Motor City Comic Con 2025: Deadpool Co-Creator and Star Trek Stars Headed to Novi

Novi, MI – May 2025: Get ready, Metro Detroit – Motor City Comic Con 2025 (MC3) is almost here, and it’s bringing some serious star power to town. Excitement is building around this year’s convention at Novi’s Suburban Collection Showplace, thanks to a guest lineup that features none other than Fabian Nicieza (co-creator of Marvel’s Deadpool) and several beloved Star Trek actors. As one of the biggest family events Metro Detroit May 2025 has to offer, MC3 promises a fun, community-centered weekend for fans of all ages. In a style that’s equal parts Metro Times edgy, Metro Detroit Mommy friendly, and local expert savvy, let’s dive into what makes Motor City Comic Con 2025 a can’t-miss event.

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Who’s Coming to MC3 2025

From comic book legends to Hollywood icons, the Motor City Comic Con guests 2025 lineup spans multiple genres and generations. This year’s roster reads like a who’s who of pop culture, headlined by a mix of comic creators and on-screen stars. Here are some of the most buzzworthy guests headed to Novi:

Fabian Nicieza – The co-creator of Marvel’s Deadpool, famed X-Men writer, and comic industry legend. Nicieza’s appearance is a rare treat for comic fans, as he brings the Merc with a Mouth’s legacy to Michigan.
Anson Mount – Known to Trekkies as Captain Christopher Pike from Star Trek: Strange New Worlds and Star Trek: Discovery, Mount is one of the Star Trek celebrities at comic con this year, sure to draw sci-fi fans eager to hear about his voyages on the Enterprise.
Robert Picardo – Beloved for his role as the holographic Doctor on Star Trek: Voyager, Picardo is another Star Trek star beaming into MC3. He’s a fan-favorite across the franchise and will be greeting attendees (no medical tricorder required!).
Plus many more: The guest list doesn’t stop there. Attendees can meet actors from The Office, the Star Wars universe, the Marvel Cinematic Universe, X-Men, Blue’s Clues, and beyond. Big names like Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye from Avengers), Martin Sheen, Bill Nye “the Science Guy,” and even animated voice actors are slated to appear, making this lineup one of MC3’s most diverse ever.

Motor City Comic Con’s tradition of inviting a broad mix of celebrities and creators means you’ll likely find a favorite in every aisle. Whether you’re into superheroes, starship captains, or childhood nostalgia, MC3 2025’s guest lineup has you covered.

Why This Year’s Lineup Is a Big Deal

So, why is everyone hyped about Motor City Comic Con 2025? For starters, Fabian Nicieza’s appearance in Michigan is a big deal for comic enthusiasts – it’s not every day the co-creator of an iconic character like Deadpool comes to town. In fact, Nicieza hasn’t been at a Motor City Comic Con in decades (he jokingly noted it’s been 35 years since his last visit), making this a rare chance for fans to meet the man who gave Deadpool his signature witty personality. His presence bridges comic history with today’s superhero blockbuster culture, drawing interest from hardcore comic collectors and casual Marvel movie fans alike.

The Star Trek contingent is equally significant. Having actors like Anson Mount and Robert Picardo at a local convention is a thrill for long-time Trekkers and new Strange New Worlds fans. It’s a unique opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes stories from the Star Trek universe and maybe even get an autograph or photo with the stars who’ve explored the final frontier. Such Star Trek celebrities at comic con don’t come around often in Metro Detroit, so sci-fi fans are understandably excited. Expect plenty of Starfleet uniforms in the crowd and maybe a spontaneous Vulcan salute or two.

Beyond those headliners, this year’s lineup is a big deal because of its sheer variety and star power. Motor City Comic Con is known as one of the largest conventions in the Midwest, and 2025’s guest list reflects that scale. The convention has managed to gather guests from classic 80s films, modern streaming hits, cult favorite TV shows, comic art legends, and even kid-friendly characters all under one roof. That means families, cosplayers, and collectors will all find something special. MC3 2025 is truly a multi-generational pop culture celebration – the kind of event where a grandparent in a Star Trek tee, a parent in a Deadpool hoodie, and a kid dressed as a Pokémon can all have an equally great time.

Local Metro Detroiters also recognize that a lineup like this brings a boost of energy (and tourism) to the community. Novi’s hotels will fill with out-of-town fans, and the whole area gets a little more vibrant for the weekend. For the Metro Detroit community, it’s a point of pride to host a nationally recognized event. In short, this year’s lineup is a big deal not just for what it offers each fan personally, but for how it puts Metro Detroit’s fan community in the spotlight.

