Doctor Doom is already making an impact in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. With his focus on the Fantastic Four and Avengers, and the latest film, “Avengers: Doomsday,” delayed until December 2026, his influence extends to affecting the upcoming San Diego Comic-Con. It has been announced that Marvel Studios will not hold one of its hallmark Hall H panels this year.
This development was initially reported by the Hollywood Reporter and later confirmed by a source at Marvel Studios to io9. The delay of “Avengers: Doomsday,” originally scheduled for May 2026, now set for December 2026, is a significant factor. With production underway, the studio decided it could not meet the expectations of past blockbuster panels and opted to skip this year.
Marvel Studios has previously skipped Hall H in 2011, 2015, 2018, and 2023 due to active production schedules or insufficient news to align with the studio’s high standards. Hall H panels are noteworthy events, and following the previous year’s announcements regarding the Russos’ return for two “Avengers” movies and Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom posed a significant challenge.
The decision to avoid promoting a movie 18 months ahead of its release—without footage—was deemed excessive. Marvel plans to return next year with more comprehensive content, including potential footage, cast appearances, and future announcements.
While Marvel Studios will not feature in Hall H, other branches such as comics and games will have panels. “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” will also have a significant presence on the convention floor, including an immersive booth, alongside “other surprises.”
Fans eager for Marvel updates won’t have to wait long, as the studio will participate in CCXP in Mexico this weekend with news and footage on “Fantastic Four.”
Expectations are also set for other studios like DC to fill the gap left by Marvel in Hall H.