The must-see panels of Comic-Con 2017

Olivia Hare, 3, as Harley Quinn atop her father Alex's shoulders at Comic-Con International in San Diego on July 20, 2016.

By Tracy BrownStaff Writer

July 19, 2017 8:55 AM PT

It’s that time again. The 2017 edition of Comic-Con kicks off in San Diego this week and, as always, those planning on making a pop culture pilgrimage to San Diego can expect the streets to be packed with cosplayers, comic book fans, collectible hunters and all stripes of genre entertainment enthusiasts.

This year, Netflix joins the Hollywood heavyweights on a quest to wow the denizens of Hall H. Fox has also returned after a year away from SDCC, joining Marvel Studios and Warner Bros. in hopes of attracting audiences to their tentpole movies.

Nostalgia is also the name of the game this year, with revivals of classics including “Rocko’s Modern Life,” “Invader Zim” and “DuckTales” as well as reunions including “Battlestar Galactica” and “Stargate” peppering the programming.

As expected, television is also heavily represented with presentations for hit shows such as “Game of Thrones,” “The Walking Dead,” “Preacher,” “Twin Peaks,” “Westworld,” “Star Trek: Discovery” and more, as well as plenty of pilot premieres scheduled during the four-day expo.

Here’s a look at all the must-see panels scheduled for SDCC 2017 (but make sure to leave some time to hit the exhibit floor).

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Wednesday

Special Sneak Peek Screenings (Ballroom 20, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.)

This chance to get the earliest looks at Warner Bros. TV pilots during Comic-Con is a preview night staple. This year’s lineup includes the premieres of “Krypton,” “Black Lightining,” “Unikitty!”, a new hourlong episode of “Teen Titans Go!” and more.

Thursday

Ghostbusters 101: A Ghostbusters Panel of Biblical Proportions! (Room 6DE, 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.)

“Ghostbusters” co-creator Ivan Reitman and IDW Publishing’s Erik Burnham, Dan Schoening and Tom Waltz cross the streams a bit to talk everything from the original movie, the new comic book series, the 2016 reboot and more.

“Kingsman: The Golden Circle” (Hall H, 11 a.m. - noon)

After opting to sit out SDCC 2016, Fox is back in Hall H with a presentation to promote “Kingsman: A Golden Circle.” Slated to appear at the panel are actors Taron Egerton, Colin Firth, Halle Berry, Channing Tatum, Jeff Bridges and Pedro Pascal, screenwriter Jane Goldman and “Kingsman” co-creator Dave Gibbons.

Be Your Own Superhero: Intersectional Feminism in Comics (Room 32AB, noon - 1 p.m.)

Diversity in comics has been an oft-discussed topic in recent years. Here’s a graduate-level panel for those who recognize a person’s race, gender, sexual orientation and more don’t exist as isolated elements of their identity. Panelists will discuss the state of affairs with regards to representation and what needs improvement.

“Rocko’s Modern Life: Return to Earth!” (Room 6A, 1:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m.)

Those with a case of ‘90s nostalgia will not want to miss this panel assembling “Rocko’s Modern Life” creator Joe Murray along with actors Carlos Alazraqui (Rocko), Tom Kenny (Heffer), Mr. Lawrence (Filburt) Charlie Adler (Mr. Big Head and Mrs. Big Head) and director Cosmo Segurson. In addition to discussing the original show, the cast and crew will talk about what to expect of the upcoming TV special, which will see Rocko adjusting to new technology and life back on Earth after 20 years in space.

DC Universe Original Movies 10th Anniversary (Room 6BCF, 2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.)

From “Superman: Doomsday” to “Batman and Harley Quinn” and beyond, celebrate 10 years of the DC Universe’s animated original movies. Producers Bruce Timm and James Tucker and co-producers/writers Alan Burnett and Jim Krieg are set to discuss the movies and fan-favorite moments of the animated universe’s past decade with actors Kevin Conroy, Tara Strong, John DiMaggio, Vanessa Marshall, Christopher Gorham and other guests.

“Battlestar Galactica” reunion (Ballroom 20, 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.)

Battestar. Galactica. Reunion. This panel is for everyone who still feels chills whenever they hear Bear McCreary’s adaptation of “All Along the Watchtower.” Slated to appear at the presentation are executive producers Ron Moore and David Eick plus cast members Tricia Helfer, Katee Sackhoff, Mary McDonnell, Grace Park, Michael Trucco and Aaron Douglas.

Netflix Films: “Bright” and “Death Note” (Hall H, 3:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

Netflix is invading Hall H this year and its first offering are sneak peeks at the upcoming films “Bright” and “Death Note.” While one is an action-thriller directed by David Ayer and the other is an adaptation of a fan-favorite Japanese manga series, both are for fans of magical realism. The cast and crew of both projects are set to appear at the presentation.

