Skybound Entertainment is heading to Comic-Con International: San Diego in 2026 with a packed schedule of events. The studio behind major franchises like Invincible and The Walking Dead plans to host a series of creator-led panels, surprise announcements, and fan-focused experiences throughout the convention weekend.
The studio’s presence will highlight several of its most anticipated projects, including the upcoming superhero series Terminal and the ongoing expansion of the Energon Universe, a collaborative project with Hasbro that features Transformers, G.I. Joe, and M.A.S.K. Fans can also expect updates on the Invincible Universe, specifically regarding the Battle Beast comic book series.
For those attending the convention, these panels offer a rare look behind the curtain at the creative processes driving some of the industry’s most popular titles. The inclusion of diverse programming, ranging from deep dives into comic book collecting to major franchise updates, suggests a strategy aimed at both casual fans and dedicated collectors.
Key Panel Highlights
The programming kicks off on Thursday, July 23, with a spotlight on Robert Kirkman. The panel, titled Robert Kirkman LIVE at SDCC, promises exclusive reveals and behind-the-scenes stories covering his work on Invincible, Terminal, and the Energon Universe.
On Saturday, July 25, the focus shifts to the Energon Universe with a panel featuring Kirkman, Joshua Williamson, and Conor Hughes. This session will detail the next phase of the shared universe, which has become a cornerstone of Skybound’s current publishing strategy.
Awards and Exclusives
Beyond the panels, Skybound is celebrating several Eisner Award nominations, including recognition for Ghost Pepper and Clementine: Book Three. The winners will be announced during the ceremony on July 24.
Full Schedule:
Thursday, July 23
Robert Kirkman LIVE at SDCC
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM | Room 6BCF
The biggest ROBERT KIRKMAN panel yet! From all things Invincible to his newest superhero series Terminal, his groundbreaking Void Rivals and his expanding vision for TRANSFORMERS in Skybound and Hasbro’s Energon Universe, Kirkman pulls back the curtain on it all. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, exclusive reveals, and plenty of surprises (that even his publicist can’t predict). This is a must-see panel for any fan.
Blind Bags, Chases, and the Psychology of Collecting
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Room 23ABC
Michelle Waffle (senior comic specialist, PSA), Arune Singh (VP, Brand, Skybound), David Nakayama (artist), and Danielle Sauvé (collector and influencer) explore why mystery variants, blind bags, and limited covers ignite collector demand and how publishers, artists, and grading experts shape the hobby. Drawing on examples from the Energon Universe, this panel unpacks the creative, psychological, and market forces behind today’s collecting culture, culminating in a live blind bag opening where panelists debate whether to grade the book inside. Moderated by Caitlin Corsetti (senior manager of copywriting, PSA).
Saturday, July 25
TRANSFORMERS & G.I. JOE: The Energon Universe Is Unstoppable
4:30 PM – 5:30 PM | Room 5AB
The Next Phase of the Energon Universe is HERE! Join superstars Robert Kirkman (Void Rivals, TRANSFORMERS), Joshua Williamson (G.I. JOE), Conor Hughes (Void Rivals), and Sean Mackiewicz (SVP/Publisher, Skybound) as they reveal what’s next for the future of Skybound and Hasbro’s groundbreaking shared universe, featuring TRANSFORMERS, G.I. JOE, Void Rivals, and M.A.S.K. Moderated by Arune Singh (VP, Brand, Skybound).
EVENTS & TALENT APPEARANCES
Friday, July 24
Eisner Awards
INVITE ONLY | San Diego Hilton Bayfront
This year’s Eisner Award nominations, which celebrate the very best in comics, are out and Skybound is proud to have multiple nominations across its publishing line and creator roster. The winners will be announced during the Eisner Awards ceremony at Comic-Con International: San Diego on July 24.
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- Skybound Nominations:
- Best New Series: Ghost Pepper, by Ludo Lullabi (Image Comics/ Skybound)
- Best Publication for Teens: Clementine: Book Three, by Tillie Walden (Image Comics/Skybound)
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- Shared Nominations:
- Best Writer: James Tynion IV, Something Is Killing the Children, Wynd: The Power of the Blood (BOOM! Studios); Let This One Be a Devil, Red Book (Dark Horse Comics); The City Beneath Her Feet (DSTLRY); The Department of Truth, Exquisite Corpses, W0RLDTR33 (Image Comics); Universal Monsters: The Invisible Man (Image Comics/Skybound)
- Best Coloring: Jordie Bellaire, Absolute Wonder Woman, The Nice House by the Sea (DC Comics); The Exorcism at 1600 Penn (IDW Publishing); Assorted Crisis Events, The Department of Truth, Exquisite Corpses, W0RLDTR33 (Image Comics); G.I. JOE (Image Comics/Skybound)
The studio is also partnering with brands like Funko, Keepsake, and Jada Toys to offer convention-exclusive merchandise. These items, ranging from limited-edition Invincible action figures to specialized trading cards, will be available at various booths throughout the event.
Source: Skybound Entertainment