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What to Expect at the Event

Motor City Comic Con is far more than just celebrity meet-and-greets – it’s a full weekend experience. Here’s what attendees can look forward to throughout the event:

Three Days of Pop Culture Fun (Schedule & Highlights)

Motor City Comic Con 2025 runs Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18, packed with activities each day. The show hours are: Friday 12 PM – 7 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 7 PM, and Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM.

Friday (Opening Day): The festivities kick off Friday afternoon. This is a great day for those who want first crack at vendor booths or a more relaxed pace meeting guests. Many celebrities and comic creators will already be set up for autographs and photo ops. Friday evening might also feature an opening night event or preview panels (in past years, Friday sometimes includes special screenings or preview events). It’s the calm before the big Saturday crowd, so you can explore the show floor with a bit more elbow room.
Saturday (Main Event): Saturday is typically the busiest and most exciting day. Expect cosplay to be in full swing – you’ll see costumed fans as superheroes, anime characters, Jedi, Starfleet officers, and everything in between. In fact, Saturday evening hosts the Cosplay Craftsmanship Contest (often around 5:30 PM) where talented fans show off their best costumes on stage. During the day, multiple panels and Q&A sessions will take place – possibly including Q&As with Star Trek actors, a panel with Fabian Nicieza discussing his Marvel career, and other guest spotlights. The schedule typically has something interesting each hour, so plan ahead for any “can’t-miss” talks. Saturday is also prime time for shopping the vendor hall and Artist Alley when all exhibitors are up and running.
Sunday (Family Day): Sunday is known as Kid’s Day, and for good reason – all children 12 and under get in free on Sunday with a paid adult. The atmosphere remains lively but slightly more laid-back than Saturday. A highlight of Sunday is the Kids’ Cosplay Contest in the afternoon (usually around 3:30 PM), where the 12-and-under crowd get to parade their costumes and win prizes (adorableness level: over 9000!). Families can also enjoy extra kid-focused activities on Sunday, and many guests still attend that day to squeeze in last photo ops and autographs before the con wraps up at 5 PM.

Throughout all three days, attendees can roam the convention hall to take in a huge variety of attractions. According to organizers, “star cars, sketch duels, cosplay contests, slime making, and more” are on deck at MC3, with something for fans of all ages and fandoms. In one corner you might find the 501st Legion (Great Lakes Garrison) posing for photos in their spot-on Star Wars costumes, and in another you might catch a live gaming tournament or a creative workshop. Keep an eye on the official program (usually available on the MC3 website or app) for details on special events like anime screenings, trivia contests, or exclusive sneak peeks.

Family-Friendly Features

One thing that sets Motor City Comic Con apart is how family-friendly it is. If you’re bringing kids (or just young at heart yourself), you’ll have plenty to do together. The convention has a dedicated Kids’ Den all weekend – a space on the second floor filled with kid-approved fun. Here are some family highlights to look forward to:

Interactive Kids’ Activities: In the Kids’ Den, children can get hands-on with crafts and games. This year the local Ghostbusters fan group is hosting “Slime Time & Marshmallow Man” making sessions on Saturday and Sunday. Yes, your little ones can mix up ectoplasmic slime (with supervision) – who you gonna call for cleanup? Ghostbusters Detroit has it covered! There are also storytime sessions and various craft stations to spark creativity.
Kids-Only Cosplay Contest: As mentioned, Sunday features a cosplay contest just for kids 12 and under. It’s free to enter – no registration needed, just show up 15 minutes early. Every mini Batman, princess, or Pokémon trainer gets a moment in the spotlight. It’s a fantastic, confidence-boosting experience for kids, and the audience absolutely loves cheering them on.
All-Ages Attractions: Many attractions at MC3 are designed for all ages. For example, the Star Wars Zone (often hosted by groups like the 501st Legion) will delight both kids and adults with replica props and costumed characters. There are usually life-size movie vehicles or “star cars” on display (in past years things like the Batmobile or Ecto-1 have shown up) that make for great family photo ops. And of course, meeting friendly celebrities from kids’ shows – Blue’s Clues hosts Steve Burns, Donovan Patton, and Josh Dela Cruz will all be there – is a huge thrill for the younger crowd (and let’s be honest, for nostalgic parents too!).

Motor City Comic Con has worked to ensure that fans of all ages feel welcome. Parents will appreciate that the venue has ample space to navigate strollers, and there are rest areas when anyone needs a break from the excitement. If you need to duck out for a quieter moment, the convention center corridors and lobby offer a breather. Overall, MC3 strikes a great balance: it’s high-energy and exciting, but still perfectly suitable as a family event in Metro Detroit for a spring weekend.

