Advertise on podcast: The Marvelists

In this special mini episode of The Marvelists, Peter Melnick sits down with mangaka Sen and letterer Victoria at AnimeNYC for a fascinating conversation about the incredible rise of manga and its growing influence on comics and pop culture in the United States. Peter, Sen, and Victoria discuss why manga has become more popular than ever with American audiences, what makes the medium so appealing to new generations of readers, and what American comics can learn from manga’s storytelling, accessibility, and connection with its audience. Sen also talks about her newest project, Horon of the Closed Country, Vol. 1, a fantasy adventure manga now available in English from Manga Mavericks Books. The first volume is available in print and digital formats through the Manga Mavericks Store and major retailers, giving readers a chance to discover Sen’s work for themselves. {"fallbackMarkdown":"(Manga Mavericks)","reference":{"matched_text":"","prefix":null,"start_idx":1397,"end_idx":1429,"safe_urls":["https://comicon.com/2026/08/11/anime-nyc-2026-manga-mavericks-books-hosts-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen/","https://comicon.com/2026/08/11/anime-nyc-2026-manga-mavericks-books-hosts-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen/?utm_source=chatgpt.com","https://mangamavericks.com/2026/meet-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen-at-anime-nyc-2026/","https://mangamavericks.com/2026/meet-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen-at-anime-nyc-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com"],"refs":[],"alt":"(Manga Mavericks)","prompt_text":null,"type":"grouped_webpages","status":"done","style":null,"error":null,"fallback_items":null,"items":[{"title":"Meet Horon of the Closed Country Manga Creator Sen At ANIME NYC 2026! - Manga Mavericks","url":"https://mangamavericks.com/2026/meet-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen-at-anime-nyc-2026/?utm_source=chatgpt.com","attribution":"Manga Mavericks","pub_date":1787184000,"snippet":"","attribution_segments":null,"supporting_websites":[{"title":"Anime NYC 2026: Manga Mavericks Books Hosts ‘Horon Of The Closed Country’ Manga Creator Sen – COMICON","url":"https://comicon.com/2026/08/11/anime-nyc-2026-manga-mavericks-books-hosts-horon-of-the-closed-country-manga-creator-sen/?utm_source=chatgpt.com","pub_date":null,"snippet":"","attribution":"COMICON"}],"refs":[{"turn_index":0,"ref_type":"search","ref_index":1},{"turn_index":0,"ref_type":"search","ref_index":6}],"hue":null,"attributions":null}]},"showLoginRequiredCard":false} From the growing popularity of manga in the West to the changing landscape of the comics industry, this special AnimeNYC conversation offers plenty of insight into where comics are headed—and what American creators can take away from manga’s success. Tune in for this special AnimeNYC edition of The Marvelists!

t's September, True Believers! Eddie Wilson speaks with Ultracon producers Vickie and Irving Santiago (aka "The Mintys")  for the upcoming 2026 show at the South Florida Expo Center in West Palm Beach September 18-20. The "Battlestar Galactica Experience" is just one of this year's highlights. Ultraconcity.com ultraconofsouthflorida.com

t's a jam-packed episode of The Marvelists as hosts Peter Melnick and Eddie Wilson welcome special guest host Ryan Michael (@RyanMichaelToon on Instagram) for an exciting discussion covering the latest from the world of Marvel. The spotlight is on Spider-Man: Brand New Day, as the trio swings into a spoiler-free review of the newest chapter in Peter Parker's journey. Picking up after the life-changing events that left Peter more isolated than ever, the film explores what it truly means to be Spider-Man when the world has forgotten the man behind the mask. Peter is determined to embrace a fresh start while balancing the everyday struggles of work, relationships, and responsibility, all as new threats emerge that test his resolve in unexpected ways. Peter, Eddie, and Ryan discuss the film's compelling character work, spectacular action sequences, emotional storytelling, memorable supporting cast, and how it successfully captures the heart, humor, and resilience that have defined Spider-Man for generations—all while keeping the conversation completely spoiler-free for those who haven't seen the movie yet. The conversation doesn't stop there! Peter, Eddie, and Ryan also break down the biggest Marvel Studios news coming out of San Diego Comic-Con, including the blockbuster announcements of Black Panther 3 and Ghost Rider, and what these reveals could mean for the next chapter of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. They also discuss the reported cancellation of Wonder Man before a second season and the news that Mahershala Ali has stepped away from the long-developing Blade project, examining what these developments might signal for Marvel Studios' evolving slate.

