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Stewart, Campbell, Lloyd, Baccarin Headline Chicago Comic Con Aug. 11-14

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Official Press Release

Patrick Stewart, Bruce Campbell, Christopher Lloyd, Morena Baccarin, Felicia Day, James Marsters Among Headliners At Wizard World Chicago Comic Con, August 11-12-13-14 At Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

Ray Park, Julie Benz, Charisma Carpenter, Colin Ferguson, Lou Gossett Jr., Vivica A. Fox, Mimi Rogers, Among 500+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists & Creators Scheduled To Appear

NEW YORK and ROSEMONT, Ill., June 22, 2011 – North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as Wizard World Chicago Comic Con returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, August 11-14, with superstar guests Patrick Stewart, Bruce Campbell, Christopher Lloyd, Morena Baccarin, Felicia Day, Academy Award Winner® Lou Gossett Jr. and James Marsters headlining the list of celebrity attendees.  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.

Stewart (X-MEN, “Star Trek: The Next Generation”) will attend on Friday and Saturday only.  Campbell (“Burn Notice,” ARMY OF DARKNESS) and Day (“The Guild,” “Dr. Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog”) are scheduled to appear on Saturday and Sunday.  The three-time Emmy Award winner Lloyd (BACK TO THE FUTURE, “Taxi”) and Baccarin (“V,” “Stargate SG-1”) will be available on Saturday only.  Marsters (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” “Caprica”) is scheduled for Friday through Sunday.

Morena Baccarin (photo: Adriana Piltz)“Wizard World Chicago Comic Con is our longest running event, and we are excited to be bringing our most star-studded field of celebrities and artists ever to the Stephens Convention Center,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO.  “The show has huge stars like Patrick Stewart and Christopher Lloyd who are known all over the world, and, as always, features guests from some of the most popular film, TV and comics franchises like Star Wars, Buffy and Spider-Man.  This is by far the largest pop-culture event in the region, and the fans, vendors, guests and other attendees have rewarded us by coming in more record numbers every year.”

Wizard World Chicago is also an incredible place to meet and get sketches and autographs from some of the top international creators, many of whom rarely, if ever, appear in the U.S. This includes Mike Deodato Jr. (Brazil), Eduardo Risso (Argentina), Humberto Ramos (Mexico), Mico Suayan (Phillipines), Will Conrad (Brazil), Ariel Olivetti (Argentina), Pia Guerra (Canada) and more.

Wizard World also has a massive number of top comics creators scheduled for Artist Alley, such as Jim Cheung (“Avengers,” “Uncanny X-Men”), Brian Azzarello (writer, “Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance,” “100 Bullets”), Dave Johnson (“Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance, 100 Bullets”), Patrick Gleason (“Batman and Robin”), Michael Golden (“Spider-Man,” “Hulk”), William Stout (Paleontological Artist), Larry Elmore (“Magic: The Gathering”), Ben Templesmith (“30 Days of Night”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man: Turn off the Dark,” “Hero For Hire”), Freddie Williams II (“JSA All-Stars”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”) and hundreds of others.

In addition to Gossett Jr., the Chicago Comic Con celebrity roster includes a bevy of major award winners and nominees, including Emmy Award Winners LeVar Burton (“Star Trek: The Next Generation,” ROOTS), Peter Tork (“The Monkees”) and Phil Ortiz (“The Simpsons”), Emmy Award Nominees Mimi Rogers (AUSTIN POWERS, “The X-Files,”) and Pam Grier (“Smallville,” “The L Word”), Grammy Award Winner Tia Carrere (WAYNE’S WORLD, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”) and Tony Award Honoree Dan Fogler (BALLS OF FURY, GOOD LUCK CHUCK).

Other popular celebrity guests scheduled to be on hand at the event include Julie Benz (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Desperate Housewives”), Charisma Carpenter (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Angel”), Colin Ferguson (“Eureka,” THE OPPOSITE OF SEX), Vivica A. Fox (KILL BILL VOL. 1 and VOL. 2, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”), Kai Owen (“Torchwood,” “Fun at the Funeral Parlour”), Ray Park (STAR WARS: EPISODE 1, X-MEN), Gareth David-Lloyd (“Torchwood,” SHERLOCK HOLMES), Alaina Huffman (“Smallville,” “SGU Stargate Universe”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk,” “The King of Queens,”) and James C. Burns (voice actor, “Call of Duty: Black Ops”).  BOONDOCK SAINTS co-stars Norman Reedus and Sean Patrick Flanery will also reunite at the event.