Cosplay, Panels, and More Fan Experiences

Cosplay:

Dressing up is half the fun at any comic con. At MC3 2025, expect hundreds of fans in elaborate costumes roaming the halls. Whether you plan to cosplay or just admire, you’ll enjoy a parade of creativity – from Marvel and DC superheroes to anime characters, from Jedi Knights to Starfleet officers. Saturday’s Cosplay Craftsmanship Contest is the main event for cosplay aficionados, where the best of the best compete for awards. Even if you’re not competing, you can attend the contest to see jaw-dropping costumes and skits on stage. There’s also usually a hall cosplay contest or casual costume showcase for those who prefer not to be on stage. And remember, cosplay isn’t just for adults – kids will be in costume too, especially on Sunday for the kids’ contest. Feel free to dress up the whole family (just be mindful of the prop weapon rules – all props must be peace-bonded and approved by staff for safety).

Panels & Q&A Sessions:

A big draw of Comic Con is the chance to hear from your favorite creators and stars directly. Throughout the weekend, Motor City Comic Con hosts panel discussions featuring celebrity guests, comic creators, and special topics. These panels are usually scheduled in conference rooms or a ballroom at the venue, and they cover everything from behind-the-scenes stories to fan Q&As. For instance, Fabian Nicieza might talk about his journey in comics and how Deadpool was created, or the Star Trek actors might join a panel to discuss the enduring legacy of the franchise. There could also be panels for The Office cast reunion chats, anime voice actors performing live readings, or even a session with renowned comic artists doing sketch demonstrations. Panel schedules are typically posted ahead of time on the MC3 website and in the program guide – it’s wise to pick a few must-see panels and arrive a bit early to get good seats. The insight and surprises (sometimes panelists drop exclusive news or hilarious anecdotes) are well worth it.

Autographs & Photo Ops:

If getting an autograph from or a photo with a celebrity is on your bucket list, MC3 has you covered. Over the three-day weekend, celebrity and comic guests participate in autograph signings and professional photo opportunities with fans (for an additional fee). Some guests offer pre-sale tickets for their autographs and photo ops online, which can save you time waiting in line. Others you can pay on-site. Prices vary by celebrity – for example, a TV actor might charge $40 for an autograph, whereas a bigger name like a Marvel movie star could be higher. Be sure to check the official site or the guest’s booth for pricing. Photo ops are typically scheduled at specific times; you’ll get a high-quality print (and often a digital copy) of you alongside your chosen celebrity. It’s a bit of a splurge, but for many fans the keepsake is priceless. Tip: If a star is only appearing one day (for example, Bill Nye is Sunday-only, and some actors might only be there Sat/Sun), make sure to plan accordingly so you don’t miss your chance.

Artist Alley & Vendors:

Don’t forget to explore Artist Alley and the vendor floor. Artist Alley is a treasure trove for comic art lovers – you’ll meet comic book artists, writers, and illustrators showcasing their work. You can often buy prints, get sketches, or just chat with the creative minds behind your favorite comics. It’s also a great place to discover independent artists and pick up unique artwork or signed comics. Meanwhile, the vendor area will have crafters and dealers selling everything from vintage comic books and graphic novels to action figures, rare collectibles, handcrafted jewelry, geeky T-shirts, and more. Whether you’re hunting for that one issue missing from your collection or just looking for a cool souvenir, you’ll likely find it here. Make sure to bring a tote bag or backpack to carry your haul – and perhaps set a budget, because the shopping temptation is real!

In short, what to expect at Motor City Comic Con 2025 is a little bit of everything. It’s an immersive pop culture playground: part comic book bazaar, part fan fest, part educational panel series, and part cosplay carnival. Plan on spending several hours (if not all three days) to truly soak it all in. And remember, the goal is to have fun – whether that means snagging that coveted autograph, learning something new at a panel, or just people-watching a Jedi argue with Deadpool over which line is shorter for coffee.

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Tips for Attending Motor City Comic Con 2025

Heading to Motor City Comic Con in Novi? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned con-goer, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some tips for attending to help you make the most of the weekend:

