Transformers: The Movie Turns 40 — Hasbro’s SDCC Celebration Is Bigger Than Anyone Expected

For four decades, The Transformers: The Movie has remained one of the most beloved animated films of the 1980s, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture with its unforgettable characters, emotional storytelling, and iconic soundtrack. Now, fans will have the chance to celebrate that legacy in spectacular fashion as Hasbro and Reigning Phoenix Music announce The Transformers: The Movie 40th Anniversary Celebration of Life Concert, taking place during San Diego Comic-Con week.

Scheduled for Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the legendary House of Blues San Diego, the event is part of Hasbro’s ongoing “Apology Tour” campaign—a tongue-in-cheek celebration marking the 40th anniversary of the 1986 animated classic and acknowledging one of the most emotional moments in franchise history that fans still haven’t fully forgiven.

The concert promises an unforgettable evening of music inspired by The Transformers: The Movie: The Soundtrack: The Reformatted Edition. Fan-favorite band KNIGHTS OF UNICRON will perform songs from the upcoming album live, while legendary musician Stan Bush will take the stage for a special performance of the iconic anthem “The Touch,” a song that has become synonymous with the franchise and continues to resonate with fans across generations.

“I’m thrilled to be part of The Transformers: The Movie 40th Anniversary Celebration of Life Concert and to celebrate this incredible film with the fans who have kept its spirit alive for four decades,” Bush said. “It means so much to me that the music, especially ‘The Touch,’ still connects with people in such a powerful way.”

The evening’s lineup extends beyond Bush’s celebrated performance. Acclaimed composer Vince DiCola, whose powerful score helped define the film’s epic tone, will join the festivities. Fans can also look forward to the return of Cold Slither, the fan-favorite rock group that made its live debut during Comic-Con last year. Adding even more nostalgic flair, Britta Phillips, known as the original singing voice of Jem from Jem and the Holograms, will bring her signature pop energy to the stage.

Together, the performers will create a celebration that extends beyond Transformers, honoring some of Hasbro’s most iconic entertainment properties and the music that helped define them.

Additional performers and special guests are expected to be announced in the weeks leading up to the event.

Event Details

The Transformers: The Movie 40th Anniversary Celebration of Life Concert

• Date: Thursday, July 23, 2026
• Doors Open: 7:00 PM
• Show Begins: 8:00 PM
• Venue: House of Blues San Diego
• General Admission: $50 plus service fees
• VIP Packages: $100 plus service fees
• Exclusive Merchandise: Available on-site during the event

Fans interested in attending can purchase tickets through the official event page:

Transformers 40th Anniversary Celebration of Life Concert Tickets

The Celebration Continues Beyond Comic-Con

The concert is only one part of Hasbro’s extensive 40th anniversary celebration.

Fans can already listen to the newly released single, “The Transformers Theme – Reformatted Edition,” from The Transformers: The Movie: The Soundtrack: The Reformatted Edition. Performed by KNIGHTS OF UNICRON and featuring vocals by Brittney Slayes, the track offers a powerful new take on the beloved theme song. The full soundtrack album is set to arrive on July 24, 2026, across streaming platforms and in multiple physical editions, including limited-edition vinyl releases.

Meanwhile, moviegoers will soon have another opportunity to experience the animated classic on the big screen. In partnership with Fathom Entertainment, The Transformers: The Movie will return to theaters beginning September 17, 2026. Presented in 4K, the beloved 1986 film will screen nationwide through September 21 as part of a limited theatrical engagement celebrating both its 40th anniversary and Transformers Day.

Collectors also have plenty to look forward to. Hasbro’s anniversary lineup includes the premium electronic Matrix of Leadership replica and new additions to the Studio Series collection, featuring fan-favorite characters such as Shockwave, Skywarp, Wheeljack, Astrotrain, Sunstreaker, and Snarl, with additional reveals planned throughout the year.

For Transformers fans heading to San Diego Comic-Con, the Celebration of Life Concert is shaping up to be one of the week’s most anticipated events—a night filled with nostalgia, music, and a tribute to a film that remains, fittingly, More Than Meets the Eye.

or the latest information on “The Apology Tour”, visit  campaign hub.