In an era defined by rapid technological shifts and a complex media landscape, a group of leading voices in entertainment journalism will take the stage at WonderCon 2026 to explore an unconventional roadmap for the modern reporter. Produced by Comic-Con International, WonderCon is one of the world’s premier comics and popular arts conventions. It features a wide array of presentations from comics, movies, and television, alongside educational panels and workshops.

The panel, titled “The Hero’s Journey & Journalistic Integrity,” will take place on Saturday, March 28th, from 8:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in Room 211 of the Anaheim Convention Center.

The Intersection of Myth and News at WonderCon 2026

As public trust in media faces new challenges from AI-generated content and shifting social climates, this discussion aims to bridge the gap between classical storytelling and modern-day reporting. The panel will examine how the stages of the Hero’s Journey, traditionally used to craft epic fiction, can serve as a framework for journalists striving to become trusted sources for a new generation of audiences.

We will be analyzing the narrative parallels between a hero’s quest and the pursuit of a breaking news story. Practical strategies for journalistic creators to maintain integrity amidst a climate of distrust, disdain, and AI use. As well as how to use narrative structure to build authenticity and long-term trust with readers and viewers.

Featured Speakers

The panel brings together industry professionals from Temple of Geek who navigate the lines between fandom, reporting, and content creation:

• Monica Duarte (Editor-in-Chief): Over the last decade, Monica has built Temple of Geek into a premier outlet. As a producer, she leads the Temple of Geek Podcast, Retro Rebel, Portrait of a Fangirl, and Maria Watches Everything, dedicated to providing the reliable content fans crave.

• Victoria Male (Writer, Producer, Journalist): An award-winning screenwriter and contributor to Comicbook.com and No Film School. Victoria has worked on the development teams for the Ghostbusters franchise and co-founded the Your Biggest Fangirl podcast.

• Madison Morrow (Chief Creative Officer): Maddie manages operations for Temple of Geek and is the Director of Events and Co-Founder of NijiFest, an LGBTQ+ media-focused anime convention debuting in Anaheim in May 2026.

• Caitlin Tyrrell (Journalist): A writer and interviewer known for her extensive coverage of Critical Role, Dimension 20, and The Legend of Vox Machina for Temple of Geek, Screen Rant, and The Illuminerdi.

• Nick Williams (Content Creator & Journalist): Starting in Star Wars content creation, Nick focuses on preserving positivity in fandom while venturing deep into the world of entertainment journalism.

• Moderator: Christina Silvoso: Noted cosplayer and host. Christina is also a writer and moderator for Temple of Geek. Her cosplays have been featured in Wired and Esquire Korea. She is currently working on cosplays for Nijifest May 15-17 and Blizzcon in September.

Event Details:

• What: The Hero’s Journey & Journalistic Integrity
• Where: Anaheim Convention Center, Room 211
• When: Saturday, March 28th, 2026
• Time: 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.