging imagination, as well as promoting the comic book collecting medium as a hobby.
  • Cosplay Chicago, giving, a place to meet, talk and share everything and anything in the world of cosplay. It is set up for all of those that share the addiction of cosplay.
  • D20 Girls, who try to promote a very positive image of female gamers.  They break down stereotypes, aren’t barbie dolls, don’t come in one size, and don’t come in one shape… They are Gamers, and, yes, Girls Game Too!
  • DVM Podcast Empire, which presents some of the funniest and most entertaining fan podcasts about TV favorites from epic sci-fi like “Doctor Who,” “Torchwood” and “The Event” to high concept drama like “Lost,” “FlashForward” and “Person Of Interest.”
  • Ghostbusters: Chicago Division, the Chicago “franchise office” in support of the popular cult movie favorite, hoping to keep the Windy City clean for years to come.
  • Gothams Finest, a group of like-minded individuals who enjoy costuming as members of the DC universe. Everyone had the action figure, watched the movie, and read the comics. No one has ever owned costumes like these.
  • Heroes Fallen Studios, a non-profit 501c-3 veteran based organization that supports our troops by telling their real-life stories based on their service in Iraq and Afghanistan.
  • Jurassic Park Legacy, the prime information source of Jurassic Park Universe knowledge, with its ever-popular, and all-inclusive “Jurassic Park Encyclopedia,” sprouting many of the efforts put forth into “costuming” research and the like for the community.
  • Mario Godiva Fitness, a fitness expert, celebrity trainer, and master trainer/international presenter for Kangoo Jumps who started in the fitness industry at 18 and has over 12 years of experience. He teaches group fitness classes, privately trains, travels and teaches master classes and holds trainings.
  • Musical of the Living Dead, an original musical parody of classic zombie films and musical theatre. Featuring music inspired by everything from Gershwin to Green Day, the show follows the lives of 10 very different people trapped in a farmhouse seeking refuge from the horde of brain-eating (and dancing) zombies outside.
  • The Nerdologues, a sketch comedy show created by a group of comedians that have trained and performed at iO and Second City. The Nerdologues explores nerd and pop culture through hilarious sketches, and allows the performers an outlet for soul touching monologues about growing up nerdy.
  • Sugar Gamers, a female-oriented organization local to Chicago with a focus on bringing women together who enjoy video gaming, also welcoming comic book fans, cosplayersand others. The Sugar Gamer community hosts one of a kind events geared towards the interests of its members, and makes a point to be present for all the Chicago cons.
  • USS Chicago, a chapter of STARFLEET, The International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc. and is based in Homewood, Ill., a south suburb of Chicago.  The USS Chicago also enjoys a charter with The Empire, a Klingon themed club where members can explore Klingon fandom and culture.
  • WGTR “World Grand Theft Radio,” a multi media company with its own radio station “now nine years strong” and TV station, comic/graphic arts studio and live broadcasting from events all over the USA. With over 30 original shows a week live, “our mission to make your on air dreams come true!”

William Shatner, Stan Lee, Scott Bakula, Tom Felton, Jon Bernthal, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and WWE® Superstars CM Punk® and John Cena®, notable artists Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo and dozens of others will attend Wizard World Chicago Comic Con.

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the event, including hours, celebrities, creators, vendors, VIP and photo opportunities, programming schedules, evening entertainment, autographs, sponsorship and volunteer information and more, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

Kids Day At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Sunday, August 12, Is ‘Kids Day’ At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Face Painting, Ghostbusters Reading, Arts & Crafts, Bubble Show, ‘Kid-Friendly’ Booths, Passport Program, Costume Contest Lead Special Children’s Programming At Donald E. Stephens Convention Center; Kids Under 10 Free With Paid Adult

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., July 12, 2012 – In what has become an annual tradition, Sunday, August 12, is Kids Day at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con.  From face painting, a Ghostbusters reading, arts and crafts, ballon artists, a special Bubble Show, kids costume contest, Wizard World Kids Passport program and more, there are activities all day (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) for the 10-and-under set.

Admission to Kids Day and the entire Wizard World Chicago Comic Con for kids 10 and under is free with a paid adult (two free kids per adult).