The convention center floor will also feature several famous TV and movie vehicles for fans to pose with, including the Batmobile (original “Batman” series), DeLorean Time Machine (BACK TO THE FUTURE), The Mystery Machine (SCOOBY DOO) and Ecto-1 (GHOSTBUSTERS).

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 200 dealer booths.

And Sunday, August 14, is Kids Day at Chicago Comic Con, with face painting, balloons, a “passport” treasure hunt and other activities designed especially for kids!  Other special events include card gaming tournaments, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops) 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 – Chicago Comic Con
September 17-18  – New England Comic Con
September 24-25 – Los Angeles Comic Con
October 22-23 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
October 28-30 – Central Canada Comic Con (C4)
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
March 23-25, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
April 27-29, 2012 – Anaheim Comic Con
May 19-20, 2012 – Big Apple Comic Con
June 1-3, 2012 – Philadelphia Comic Con
December 8-9, 2012 – Miami Comic Con

Philadelphia Comic Con Announces Programming Schedule

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Official Press Release

‘Green Lantern’ Panels, Bruce Campbell, Billy Dee Williams, ‘Batman’ Q&As, ‘Kids’ Day,’ ‘Buffyfests’ Highlight Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con Programming

Julie Benz, Adam Baldwin, Margot Kidder Q&A’s, Evening ‘Zombie Beach Party,’ ‘Terminator’ Panel, ‘Wizard School,’ and Costume Contests Also On Tap For June 17-19 at Pennsylvania Convention Center

NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, June 2, 2011 – Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con today announced its diverse programming schedule, featuring unique celebrity Q&A’s, music, film screenings and discussions, artist schools, contests and more for the event, set for Friday through Sunday, June 17-19 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.

Some of the highlights include:

  • “Buffyfests” with “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer” stars Nicholas Brendon, Kelly Donovan, Mercedes McNab and Clare Kramer
  • “Green Lantern” franchise discussions with featured creators like Ethan Van Sciver, Carlos Pacheco, Shane Davies, Todd Klein and others
  • Rare Q&A sessions with Margot Kidder (“Lois Lane” from the SUPERMAN movies), Julie Benz (“Dexter,” “No Ordinary Family), Bruce Campbell (“Burn Notice,” ARMY OF DARKNESS), and Adam Baldwin (SERENITY, “Firefly”)
  • “Stargate Universe” Q&A with the beautiful tandem of Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson
  • “Kids’ Day” program with face painting, balloons, other fun activities specially designed for children
  • Popular panels with Billy Dee Williams and the “Dynamic Duo,” Adam West and Burt Ward of “Batman” fame
  • Sessions featuring stars of other huge multiplatform franchises such as STAR WARS (Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew, Daniel Logan), TERMINATOR (Michael Biehn, Kristanna Loken), “The Incredible Hulk” (Lou Ferrigno) and “The Walking Dead” (Chandler Riggs, Iron E. Singleton, Addy Miller)
  • Wizard Art School and Q&A’s featuring leading creators like Bill Sienkiewicz, Greg Horn, Humberto Ramos, Mike Grell, Francisco Herrera and others
  • The popular adult costume contest and fun kids costume contest with great prizes

Unless noted, Philadelphia Comic Con programming will take place in the designated panel rooms at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, and is included with admission to the event.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.  The full schedule is below:

Friday

2:00-2:30PM
Lou Ferrigno Q&A
Have your questions ready for the original Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno, or risk getting crushed. Don’t say we didn’t warn you. (Room B)

