San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2026 is just around the corner, and a major highlight for this year’s schedule centers on the women reshaping modern entertainment. Fans and industry professionals alike should mark their calendars for “Main Character Energy: Black Female Storytellers,” a powerhouse panel scheduled for Thursday, July 23, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM in Room 10 of the San Diego Convention Center.
At a time when creative industries face shifting landscapes and narrative preservation is more critical than ever, who holds the pen matters. This panel spotlights Black female creatives from all corners of the industry, including television, film, comics, and gaming, who are bringing historically overlooked perspectives to the forefront of mainstream media.
SDCC 2026: Main Character Energy: Black Female Storytellers
The panel features a phenomenal lineup of industry professionals who are actively building new worlds and driving massive pop culture properties forward:
- Christian Streaty – Writer, Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures
- ShaMya Williams – Producer, Starting 5
- Ryan Oakley – Illustrator, Fortnite
- Kai Grayson – Producer, Roles for Initiative LA
- Chelyse Abrams – Editor, Michael
- Angela Entzminger – Screenwriter, My Adventures with Superman
Moderators: Amanda and Amber Miller, the co-founders of Fangirl Central.
What to Expect
The discussion will dive deep into the creative processes behind managing massive, beloved IPs while maintaining authentic, diverse storytelling. Attendees can look forward to insight on:
- The Power of Narrative: Navigating an industry environment where diverse stories are often challenged or restricted.
- Balancing Canon and Creativity: The distinct responsibility of honoring popular source material while injecting fresh, authentic perspectives.
- Industry Realities: Personal insights and lived experiences from women navigating the hurdles of production, writing, and illustration.
- The Impact of Fandom: How modern fandom intersects with identity and creates vital communities for diverse audiences.
Exclusive On-Site Giveaway
Beyond the invaluable industry insights, attendees have an extra incentive to arrive early. At the end of the panel, one lucky audience member will win a custom, commissioned 5×7 bust illustration by panelist and Fortnite illustrator Ryan Oakley.
Event Details at a Glance
Panel Title: Main Character Energy: Black Female Storytellers
Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM PST
Location: Room 10, San Diego Convention Center
Admission: Open to all SDCC 2026 badge holders on a first-come, first-served basis.
Help spread the word about this incredible lineup by sharing the panel details with your own communities on Instagram, X, and other platforms using the official SDCC tags!