“Legion” screening and Q&A (Ballroom 20, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Eagerly awaiting Season 2 of FX’s “X-Men”-adjacent show? Showrunner Noah Hawley joins actors Dan Stevens, Rachel Keller, Aubrey Plaza, Jean Smart, Bill Irwin, Jeremie Harris and Amber Midthunder along with executive producers John Cameron, Lauren Shuler Donner and Jeph Loeb to discuss what fans can expect from “Legion” Season 2.

Spotlight on Erica Henderson (Room 32AB, 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.)

Fans of “The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl” and “Jughead” will want to make sure to attend this Erica Henderson spotlight. The Eisner Award-nominated artist will join Eisner-nominated writer John Allison (“Giant Days,” “Bad Machinery”) for a conversation about comics, fashion and more.

Through the Gate: Celebrating the “Stargate” Franchise (Grand 1 & 2, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m)

Since the 1994 movie, the “Stargate” franchise has expanded to include the TV series “Stargate SG-1” (1997-2017), “Stargate Atlantis” (2004-09), “Stargate Universe” (2009-11) and more. The panel boasts special guests, sneak peeks and exclusive news. Could the “Stargate” universe be expanding once again?

“Marvel’s Inhumans” (Ballroom 20, 6:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.)

The ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe grows yet again with the introduction of the Inhuman Royal Family and their upcoming TV series. Executive producer Jeph Loeb is set to lead a discussion about the new show.

The Trump Presidential Library Panel (Room 26AB, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.)

Political satire has reached new heights since the election of President Trump. Cartoonists Shannon Wheeler and Robert Sikoryak promise laughter and tears (and a presentation with slides) as they work through the nation’s current political reality.

Friday

“Young Justice” Q&A (Room 6BCF, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m)

“Young Justice” is back after a years-long hiatus. Fans who want to know more about the newest season shouldn’t miss this Q&A session with the show’s producers and creative team.

“Steven Universe” (Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront, 11 a.m. - noon)

Singing a song don’t cost nothing, but singing along with the “Steven Universe” cast and crew is priceless. Series creator Rebecca Sugar joins cast members Zach Callison (Steven), Deedee Magno-Hall (Pearl), Michaela Dietz (Amethyst), Estelle (Garnet) and A.J. Michalka (Stevonnie) for an hour of announcements, never-before-seen video and a Q&A with fans.

“The Walking Dead” (Hall H, 12:15 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.)

Rick Grimes and friends (and some enemies) have so far survived seven seasons in the hostile world overrun with walkers. Join “The Walking Dead” cast and crew to find out what’s in store for Season 8.

“Rick and Morty” (Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront, 1:15 p.m. - 2 p.m.)

It’s been months since the “Rick and Morty” April Fools prank, so hopefully this panel will tide fans over until the next new episode of the show’s third season airs.

“Game of Thrones” panel and Q&A session (Hall H, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.)

The seventh season of “Game of Thrones” is finally underway and fans are bursting at the seams with questions and theories about wha will happen. The cast may now be seasoned pros at teasing the show without really giving any secrets away, but why miss the chance to see a new clip or behind-the-scenes reel?

The Female Voices of Film Twitter (Horton Grand Theatre, 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.)

Times reporter Jen Yamato is among the journalists assembled to discuss the importance of female voices in movies, movies coverage and social media.

“Twin Peaks”: A Damn Good Panel (Hall H, 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.)

A little past the halfway mark in the season, “Twin Peaks” is making its first ever appearance at SCDD. Join the cast for a talk about the show and possible hints about the remaining episodes of the limited series.

“DuckTales” (Room 6A, 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.)

The new “DuckTales” cast (including David Tennant as Scrooge McDuck) and creative team will be on hand to give fans a sneak peek at the family’s upcoming adventures in and around Duckburg. Woo-oo!

“Preacher” (Hall H, 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.)

Catch up with the “Preacher” cast (Dominic Cooper, Ruth Negga, Joseph Gilgun, Ian Colletti and Graham McTavish) and executive producers (Seth Rogen and Garth Ennis) about everything that has happened so far in Season 2 plus get a sneak preview of what’s to come.

“The Tick” (Room 6A, 4:45 p.m. - 5:45 p.m.)

The world premiere of the second episode of “The Tick.” Plus, the cast and crew will be around to answer some questions from the audience.

“Marvel’s The Defenders” (Hall H, 5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m.)

Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and … what was his name again? Oh, yeah, Iron Fist. Marvel fans won’t want to miss the chance to get a first look at MCU’s street-level superheroes finally teaming up in their joint series.

(Warning: Video contains profanity.)

Saturday

“Riverdale” special video presentation and Q&A (Ballroom 20, 11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.)