2:30-3:00PM
Margot Kidder Q&A
With a career spanning over forty years, and with countless roles on both the big and small screens, acting veteran Margot Kidder (Superman; Sisters; “Smallville”) makes a rare appearance at Philadelphia Comic Con to share her secrets to longevity in Hollywood. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Exposed: The Secrets Of Professional Wrestling
Ted DiBiase, Virgil and Dawn Marie give fans the low down on what’s real and what’s not in the world of professional wrestling. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Independent Filmmaking With Dan Fogler
Hollywood actor Dan Fogler (Balls of Fury; Fanboys; Kung Fu Panda) and his producing partner Thomas Sullivan will discuss making films outside of the mainstream Hollywood system, as well as the difficulties and freedoms of producing independent works. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Claudia Christian Q&A
“Babylon 5” beauty Claudia Christian shares the secrets to her multi-faceted success, and previews a sneak peek of her new Showtime series “Look.” (Room A)

6:00-6:45PM
Terminator Panel With Michael Biehn And Kristanna Loken
Michael Biehn (Terminator) and Kristanna Loken (Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines) team up to talk about their respective roles as Sgt. Kyle Reese and T-X in the blockbuster movie trilogy. (Room A)

Jonathan Tiersten Performance
Actor and musician Jonathan Tiersten -from the 80’s classic Horror film Sleepaway Camp, and his latest movie The Perfect House – will be performing his latest CD called We’ll See, which is featured in the film The Perfect House. Q&A will follow. (Room A)

Saturday

11:00-11:45AM
Buffyfest Q&A With Nicholas Brendon And Kelly Donovan
“Buffy The Vampire Slayer” star Nicholas Brendon (Xander Harris) sits down with his on and off-screen twin brother Kelly Donovan to take fan questions about life during and after the pop culture phenomenon. (Room A)

Digital Comics and the New Publishing Model (Room B)
Borders is failing and Comixology is trending. What does this mean for the future of comics? Get advice on formatting, marketing, publishing and more from creators who’ve successfully made the crossover from web to print. (Room B)

12:00-12:45 PM
Star Wars Q&A With Jake Lloyd, Peter Mayhew And Daniel Logan
The stars behind Anakin Skywalker, Chewbacca and Boba Fett take fan questions and discuss their thoughts on the evolution of one of the highest grossing film franchises in history. (Room A)

Mike Grell Q&A
The legendary comic icon behind classic Legion of Super-Heroes Tales and Warlord talks about his tips of the trade and shares his secrets from making it in comics. (Room B)

1:00-1:45PM
Billy Dee Williams Q&A
“Lando” lands at Philadelphia Comic Con! Don’t miss it as the coolest man in STAR WARS history sits down to take fan questions. (Room A)

Breaking Into Comics With Humberto Ramos, Francisco Herrera And Edgar Segura
Fan favorites Humberto Ramos (Wonder Woman; Astonishing X-Men), Francisco Herrera and Edgar Segura (Superman/Batman) team up to give out their tips on refining your art, pitching to publishers, and any other sound advice they can think of about working in comics. (Room B)

Smurfology 101
This year “The Smurfs” animated series will be celebrating its 30th Anniversary with a new feature film to be released later this summer. The loveable blue gnomes are preparing to Smurf their way into the pop culture landscape yet again! Follow the world’s leading Smurfologist Matt Murray as he traces the Smurfs roots from character concepts for an unproduced Belgian short film, to global TV superstars and beyond. Includes special glimpses from Murray’s upcoming book The World of Smurfs, due from Abrams Image in August. (Room C)

2:00-2:45PM
Boondock Saints Q&A With Norman Reedus And Sean Patrick Flanery
The pair known as Murphy and Connor MacManus in The Boondock Saints I and II reteam for a special Q&A session where they will share the details behind the movies, their careers, and everything you never got to see onscreen. (Room A)

Green Lantern Panel Part I
Some of the minds behind Green Lantern team up to discuss the writing and sketching processes behind one of comics’ most popular series. Featuring artists Ethan Van Sciver, Carlos Pachecho, Prentis Rollins and writer Tony Bedard. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Julie Benz Q&A
As a star of hit shows like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Dexter” and “No Ordinary Family,” Benz talks to fans about her extensive career, ups and downs in the industry and her thoughts on the new generation of sci-fi and fantasy on television. (Room A)

