Walking Dead and the Law of CBM (spoilers for 2/8/15)

And by CBM, I mean "Conservation of Black Men."

Now before I begin, let me make something clear:  I'm not calling the writers of The Walking Dead racist. I'm NOT. They've killed young and old, black and white, male and female. It's just that I've noticed this pattern and I wonder if anyone else has, as well?

Morgan

T-Dog

First there was Morgan Jones, in the very first episode ("Days Gone By"). He's a neat character who I wish we'd seen more of (and hopefully we will if he catches up with the group this season), but he stays behind when Rick goes to Atlanta. This gives us a Black Male Value of 1.

However, the BMV of the show doesn't change, because even though we've lost Morgan we meet  T-Dog in the next episode ("Guts"). Sadly, T-Dog doesn't do a hell of a lot for his entire run and his character is never fully explored, despite being on the show for two seasons.

Andrew

Big Tiny

In the second episode of season 3 ("Sick), our intrepid group of survivors goes to the Prison and finds several inmates inside. This is where we see the Law of Conservation of Black Men in action, as three of the characters -- Andrew, Big Tiny, and Oscar -- are black and, at this moment, any of them could join the group. But within that same episode, Big Tiny is killed and Andrew becomes a villain, fleeing from the group. This sets our BMV to 2.

The next time we see them ("Killer Within"), T-Dog is killed by walkers and Oscar takes his place within the group. The BMV is reset to 1, and the LCBM is observed to be constant.

Oscar

Tyreese

In episode 8 ("Made to Suffer"), Oscar is killed when the group assaults Woodbury to rescue a captured Glenn and Maggie. Later that episode, we first meet Tyreese, but he is not accepted into the group due to Rick flipping out, and so Tyreese goes to Woodbury. The BMV stays at 1 for the duration of season 3.





By season 4 I'm already aware of the LCBM, so when we're introduced to Bob Stookey I'm convinced he's going to die horribly that episode ("30 Days Without An Accident"). I think perhaps the writers are

Bob

aware of this as well, and so they spend a good chunk of the season messing with us, making us think Bob is going to die at any moment -- trapped under a shelf of booze to be eaten by walkers, getting alcohol when he should be getting supplies, generally annoying the group, etc.

Father Gabriel

Miraculously, Bob survives the entire season, which means that the BMV has permanently been set to 2. I think this is mainly due to the fact that Bob and Sasha make an adorable couple, and this gives Tyreese a family he can look after -- which means the stakes are upped as now even more heartache can be inflicted upon these people as the things they love are ripped away.

This brings us to season 5, and in the second episode ("Strangers") we are introduced to Father Gabriel Stokes, who is both a priest (Episcopalian) and a black man. Much like Bob, in his first few

episodes we wonder how he's survived this long and when he's going to die... but there's always the possibility that he can pull a Bob and increment the Black Male Value by one.  Does he?

Nope. Bob is captures in that same episode, and he's dead by the next. Both BMV and LCBM remain constant.

Noah

In episode 4 ("Slabtown"), we are introduced to Noah. He's a bit of a statistical anomaly in that  he isn't part of the group, but is rather a prisoner held by the same people who captured Beth. Later he escapes, and even later he meets up with Darryl and Carol. He doesn't join the group until episode 8 ("Coda"). BMV temporarily rises to three...


... and then, in episode 9 ("What Happened and What's Going On"), the LCBM reasserts itself and Tyreese dies in what is probably the best and most touching farewell episode ever given to a character.

Again, I'm not asserting racism. I am asserting either lazy writing or a deliberate attempt by the writers to screw with us.



Look, basically what I'm really saying is this:

1. The moment Morgan catches up with the rest of the group, someone's gonna die (right now it's even money between competent-yet-injured Noah and  Father Gabriel the moveable feast)
2. If the survivors ever run into another Asian male, I'm going to be very, very frightened for Glenn's safety. 

~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.~.

Our huge thanks go out to Erin Palette from Lurking Rhythmically for this guest post! Be sure to go and check out her site for other great pieces.

Top 20 Shows of 2013: #10-1

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HOLY NIAGARA FALLS COMIC CON, BATMAN!

(Niagara Falls, ON) April 2013 – Niagara Falls is best known for their famous waterfalls, but this June, tourists will head to the honeymoon capital for Niagara Falls Comic Con, a two day celebration of pop culture, nostalgia, celebrities, comics and more. 

The event is set to take place on Saturday June, 8^th and Sunday, June 9^th at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, which is located a stones throw away from the majestic Niagara Falls.

