Celebrating a Legacy: Gundam's Impact at New York Comic Con 2025

Gundam Celebrates Iconic Milestones at New York Comic Con 2025

On October 9, 2025, the vibrant atmosphere of New York Comic Con was electrified by the passionate gathering of Gundam fans, all celebrating the long-standing legacy of the beloved franchise. Hosted by Jacki Jing and presented by Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc., the panel was dedicated to highlighting Gundam's past, its current status in pop culture, and an exciting glimpse into its future.

The event marked the 10th anniversary of Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, a series that has captivated audiences across the globe. Fans were treated to exclusive giveaways, including signed memorabilia and opportunities to share moments with fellow enthusiasts. The panel featured Executive Producer Naohiro Ogata, who passionately discussed not only the journey of Gundam in international markets but also the anticipation for the franchise’s upcoming 50th anniversary celebrations and the launch of a new, official Gundam website.

Life-sized Gundam statues and historical exhibits from the series' past filled the room, setting a significant tone for the day. Director Tatsuyuki Nagai, alongside key voice actors Kyle McCarley and Yoshimasa Hosoya, participated in honoring Iron-Blooded Orphans, revisiting its global impact and the personal narratives behind the creation of fan-favorite characters.

McCarley engaged the audience with a series of prompts about what draws fans to the Gundam series. The responses filled the room with enthusiasm, as fans cheered for their favorite elements, whether it was the captivating mecha battles, political intrigue, or complex relationships that define the series.

A Sneak Peek into the Future

The panel transformed into a thrilling reveal as it shifted focus to the forthcoming film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway – The Sorcery of Nymph Circe. Laureate voice actor Caleb Yen shared his experience portraying Hathaway Noa, discussing the film's development process while unveiling new trailer footage and character designs. The audience's excitement crescendoed as they witnessed a fresh visual of the central cast, eliciting cheers and applause.

Yen expressed his exhilaration about stepping into the role, reflecting on his initial experiences learning about the extensive history of the Gundam franchise. With heartfelt enthusiasm, he noted, “Hathaway Noa was my first major protagonist role. It was thrilling to learn about Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway's storied legacy leading up to this film.”

What's Next for Gundam?

Wrapping up the panel, Ogata hinted at a plethora of upcoming projects that fans can look forward to, including innovative merchandise, developmental stories, and interactive experiences. Exciting initiatives like Gunpla workshops and pop-up events at venues such as the American Dream Mall have been lined up to enhance fan engagement.

The sense of nostalgia mingled with anticipation was palpable as the panelists gathered for a group photo that signified a collective optimism for Gundam's future. Each guest left with exclusive items like the Iron-Blooded Orphans Mini-Poster and the Gundam Card Game, cementing their connection to the series during this monumental celebration.

For dedicated fans and newcomers alike, Gundam continues to evolve, offering fresh content and experiences that pay homage to its rich history while pushing boundaries forward. Fans are encouraged to stay updated on the franchise through the new Gundam Official Website and the Gundam Info YouTube channel for the latest news and developments.

As we look toward the future, Gundam stands not just as a series but as a cultural phenomenon that brings together generations of fans, ever united in their passion for its iconic legacy.