Who shot Fred Andrews? While the “Riverdale” cast and producers are unlikely to just give fans all the answers, this panel should give them an idea about what they can look forward to in Season 2. “Riverdale” diehards should also consider hitting up the Archie Comics panel from 1 to 2 p.m. in Room 4.

Warner Bros. Pictures Presentation (Hall H, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.)

“Ready Player One.” “Blade Runner 2019.” “Justice League.” “Aquaman.” Be there.

DC’s Harley Quinn: Celebrating 25 Years (Room 6DE, 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.)

Harley Quinn may have just made her live-action debut in “Suicide Squad,” but the character (a.k.a. Dr. Harleen Quinzel) originated in “Batman: The Animated Series.” How much Harley Quinn cosplay can fit in one room? Only one way to find out.

Women Rocking Hollywood: Female Directors Changing the Faces of Film and Television (Room 23ABC, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.)

“Queen Sugar” and “Jessica Jones” (Season 2) made headlines when the shows announced they had hired only women directors. “Wonder Woman” is now the highest grossing live-action film to have been directed by a woman. This panel of female directors will address the importance of representation behind the camera.

“Krypton” special video presentation and Q&A (Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront, 1:15 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.)

What was life like for Superman’s ancestors on Krypton? Get an early look at the new show following Kal-El’s grandfather as he struggles to reclaim his family’s honor long before Krypton’s destruction.

“Star Trek: Discovery” (Ballroom 20, 2:30 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.)

The panel Trekkies cannot afford to miss with the cast and crew of the upcoming show. At SDCC 2016, Bryan Fuller debuted the first look at Discovery, the spaceship at the center of “Star Trek: Discovery.” One year later, the cast has been revealed, the premiere (finally) approaches and Fuller is no longer the showrunner attached to the project.

“Happy!” (Room 6BCF, 2:45 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.)

What happens when a drunk, corrupt, ex-cop turned hitman encounters an imaginary blue-winged horse named Happy? Head to this panel to find out. The upcoming TV series is based on a graphic novel by Grant Morrison and Darick Robertson.

“Mystery Science Theater 3000”: The Return (Horton Grand Theatre, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Go behind the scenes of the new MST3K with creator Joel Hodgson and cast members Felicia Day, Jonah Ray, Hampton Yount and Rebecca Hanson.

“Stranger Things” (Hall H, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Will there finally be #JusticeForBarb in Season 2 of “Stranger Things?” Find out when Hall H visits the Upside Down.

Marvel: Cup O’Joe (Room 25ABC, 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.)

Marvel’s chief creative officer Joe Quesada sits down with executive editor Nick Lowe, director of content and character development (and Kamala Khan co-creator) Sana Amanat, “Runaways” creative team Rainbow Rowell and Kris Anka and “The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl” writer Ryan North to dish about what’s coming from the comics side of Marvel.

“Westworld” panel and Q&A session (Hall H, 4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.)

Catch up with the “Westworld” cast and crew to find out what’s in store for Season 2.

“Black Lightning” special video presentation and Q&A (Ballroom 20, 4:50 p.m. - 5:10 p.m.)

Fans can catch the “Black Lightning” presentation during the block of The CW’s superhero programming panels.

Marvel Studios (Hall H, 5:30 p.m. - 7 p.m.)

Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige is back to showcase more of the MCU. Among the things to look out for are brand new trailers, never-before-seen clips and casting announcements. Just give us more “Black Panther” footage.

“Broad City” (Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.)

“Broad City’s” Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer at SDCC? Yas queen!

Bronies: The Fandom of “My Little Pony” (Grand 1 & 2, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina, 7 p.m. - 8 p.m.)

For anybody that’s ever been curious about the world of “My Little Pony” fans.

Sunday

Capturing Teen Angst (25ABC, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.)

Comics creators discuss channeling all the heightened feelings and swirling emotions that drive teenagers in their stories.

“Doctor Who” (Hall H, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.)

Season 10 of “Doctor Who” marked the last hurrah for showrunner Steven Moffatt and 12th Doctor Peter Capaldi. Joining the departing pair are cast members Pearl Mackie (Bill), Matt Lucas (Nardole), Michelle Gomez (Missy) and writer and actor Mark Gatiss will. Could the 13th Doctor, Jodie Whittaker, or the new showrunner, Chris Chibnall, make a surprise appearance?

Super Asian America (Room 29AB, 3 p.m. - 4 p.m.)

Panelists discuss the state of Asians in pop culture, from Hollywood’s habit of adapting (and whitewashing) Asian stories to the success of shows such as “Master of None” and “Into the Badlands.”

More Science in Your Fiction with the League of Extraordinary Scientists and Engineers (Room 28DE, 4 p.m. - 5 p.m.)

Real-life scientists discuss the correlation between science fiction and reality and how comic books and stories can help inspire scientists to make fictions come true.

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