Ace Comic-Con returns to Chicago for sophomore show with the bar raised

The Ace Universe made its debut in Chicago last year with the Midwest convention debut at Navy Pier. For 2019, they have a new venue and up the ante 3,000 with the guest list.

The 2019 Ace Midwest Comic-Con will emanate from October 11 through 13 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill. If that venue sounds familiar, that is the usual space for the August stop for Wizard Entertainment's Wizard World Comic-Con. Given how much this year Ace surpassed its stellar guest lineup last year, Wizard better be quaking in their shoes: there's strong competition in town.

The star power for 2019's gathering is intensely super. Spider-Man's Tom Holland will be joining his Far from Home co-star, Oscar-nominee Jake Gyllenhaal for panels, photos and autographs. Brie Larson, The Avenger's Captain Marvel, will be commanding attention for her visit. The thunderous tag team from Thor Ragnarok, Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson will be lighting up the convention center. 

Game of Thrones ended this year, but die-hard fans won't want to get Jon Snow-ed in as Kit Harrington appears, along with Gwendoline Christie for those looking for some Brienne of Tarth/Captain Phasma fun.

Kingsman star Taron Egerton has been generating Oscar buzz for his portrayal of Elton John in Rocketman, and fans of his will also be able to crocodile rock his presence at the convention.

Have no fear, WWE fans--you won't be left out. The monster among men Braun Strowman will get those hands on fans' attentions.

​In 2018, Ace entered the Midwest with a Windy City debut on Chicago's lakefront. Captain America himself Chris Evans, fellow Scarlet Witch Avenger Elizabeth Olsen, and trickster Loki, Tom Hiddleston--all were on hand for photo ops and autographs. The MCU was well represented with Guardians of the Galaxy stars Lee Pace and Karen Gillan joining the three marquee guests. Even Marvel's Deadpool pal Domino was on-hand, as Zazie Beetz took part in the fun. WWE sent some of their Superstars as then-Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins, former Women's Champion Alexa Bliss and Total Divas stars Brie and Nikki Bella also smacked down the fun with convention-goers.

Check out our photos from the Friday visit to 2018's con, including shots from the Rollins/Bliss panel moderated by Lilian Garcia.

Story by Matt Sheehan
Photos by William Unhock