CHIBA – Tokyo Comic Con took Makuhari Messe by storm, drawing a massive crowd of over 85,000 from Dec. 8 to 10. Since its inception in 2016, the event has evolved into a major pop culture gathering for fans and spectators in Japan, with this year’s edition recording the highest attendance in its history.
Ewan McGregor, Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hiddleston, Mads Mikkelsen, Evangeline Lilly, Pom Klementieff, Natalia Tena, Daniel Logan, Temuera Morrison, and Christopher Lloyd graced the three-day convention.
(Photo courtesy of Tokyo Comic Con 2023)
“Thank you. I had such a wonderful time meeting you all. It’s so wonderful to come to Tokyo, and to be here in this special event, and to meet so many people so quickly is extraordinary. I hope to see you here again. I love you all. Take care,” McGregor, who played Obi-Wan Kenobi in the iconic “Star Wars” prequel trilogy (1999-2005), conveyed to the audience.
Ewan McGregor
Cumberbatch, known for portraying various characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, expressed his enthusiasm: “You are wonderful. You are such a great, generous, wonderfully gorgeous crowd. Thank you.”
The “Doctor Strange” actor also extended his gratitude to the staff and organizers “for looking after us.”
Benedict Cumberbatch
“Thor” actor Hiddleston, who portrayed the nemesis Loki, expressed his appreciation, saying, “Thank you so much to all of you for your kindness, your enthusiasm, your energy, and your love. I appreciate you.”
Tom Hiddleston
Mikkelsen, renowned for his portrayal of supervillain Kaecilius in “Doctor Strange,” described the event as “crazy” and “insane,” assuring his avid fans and supporters that he would be back.
Mads Mikkelsen
“Back to the Future” actor Lloyd shared his excitement about participating in the event.
Pom Klementieff (left), Evangeline Lilly (right)
“I had a blast. I had a great time. I’m honored to be here. I hope to come back next year,” he said.
Christopher Lloyd
They were also joined by American writer and editor C.B. Cebulski, and Tokyo Comic Con 2023 Ambassador Mackenyu, who had a separate stage appearance during the grand finale event.
Mackenyu
Following the success of this year’s event, it was announced that Tokyo Comic Con 2024 and Osaka Comic Con 2024 will be held, with the latter scheduled for May 3 to 5, while details for the former will be announced soon. - Florenda Corpuz
(Photos by Din Eugenio)
