Toronto Comicon ‘FAN EXPO’ Draws Thousands, Showcases Diversity

By Janet Grant

Toronto’s much-anticipated Fan Expo made a grand return to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from March 15-17, attracting a diverse crowd of enthusiasts for a three-day celebration of pop culture.

Toronto Comicon 2024
Photos by:Melissa DaCruz

The event, held in the North Building, brought together fans of all ages to revel in a variety of activities, including celebrity panels, autograph sessions, and family programming. The expo offered something for everyone, from Trekkies to mutants and vampire aficionados.

Highlights from this year’s Fan Expo included:

X-Men Reunion: The voice cast of the iconic X-Men: The Animated Series reunited on stage, featuring Cal Dodd (Wolverine), Catherine Disher (Jean Gray/Phoenix), Lenore Zann (Rogue), among others. Fans were treated to behind-the-scenes stories and a wave of nostalgia, just in time for the premiere of the new X-Men ’97.

Boldly Go with Star Trek: Stars from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, including Anson Mount (Captain Pike), Ethan Peck (Spock), and Christina Chong (La’aan Noonien-Singh), discussed the past two seasons and offered a glimpse into what’s in store for season three.

Toronto Comicon 2024
Toronto Comicon 2024

What We Do in the Shadows: Harvey Guillén (Guillermo) and Natasia Demetriou (Nadja) from the Toronto-filmed series shared insights and laughter, as the show prepares for its final season.

Avatar: The Last Airbender: Fans got a sneak peek into Netflix’s live adaptation with appearances by Gordon Cormier (Aang) and Ian Ousley (Sokka).

Davey Jonesie’s Locker Premiere: An exclusive screening of the new series set to debut on Prime Video and Hulu left attendees buzzing with anticipation.

Toronto Comicon 2024
Photos by:Melissa DaCruz
Toronto Comicon 2024
Photos by:Melissa DaCruz

In addition to the star-studded panels and screenings, Toronto Comicon 2024 was a vibrant showcase of cosplay, with attendees dressing as their favorite characters, creatures, superheroes, or villains.

During the event, several Black families were asked why they attended and what they would tell others considering the event. Many have been long-time attendees, drawn by their love for comics, movies, and TV. They noted a positive shift in representation, with more diverse faces on screen and in comics. Their message to others was clear: “Come! Enjoy the experience of all that the event offers. Don’t forget to dress as your favorite characters, creatures, superheroes, or villains.”

As Toronto Comicon 2024 wraps up, fans are already looking forward to next year’s event, promising even more excitement and inclusivity in the world of fandom.