Denise Richards, Jamie Campbell Bower, Melissa O'Neill to hit Armageddon in April

Armageddon Expo returns to Auckland this ANZAC weekend (April 25–27, 2026) for three full days of pop-culture celebration, bringing together heroes and fan-favourite talent from the worlds of film, television, gaming, anime and cosplay.

The Armageddon Expo ‘Autumngeddon’ lineup for 2026 is complete! And the impressive lineup announced today features a legion of film, gaming and fantasy stars from across the multiverse - all gathering at Auckland Showgrounds for a packed weekend of panels, signings and attractions.

Screen Heroes: Film & Television Guests

Leading the Auckland Autumn 2026 lineup is Denise Richards, one of the defining stars of the 1990s and early 2000s. Best known for her roles in Starship Troopers, Wild Things and The World Is Not Enough, Richards has also found a new generation of fans through The Real Housewives franchise. Her appearance brings real star power to the ANZAC weekend event and organisers expect her signings and panels to be in huge demand.

Joining her is onscreen hero Melissa O’Neil, widely recognised for her role as Lucy Chen in the hit television series The Rookie. As one of contemporary TV’s most popular dramas, the show has made O’Neil a global fan favourite.

Cara Buono, beloved for her role as Karen Wheeler in Stranger Things, is a real coup for Armageddon. As one of the central adult characters in this globally influential series, her presence along with co-star Jamie Campbell Bower(Stranger Things, Twilight), is sure to be a highlight for fans at Armageddon.

They are joined by an impressive lineup of film and television talent, including Frank Grillo (The Purge, Marvel, DC), Garrett Hedlund (Tron: Legacy), Michael Jai White (Spawn), Robert Englund (A Nightmare on Elm Street, Stranger Things), Lisseth Chavez (The Rookie, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), Nhut Le (Peacemaker), and Fiona Dourif (Chucky).

Voices, Worlds and Legends of Gaming

Gaming and voice acting continue to play a central role at Armageddon Expo, with a lineup reflecting the scale and influence of modern interactive storytelling. Guests include Jennifer English (Baldur’s Gate 3, Elden Ring), Maggie Robertson (Baldur’s Gate 3, Resident Evil Village), Mara Junot (Marvel Rivals, Genshin Impact), Sean Chiplock(Re:Zero, Genshin Impact, The Legend of Zelda), Max Mittelman (Persona 5, My Adventures with Superman), Chris Wehkamp (My Hero Academia, RWBY), Jordan Reynolds (Marvel Rivals, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure), along with a wide range of additional gaming and anime favourites.

Anime, Cosplay and the Creators Behind the Magic

Anime fans will be well represented with guests spanning major series including Demon Slayer, One Piece, My Hero Academia, Tokyo Ghoul, Fire Force and more. The event also celebrates the creative talent behind the characters, welcoming acclaimed costume designers Laura Jean Shannon (The Boys, Iron Man, Doom Patrol) and Sarah Jeanne Mgeni (Jumanji, Titans, The Boys), offering insight into the craftsmanship behind iconic on-screen looks.

As always, Armageddon’s cosplay community will be one of the highlights of the weekend, with thousands of fans expected to attend in costume, bringing colour, imagination and shared passion.

Founder Bill Geradts says that the Anzac Day timing works well for the show. “Armageddon Expo is designed as a full long-weekend destination for heroes and fans alike. With international guests, panels, signings, exhibitor halls and interactive attractions running across all three days, there’s something for every age group and genre.

“Fans will have the opportunity to meet the voices behind some of gaming’s most recognisable characters, attend live panels, and take part in signings and photo sessions throughout the weekend.

“Whether you come for the celebrities, the gaming, the cosplay, or the atmosphere of being surrounded by people who love the same worlds you do, Armageddon Expo delivers an experience unlike any other,” he says.

 Armageddon Expo Auckland Autumn 2026 runs April 25–27, 2026 , 10am–5pm.

More guest announcements are still to come.

Tickets and full event details are available at armageddonexpo.com .