“There is no other event like this one in Niagara Falls,” said Chris Dabrowski, Show Manager for Niagara Falls Comic Con.  “Niagara Falls is an amazing getaway and vacation destination on its own, and being able to offer such a unique and cool event for visitors to the area is a bonus and one-of-a-kind experience.  It makes for an amazing weekend in the City,” he added.

Niagara Falls Comic Con will feature more than 100,000 square feet of exhibitors, movie screenings, workshops, seminars, movie screenings, a video gaming arena, the first-ever Falls Horror Fest presented by FANGORIA, celebrities, movie cars and helicopters and more. 

Celebrities confirmed to date include:  Adam West (TV’s Classic Batman); Lou Ferrigno (Incredible Hulk); Corey Feldman (The Goonies, Gremlins, The Lost Boys, Stand by Me); David Prowse (Darth Vader, Star Wars); Jeremy Bulloch (Boba Fett, Star Wars); Tim Russ (Commander Tuvok, Star Trek: Voyager); Kane Hodder (Jason Voorhees, Friday the 13th); Sam J. Jones (Flash Gordon); Pat Mastroianni (Joey Jeremiah, Degrassi High); Lee Meriwether (Catwoman, 1966 Batman); Mick Foley (WWE Legend); The Million Dollar Man; Tom Savini; Larry Thomas (Seinfeld’s Soup Nazi), as well as Madison Lintz from The Walking Dead.

“Fans will also have a chance to get their picture taken inside the original screen used Batcopter from the original Batman film, as well as a replica of the original 66 classic Batmobile.  There’s something for everyone of all ages at this year’s event,” Dabrowski added.

Early bird discounted tickets are available online for $20 for Saturday or $20 for Sunday.   A weekend combo pass is $30. Hotel packages are also available online. 

For tickets, hotel and more information, visit www.NFComicCon.com

Nathan Fillion, Stan Lee, Summer Glau, WWE® Superstars John Cena® And Daniel Bryan® Among Celebrity Guests At Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, May 30 – June 2

Pop Culture Festival At Pa. Convention Center Also To Feature 'The Walking Dead' Stars Michael Rooker and Norman Reedus, William Shatner, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Superstar Comics Creators

NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA – “Castle” Star Nathan Fillion, fellow “Serenity” and Firefly headliner Summer Glau, Eisner Award Hall of Famer Stan Lee and WWE® Superstars John Cena® and Daniel Bryan® are at the top of a standout roster of celebrity guests scheduled to appear at Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, May 30 – June 2 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.  It is the third in the 2013 series produced by Wizard World, Inc. (OTCBB: WIZD) and will also feature a top-drawer collection of well-known artists and writers and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions.

Fillion and Lee will appear on Saturday, June 1, and Sunday, June 2; Cena is scheduled for Thursday, May 30; and Bryan will be on site on Saturday, June 1 only.  Other standout celebrities attending include William Shatner (“Star Trek,” “Boston Legal”), “The Walking Dead” duo of Michael Rooker and Norman Reedus, Adam Baldwin (“Serenity,” Firefly), Jewel Staite (“Serenity,” Firefly), Manu Bennett (“Arrow,” The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey) and many others.

Additionally, all full price attendees will receive a free copy of the Exclusive Variant Cover of The Walking Dead #1 comic, available only at Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con.

Superstar comics creators scheduled to attend include Bryan Hitch (“America's Got Powers,” “Wolverine”), Salvador Larroca (“Avengers vs. X-Men,” “Captain America”), Leinil Yu (“Hulk,” “Fantastic Four”), Howard Chaykin (“New Avengers,” “Iron Man”) and Barry Kitson (“Thor,” “Spider-Man”).

Also featured in the autograph area are the “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” trio of James Marsters, Charisma Carpenter and Juliet Landau, the “Charmed” threesome of Shannen Doherty, Holly Marie Combs and Brian Krause, “The Fonz” Henry Winkler, “Brat Packer” Andrew McCarthy and “NCIS” star Lauren Holly, among dozens of popular celebrities.