Digital Art School W/ Greg Horn
Superstar Marvel and DC artist Greg Horn (Blackest Night covers) leads a discussion on digital art and
takes you through his creative process. (Room B)

4:00-4:45PM
Batman And Robin Q&A With Adam West And Burt Ward
The original ’60s Dynamic Duo reteams for this one-of-a-kind Q&A, where Batman and Robin drop their masks and talk about their lady co-stars, the villains they faced and the wild nights after the show! (Room A)

Wizard Art School With Bill Sienkiewicz
Join Eisner Award winning artist Bill Sienkiewicz (Batman: The Widening Gyre covers), as he gives an insiders’ look at his art processes, and gives advice on his personal do’s and don’ts of the trade to new creators interested in sequential storytelling. (Room B)

5:00-5:45PM
Bruce Campbell Q&A
Best known for his roles on the big screen in cult classics such as Army of Darkness and Evil Dead, or as Sam Axe in the hit television show “Burn Notice,” Bruce Campbell has proven to be a force to be reckoned with both on-screen and behind-the-scenes as an actor, director and author. Don’t miss an opportunity to ask him questions when he makes a rare appearance at Philadelphia Comic Con. (Room A)

6:00-8:00PM
Costume Contest
Get your best costume together and come on down to Wizard World’s Philadelphia Comic Con costume contest for fun prizes and some of the craziest outfits you’ll see this weekend. (Room A)

7:00-9:00PM
SPECIAL FILM SCREENING – TBD (Room C)

8:00-9:00PM
Official Wizard World Zombie Beach Party
After the show, the party continues at The Zombie Beach Party! Professional makeup artists will transform you into a zombie for the night ($10 face painting fee), then let loose and party with DJ Kiltboy and Dave Ghoul. The Slotcars and The Sharkskins will also take the stage, and don’t miss out on the prizes for the most creative zombies of the night. Wizard World Comic Con attendees are free with wristband; guest tickets are $10. (Trocadero Theatre – 1003 Arch Street )

Sunday

Free Felix The Cat Prints
Visit Don Oriolo -CEO of Felix the Cat Productions- to pick up your free autographed Felix the Cat print. (Booth TBD)

11:00-11:45AM
Buffyfest Q&A With Mercedes McNab And Clare Kramer
Join the ladies known as Harmony and Glory on the hit TV show “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” as they discuss their days on the show and dish about what went on behind-the-scenes of the show that just won’t die. (Room A)

12:00-12:45pm
Walking Dead Q&A With Chandler Riggs, Iron E. Singleton And Addy Miller
AMC’s ambitious horror series based on Robert Kirkman’s ultra-hot zombie series from Image, now comes to life from director Frank Darabont (“The Green Mile”)! Check out this amazing preview of behind-the-scenes footage and extended clips along with a Q&A with some of the show’s stars. (Room A)

Green Lantern Panel Part II
Green Lantern artists Shane Davis and Tyler Kirkham and writer Todd Klein continue the Green Lantern discussion in part II of the series, sharing the storytelling processes behind some of your favorite comic minds. (Room B)

1:00-1:45pm
Stargate Universe Q&A With Alaina Huffman And Julia Benson (Room A)
Alaina Huffman and Julia Benson take to the stage to spill on their days as the leading ladies Tamara Johansen and Vanessa James from the wildly popular sci-fi series “Stargate Universe.” (Room A)

Kids’ Day Program – TBD (Room B)

2:00-3:00PM
Adam Baldwin Q&A
With roles on sci-fi classics such as Serenity, “Firefly,” “The X-Files” and “Angel,” Adam Baldwin’s extensive résumé speaks for itself. Don’t miss his Wizard World Comic Con debut, where he will sit down to answer fan questions and share his favorite moments from the shows we’ve all come to love. (Room A)

Kids’ Costume Contest
Bring kids 10 and under for this special event with fun prizes just for families and the youngsters. (Room B)

3:00-3:45PM
Sound Of Musical Interlude With Ethan Van Sciver
The halls are alive with the sound of…“music.” Ethan Van Sciver (Flash: Rebirth) invites you to spend the hour trapped in a small room discussing cannibalism, Wolverine, deviancy and all manner of filth and disease through the art of song. Not since Liberace has anyone tickled the ivories with such aplomb. Well, Richard Marx was good… but Ethan is good too! Come and see! (Room B)

Philadelphia Comic Con is the sixth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Friday, June 17, noon – 8 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/philadelphia.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 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.