Some of the highlights of Kids Day include:

  • Wizard World Chicago Comic Con Passport (all day) – upon arrival, kids should go directly to the Kids Day booth to pick up a Passport, which will guide them to kid-friendly booths, activities, celebrities and artists.  Kids who earn stamps at each stop will win a prize.
  • Ghostbusters Reading (11 a.m.) – Who ya gonna call? Bring the little ones to a special story time reading by the Ghostbusters. Kids can interact with the Ghostbusters as they ask trivia and answer any questions the young ones have always wanted to ask.
  • Superhero Arts and Crafts (noon) – This is not an ordinary arts & crafts session, this is specifically made for superheroes! Kids can come join the Justice Twins, Wonder Woman and Supergirl to make their very own superhero mask to wear for the Kids Costume contest.
  • Kids Costume Contest (1 p.m.) – Too cute to resist! It’s like Halloween in August as kids show off their best costumes and win prizes.  Hosted by our very own superhero, Jarrett “The Defuser” Crippen.
  • Face painting and balloon artists (all day) – Talented Wizard World face painters have kids as their canvas, with butterflies, kitty whiskers, flowers and more.
  • Kid-friendly celebrities (all day) – Well, we like to think every Wizard World celebrity loves kids, but a few will be stamping Passports and saying an extra hello.  Check out the list on arrival.
  • Kid-friendly artists (all day) – Visit super-talented artists in Artists Alley for a Passport stamp and maybe a commissioned piece!  Look for the “Kid-Friendly” sign at their respective tables.

Top celebrities such as William Shatner, Stan Lee, Scott Bakula, Tom Felton, Jon Bernthal, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and WWE® Superstars CM Punk™ and John Cena®, notable artists Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo and dozens of others will attend what is shaping up as the biggest Wizard World show ever and the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

Comic Creators at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo, J. Scott Campbell Among Superstar Creators To Attend 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Five Eisner Award Winners Including Stan Lee, Eight Nominees And 300+ Artists And Writers To Join Standout Celebrities At Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, August 9-12

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., June 28, 2012 – An All-Star lineup of comic and toy creators, including notables Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo, J. Scott Campbell and many others from around the world will populate Artist Alley at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 9-12 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  Among the special guests are five Eisner Award winners, including Hall of Famer Stan Lee, and eight nominees of the prestigious honor.

In addition to Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”), Pérez (“Superman,” “JSA”), Capullo (“Batman,” “Spawn”) and Campbell (“Avengers vs. X-Men,” “Spider-Man”), the head of the roster includes Daniel Acuña (“Wolverine,” “Avengers”), Rodolfo Migliari (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), Brom (“Dungeons & Dragons,” “The Plucker”), “CAFU” (Carlos Alberto Fernandez Urbano) (“Superboy,” “X-Men”), Humberto Ramos (“Amazing Spider-Man,” Impulse”), Paul Jenkins (“Batman,” “Hulk”), Ken Kelly (“Star Wars,” “Star Trek), Pat Lee (“Iron Man,” “Wolverine”), Mahmud A. Asrar (“Supergirl,” “Adventure Comics”), Budd Root (“Cavewoman”), Shane Davis (“Superboy,” “Bruce Wayne – The Road Home”), Rob Lean (“Superboy,” “Lady Death”), R.B. Silva (“Superboy,” “Supergirl”), Barry Kitson (“Uncanny X-Force,” “Avengers”), Clay Mann (“Gambit,” “Dark Reign: Elektra”), Mike McKone (“Green Lantern,” “Spider-Man”), Yanick Paquette (“Wolverine: Weapon X,” “Wonder Woman), Michael Golden (“Daredevil,” “The Punisher”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”), Doug Wheatley (“Aliens,” “Conan”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”), Chris Burnham (“Batman Incorporated,” “The Amory Wars”), Mark Texeira (“Wolverine,” “Black Panther”) and David Mack (“Kabuki,” “Daredevil”).

Many top local Chicagoland artists such as Burnham and Eisner Award Winner Art Baltazar (“Superman Family Adventures,” “Tiny Titans”) will also be on hand.

