FAN EXPO Chicago took place from August 16 to August 18, 2024, changing from the previous four-day convention format to a three-day convention. The Donald Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont was packed for all three days with cosplayers, vendors, and celebrity guests. The first day had a long and daunting line of eager conventioneers anticipating an early entrance. The media preview hour for the Crypt was of interest as the Gregula crew was able to have access for reporting of the overall presentation of the convention. The main hall, as expected, took up all of the floor space of the Stephens, with a dedicated section to vendors, artists’ alley, a cosplay and podcasting area, a celebrity signing area, a celebrity photo area, and a live stage. Many previous and new vendors appeared at the convention, most of them from out of state and enjoying their visit to the Chicago area.
The list of celebrities this year was impressive, including the elusive Mark Hamill who usually doesn’t do fan conventions. He was so high profile that those who purchased an autograph or a photo op with him were given a secret map of where he could be found. Apparently it was not on the Stephens convention floor but rather in the loftier upper floors of the Stephens. Hamill had his own panel which, predictably, was filled to the brim with attendees.
Also on site was William Shatner and another famous Star Trek captain, Kate Mulgrew. Mulgrew only appeared for one day, Saturday. Alan Tudyk of the still popular one-season show Firefly was present, having again quite a fan base. The famed Seinfeld stars Wayne Knight and Larry Thomas were also signing and doing photo ops at the convention. Larry Thomas talked to the crew about his reminiscences in the business, sharing anecdotes about working with other actors on projects besides Seinfeld. Mario Lopez and Elizabeth Berkley of Saved by the Bell were on hand, attracting legions of fans. Michael Biehn of Aliens and Terminator was very classy in an expensive suit and took a photo with the Count as Biehn rushed to his panel. Robert Patrick of Terminator 2, renowned as the liquid robot T-1000, was nearby, along with Edward Furlong. Robert Patrick talked about his The Outer Limits episodes which have had a fine reception and are memorable. More and more stars were at this year’s FAN EXPO, an extravaganza of names that, in our opinion, have surpassed other guest lists at other major Chicago area conventions of similar magnitude.
For the comic book collector, there was an ample amount of vendors offering professionally graded CGC comic books. These comic books are slabbed, that is, covered in plastic so they are not accessible to page and read but rather they are sealed for preservation purposes. The collectability of CGC graded comic books is taking off, with some viewing it as a wise investment that will pay off in the future. CGC graded items are not limited to comic books. Some surprising items that are CGC graded and covered in protective plastic include VHS tapes and video games.
There were many vintage horror comics available for purchase, including DC’s Black Magic, Marvel’s The Tomb of Dracula, Werewolf by Night, and the more obscure and underrated N’Kantu the Living Mummy. Skeet Ulrich of Scream had canceled his appearance but other luminary actors in the horror genre were there. Chicago Costume Company was also on site, purveyors of costumes for Halloween and assorted related props.
Very fine connections between people at mega conventions such as FAN EXPO are made or even renewed with vigor. That is one of the salient points of a convention such as FAN EXPO, that either new friendships and connections are made or existing connections between people are renewed and perhaps flourish even more. The ambience of the event can induce immediate bonds between people. It’s all the more astonishing because there is so much happening at once and yet people still form strong interpersonal links.
The next FAN EXPO Chicago will happen from August 15 to 17, 2025, at the same venue. It will be interesting to see what kind of a celebrity list will be attained for the next show since this year’s seemed insurmountable. FAN EXPO 2025 promises to be a great event, don’t miss out!
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