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Philadelphia Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

***** SAVE THE 2011/12 DATES *****
June 17-19 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 11-14 – Chicago Comic Con
September 17-18  – New England Comic Con
September 24-25 – Los Angeles Comic Con
October 22-23 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
October 28-30 – Central Canada Comic Con (C4)
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
March 23-25, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
April 27-29, 2012 – Anaheim Comic Con
December 8-9, 2012 – Miami Comic Con

WWE Star Goldberg To Attend Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

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Official Press Release

WWE, TV, Movie Star Bill Goldberg To Attend Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con

Joins Bruce Campbell, Adam Baldwin, Pam Grier, 300+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comic Book Artists and Writers, June 17-19, 2011 at Pennsylvania Convention Center

Bill Goldberg (Photo: Adam Rickert)NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, May 16, 2011 – Wizard World Inc. (WIZD) is proud to announce that popular WWE professional wrestler, television and movie star Bill Goldberg has joined a standout list of celebrity guests scheduled to attend the 11th annual Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.  Goldberg, who will be making his first Wizard World event appearance, will meet fans on Saturday, June 18th.  The event, which will feature more than 300 celebrities, comic book creators and great guests, will be held June 17-19.

Goldberg followed in the paths of many wrestlers who have made the transition from the gridiron to the squared circle to become wrestling stars – he just did so faster and to a greater magnitude than anyone else in history. In only his second year in the business, Goldberg became one of the biggest names the wrestling business has ever seen. And now, Goldberg has transitioned from being a star in the WWE to a television and feature film star.

“Bill Goldberg is an iconic figure to a generation of fans of wrestling and the WWE,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO.  “He will bring a whole new crowd of fans to Comic Con and the city of Philadelphia. I just hope he doesn’t ‘Jackhammer’ me.”

In addition to Goldberg, other headline guests on the Philadelphia Comic Con guest list include Bruce Campbell, Adam Baldwin, Pam Grier, Vivica A. Fox, Julie Benz and Billy Dee Williams.  The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Goldberg was not a typical wrestling fan growing up, but instead focused most of his attention on football. An excellent player in high school, Goldberg starred as an All-SEC and All-American Nose Guard at the University of Georgia. When his career as a Bulldog was over, he eyed stardom in the National Football League. After spending time with the Los Angeles Rams and then winning the World Bowl with the Sacramento Surge of the World League of American Football, Goldberg signed on with the Atlanta Falcons in 1991. After three years with the team he suffered a torn abdominal muscle which put him out for the 1994 season. Goldberg was signed by the Carolina Panthers in 1995, but could not rebound from the injury sufficiently enough to play. He was thus forced to retire from football.

Goldberg never planned on becoming a professional wrestler. He crossed paths with many World Championship Wrestling stars while living in Atlanta. Though the world of wrestling was intriguing to him, joining the ranks of professional wrestlers was not an option that Goldberg seriously considered at the time. Later, Goldberg was working out in a gym owned by Lex Luger and Sting and was convinced by Sting to take a chance in the squared circle. After months of training in the WCW Power Plant, Goldberg made his official professional debut in WCW against Hugh Morrus, pinning the 300 pound wrestler. The next year and a half would be among the most remarkable periods in professional wrestling history.

Other wrestling guests scheduled to attend Philadelphia Comic Con include “The Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase, Virgil, Candice Michelle, Torrie Wilson, and Brimstone.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand at interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 200 dealer booths.

