George Lucas, the creator of Star Wars and arguably the father of modern fandom, is making his first-ever panel appearance at San Diego Comic-Con. Lucas will speak at a panel exploring the art and power of illustrated storytelling and giving a sneak peek at the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, which is set to open in 2026. Speaking alongside Lucas at the panel will be filmmaker Guillermo Del Toro and Doug Chiang, a production designer on the Star Wars Prequel Trilogy. The Panel will be moderated by Grammy, Emmy, and Golden Globe-winning actress and recording artist Queen Latifah.

The Panel, which will take place on Sunday in Hall H at the San Diego Convention Center, will feature an assortment of creators discussing the role narrative art plays in society. They will also discuss humanity’s innate fascination and desire with drawing, animating, and bringing to life stories over the past millennia.

David Glanzer, chief communications and strategy officer of Comic-Con, commented on Lucas’s appearance in a statement. Here’s what he had to say:

“We are beyond thrilled to welcome George Lucas to Comic-Con for the very first time. Nearly five decades ago, Star Wars made one of its earliest public appearances at our convention, along with a booth featuring Howard Chaykin’s now legendary Star Wars poster as a promotional item.

Now, to have Mr. Lucas return, this time to debut the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, is a true full-circle moment. His lifelong dedication to visual storytelling and world-building resonates deeply with us and our community, and the museum’s mission to celebrate narrative art in all its forms perfectly reflects what Comic-Con has championed from the very beginning.”