MEFCC 2026 expands star lineup with three new guests
Middle East Film & Comic Con is expanding its 2026 celebrity lineup, with Pom Klementieff, Arden Cho and Jacob Romero confirmed as the latest guests heading to Abu Dhabi.
The three stars will appear at MEFCC 2026 from September 11 to 13 at ADNEC Centre, joining a growing list of international names that already includes John Cena, Mackenyu and Joonas Suotamo.
The new additions bring together the worlds of Marvel, anime, K-pop and live-action adaptations, strengthening MEFCC’s position as one of the region’s biggest pop culture events.
Pom Klementieff brings Marvel to Abu Dhabi
Pom Klementieff is best known globally for playing Mantis in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
She first appeared in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 in 2017 and later returned in Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, Thor: Love and Thunder and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
She is also expected to return to the Marvel universe in Avengers: Doomsday later this year.
Outside the MCU, Klementieff has built a varied filmography that includes Oldboy, the Mission: Impossible franchise, Black Mirror and several French independent productions.
Away from acting, she is also a purple belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Arden Cho joins after KPop Demon Hunters success
Another major addition is Arden Cho, who voices Rumi in Netflix’s animated hit KPop Demon Hunters.
The film has become a major global success, recording more than 600 million views, spending a year in Netflix’s Global Top 10 and winning two Oscars in 2026.
Cho was already well known before the project thanks to roles in Teen Wolf, Pretty Little Liars and Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Her career also extends beyond acting.
She is a singer-songwriter, has released independent music attracting millions of views, holds a black belt in taekwondo and has previously modelled for international brands including Nike and Clinique.
One Piece star Jacob Romero confirmed
Jacob Romero will also appear at the convention, joining his One Piece co-star Mackenyu.
Romero plays Usopp in Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the hugely popular manga and anime franchise.
His performance helped translate the character’s exaggerated personality into live action while maintaining the humour and energy associated with the original.
Before One Piece, Romero appeared in television productions including Greenleaf, Grey’s Anatomy, All Rise and The Resident, alongside theatre work.
His appearance gives One Piece fans another major reason to attend this year’s Abu Dhabi event.
Major celebrity lineup continues to grow
The latest announcements add to an already strong MEFCC 2026 guest list.
John Cena, one of the most recognisable figures in professional wrestling and Hollywood, has already been confirmed, alongside One Piece star Mackenyu and actor Joonas Suotamo, known for portraying Chewbacca in the Star Warsuniverse.
With Marvel stars, WWE personalities, anime actors and K-pop-related talent all appearing during the same weekend, this year’s convention is shaping up to have one of its most diverse lineups yet.
More than celebrity appearances
MEFCC is built around much more than meet-and-greets with actors.
Visitors will also be able to explore the Collector’s Gallery, featuring rare collectibles and memorabilia, while Artist Alley will showcase original artwork and independent creators.
Gaming fans will have access to competitive experiences in the Gaming Arena, while the Otaku District will focus on Japanese pop culture and anime.
Festival Plaza will host live performances throughout the weekend, adding another entertainment element to the three-day event.
Abu Dhabi prepares for major pop culture weekend
Middle East Film & Comic Con has become one of the region’s most established events for fans of movies, television, gaming, comics and anime.
The continued arrival of major international guests reflects the growing importance of Abu Dhabi as a destination for global entertainment and pop culture events.
With Pom Klementieff, Arden Cho and Jacob Romero now confirmed alongside John Cena, Mackenyu and Joonas Suotamo, MEFCC 2026 will take place from September 11 to 13 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, bringing together fans from across the UAE and beyond.