Philadelphia Comic Con is the sixth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Friday, June 17, noon – 8 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/philadelphia.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 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, Inc. 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 premiers, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World, Inc. also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, 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 *****
May 21-22 – Big Apple Comic Con
June 17-19 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 11-14 – Chicago Comic Con
September 17-18  – New England Comic Con
September 24-25 – Los Angeles Comic Con
October 22-23 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
October 28-30 – Central Canada Comic Con (C4)
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
March 23-25, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
April 27-29, 2012 – Anaheim Comic Con
December 8-9, 2012 – Miami Comic Con

Bruce Campbell, Adam Baldwin, Pam Grier, Vivica A. Fox Among Headliners at Philadelphia Comic Con

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Official Press Release

Bruce Campbell, Adam Baldwin, Pam Grier, Vivica A. Fox, Julie Benz, Billy Dee Williams Among Headliners At Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, June 17-18-19 At Pennsylvania Convention Center

Michael Biehn, Alaina Huffman, Julia Benson, Adam West, Burt Ward, John Schneider, Richard Roundtree, Mimi Rogers Among 500+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors

NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, April 25, 2011 – North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as the 11th annual Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con returns to the Pennsylvania Convention Center, June 17-19, with superstar guests Bruce Campbell, Adam Baldwin, Pam Grier, Vivica A. Fox, Julie Benz and Billy Dee Williams headlining the list of celebrity attendees.  The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

Campbell (“Burn Notice,” ARMY OF DARKNESS) was a huge hit at last year’s event, and will be appearing only on Saturday, June 18.  Grier (“Smallville,” “The L Word”), Fox (KILL BILL VOL. 1 and VOL. 2, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”), Benz (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” “Desperate Housewives”) and Williams (STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, BATMAN) have also been popular guests at Wizard World events.  Baldwin (FULL METAL JACKET, SERENITY) will be making his first appearance.

“The city and surrounding area have embraced Philadelphia Comic Con in a big way the first 10 years of the event, and last year’s was the most attended ever,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO.  “We have an even larger and more prestigious lineup of stars and creators and more in store for 2011.”

Other popular Philadelphia Comic Con celebrity guests include Michael Biehn (TERMINATOR, ALIENS), Alaina Huffman (“Smallville,” “SGU Stargate Universe”), Julia Benson (“SGU Stargate Universe, ROAD TO VICTORY), Adam West (“Batman,” “The Family Guy”), Burt Ward (“Batman”), John Schneider (“Smallville,” “Dukes of Hazzard”), Richard Roundtree (SHAFT, “Heroes), Barbara Nedeljáková (HOSTEL, SHANGHAI KNIGHTS), Mimi Rogers (AUSTIN POWERS, “The X-Files”), Lou Ferrigno (“The Incredible Hulk”), Margot Kidder (SUPERMAN, “Smallville”) and Peter Mayhew (STAR WARS).  BOONDOCK SAINTS co-stars Norman Reedus and Sean Patrick Flanery will also reunite at the event.

Fans can also meet their favorite comic creators and artists, including Humberto Ramos (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “The Spectacular Spider-Man”), Carlos Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”), Doug Braithwaite (“Heroes for Hire,” “Chaos War: X-Men”), Jim Cheung (“Avengers,” “Uncanny X-Men”), Bill Sienkiewicz (“Elektra,” “Assassin”), Arthur Suydam (“Marvel Zombies,” “Army of Darkness”), Minck Oosterveer (“Zombie Tales,” “The Unknown”), Greg Horn (“Spider-Man,” “Turn off the Dark”), J.G. Jones (“Final Crisis,” “Wanted”), Phil Jimenez (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Astonishing X-Men”), Ethan Van Sciver (“Green Lantern,” “Superman/Batman”), Mike Grell (“Green Arrow,” “Green Lantern”), Tom Raney (“Avengers Academy,” “Incredible Hulks”) and Shane Davis (“Bruce Wayne – The Road Home,” “JLA”)

The convention center floor will also feature several famous TV and movie vehicles for fans to pose with, including the DeLorean Time Machine (BACK TO THE FUTURE), General Lee (“Dukes of Hazzard”), The Mystery Machine (SCOOBY DOO), Hazzard County Patrol Car (“Dukes of Hazzard”) and Starsky and Hutch Torino.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 200 dealer booths.

Special events at Philadelphia Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” card game tournament, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops) and others.

