PHOTOS BY DAN LYBARGER
The past two years have not been good for fans of Pop Culture in Kansas City. Due to COVID, 2020’s Planet Comicon was cancelled. Last year’s event was well received but there was just something that felt a little off. I attributed that feeling to the world still recovering from the issues of 2020. With that being said, I’m happy to report that the 2022 Planet Comicon came and was a tremendous event.
Ralph Macchio addresses his fans.One of the oldest, and premiere, events in the Midwest, Planet Comicon once again boasted an eclectic roster of celebrity guests, some making their first Kansas City appearance. After William Zabka and Martin Kove greeted throngs of fans last year, the Karate Kid himself, Ralph Macchio, was a guest this year, completing the “Cobra Kai” triumvirate.
Also making their first appearances this year were Brandon Routh (“Superman Returns”), Mark-Paul Gosselaar (“NYPD Blue”) and former NSync member Joey Fatone. As I made my way through the crowds I was amazed at the diversity of Pop Culture Planet Comicon features yearly.
As with every Planet Comicon, there was an amazing array of dealers offering everything from Pokemon trading cards to your very own R2-D2. I’ve never had the nerve to attend the show as one of my favorite Pop Culture characters – though I think if you excused the beard I could pull off a good Chief Brody -but the range of Cosplay characters I saw was impressive. That’s the beauty about this event. You can be WHO you want to be.
If you’ve never attended Planet Comicon, I urge you to get in line now for next year’s show. FYI, it will run March 17-19, 2023. BE THERE!
“Star Trek: The Next Generation” co-stars John de Lancie and Gates McFadden answer fan questions.
