You had to see this coming. Now it’s official, New York Comic Con has canceled their in person convention, scheduled to take place from October 8-11 at the Javits Center. ReedPop has announced that they have partnered with YouTube to provide a virtual event for fans. Before we get into that, here is what you can expect.
They have already announced that several TV and animation studios plan to hold virtual panels. This includes American Gods from Starz, the CBS All Access Star Trek Universe, DreamWorks Animation, Hulu and FX. We are still two months away from the event, so we could certainly see more companies jump on board. I won’t speculate as to which specific shows will be featured, beyond what was in the press release.
Part of the release also mentions that the panels will stream live and be available on demand. They also mention talent Q&A during the panels, something other virtual events had been lacking. Does this mean that this will be true for all panels? We can’t know that for sure at this point. ReedPop will also give fans the opportunity for experiences that will get them up-close and personal with meet & greets, live Q&As, personalized autographs, videos, and professional workshops. A virtual show floor will also be created.
“We are thoroughly disappointed that we can’t gather together, in-person for the New York Comic Con we love to build and our fans love to revel in. We look forward to this weekend all year long, just like you, and with this being our 15th edition, we were particularly excited. I will miss walking up and down artist alley and seeing friends that I’ve made since we were in the basement at the Javits Center,” said Lance Fensterman, President of ReedPop in a statement that was released. “While this year will definitely be a different experience, we are going to look to bring the best and most engaging event to our fans, exhibitors, and studios through our partnership with YouTube.”
For more information keep checking the New York Comic Con website. Panels will be available on their YouTube channel. We will let you know when the schedule is released.
Photo Credit: ReedPop/NYCC