Philadelphia Comic Con is the sixth stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled.  Hours are Friday, June 17, noon – 8 p.m., Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, June 19, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworld.com/philadelphia.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 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 is a producer of pop culture and multimedia conventions across North America that markets movies, TV shows, video games, technology, toys, social networking/gaming platforms, comic books and graphic novels. It has the rights to the names, marks, domains, customer lists and production rights for a portfolio of pop culture and multimedia conventions.

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a Philadelphia Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

Wizard World Toronto Comic Con 2011

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Official Press Release

Billy Dee Williams, Julie Benz, David Prowse, Daniel Logan, John Schneider, Scott Thompson Among Headliners At Wizard World Toronto Comic Con, March 18-19-20 At Direct Energy Centre

Nicholas Brendon, Clare Kramer, Claudia Christian, Kate Vernon Among 150+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors


NEW YORK and TORONTO, January 17, 2011 – North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as Wizard World Toronto Comic Con returns to the Direct Energy Centre, March 18-20, with superstar guests Billy Dee Williams, Julie Benz, David Prowse, Daniel Logan, John Schneider and Scott Thompson headlining the list of celebrity attendees.  The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

The iconic Williams, known to millions as “Lando Calrissian” in STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK and for memorable roles in BATMAN and BRIAN’S SONG, will be joined in Toronto by other popular STAR WARS guests Logan (“Boba Fett”) and Prowse (“Darth Vader”).

Fans are also greatly anticipating the appearances of Benz, who has starred in “Dexter,” “No Ordinary Family,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” Schneider (“Dukes of Hazzard,” “Smallville,” “Desperate Housewives”) and Thompson (“Kids in the Hall,” “Star Trek: Voyager”).

“We are looking forward to following up last year’s hugely successful debut in Toronto with an array of exciting new guests,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO. “Fans from across the region embraced Toronto Comic Con and we’re confident that even more will be on hand this March.”

Other popular Toronto Comic Con celebrity guests include Claudia Christian (“Look”; “Babylon 5”), Nicholas Brendon and Clare Kramer (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer”), Kate Vernon (“Battlestar Galactica,” PRETTY IN PINK), Academy Award Winner© (special effects) Tom Woodruff Jr. (THE TERMINATOR, SPIDER-MAN), Daniel Kash (ALIENS, ROBOCOP), Robert Maillet (300, SHERLOCK HOLMES) and Chandler Riggs (“The Walking Dead”).

Fans can also meet their favorite comic creators and artists, including Carlos Pacheco (“X-Men,” “Green Lantern”),  Mike Grell (“Green Lantern,” “Green Arrow”), Yanick Paquette (“Batman,” “Superman”), Mitch Breitweiser (“Captain America,” “Deadpool”), Jeff Parker (“Hulk,” “Spider-Man: 1602”), Gabriel Hardman (“Hulk,” “X-Men”), Bruce Jones (“Incredible Hulk,” “Nightwing”), Phil Jimenez (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Astonishing X-Men”), Greg Horn (“Daredevil,” “Green Lantern”) and Michael Golden (“Wolverine: First Class,” “New Exiles”).

The Toronto Comic Con Wrestling section includes the popular Ted “The Million Dollar Man” DiBiase and diva Lisa Marie “Tara” Varon.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 100 dealer booths.

Special events at Toronto Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” card game tournament, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops), movie screenings with celebrities and others.

Toronto Comic Con is the third stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled.  Hours are Friday, March 18, 4-9 p.m.; Saturday, March 19, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday, March 20, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m..  Tickets are available in advance online at www.wizardworld.com/toronto.html at up to a 40% savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($35 on site); three-day weekend tickets are $45 ($55 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.

The Direct Energy Centre is located at Exhibition Place in Toronto.  It is Canada’s largest facility for conventions, exhibitions and events. Exhibition Place, a 192 acre waterfront campus located in downtown Toronto, is home to a variety of venues including Direct Energy Centre, Allstream Centre, Better Living Centre and the Queen Elizabeth building among various other tenant properties.

About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour.  Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a New Orleans Comic Con Fan on Facebook.

Wizard World Toronto Comic Con

Wizard World Miami Comic Con Guests and More!