Wizard World Comic Con events bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con show hours are Thursday, May 30, 3-8 p.m.; Friday, May 31, noon – 7 p.m.; Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., Sunday, June 2, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more on the 2013 Wizard World Philadelphia Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-pa.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Robert Kirkman’s ‘‘The Walking Dead #1’’ Exclusive Variant Covers Available to All Wizard World Comic Con 2013 Attendees

First TWD #1 variant cover by comic writer/artist Michael Golden debuts at Portland Comic Con, Feb. 22-24; Limited Editions Via Skybound Only Available At Wizard World Throughout 2013

NEW YORK, February 13, 2013 – Robert Kirkman, creator and writer of the groundbreaking, Eisner-Award winning The Walking Dead comic book series and graphic novels continues to break records in all of its incarnations. Wizard World and Skybound, Kirkman's imprint at Image Comics, have teamed to bring fans what they want, more of The Walking Dead! Now, all full-price attendees at every Wizard World event in 2013 will receive a limited-edition, exclusive cover variant of The Walking Dead #1.

A different superstar artist will create the variant cover art for each of the eight scheduled shows this year. Comic book writer/artist Michael Golden illustrates the first variant cover at Wizard World Portland Comic Con, Feb. 22-24 at the Oregon Convention Center. At each event, the cover artist will be on hand to sign fans’ copies. More cover artists will be announced shortly.

The exclusive The Walking Dead #1 editions will be produced in extremely limited quantities and are available to fans only while supplies last at each Wizard World convention.

“Wizard World cons have always been great events for The Walking Dead,” said Kirkman. “I’m excited to present the all-new #1 cover variant by the legendary Michael Golden at Portland Comic Con this year.”

John Macaluso, Wizard World CEO added, “With The Walking Dead #100 as the highest-selling comic book of last year, we are absolutely thrilled to have this exclusive book that started it all available to all our Wizard World fans, beginning in the Pacific Northwest. Giving it away for free to all paid attendees is our way of giving back to the fan community that has supported us!”

The Walking Dead graphic novels accounted for seven of the 10 bestselling titles of the year and were #1 overall for both 2011 and 2012.

Michael Rooker and Norman Reedus, stars of the AMC series based upon The Walking Dead will attend Wizard World Portland Comic Con. Comics legend Stan Lee, Happy Days star Henry Winkler, Evil Dead star Bruce Campbell, Homeland headliner Morena Baccarin and WWE® Superstar The Miz® are among the other headliners. They will be joined by a top-drawer collection of well-known artists and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions in the first event on Wizard World’s 2013 calendar and the first Wizard World event in Oregon.

Wizard World Portland Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more. Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, February 24, is “Kids Day,” an array of programming specially designed for children. Event hours are Friday, Feb. 22, 3-8 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m.-7 p.m and Sunday, Feb. 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

About Robert Kirkman

Robert Kirkman's success and passionate advocacy for creator-owned comics led him to become the first person invited to become a partner at Image Comics since the company's inception twenty years ago. Kirkman is the creator/writer of the Eisner Award-winning The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, all-ages Super Dinosaur and Thief of Thieves. In 2010, Kirkman formed his own Image imprint, Skybound, which publishes his own work and Witch Doctor, Invincible Universe and Clone. Kirkman has earned the respect of the comic, writing and television communities and topped the New York Times bestseller list for graphic novels in 2011 and 2012. In April 2012, he took the top five spots on both the hardcover and paperback lists. He's the creator/executive producer and writer of the hit Emmy®-winning television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 122 countries and 37 languages. AMC is developing Thief of Thieves as a potential series with Kirkman serving as creator/executive producer and writer. Your destinations for all news and merchandise from Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles is www.Skybound.com and www.TheWalkingDead.com

About Skybound

Skybound is the home of Robert Kirkman's creator-owned work including his Eisner Award-winning comic book series, The Walking Dead, long-running Invincible, all-ages Super Dinosaur, Thief of Thieves and Clone as well as Witch Doctor and Invincible Universe. Since its inception, Skybound has created television shows, merchandise and a wide spectrum of platforms, games (The Walking Dead: Assault iOS app), and entertainment events (The Walking Dead Escape). Skybound's successes include the comic behind the hit Emmy®-winning television show, AMC's The Walking Dead, the highest-rated basic cable drama of all time in the U.S, also an international success in 122 countries and 37 languages. AMC is developing Thief of Thieves as a potential series. Skybound/Kirkman frequently top the hardcover and paperback bestseller lists. Your destinations for all news and merchandise from Robert Kirkman, The Walking Dead and all Skybound titles is www.Skybound.com or www.TheWalkingDead.com

About Wizard World

Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The 2013 event schedule to date can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira Joins Phoenix Comicon 2013

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira, from the cast of the hit TV show The Walking Dead will be attending Comicon 2013.

