Comic-Con 2026: Johnny Depp as Scrooge, Enhypen meets Twilight

Johnny Depp made a surprise appearance in downtown San Diego on Thursday, July 23, 2026, as Ebenezer Scrooge from his upcoming film "Ebenezer," scolding Comic-Con attendees with "Humbug!" The convention, now in its 56th year, expects over 120,000 fans across four days. Meanwhile, in a cross-cultural moment, K-pop group Enhypen joined Twilight director Catherine Hardwicke and actors Peter Facinelli and Ashley Greene for a panel on vampire storytelling.

Depp's Guerilla Marketing Stunt

Depp emerged from a faux snow-lined storefront marked with a “Scrooge and Marley” sign, clad in an overcoat and top hat. He taunted the crowd, asking if they had jobs and calling them “very, very strange people.” The actor shuffled back inside after gruffly declaring “Humbug!” His appearance was notably outside any official convention panel, reflecting a growing trend among Hollywood studios to stage guerrilla-style promotions. "Ebenezer," set for release Nov 13, marks Depp’s first studio film in eight years.

Comic-Con's Growth and Future in San Diego

More than 120,000 attendees are expected at the four-day event, which began in 1970 with a few hundred sci-fi and comics fans and an appearance by Marvel legend Jack Kirby. Organizers have previously floated moving the convention to Los Angeles or another large city due to space constraints. However, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria announced Wednesday that Comic-Con will remain in San Diego through 2030. He described the decision as reflecting a shared commitment to fans, creators, and workers who make the event unique.

Cross-Pop Culture Exchanges and Fan Experiences

Enhypen’s panel with the Twilight cast highlighted the convention’s blend of distinct fandoms. The K-pop group joined director Catherine Hardwicke and actors Peter Facinelli and Ashley Greene to explore vampire storytelling across cultures. Fans also expressed joy through cosplay. Brionna Slavalk, 27, traveled from Indiana dressed as the elf paladin Vaelus from the D&D web series Critical Role, her skin painted purple. She noted the thrill of seeing other detailed costumes, like a red character from Hazbin Hotel and multiple Doctor Dooms. PJ Richardson, 44, drove cross-country from Orlando with his family for his first Comic-Con International, calling it “the Mecca” and “once-in-a-lifetime.” He was amazed by the scale of toys and collectibles on display.

Looking Ahead: Marvel's Avengers Return and More

The most anticipated event is Marvel Studios’ Hall H panel on Saturday, expected to build hype for the December release of "Avengers: Doomsday." The studio aims to reinvigorate audience interest in superhero films, which has waned in recent years. Other panels range from new video game titles featuring Wolverine and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to a discussion on fencing in Hollywood with Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson and actor Asher Grodman. The convention runs through Sunday, with fans continuing to enjoy cosplay contests, autograph booths, and obstacle courses.

As Comic-Con evolves, its ability to blend nostalgia with fresh cross-cultural moments—like Depp's character immersion and Enhypen's Twilight interaction—may keep it central to pop culture for years to come.