One of the most important panels at Comic-Con has been an annual tradition for 28 years. Started by Milestone Media co-founder (and more) Michael Davis, The Black Panel is a gathering of ethnic talent to discuss the challenges of getting a foothold and staying relevant in several creative industries. Sadly, this year it feels more urgent than ever. Since Michael was unable to attend last year’s Comic-Con, writer Hannibal Tabu has stepped in to co-produce the panel this year.
As noted in the press release, it’s both a triumph and a mystery. You have to go in expecting the unexpected. Unannounced guests have a way of popping in, because Michael invited everyone to his party. I have no doubt Hannibal has, too. Every year I attend I hear someone speak whose work I need to discover.
The industry may be sour right now, and the mood may be a bit somber, but you’ll be glad you attend. If you can find a seat…
From Hannibal Tabu:
The always unpredictable showcase of ethnic talent returns for its 28th year, featuring new faces, a new format, and a fresh perspective. Since 1997, this annual event at Comic-Con International at San Diego has been both a triumph and a mystery with unexpected panelists galore. With a possible surprise guest host, this year’s panelists include:
Aisha Porter-Christie (Daredevil: Born Again, The Boys)
Kevin Grevioux (Underworld, The Blue Marvel)
Comedian Mr. Jay Washington (Netflix Is A Joke, American Gigolo)
Artist Quinn McGowan (Project: Wildfire, Little Rock Files)
Writer Hannibal Tabu (MPLS Sound, War Medicine, Fathom Sourcebook), also the panel’s co-producer
Cartoonist Keithan Jones (The Power Knights, Black Comix Day)
Writer MD Marie (Top Cow’s Vindication)
TTRPG performer Rodney Campbell (Venture Forth)
Comics anthropologist Dr. Stanford Carpenter (School of the Art Institute of Chicago, BCAF)Davis — a co-founder of Milestone Comics and co-creator of the characters that became Static Shock — was unable to attend in 2024, leading to a “takeover” of the panel by luminaries such as screenwriter Akela Cooper, actors Malcolm Barrett, Eugene Byrd, and Damion Poitier, hosted by executive Dan Evans. Given that and the chaotic nature of this annual panel, many are curious what might even happen this year!
“I’m not that kind of psychic,” said Tabu, who will also be running A/V for this year’s panel. “Michael’s interested in focusing on how Black creators are pivoting in this time of transition. Auditions are drying up. Fewer projects are getting green lit. What are we gonna do about it? We’ve assembled some great minds in TV, gaming, comics and movies to look at possible paths forward. Will Mike appear in a puff of smoke like a 1980s ninja? Who’s on hand to take the reins if he’s not there? It’s not something you can be told — it’s something you’ll have to experience for yourself.”
The Black Panel takes place Friday, July 25th at 10 AM in the San Diego Convention Center’s Room 5AB as part of San Diego Comic-Con International. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis for all valid badge-holding attendees of the convention.