“The Walking Dead has become a cultural phenomenon.  Having Laurie Holden and Danai Gurira at Phoenix Comicon this year is very exciting.” Says Marketing Director Jullian Squires

Laurie Holden is an American-Canadian actress and portrays Andre on The Walking Dead. For her work on the show, Holden was nominated for a Saturn Award in 2011. Outside of The Walking Dead, she is known for numerous rolls in TV shows such as, The X-Files, The Shield, The Magnificent Seven, and movies Silent Hill and The Fantastic Four.

Danai Gurira  is an actress and an award winning playwright. She joined The Walking Dead as a regular for season three, playing the katana wielding Michonne.   She has also appeared in TV shows Law and Order, Life on Mars, Lie to Me, Law and Order CI and has a recurring role on HBO’s Treme.

We have many more guest announcements over the coming weeks. To get up to date information as it is released you can follow us at https://www.facebook.com/phoenixcomicon

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

WWE Superstar and Reality Show Icon To Make First Wizard World Stop Feb. 22

WWE® Superstar The Miz® To Appear At 2013 Wizard World Portland Comic Con

NEW YORK and PORTLAND, Ore., –

WWE® Superstar The Miz® will make his first Wizard World appearance at Portland Comic Con on Friday, Feb. 22, at the Oregon Convention Center.  The “Most Must See WWE Superstar” and reality TV star will be on site from 5-7:30 p.m.

First introduced to TV audiences as one of the seven strangers on The Real World: Back to New York, The Miz and his outspoken personality have helped him rise to Superstar status.

The Miz made his rounds on the reality TV circuit, including four seasons of the Real World/Road Rules Challenge Bravo’s Battle of the Network Reality Stars, and as a competitor on a special edition of Fear Factor. The Miz’s outgoing personality and charm made him a fan favorite.

"I'm looking forward to an 'Awesome' appearance next month at Portland Comic Con. It will be great to meet so many WWE and reality TV fans”, said The Miz.

John Macaluso, Wizard World CEO added, “Having The Miz continues our commitment to our fans to bring their favorite WWE Superstars to the Wizard World Tour. We are thrilled to have the ‘Most Must See WWE Superstar' in The Miz.”

The Miz joins comics legend Stan Lee, “Happy Days” star Henry Winkler, Evil Dead star Bruce Campbell, “Homeland” headliner Morena Baccarin and Norman Reedus of “The Walking Dead” at the top of the standout lineup of celebrities scheduled to attend the event, held from Feb. 22-24.  They will be joined by a top-drawer collection of well-known artists and a variety of activities, exhibitors and special attractions in the first event on Wizard World's 2013 calendar and the first Wizard World event in the “City of Roses.”

The Miz competed on the fourth season of ‘Tough Enough’ in hopes of winning a contract to become a WWE Superstar. After finishing as the runner up, The Miz didn’t give up on his dream and continued to train once the ‘Tough Enough’ competition ended. He began his WWE career on Friday Night SmackDown.

Wizard World Portland Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, February 24, is “Kids Day,” an array of programming specially designed for children.

Event hours are Friday, Feb. 22, 3-8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 23, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 24, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more on the 2013 Wizard World Portland Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-portland.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The 2013 event schedule to date can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

Michael Rooker and Chandler Riggs Join PHXCC 2013

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce that actors Michael Rooker and Chandler Riggs will be attending Comicon 2013. 

“We are so happy to have Rooker and Riggs here with us at this year's Comicon. You never know when they'll be a zombie swarm that needs to be taken care of!,” says Marketing Director Jillian Squires.

Michael Rooker is best known for his current role of the one-handed zombie killer Merle Dixon on the hit AMC television series The Walking Dead. Rooker is also well known for his role of Henry in the 1986 movie Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer. For this role, Rooker was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead and won the Fantasporto Award and Golden Space Needle Award, both for Best Actor. In addition to being a regular cast member of The Walking Dead, recently you could hear Rooker's voice as the character Sheriff E.Z. Ponder for the FX animated comedy Archer in 2012.

Chandler Riggs is best known for his role as Carl Grimes on the hit AMC television series The Walking Dead. A regular cast member since Season 1, Riggs was nominated for his performance as a Lead Actor in The Walking Dead at the 33rd Young Artist Awards in 2012. Riggs has also appeared in the 2009 film Get Low as Tom. In addition to being a regular cast member of The Walking Dead, Riggs will appear in the upcoming film Mercy in 2013.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Geek-o-Rama's Geeky Gift Guide Part 2

- Kotobukiya Harley Quinn Bishoujo Statue

List price of $59.99

Official Kotobukiya Store

I absolutely love Kotobukiya figures.  I especially love the ones that treat comic characters to the Japanese stylization, and to have that done with my favorite villainess is wonderful.  They did Harley proud with this figure, posing her in her classic black and red outfit and straddling her giant hammer.