Eisner winners scheduled to attend the show are Lee, Baltazar, Pérez, Paul Jenkins (“Hulk,” “Origin”) and Dave Dorman (“G.I. Joe,” “Indiana Jones”).  Nominees include Pacheco, Ramos, Mack, Eliza Frye (“The Lady’s Murder,” “Lucky House”), Phil Hester (“Wonder Woman,” “Daredevil”), Rafael Nieves (“The Apocalypse Plan,” “Bob Howard: Plumber Of The Unknown”), Ben Templesmith (“Wasteland, “Buffy”) and Billy Tucci (“Birds of Prey,” “Sgt. Rock).

As the impressive list of creators shows, Artist Alley at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con covers virtually every popular character ever seen in comics, movies and other media.

In addition to the superstar creator lineup, the expanded, four-day event features more than 50 celebrities, including headliners like William Shatner, Scott Bakula, Tom Felton, Jon Bernthal, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and WWE® Superstars CM Punk™ and John Cena®, in what is shaping up as the biggest Wizard World show ever and the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

Kevin Sorbo added to Wizard World Chicago Lineup

A ‘Herculean’ Addition:  Kevin Sorbo To Attend 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Top TV Star For More Than Two Decades Joins 50+ Other Celebrities, Dozens of Top Creators At Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, August 9-12

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., June 20, 2012 – Kevin Sorbo, known across the globe for his portrayal of the title character in the popular “Hercules: The Legendary Journeys” series, will appear as a special guest at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 9-12 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  Sorbo, who has enjoyed continuous success on television for the past 20 years, will meet fans, sign autographs and pose for photos at Wizard World’s longest running and highest-attended show.

The immense popularity of five initial two-hour “Hercules” telefilms in 1993 resulted in the launch of a weekly series by 1994 and helped launch Sorbo’s path to stardom. The series not only became a breakout hit by becoming the number one first-run program in syndication, it also passed “Baywatch” as the most watched TV show in the world.  The innovative action hour revitalized the entire action/adventure genre on television and fostered two spin-off series, “Xena, Warrior Princess”, and “Young Hercules”.  Sorbo also directed two episodes of the show, and co-wrote one installment.

Following the success of “Hercules,” Sorbo went on to star in the lead role of “Captain Dylan Hunt” in “Gene Roddenberry’s, Andromeda.” The series, based upon writings from the late “Star Trek” creator’s archives, debuted as the number one hour show in first run syndication and held that spot throughout it’s five year run from 2000-2005.

Sorbo will join other headliners like William Shatner, Stan Lee, Tom Felton, Scott Bakula, Jon Bernthal, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino and WWE® Superstars CM Punk™ and John Cena®, notable artists Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo at the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con (August 9-12), produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

WWE® Superstar John Cena® To Appear 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

WWE® Superstar John Cena® To Appear Thursday, August 9 At 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Cena Appears on Opening Day from 4-8 p.m. at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., June 13, 2012WWE® Superstar John Cena® will appear as a special guest on Thursday, August 9, Opening Day at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, it was announced today by Wizard World.  Cena will be on hand at the event from 4-8 p.m., and will meet fans, sign autographs and pose for professional photo ops.

Cena’s appearance kicks off an expanded, full four-day Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 9-12, in what is shaping up as the biggest Wizard World show ever and the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

One of the most popular WWE Superstars since his debut in 2002, Cena combines his athleticism, charisma, strong work ethic and genuine personality to make him one of the brightest stars in WWE and its hit cable program, Monday Night RAW on the USA Network.

“I am looking forward to meeting the enthusiastic fans at my first Wizard World event,” said Cena. “I have heard a lot about the charged-up atmosphere, and I can’t wait to experience it for myself.”

A powerful marketing force with outsized personality and charm, Cena has had numerous Hollywood roles, including The Marine, 12 Rounds, Legendary, The Reunion and Nickelodeon’s teen comedy trilogy Fred: The Movie.

“We are excited to welcome WWE Superstar John Cena to the Wizard World family to help us kick off our longest-running and largest show, Wizard World Chicago Comic Con,” said John Macaluso, CEO, Wizard World.  “His addition continues our commitment to providing fans with an outstanding experience.”