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Official Press Release

Billy Dee Williams, Julie Benz, Adam West, Burt Ward, Ray Park, Scott Thompson Among Headliners At Wizard World Miami Comic Con, February 26-27 At Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC)

Nicholas Brendon, Clare Kramer, Claudia Christian, Ernie Hudson Among 150+ Celebrity Guests, Leading Comics Artists, Creative Directors


NEW YORK and MIAMI, January 13, 2011 – North America’s largest pop-culture tour continues as Wizard World Miami Comic Con debuts at the newly-refurbished Miami Airport Convention Center (MACC), with superstar guests Billy Dee Williams, Julie Benz, Adam West, Burt Ward, Ray Park and Scott Thompson headlining the list of celebrity attendees.  The event will bring together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop culture, movies, comics, toys, video gaming, television, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.

The iconic Williams, known to millions as “Lando Calrissian” in STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK and for memorable roles in BATMAN and BRIAN’S SONG, will be joined in Miami by other popular STAR WARS guests Logan (“Boba Fett”) and Prowse (“Darth Vader”).

Fans are also greatly anticipating the appearances of “Batman” stars West and Ward, Benz, who has starred in “Dexter,” “No Ordinary Family,” “Desperate Housewives,” and “Buffy: The Vampire Slayer,” Park (“Darth Maul” in STAR WARS: EPISODE 1) and Thompson (“Kids in the Hall,” “Star Trek: Voyager”).

“¡Bienvenido A Miami! We are thrilled to bring the Wizard World tour to South Florida,” said Gareb Shamus, Wizard World CEO.  “We know the fans will come out and support this great event!”

Other popular Miami Comic Con celebrity guests include Claudia Christian (“Look”; “Babylon 5”), Nicholas Brendon and Clare Kramer (“Buffy: The Vampire Slayer”), Ernie Hudson (GHOSTBUSTERS) and Gena Lee Nolin (“Baywatch,” “Sheena”).

Fans can also meet their favorite comic creators and artists, including Michael Golden (“Wolverine: First Class,” “New Exiles”), Phil Jimenez (“Amazing Spider-Man,” “Astonishing X-Men”), Rob Liefeld (“Deadpool,” “Youngblood”), David Mack (“Kabuki,” “Daredevil”) and Alé Garza (“Superman/Batman,” “Batgirl”).

The Miami Comic Con Wrestling section includes the popular Kevin “Big Sexy” Nash and Former WWE Divas Angela Fong “Savannah,” Candice Michelle and Torrie Wilson.

Children and adult attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite villain, superhero or pop culture personality for the chance to win special prizes in costume contests.  Event-goers may also try their hand interactive product exhibits and shop for collectible comics, movie and television memorabilia, toys and games at more than 100 dealer booths.

Special events at Miami Comic Con include the “Magic: The Gathering” card game tournament, professional photo opportunities (Photo Ops), movie screenings with celebrities and others.

Miami Comic Con is the second stop on Wizard’s 2011 North American tour, which to date has 13 events scheduled.  Hours are Saturday, February 26, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sunday, February 27, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m..  Tickets are available in advance online at www.wizardworld.com/miami.html at up to a 20% savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are $25 ($30 on site); two-day weekend tickets are $40 ($45 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.

The newly redesigned MACC will feature 172,000 square feet of luxurious, state-of-the-art meeting, social function and exhibition space.  The adjacent 334-room Doubletree Hotel is also newly updated, with remodeled guest rooms, and new signature restaurant, lobby and lounge.  The Doubletree is situated just three miles south of Miami International Airport (MIA), adjacent the Waterford Blue Lagoon Business District and seven miles from the Miami City Center, Bayside Marketplace and the Port of Miami, as well as just minutes away from Miami’s Internationally famous South Beach.

About Wizard Entertainment:
Gareb Shamus founded Wizard Entertainment in 1991. Today, Shamus publishes consumer magazines Wizard, ToyFare, FunFare and numerous books about pop-culture’s top talent, comic books and toys. Shamus also produces a North American Comic Con tour.  Wizard World Comic Con – The Pop-Culture Capital of the World!

For the most recent event information please visit www.wizardworld.com and become a New Orleans Comic Con Fan on Facebook.