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- Kotobukiya Rei Ayanami Plug Suit Style 1/7 Scale Figure

List price of $69.99

Official Kotobukiya Store

As my all time favorite character, anime or otherwise, my list could never be complete without at least one Rei item.  Yet again, my love for Kotobukiya holds true with this figure.  Seen in her iconic plug suit upon a rubble stand, this fantastic PVC figure is a must have.  Kotobukiya plus Rei is pretty much epic win.

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- The Walking Dead Compendium Vol 2

List Price of $59.99

Various prices on Amazon.com

Admittedly, I joined the Walking Dead fandom late, and by watching the show first.  Once I started reading the books though, I was even more hooked.  So it really comes as no surprise that the next volume to collect the individual issues needs to be on my shelf.  Plus, it’s just easier to have them in such handy compendiums.

=====

 

- The Batman Files

List price of $100

Various prices on Amazon.com

Batman has and always will be my favorite superhero.  I won’t bother getting into why, that’s for another time and place.  When I first heard about this book coming out, I knew I had to have it.  I geek over things easy, but to have a mock up collecton of files, dossiers, etc from the Batcave is another level of geeking out.

=====

- Batman: The Complete Animated Series

List price unknown

Various prices on Amazon.com

Needless to say, with how big of a Batman fan I am, having the whole series of BTAS is a long standing wish of mine.  I religiously watched this show growing up, and would gladly rewatch it again and again.  This is such an amazing collection of one of my all time favorite cartoons and some day, it hope to see it among my other DVDs.

Q&A's With Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Evening Parties, Screening, Creator Spotlights Highlight Programming At 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con

Dean Cain, 'Star Trek: TNG,' 'The Walking Dead' Casts, Other Celebrities, Comics, Movies, TV Panels At Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, Friday through Sunday

NEW YORK and NEW ORLEANS, November 26, 2012 – Interactive Q&A sessions with stars Stan Lee, Eliza Dushku, WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Dean Cain and the casts of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” and “The Walking Dead” are among the featured programming announced for this weekend's Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, Friday through Sunday at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.  Sessions with stars like Michael Madsen, Kevin Eastman, Jason David Frank and others, supplemented by “Creator Spotlights” with leading artists, a screening of Madsen's film Vice and evening parties on Friday and Saturday further bolster the most diverse panel schedule ever at the event.

Some of the more interesting sessions include:

• Interactive celebrity Q&A's with Lee, Dushku, Punk, Cain, Madsen, Frank and others.
• Seven cast members of “Star Trek: TNG,” including Jonathan Frakes (Commander William T. Riker), LeVar Burton (Lt. Commander Geordi La Forge), Michael Dorn (Lieutenant Worf), Marina Sirtis (Counselor Deanna Troi), Brent Spiner (Lt. Commander Data), Gates McFadden (Dr. Beverly Crusher) and John de Lancie (Q).  This is a paid event requiring an additional admission.
• “The Walking Dead” stars Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker and Jon Bernthal discuss the popular AMC show.
• Unique, personal meet and greet with Lee (paid event).
• “Star Trek: TNG” breakout sessions featuring select actors from the series.
• Screening of the feature film Vice, with brief Q&A with star Madsen
• “Creator Spotlights” with industry giants Lee, Eastman, Jesus Saiz, Greg Capullo, Neal Adams and Ethan Van Sciver
• Comprehensive discussions of a wide range of topics from cosplay, special effects, vampires, zombies, the public library, Grimm's Fairy Tales and more.
• Costume contests for adults (Saturday) and Kids (Sunday).
• Kids Day on Sunday, with a full slate of activities specially designed for the youngsters.

Unless noted, programming events take place in the designated General Programming Rooms on the second floor of the Morial Convention Center.  Most are included as part of standard Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con admission; VIP tickets or additional costs may apply to ensure access to select activities.  Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first come first serve basis and each room will be cleared between panels.  Programming subject to change; attendees should check the schedule board on site and the Wizard Cons smartphone app for updates.