Here's the updated version with the 2026 convention dates and the official website included: On this episode of **The Marvelists**, hosts **Peter Melnick** and **Eddie Wilson** welcome special guest host **Mitch Hallock**, founder and promoter of **TerrifiCon**, for an exciting preview of Connecticut's premier comic book convention. Mitch shares what fans can expect at **TerrifiCon 2026**, taking place **August 7–9, 2026**, at the **Mohegan Sun Earth Expo Center** in Uncasville, Connecticut. From an incredible lineup of comic creators and celebrity guests to cosplay, panels, exhibitors, and family-friendly entertainment, Mitch discusses what makes TerrifiCon one of the premier comic conventions in the Northeast. He also offers insider tips on planning the perfect convention weekend and highlights some of the can't-miss attractions awaiting attendees. ([Terrificon][1]) Listeners will learn how to attend, where to purchase tickets, and how to stay up to date on guest announcements, schedules, and special events by visiting [TerrifiCon's official website](https://www.terrificon.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com). Join Peter, Eddie, and Mitch for a fun-filled conversation celebrating comics, conventions, and everything fans need to know before heading to TerrifiCon this August. If this description is for a specific episode release before the convention, I can also add a call-to-action like, *"Be sure to catch this episode before you head to the show!"* [1]: https://www.terrificon.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "TERRIFICON one of the best real Comic Cons in the USA is in Connecticut at Mohegan Sun"

This week on The Marvelists, Peter Melnick and Eddie Wilson are joined by special guests Owen King and Jesse Kellerman. The acclaimed novelists sit down to discuss their hit Image Comics miniseries Self Help, a California noir comedy full of mistaken identity, self-help gurus, rideshare drivers, shady opportunists, and plenty of dark humor. Owen and Jesse share how they teamed up to create the story, their experience working with artist Marianna Ignazzi, and why comics were the ideal medium for this sun-soaked tale of ambition, deception, and influencer culture gone wrong. They also talk about channeling classic Hollywood noir vibes and bringing their twisted, funny vision to life across the five-issue series.

Eddie Wilson goes "voice-to-claws" with cosplayer 1966 Catwoman, who reveals a few additional, previously unknown "feline facts"  about herself (including special recognition to Paul and his Batmobile, plus the Garden State Comic Fest).

Eddie Wilson took to the streets as the O-G (as in "Old Guy") Captain America and visited 4 comic book establishments for this year's Free Comic Book Day event. Special thanks for the hospitality to Darkstone Comics (Chester NY), Main Street Comics (Middletown NY), The Joker's Child (Fair Lawn NJ) and Haven For Heroes (Port Jervis NY).

Eddie Wilson welcomes back Sean Fernando of Connecticon to discuss their 23rd annual event that spans 4 days July 16-19 at the Marriott in Hartford.

In this landmark episode of The Marvelists, hosts Peter and Eddie sit down with the legendary Frank Miller for a wide-ranging, no-holds-barred conversation that spans decades of comic book history, raw creative wisdom, and a few Hell’s Kitchen hot dogs. The discussion kicks off with Frank’s powerful new book Push the Wall — how it came together, the raw personal fire behind it, and the hard-earned advice he wishes someone had given him earlier in his career. From there, the trio celebrates the 40th anniversary of The Dark Knight Returns, reflecting on the seismic impact it still has today. Frank opens up about his early Marvel days, sharing warm and wild memories of working with Jim Shooter and the late great Neal Adams. The conversation naturally flows into his transformative run on Daredevil, the character that made him a household name, and whether a return to the Man Without Fear is even on the table. He also dives deep into his latest project, Ronin Rising, breaking down the collaborative process with artist Philip Tan and what it felt like revisiting that world. Things get delightfully goofy when Peter and Eddie hit Frank with the ultimate New York question: what are the best places to eat in Hell’s Kitchen? The answers do not disappoint. Later, Frank geeks out over tools of the trade, talking shop about his favorite Blackwing pencils. The episode builds toward the future as he previews the upcoming Push the Wall tour, leading into a heartfelt moment where Peter asks what it’s been like watching Scott Snyder explode as a major Batman voice — and what advice Frank has personally given him along the way. Finally, with DC’s Absolute line crushing it, the hosts ask the million-dollar question: if Frank were handed the keys to reinvent any character for the line, who would he choose and why? Funny, reflective, inspiring, and packed with stories only Frank Miller could tell — this is an episode every comic fan needs to hear. New episodes of The Marvelists drop weekly. Subscribe now and join the conversation. **Push the Wall. Never stop.**