The announcement follows the hugely successful Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con event which featured WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, all five “Star Trek” captains and one of Hollywood’s fastest-risers, Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers), earlier this month.

WWE® Superstar John Cena® VIP Experience @ Chicago Comic Con Tickets are available at http://wizardworld.ticketleap.com/johncenavip/#.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
August 9-12, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30, 2012 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28, 2012 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2, 2012 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD, 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 30 – June 2, 2013 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

“The Situation” Unveils Comic Cover Art

First Look:  New Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino Comic Book Unveiled

Comic Created By Sorrentino, Superstar Artist Greg Horn, Produced by Wizard World, MPS Entertainment Scheduled For Release At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con In August

NEW YORK, May 30, 2012 – “The Situation” as a superhero is about to become reality.  Just weeks after announcing his latest venture, an “abs-first” foray into the world of comics, pop culture icon and reality television star Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino is unveiling the cover of his Situation comic book produced by Wizard World and MPS Entertainment and painted by superstar artist Greg Horn.  The first books are due on shelves in time for Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 9-12, at which Sorrentino will make his first appearance in support of the new project.

The first artwork depicts “The Situation” fully charged and ready to go.

“I was confident that an amazing artist like Greg Horn would come up with a great look, but I was still blown away by his painting,” said Sorrentino.  “It has me more excited than ever to see what’s coming next.”

The team of artists and writers collaborating on the effort include Eisner Award winning writer Paul Jenkins (Wolverine: Origins, Batman, Hulk, Spider-Man), pencil and inks by Talent Caldwell (Superman, X-Men, G.I. Joe), and coloring by Paul Mounts (Avengers, Ultimate X-Men, Wolverine, and Thor).

“This team we’ve assembled is our commitment to put out a comic book of the highest quality that will have a compelling story and amazing art,” said John Macaluso, Wizard World CEO.  “Our creative team is hard at work creating a book that will appeal to a wide new audience, and will also interest long-time comic fans.”

About Wizard World:

Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
May 31 – June 3 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30 – Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28 – Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – Dec. 2 – Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con

Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino To Attend Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino Fist-Pumping His Way To Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 11

It’s a “Situation” as the Reality TV Star & Future Comic Book Superhero Turns Up The Heat In the Windy City!

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., May 16, 2012 – Pop culture icon, reality TV star and soon-to-be comic book superhero Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino will take his “GTL lifestyle” to the Midwest this summer when he attends Wizard World Chicago Comic Con on Saturday, August 11, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  “The Sitch” will meet fans, pose for photo ops, sign autographs, and maybe even give a sneak peek at what his new comic book might look like.

Last month, Sorrentino and Wizard World announced a publishing and development deal to create a comic book superhero based on “The Situation” and his family.  The series will be written and drawn by some of the comic book industry’s leading artists and writers.

In Chicago, Sorrentino joins an impressive list of celebrities like William Shatner, Bruce Campbell, Stan Lee, Tom Felton, Nina Dobrev and WWE® Superstar CM Punk™ attending what is shaping up as the biggest Wizard World show ever and the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

“We are thrilled to welcome our partners Mike ‘The Situation’ Sorrentino and his family to their first Wizard World show,” said John Macaluso, CEO, Wizard World.  “Chicago is our largest event, which is perfect for someone like Mike, who knows a thing or two about big crowds and enthusiastic fans.”

“I am looking forward to being a part of the Wizard World experience,” said Sorrentino, who grew up as a comic book fan.  “It’s exciting to think about how many fans of comics, TV and pop culture will be there, and I’m honored to be included with stars like William Shatner, Stan Lee and Bruce Campbell.”