A full list of Wizard World New Orleans programming is below; further details on each at http://www.wizardworld.com/programming-neworleans.html (subjects, guests, times and rooms subject to change):

Friday, November 30
5:30 – 6:15pm Portfolio Review With David Macho (Booth #1031)
6:00 – 6:45pm Stan Lee Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 264)
8:00 – 11:00pm Wizard World Cosplay Drink & Draw (The Metropolitan @ 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)

Saturday, December 1
11:00 – 11:45am Gates McFadden, Jonathan Frakes & Michael Dorn Q&A (Room 265)
11:00 – 11:45am Dean Cain Q&A (Room 272)
11:00 – 11:45am Cosplay 101 (Room 275)
11:00 – 11:45am The Artist’s Life (Room 279)
12:00 – 12:45pm Eliza Dushku Q&A (Room 265)
12:00 – 12:45pm Designing The Next Star Trek Television Show (Room 272)
12:00 – 12:45pm Basic Mold Making For Props And Special Effects Make-Up (Room 275)
12:30 – 1:15pm Stan Lee Meet And Greet – Paid Event (Room 264)
12:00 – 12:45pm Creator Spotlight: Jesus Saiz (Room 279)
1:00 – 2:00pm Portfolio Review With David Macho (Room 263)
1:00 – 1:45pm The Boondock Saints Q&A (Room 265)
1:00 – 1:45pm Vampire Lore And Other Urban Myths And Legends W/Dr. Rebecca Housel (Room 272)
1:00 – 1:45pm Starfleet – Beam Up! (Room 275)
1:00 – 1:45pm Zenescope: Grimm Fairy Tales Gets Busy And Animated In 2013 (Room 279)
2:00 – 2:45pm Kevin Sorbo Q&A (Room 272)
2:00 – 2:45pm 50 Years In The Tardis: The Many Faces Of Doctor Who (Room 275)
2:00 – 2:45pm David Mack: Creative Process Spotlight On Daredevil & Kabuki (Room 279)
3:00 – 3:45pm Creator Spotlight: Stan Lee (Room 265)
3:00 – 3:45pm WWE® Superstar CM Punk® Q&A (Room 272)
3:00 – 3:45pm Getting Graphic In The Library (Room 275)
3:00 – 3:45pm Star Trek: TNG Enterprise Bridge Restoration (Room 279)
4:00 – 4:45pm Stan Lee Heroes And Psychology (Room 265)
4:00 – 4:45pm Jason David Frank: Power Ranger Q&A (Room 272)
4:00 – 4:45pm From Concept To Page (Room 275)
4:00 – 5:45pm Silver Circle Screening And Q&A (Room 279)
5:00 – 5:45pm Creator Spotlight: Kevin Eastman (Room 272)
5:00 – 5:45pm Saving The Day: Ghostbusters Propping And Franchising (Room 275)
5:30 – 7:00pm Star Trek: The Next Generation 25th Anniversary Reunion – Paid Event (Room 265)
6:00 – 8:00pm Vice Screening W/Introduction By Michael Madsen (Room 272)
6:00 – 6:45pm Grimm Fairy Tales: What Your Mother Didn’t Tell You (Room 275)
6:00 – 6:45pm Artists Of The New 52 With Greg Capullo, Jesus Saiz & Ethan Van Sciver (Room 279)
7:00pm – 9:00pm Wizard World Adult Costume Contest (Room 265 / Cosplay Parade, Final Round & Winners Announced At The Metropolitan: 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)
7:00 – 7:45pm The End Of The World Is Only The Beginning: Preparing For The Zombie Apocalypse (Room 279)
9:00pm – 2:00am Wizard World Masquerade Party (Metropolitan: 310 Andrew Higgins Dr.)

Sunday, December 2
11:00 – 11:45am John De Lancie Q&A (Room 265)
11:00 – 11:45am Storytelling With Michael Golden: Taking It To The Next Level (Room 279)
12:00 – 12:45pm Michael Madsen Q&A (Room 265)
12:00 – 12:45pm Breaking In Without Breaking Ties (Room 279)
1:00 – 1:45pm The Walking Dead Q&A W/Norman Reedus, Michael Rooker And Jon Bernthal (Room 265)
1:00 – 1:45pm Hound Kids Presents Border-Pups: Crashbat And Super Space Sheriffs Book Reading (Room 272)
1:00 – 1:45pm Creator Spotlight: Greg Capullo (Room 279)
2:00 – 2:45pm Levar Burton, Marina Sirtis And Brent Spiner Q&A (Room 265)
2:00 – 2:45pm Wizard World Kids Costume Contest (Room 272)
2:00 – 2:45pm Creator Spotlight: The Adams Family (Room 279)
3:00 – 3:45pm Batman And Psychology (Room 265)
3:00 – 3:45pm Meet The 501st Legion (Room 272)
3:00 – 3:45pm Creator Spotlight: Ethan Van Sciver (Room 279)
4:00 – 4:45pm Kenny Klein In Concert (Room 272)

*Seating for panels is strictly limited and available on a first served basis. each room will be cleared before panels.

Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, Dec. 2, is “Kids Day,” with an array of programming specially designed for children.

Event hours are Friday, Nov. 30, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World New Orleans Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-neworleans.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

FACTS 2012 = The Walking Dead

Never before has an American series been that much in the spotlight @ FACTS as The Walking Dead.
Zombies galore!

Conquer your fear and meet :
- Charlie Adlard, renowned The Walking Dead comics artist
- Norman Reedus, fan favorite Daryl in the award-winning The Walking Dead tv series
- Lauren Cohan, charming Maggie in the award-winning The Walking Dead tv series.

Other zombie artists will also be present such as Sean Phillips (Marvel Zombies) and Sophian Cholet & Lucio Leoni from the succesful french Zombies series.

Many The Walking Dead titles (the comics, the new compendium edition, novels, the survivors guide) will be available at cheap prices. Publisher Silvester will bring cool Walking Dead banners and thus it will be easy to spot Charlie Adlard. And they made a exclusive Walking Dead card-set which will only be available at FACTS.

With our E-bay auction, you can become a zombie in a future Walking Dead issue. All profits go to Charity. You can bid here :
http://www.benl.ebay.be/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=221140838472

Suffer more living dead action:
Dead Cold: Get hold of your own limited edition FA.C.T.S 2012 collectible on which all artists have participated. The price is a mere 10€.

On Saturday at 17h30, in the Black Box the painting by Charlie Adlard which was used for Dead Cold, the FACTS 2012 collectible, will be auctioned.

More info here : http://www.facts.be/2012/auction-dead-cold-cover-by-charlie-adlard/
The Walking Dead Competition: win the autograph of Norman Reedus, the last Early-Bird tickets, comics and dvd’s

The zombie manga Competition : win the first five issues of the cult series ‘I am a hero’
Zombie makeover: get zombified by professional make-up artists
European première!!!!!

watch Episode 1 of Season 3 of The Walking Dead at F.A.C.T.S. 2012.
Attention : seating places will be limited.

Fan Communities Come to Austin

More Than 20 Fan Communities To Show Their Stuff at 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con

'Star Trek,' 'Star Wars,' 'Doctor Who,' 'Ghostbusters' Clubs, Podcast, Children's Museum Among Top Organizations At Austin Convention Center, October 26-28

NEW YORK and AUSTIN, Texas, October 15, 2012 – Attendees at this month's Wizard World Austin Comic Con, on their way to visiting celebrities, artists, exhibitors and other attractions, will likely run into more than a few members of the more than 20 fan communities setting up on and roaming the Austin Convention Center floor, Oct. 26-28.  Groups displaying their affinity for such staples as Star Wars, “Star Trek,” Ghostbusters, “Doctor Who,” charities, themed podcasters and other non-profit organizations will be on hand, greatly enhancing the fan experience for the thousands expected over the three days.

Some of the organizations on site include:

• 501st Garrison – Central Texas Squad, a chapter of the national organization which seeks to promote interest in Star Wars through the building and wearing of quality costumes, and to facilitate the use of these costumes for Star Wars-related events as well as contributions to the local community through costumed charity and volunteer work.
• Anomaly Podcast and Blog, an award winning geek-girl show, often featured in the “What’s Hot” section under “TV and Film” within the iTunes store. From the start, the founders of Anomaly had but one goal in mind: to have fun while sharing their feminine perspectives on all things geek. Created over five years ago, Anomaly and its supporting show, Anomaly Supplemental, each feature commentary on science fiction and fantasy literature, television, and film.
• Ark Angel, whose “meetings” range from actual meetings of a business type to anything from watching movies at one of the Crew's houses, camping trips, laser tag outings, bowling, LAN parties, role-playing games, or just sitting around a table playing games of all types.
• Cybertronz Elite, the elite Transformers Collectors and fan group. Established February 2011 by its founding Core 13 members, who have a vision in bringing all transformers collector's and fans together, for the purpose of helping give back to the community, collecting, educating, and expanding the Transformers fan base across the universe, "till all are one!"
• D20 Girls Project, a semi-unique business that combines Social Networking, Talent Management, and Event Services. D20 also arranges with manufacturers, publishers and conventions to provide trade show models and spokes models at gaming and fandom related industry conventions across the U.S.
• DFW Ghostbusters, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to dealing with ghosts, goblins and the undead, all while raising money to help those in need and give back to the community.
• Doctor Who Fan Club of Austin, a local Austin Facebook Fan Club that participates in holding watch parties, bound together by the love of Doctor Who and living the values shared as Doctor Who fans.
• The Fandom Association of Central Texas, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to the promotion of science fiction, fantasy, and speculative fiction.  The Association sponsors many activities aimed towards furthering the cause of literacy and the enjoyment of the genres, for example is ArmadilloCon, an annual literary conference.
• Houston Ghostbusters, a fan based group focused on doing community events and charity work in costume, and whose main goal is to make a positive impact on the world through love of movies, costumes and prop making.
• Punching the Walls of Reality, a rising Austin-based website looking to expand its audience with a unique sense of humor and well-opined reviews that are becoming all too scarce throughout the vast expanse of the Internet. It produces several candid and hilarious blogs with topics ranging from the latest in video games, most popular television shows, most loathed movies, mainstream comic books and highlights of the combat sport of mixed martial arts.
• PurrKayla, winner of fan-made online Superhero show, which was judged by fellow Superheroes.
• Safeplace, whose mission isending sexual and domestic violence through safety, healing, prevention and social change.  Safeplace provides safety for individuals and families affected by sexual and domestic violence; helps victims in their healing so they can move beyond being defined by the crimes committed against them, and become survivors; promotes safe and healthy relationships for the prevention of sexual and domestic violence; and works with others to create change in attitudes, behaviors and policies that perpetuate the acceptance of, and impact our understanding and responses to, sexual and domestic violence.
• Save Our Seeker, fan-organized campaign to save “Legend of the Seeker” is an Emmy-award winning fantasy TV show produced by Disney/ABC Studios, based on Terry Goodkind’s bestselling epic series “The Sword of Truth.” The series follows the extraordinary transformation of woodsman Richard Cypher into a magical leader.
• Sith Shadow Council of Texas, a fan based Star Wars group. We dress-up, perform and participate in many events and charities within Texas and the San Antonio area.
• The Steam Engine Intrepid, a renegade steampunk group out of San Antonio Texas but with scouts in other cities, which prefers to travel by rail because the thought of an airship sickens our leader the Dark Professor.
• Star Wars Children's Museum, a nonprofit group of like-minded individuals working for a goal : To Build a Star Wars Themed Children’s Museum. Its Mission is “To Inspire and Educate." Its goal is to actually build the building a design from the Star Wars universe, and fill it with interesting, excited, educational exhibits to capture the attention and inspire the imaginations of today’s youth.
• USS Navras, a correspondence chapter of Starfleet, The International Star Trek Fan Association, Inc.– meaning that men, women, and children from all over the world can actively join and participate.
• USS Zavala, a chapter of Starfleet, the oldest continuously operating Star Trek fan organization in the world. Zavala is dedicated to the ideals of diplomacy, justice, and the pursuit of knowledge espoused in the Star Trek genre.
• WGTR “World Grand Theft Radio,” the nationwide internet radio station No. 1 worldwide Halloween radio station in Sept & Oct. With over 30 original shows a week live, “our mission to make your on air dreams come true!”

Eight stars of the popular series “Star Trek: The Next Generation, including the legendary Patrick Stewart and Will Wheaton (Stand By Me) will be joined by Eliza Dushku (“Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” True Lies), WWE® Superstar CM Punk®, Mike “The Situation” Sorrentino (“Jersey Shore”), Dean Cain (“Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman,” “90210”), Anthony Michael Hall (Sixteen Candles, Weird Science), Michael Rooker (“The Walking Dead,” Henry), Jon Bernthal (“The Walking Dead,” The Ghost Writer) and the Boondock Saints trio of Norman Reedus, Sean Patrick Flanery and David Della Rocco, among others at Wizard World Austin Comic Con.

Wizard World Austin Comic Con, produced by Wizard World, Inc. (WIZD.PK), will bring together thousands of fans of all ages to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Admission is free for kids 10 and under, and Sunday, October 28, is “Kids Day,” with an array of programming specially designed for children.

For more on the 2012 Wizard World Austin Comic Con, visit http://www.wizardworld.com/home-tx.html.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.