Memphis Comic Expo connects top comic book creators with fans

Now in its seventh year, the Memphis Comic Expo continues to follow the mission outlined by event founder Donald Juengling and branded on the convention's social media sites: "Creators Come First!"

The creators, in turn, appreciate the emphasis on actual comic books rather than movies and TV shows inspired by comic books (although writers and others who work on comics-inspired and genre film and television projects will be represented).

Past Expos have featured such titans of the comics medium as "X-Men" innovator Chris Claremont, "alternative" comics titans Gilbert and Jaime Hernandez and the late George Perez, master of the superhero splash page. This year's roster will include more than 30 professionals, representing Marvel, DC, Archie Comics, Image, Dark Horse, and other companies. Guests — to name only three — will include Mark Waid, writer of the hugely successful 1996 DC comic-book miniseries "Kingdom Come"; Rick Leonardi, co-creator of "Spider-Man 2099"; and James O'Barr, creator of "The Crow," the 1978 comic book that inspired a 1994 movie starring the late Brandon Lee. Cartoon voice actors and professional wrestlers also will be on hand, including Jerry "The King" Lawler and "Downtown Bruno" Lauer.

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The 2022 Memphis Comic Expo takes place from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday at Agricenter International, 7777 Walnut Grove. The Expo website claims this year's event is "our BIGGEST YEAR YET with over 70,000 square feet of expo space featuring comics, a cosplay contest, panels, vendors, voice actors, artists & writers, food, drinks, and more!"

Tickets are $40 a day; children 12 and under are admitted free. For more information, visit memphiscomicexpo.com.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis Comic Expo connects top comic book creators with fans