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012-13 DATES *****
May 31 – June 3 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12 –  Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30 –  Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28 –  Wizard World Austin Comic Con
November 30 – December 2 –  Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con
TBD 2013 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con

Shatner, Ryan, Lee at Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

William Shatner, Jeri Ryan, Stan Lee, WWE® Superstar CM Punk™ Headline Expanded 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con

Nina Dobrev, Tom Felton, Bruce Campbell, Jon Bernthal, 50+ Other Celebrities, Dozens of Top Creators Set For Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, August 9-12

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., April 4, 2012 – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, which for nearly two decades has thrilled hundreds of thousands of fans with standout celebrities, top-notch superstar artists, VIP experiences and more, rolls out an expanded, full four-day show, August 9-12 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  More than 50 celebrities, including headliners like William Shatner, Jeri Ryan, Stan Lee, Jon Bernthal and WWE® Superstar CM Punk™, notable artists Carlos Pacheco, George Pérez, Greg Capullo and dozens of others are already signed up to attend what is shaping up as the biggest Wizard World show ever and the Midwest’s No. 1 Pop Culture Convention.

The international pop culture icon Shatner (“Star Trek,” “T.J. Hooker”) will appear on Friday, Aug. 10, and Saturday, Aug. 11, Ryan (“Star Trek: Voyager,” “Boston Public”) on Sunday, Aug. 12, Eisner Award Hall of Famer and comic book legend Lee and Bernthal (“The Walking Dead,” The Ghost Writer) on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and WWE® Superstar CM Punk™, the current WWE®  champion, on Saturday.

“Wizard World Chicago Comic Con continues to grow in all areas, from celebrity guests to Artist Alley to evening entertainment to VIP experiences, so much so that we’ve made it a full four-day show for the first time,” said John Macaluso, CEO, Wizard World.  “William Shatner, Jeri Ryan and Stan Lee are at the top of a deep celebrity roster that will connect with fans of all ages.”

The announcement follows the recent news that one of Hollywood’s fastest-risers, Chris Hemsworth (Thor, The Avengers), will headline Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 2.

The longest-running and highest-attended show annually on the Wizard World calendar, 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con will also feature movie and television stars such as Nina Dobrev (“The Vampire Diaries,” CHLOE), Kate Mulgrew (“Star Trek: Voyager,” Remo Williams), Bruce Campbell (Army Of Darkness, Evil Dead), Tom Felton (Harry Potter, Rise of the Planet of the Apes), Amy Acker (“Angel,” The Cabin In The Woods) and dozens of others.

Eisner Award winner Pérez (“Superman,” “JSA”), nominee Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”) and Capullo (“Batman,” “Spawn”) are joined in Artist Alley by Rodolfo Migliari (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), “Brom” (“Dungeons & Dragons,” “The Plucker), “CAFU” (“Superboy,” “Action Comics”), Ken Kelly (“Batman,” “Star Wars”) and Pat Lee (“Spider-Man,” “Iron Man”), among a first-class roster of special guests.

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/home-ch.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworldcomiccon.com.

***** SAVE THE 2012 DATES *****
April 14-15 – Wizard World Toronto Comic Con
May 31 – June 3 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12 –  Wizard World Chicago Comic Con
September 29-30 –  Wizard World Ohio Comic Con
October 26-28 –  Wizard World Austin Comic Con
TBD –  Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con

Around the Tubes

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If you missed last night’s episode of Graphic Policy Radio, you can catch it online.  While you’re listening, here’s some more news for you to check out.

Around the Blogs:

Otago Daily Times – Comic books to help young patientsA great article about Medikidz comics and how they’re being used in healthcare.

20th Century Danny Boy – Original Art Stories: Steve Geppi’s Million Dollar Art Deal Gone Bad – An interesting article about a fairly controversial figure on the comic book industry.

Kotaku – Sunday Comics – Each week Kotaku brings us some great web comics.

Con Coverage:

Time Out Chicago – Wizard World Chicago Comic Con 2011 | Photos + wrap-up

More Than 500 Creators To Attend Chicago Comic Con

Official Press Release

Huge Comics Creator Gathering Of More Than 500 To Attend Wizard World Chicago Comic Con This Weekend

More than 20 Eisner Winners Plus Dozens Of Notables Including Mike Deodato Jr., Jim Cheung, Brian Azzarello, Eduardo Risso Among 515 Scheduled To Appear

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., August 9, 2011 – In what is believed to be the largest single gathering of creative talent ever at a comics convention, a total of 515 artists, writers and producers are scheduled to attend Wizard World (OTC: WIZD.PK) Chicago Comic Con, Thursday through Sunday at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.  World-class creators, including Mike Deodato Jr. (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Wonder Woman”), Jim Cheung (“Avengers,” “Uncanny X-Men”), Brian Azzarello (“Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance,” “100 Bullets”),  Eduardo Risso (“Adventures of Superman,” “Green Lantern”) and scores of others will meet fans, sign autographs and sketch.