Plan Ahead & Get Tickets Early: It’s wise to purchase your tickets (wristbands) in advance online. Not only can this save you time at the door, but there’s always a chance popular days could sell out. Remember that kids 5 and under are free all weekend, and kids 6-12 need a child ticket on Fri/Sat (but are free on Sunday). If you’re a super-fan, consider VIP packages for perks – but act before the shipping deadline if you want wristbands mailed to you.
Know the Hours & Arrive Early: Mark the show hours (Fri 12-7, Sat 10-7, Sun 10-5) and aim to arrive early, especially on Saturday. Early birds get better parking spots and shorter entry lines. If there’s a celebrity or panel you’re dying to see, get there with time to spare. Popular panels can fill up, and autograph lines can get long, so build in some buffer time.
Parking and Getting There: The Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi offers on-site parking for $10 per vehicle (cash only). Have some cash ready to speed things up. Your parking pass usually allows re-entry the same day, so you can come and go if needed. The venue is right off I-96 and M-5, making it easy to access from around Metro Detroit. If you’re coming from downtown or afar, consider traffic (Friday rush hour could slow you down) and possibly use a mapping app for best routes.
Dress Comfortably (Cosplay or Not): You’ll be on your feet a lot, so wear comfortable shoes. The convention floor is large, and you might be doing laps. If you’re cosplaying, make sure your costume is comfortable enough for several hours of walking and standing. It’s a good idea to have a small emergency kit (safety pins, costume tape, etc.) for any cosplay malfunctions. And remember, props will be checked at the door for safety, so avoid anything that looks too realistic as a weapon.
Bring Essentials: Consider bringing a backpack with a few con essentials: water bottle (stay hydrated!), snacks (food is available on-site, but a granola bar in your bag can be a lifesaver during a long panel or line), hand sanitizer, and a portable phone charger (you’ll likely be taking tons of photos and using your phone to coordinate with friends). If you plan to buy art or comics, a hard-sided folder or poster tube can protect your new treasures.
Budget for Extras: Autographs, photo ops, and merchandise will cost extra, so budget accordingly. If you have a must-have autograph in mind, check the price range beforehand and hit the ATM if needed (there may be ATMs on-site, but they might charge fees or run out of cash). Also, many vendors accept cards now, but some artists or smaller sellers might prefer cash. It’s handy to have various bill denominations for quick transactions.
Explore Novi & Surroundings: If you’re looking for things to do in Novi Comic Con weekend beyond the convention, you’re in luck – the area around Suburban Collection Showplace has plenty of dining and entertainment options to round out your day. While we won’t name names, you can find everything from family-friendly restaurants to shopping centers within a short drive. However, with all the action at MC3, you might have all the excitement you need right at the con! Still, those coming from out of town might enjoy checking out other local attractions in Novi and the Metro Detroit area if time permits.
Family Tips: Families with young kids, take advantage of Sunday’s free child admission and the Kids’ Den activities. Strollers are allowed, but it might get crowded – wearing young children in carriers could be easier to navigate through tight spaces. Make a meetup plan in case anyone gets separated (the venue is large, so “meet at the giant Hulk statue at 3 PM” can save some stress). And don’t forget to have kids participate in the fun – whether it’s wearing a simple costume or asking a question at a Q&A, it makes their experience more memorable.
Mind the Convention Etiquette: MC3 is a friendly, welcoming event, and everyone can help keep it that way. Always ask permission before taking photos of or with a cosplayer (it’s proper con etiquette). Be respectful in celebrity lines – most guests will try to accommodate as many fans as possible, so keep conversations polite and brief unless invited to chat more. Follow any rules the staff gives you, whether it’s about lining up, mask policies (if any), or prop checks. Essentially, be kind, be patient, and remember that the staff and volunteers are working hard to give everyone a great time.

By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for an awesome Motor City Comic Con experience. A little planning and courtesy go a long way towards ensuring your weekend is smooth, safe, and super fun.

See You at Motor City Comic Con 2025!

With an all-star lineup, an abundance of activities, and a welcoming community vibe, Motor City Comic Con 2025 is gearing up to be an unforgettable weekend in Novi. Whether you’re a die-hard comic book collector, a Marvel movie buff eager to meet the Deadpool co-creator, a Star Trek super-fan ready to salute Captain Pike, or a family looking for a unique outing, this convention truly offers something for everyone.

Now is the time to make plans, grab your tickets, and prepare your cosplay (or comfortable sneakers) for the big event. Don’t miss out on one of Metro Detroit’s most exciting spring happenings – family-friendly comic con fun on a scale that rivals any in the Midwest. In the smart words of a local real estate sage: events like these are what make our community special, bringing people together from all over the region. So, mark your calendar for May 16-18 and head to Novi to see the spectacle for yourself.

Motor City Comic Con 2025 is more than a convention; it’s a celebration of stories, characters, and fandoms that unite us. Whether you plan to attend all three days or just swing by for a few hours, you’ll create memories and maybe even start a new family tradition. So beam yourself over, assemble your crew, and join the adventure – we’ll see you at MC3 2025 in Novi for an epic comic con weekend! (And as any comic fan knows, always stay until the end – you never know what surprises might pop up in the final moments.)