Dan Aykroyd + Blues Brothers Graphic Novel Creative Team Appearing At San Diego Comic Con For Panel On Thursday, July 24

Get ready to don your shades and dust off your black suits—The Blues Brothers are back, and this time, they’re breaking into the world of comics. Celebrating the 45th anniversary of the cult classic film, San Diego Comic-Con 2025 will host a special panel on Thursday, July 24 in the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront from 4:15 to 5:15 PM PT, spotlighting the upcoming Z2 Comics graphic novel The Blues Brothers: The Escape of Joliet Jake.

And yes—the one and only Dan Aykroyd, aka Elwood Blues himself, is set to appear alongside an impressive lineup of creators keeping the Blues legacy alive for a new generation.

The panel will feature:

Dan Aykroyd, co-creator and Hollywood legend

Stella Aykroyd, daughter of Dan Aykroyd and co-writer

Luke Pisano, son of the late Judy Belushi Pisano and co-writer

James Werner, co-writer

Rantz Hoseley, editor-in-chief of Z2 Comics

Josh Bernstein, president of Z2 Comics

Together, they’ll dive into the creative process and emotional journey behind the graphic novel sequel that picks up after the original 1980 film, following the infamous Jake and Elwood Blues as they continue their mission from God.

“The Escape of Joliet Jake” – A Love Letter to the Legacy
Crafted with the direct involvement of Aykroyd and co-developed by Judy Belushi Pisano before her passing, The Escape of Joliet Jake is more than just a tie-in—it’s a heartfelt continuation of the Blues Brothers mythos. Illustrated by Felipe Sobriero, the book promises a story that pays homage to the characters’ comedic chaos, deep musical roots, and timeless themes of redemption, rebellion, and rhythm.

In a bittersweet twist, this project also marks one of the last collaborative visions of Judy Belushi Pisano, who helped shepherd The Blues Brothers through decades of success in film, music, and pop culture. The novel serves as a tribute not just to the characters, but to her legacy as one of the franchise’s founding forces.

More Than Just a Comic—A Multi-Platform Blues Renaissance
Z2 Comics has confirmed that The Escape of Joliet Jake is just the beginning. A full-scale Blues Brothers resurgence is underway, with upcoming ventures in television, film, live music events, and merchandise all on the horizon. The momentum from this graphic novel will ignite a new era of Blues Brothers storytelling that blends nostalgia with fresh, genre-bending fun.

Whether you’re a longtime fan who’s memorized every line of “Rawhide,” or you’re just discovering Jake and Elwood for the first time, the SDCC panel promises exclusive sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and maybe even a few musical surprises.

Get Ready to Ride Again
The Blues Brothers: The Escape of Joliet Jake is expected to release in late 2025. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate 45 years of rhythm, mayhem, and soul with the people who know the Blues best—because once again, they’re on a mission from God.

Stay connected for updates and exclusives from SDCC 2025:
📸 @Z2Comics | 🎷 #BluesBrothersGraphicNovel | 🔥 #SDCC2025 | 💬 #TheEscapeOfJolietJake