Among other superstar artists attending are Dave Johnson (“Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance,” “Deadpool”), Humberto Ramos (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “The Spectacular Spider-Man”), Patrick Gleason (“Batman & Robin,” “Green Lantern Corps: Recharge”), Gregg Hurwitz (“The Crime Writer,” “The Tower”), Michael Golden (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Bill Sienkiewicz (“Elektra: Assassin,” “Moon Knight”), Gary Friedrich (“Ghost Rider,” “Sgt. Fury and his Howling Commandos”), Stuart Moore (“Namor: The First Mutant,” “Wolverine Noir”), Ariel Olivetti (“Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight,” “Last Avengers Story”), Damion Scott (“Batman,” “Spider-Man”), Mike Grell (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness), Carlo Barberi (“Deadpool,” “Batman”), Ethan Van Sciver (Green Lantern”, “Superman/Batman”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “X-Force”) and Mark Texeira (“Wolverine,” “Spider-Man”).

“We are honored to have an unprecedented collection of the most talented creators from all over the world at Chicago Comic Con this weekend,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO.  “Their collective body of work encompasses the most well-known franchises in the world and a huge variety of genres and styles.  No comic fan will want to miss out on this opportunity.”

The list includes 37 Will Eisner Comics Industry Awards winners (21) and nominees (16).  Headliners among the winners include Azzarello, Friedrich, Johnson, Moore, Risso and  Sienkiewicz.  Many Greater Chicago-based artists will be in attendance as well.

Other Eisner winners in attendance include Franco Aureliani (“Billy Batson And The Magic Of Shazam!,” “Tiny Titans”), Art Baltazar (“Tiny Titans,” “Billy Batson and the Magic of Shazam!”), Gabriel “galvo” Bautista (“PopGun,” “Pulpo Anthology”), Ian Boothby (“Simpsons Comics,” “Futurama”), Geof Darrow (“Daredevil,” “Marvel Zombies 5”), Dave Dorman (“Star Wars,” “Batman”), Pia Guerra (“Y: The Last Man,” “Dr. Who: The Forgotten”), Paul Jenkins (“Spider-Man,” “Incredible Hulk”), Peter Maresca (“George Herriman’s Krazy Kat: A Celebration of Sundays,” “Little Nemo in Slumberland”), Nina Matsumoto (“Yokaiden,” “The Last Airbender Prequel: Zuko’s Story”), Andrew Pepoy (“The Adventures of Simone & Ajax,” “Fables”), Nate Powell (“Swallow Me Whole,” “Sounds of Your Name), Ken Steacy (“Spawn,” “Star Wars”) and William Stout (Paleontological Artist).

The full list of creators at Chicago Comic Con is available at http://www.wizardworld.com/exhibitors-ch.html.

Many of the artists will participate in informative and instructive programming panels, including the popular “Wizard Art School” and “Wizard Writing School” series, throughout the weekend.

Patrick Stewart, Bruce Campbell, Christopher Lloyd, Felicia Day, Academy Award Winner® Lou Gossett Jr. and James Marsters top the list of celebrity attendees at Chicago Comic Con.  The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Chicago Comic Con is the seventh stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Thursday, August 11, 5 – 9 p.m.; Friday, August 12, noon – 8 p.m.; Saturday, August 13, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, August 14, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/chicago.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); four-day all-session tickets are $50 ($60 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult).  VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2011/12 DATES *****
August 11-14, 2011 – Chicago Comic Con
September 24-25, 2011 – Los Angeles Comic Con
October 22-23, 2011 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
November 11-13, 2011 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
March 24-25, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
April 28-29, 2012 – Anaheim Comic Con
May 19-20, 2012 – Big Apple Comic Con
June 1-3, 2012 – Philadelphia Comic Con
October 2012  – New England Comic Con
December 8-9, 2012 – Miami Comic Con

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