Everything You Need to Know About Funko at San Diego Comicon
Everett, Washington's collectibles creator Funko is a staple at the big Comicons.
Their products are so popular that you have to get your hands on a free ticket to even get the chance to buy a Funko Pop! at the conventions. This is due to an already rabid fan base, and the brand's tradition of releasing items manufactured exclusively for the 'Con. Items that sell out fast.
The Funko Experience at Comicon
Funko's Comicon booths were always impressive, but this year they are next level. At Anaheim's Wondercon in the spring, Funko threw a "beach bash" hosted by the company's mascot, Freddy Funko.
And the fans loved it.
How do you top that? Funko has upped their game in San Diego this year with "Funkoville."
The pop-up "town" is described in detail with my article here.
So now, let's talk about Funko's two biggest events at this year's San Diego Comicon.
Funko's Pop! Talk Panel in Hall H at San Diego Comicon
SDCC's Hall H is always a hot ticket for fans who want to see their favorite stars talk abut past projects, and give them a sneak-peek at what's coming next. It's also a chance to grab a seat and give your feet a rest.
Funko's Hall H panel features actors Rosario Dawson, Simu Liu, and William Zabka, who I assume will chat it up about their plastic counterparts. Plus, Funko teased that there could be some surprise guests.
Did Funko founder Mike Becker imagine rubbing elbows with these celebrities when he was dreaming up Funko on his couch in Snohomish? I doubt it. Does he love it?
Wouldn't you?
Rosario Dawson's Funko Pop!
The fan-favorite actress plays Ahsoka on the smash-hit Disney+ series The Mandalorian.
So of course she got her own iconic plastic figure.
And if you aren't lucky enough to have her autograph yours in person, there's always eBay - but it will cost you. Look what this item fetched!
Simu Liu's Funko Pop!
Simu Liu thrilled audiences as Marvel superhero Shang-Chi...
Was there any doubt he would get a figure of his own?
Or two? Dig that action kick!
And good news - this Simu Liu autographed Funko Pop! is still available, as of this writing. Break open your piggy bank!
William Zabka's Funko Pop!
William Zabka was the quintessential 1980s bully Johnny Lawrence in the Karate Kid, but Cobra Kai has turned him into a hero you root for - occasionally, at least.
With his own big-eyed Funko Pop! likeness, fans can decide which side of the mat Zabka is on.
And yes, as of this article's publishing date, you can buy a William Zabka autographed Pop! here.
Funko Fundays at San Diego Comicon
Part of Funko's appeal is nostalgia, and nothing says the 1970s like black-light posters.
Today, Friday, July 22, Funko is throwing a black-light themed party at San Diego Comicon. This ties-in nicely with their line of black-light posters and figures.
Backpacks, and drinkware...
And, um... apparel. Apparently.
Funko's black-light party will have contests, giveaways, and special guests (see above). It will set you back an extra $150, but it will be memorable - and fun! And if you don't go, you'll have FOMO for sure.
What if I Can't Go to San Diego Comicon?
YouTube has a ton of content from fans and official channels, including Funko.
Some Funko San Diego Comicon exclusives are shared with retailers, which you can find here.
What you can't find at Amazon. Target, or whomever, you can surely find on eBay.
And for updates throughout the weekend, keep an eye on Funko's Twitter...
And Instagram.
LOOK: The top holiday toys from the year you were born
LOOK: Things from the year you were born that don't exist anymore