The 38th Annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards Return to San Diego During Comic-Con 2026

The comic book industry’s biggest night is set to return to San Diego as the 38th Annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards takes place on Friday, July 24, in the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront during Comic-Con International.

Often referred to as the “Oscars of the comic book industry,” the prestigious awards celebrate excellence in comics and graphic novels published during 2025. Named after legendary comics creator Will Eisner, the annual ceremony remains one of the highlights of Comic-Con International, recognizing the creators, writers, artists, publishers, and retailers who continue to shape the medium.

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by Phil LaMarr, best known for his work on Futurama, Samurai Jack, and Justice League, alongside Thomas Lennon, recognized for Reno 911!, Balls of Fury, and Night at the Museum.

A Celebration of the Comic Industry

Awards will be presented across 32 categories, honoring the finest comics and graphic novels released in 2025. The event has become one of Comic-Con’s most anticipated annual traditions, drawing creators, publishers, retailers, and fans from around the world.

The evening will also feature several distinguished honors recognizing outstanding contributions to the comics community.

The Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award, presented annually since 1984, will be awarded by Ruth Clampett to celebrated creators Richard Pini and Wendy Pini.

The recipient of the Russ Manning Promising Newcomer Award will be announced by Bill Stout, while Joe Ferrara will oversee the presentation of the Will Eisner Spirit of Comics Retailing Award.

Bill Finger Award Honors Legendary Writers

Celebrating its 22nd year, the Bill Finger Award for Excellence in Comic Book Writing will recognize two influential writers whose work has left a lasting impact on the comics medium.

The 2026 recipients are Jenny Blake Isabella, known for her work on Black Lightning, Ghost Rider, Iron Fist, and Hawkman, along with the late Martin Pasko, celebrated for writing Justice League of America, Star Trek comics, and Doctor Fate.

The awards will be presented by Mark Evanier and Athena Finger.

Hall of Fame Inductees to Be Announced

Comic-Con will also reveal the 2026 Will Eisner Hall of Fame inductees during a special ceremony taking place on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. in Room 29CD, celebrating creators whose contributions have helped define the history of comics.

Event Details

Doors to the Indigo Ballroom will open at 7:45 p.m., with the ceremony beginning promptly at 8:00 p.m. Advance seating for nominees, presenters, sponsors, and VIP guests starts at 7:00 p.m.

The ceremony is free for all Comic-Con attendees with valid convention badges and is expected to conclude around 10:30 p.m., followed by a VIP reception in the Indigo Ballroom foyer.

Sponsors

The 2026 Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards are made possible through the support of numerous industry partners.

Lunar Distribution serves as the major sponsor, while ComicsPro is the pre-show sponsor.

Principal sponsors include Arsenal Comics & Games, Cape & Cowl Comics, Comic Shop Assistant, Comixology Originals, and Fantasy Books Inc. Supporting sponsors include Atlantis Fantasyworld, DSTLRY/Neon Ichiban, and Midwest Tape/Hoopla Distribution. HarperAlley/Morrow sponsors the official afterparty, while Tiny Onion serves as the event’s print sponsor.

The Bill Finger Award is sponsored by DC Comics and Marvel Comics, with additional support from Heritage Auctions and Maggie Thompson.

Operated under the auspices of the San Diego Comic Convention, the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards continue to stand as one of the comic book world’s highest honors, celebrating the creators and storytellers whose work inspires readers across the globe. As Comic-Con International returns to San Diego, the Eisner Awards once again promise an unforgettable evening dedicated to the best in comics.