In this special solo mini-episode of The Marvelists, host Eddie Wilson sits down with special guest Dave O’Hare for an in-depth conversation about one of New Jersey’s biggest and coolest comic conventions: Garden State Comic Fest Summer 2026! Eddie and Dave break down everything fans need to know about the upcoming event — from the massive lineup of celebrity guests (including Amy Jo Johnson, the original Pink Power Ranger; TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman; The Crow creator James O’Barr; Thanos creator Jim Starlin; and more) to the huge Artist Alley, killer vendor floor packed with comics, collectibles, and exclusives, cosplay celebrations, panels, and the air-conditioned comfort of the Richard J. Codey Arena in West Orange, NJ. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or planning your first trip, this episode is packed with tips, highlights, and insider info to help you make the most of the show. Plus, Eddie and Dave share why GSCF stands out as New Jersey’s premier comic convention. gardenstatecomicfest.com Garden State Comic Fest takes place June 27–28, 2026 at the Richard J. Codey Arena (560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ). Tickets are on sale now! • Grab single-day or weekend passes (with VIP options for early entry and perks). • Kids 10 & under are free with a paid adult ticket. • Buy early to guarantee entry and skip the lines. Get your tickets here: gardenstatecomicfest.com/summer26tickets gardenstatecomicfest.com

In this special episode of The Marvelists, hosts Peter Melnick and Eddie Wilson sit down with acclaimed comic book artist, writer, publisher, and educator Stephen R. Bissette for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges the worlds of mainstream comics, independent publishing, and creative rebellion. Best known for his groundbreaking work on DC’s Saga of the Swamp Thing alongside Alan Moore and John Totleben, Bissette brought a revolutionary level of detail, horror, and ecological depth to the title in the 1980s. But his career extends far beyond the Bayou: from co-founding the influential horror anthology Taboo to self-publishing the ambitious Tyrant series—a meticulously researched, life-cycle epic starring a Tyrannosaurus rex that remains a high-water mark in creator-owned comics. Whether you’re a Marvel fan curious about the wider industry, a Swamp Thing aficionado, or simply love stories about dinosaur comics and artistic integrity, this episode delivers insights from one of the medium’s most thoughtful and uncompromising voices. Expect plenty of behind-the-pages stories, reflections on the evolution of the industry, and why dinosaurs (and swamp monsters) still rule.

In this episode of The Marvelists, Peter and Eddie sit down with acclaimed cartoonist and Hulk: Grand Design creator Jim Rugg to discuss his new book Wolverine: Weapon X – An Exploration. Jim breaks down Barry Windsor-Smith’s legendary 1991 Weapon X storyline — its brutal cyberpunk horror, groundbreaking art, psychological depth, and lasting impact on Wolverine and Marvel Comics. They explore why it remains one of the definitive Logan stories and what it was like analyzing a comics classic in full color. Perfect for longtime fans and new readers alike. Available now from Bloomsbury (Marvel Age of Comics series).

In this solo minisode of The Marvelists, Eddie teams up with Chris from Undiscovered Realm Comic Con for a chat on Marvel fandom, comic cons, and what makes live events special. They cover the upcoming Undiscovered Realm Comic Con on June 13–14, 2026 at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY. Get tickets at undiscovered-con.com. Kids 12 and under are free (while supplies last).

Join hosts Peter Melnick and Eddie Wilson on The Marvelists as we swing into an exciting conversation with acclaimed comic book writer Todd DeZago! Best known for his fan-favorite run on The Sensational Spider-Man alongside the legendary Mike Wieringo, Todd brought heart, humor, and high-stakes action to the wall-crawler during one of Spider-Man’s most memorable eras. In this episode, Todd dives deep into his Marvel journey — from breaking into the industry on X-Factor, jumping into the chaos of the Clone Saga on titles like The Spectacular Spider-Man and Web of Spider-Man, to crafting his own vibrant take on the Scarlet Spider as Ben Reilly. He shares stories about collaborating with icons, the creative highs (and challenges) of the ’90s Spider-office, his work on Marvel Age: Spider-Man, and what it was like contributing to Amazing Spider-Man years later. Whether you’re a Clone Saga defender, a Wieringo super-fan, or just love classic Spider-Man tales full of personality and heart, this interview is packed with behind-the-pages insights, untold anecdotes, and plenty of web-slinging nostalgia. Tune in for a sensational discussion that proves why Todd DeZago’s Spider-Man stories still stick with readers today!

June 6–7, 2026: [Lehigh Valley Comic Convention](https://www.lehighvalleycomicconvention.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com)’s 25th anniversary (now extended to 2 days)! Eddie Wilson connects with Karen Rello, who — along with her husband Bob — has been with the show from the beginning after taking it over from its previous producer. Set in the Allentown Fairgrounds Agri-Plex / Expo Center, get ready to hear about all that’s in store in this 59,000-square-foot space, including incredible ticket pricing. Read all about it at [Lehigh Valley Comic Convention](https://www.lehighvalleycomicconvention.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com).