In a twist worthy of a comic book, the popular Midland Mall Comic Con has kicked out its organizers and is now fighting to continue the event.
In a press release dated August 19, Jordan Dice, owner of the Midland Mall, announced that they had “parted ways with the previous host staff due to issues that could compromise the integrity of the event.”
Participants and exhibitors raised concerns about “inappropriate behavior” toward event staff, according to the mall’s press release. No specific complaints were mentioned in the statement.
“This is a broad term for a wide spectrum of behavior that can range from ‘unprofessional’ to potentially more serious. It is not my job to make all the details of this public,” Dice responded in a social media post, asking for clarification on the complaints.
Comic-Con is now hosted by the Midland Mall itself, in collaboration with Life Church Midland and volunteers from the local community.
“We as a mall had no intention of getting involved in any way in coordinating the event until dozens of concerns and allegations were brought to our attention,” said Mya Crane, Midland Mall’s executive assistant and event coordinator. “I am making it official that I will do my best to make this event as inclusive as possible, which means everyone is respected and welcome.”
Paul King, owner of Fett’s Toys in Saginaw, has been organizing the event since 2020. In a statement on social media, he confirmed that he is no longer associated with Comic-Con.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, I was asked to leave the Midland Comic-Con being held at the mall,” the statement said. “I apologize for the lack of announcements. However, the circumstances required an appropriate response.”
King stated that he plans to regroup and host his own show at a later date. He also stated that he will “use the next year to focus on my son before he graduates and begins the next steps in his journey to higher education.” Retailers seeking refunds from King for Comic-Con 2025 can contact him at [email protected].
Jonathan Herron, senior pastor of Life Church Midland, said in the press release that he was one of the originators of the event and looks forward to helping coordinate the event in 2025.
“I collect comic books, Funko Pops and more,” Herron said. “When I had the idea for Midland Mall Comic-Con, I dreamed of a regional event where everyone is welcome and the love of pop culture is celebrated. It made sense that Life Church would support the event – we are known for bringing people together through non-religious, unique events like our annual Easter egg helicopter drop. We see these opportunities as moments to serve without an agenda and see the region come together in unity.”
Dice praised the church’s commitment to continuing the pop culture event.
Mall owner Jordan Dice said, “As always, I am grateful for the overwhelming community support that I and the mall have received, and I am excited that we can now fulfill our mission to make this the largest mall in Michigan.”
