Update: March 29, 2021:
Comic-Con International have released a new statement, acknowledging “we understand this choice is not optimal for everyone.” Furthermore, “we do not know whether having this event in November is even feasible as we are still in the midst of the pandemic and while we are optimistic about Q4, we have not been privy to any specific information on large gatherings. However, it was our desire to have something in place for our fans who have longed for an in-person event. We truly hope that you will join us for this entry back into the world of in-person celebrations of the community we so love.”
Original story is as follows:
In the press release, the organizers stated, “It is our hope that by Fall conditions will permit larger public gatherings. Comic-Con Special Edition will be the first in-person convention produced by the organization since Comic-Con 2019, and the first since the onset of the global pandemic COVID-19. The Fall event will allow the organization to highlight all the great elements that make Comic-Con such a popular event each year, as well as generate much needed revenue not only for the organization but also for local businesses and the community.”
David Glanzer, a spokesman for the group, said, “While we have been able to pivot from in-person gatherings to limited online events, the loss of revenue has had an acute impact on the organization as it has with many small businesses, necessitating reduced work schedules and reduction in pay for employees, among other issues. Hopefully this event will shore up our financial reserves and mark a slow return to larger in-person gatherings in 2022.”
Comic-Con Special Edition will mark the first in-person iteration of the event since 2019, after last year’s convention — which would’ve marked the 50th anniversary of San Diego Comic-Con — was replaced by Comic-Con@Home. The announcement means 2020’s Comic-Con will remain the only time the convention has ever been canceled. Details regarding the cost of convention badges, attendance capacity, and more are still being finalized.
