Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott Reunite for the Her Universe Fashion Show at SDCC 2026
Image: Fashion and Fandom
There are some San Diego Comic-Con traditions fans simply can't imagine without—and the Her Universe Fashion Show has become one of them. This year's celebration is getting even more magical as Broadway and television star Michael James Scott returns for his fourth consecutive year as co-host alongside Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein. Even better? He's bringing another unforgettable live musical performance to kick off Comic-Con in spectacular fashion.
Taking place Thursday, July 23 at 6:00 p.m. PT in the Harbor Ballroom at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, the 12th Annual Her Universe Fashion Show Presented by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products promises another evening packed with stunning couture, unforgettable fandom moments, and plenty of Broadway-worthy energy.
Images: Fashion and Fandom
Fans have come to adore the chemistry between Eckstein and Scott, whose infectious on stage banter has helped make the annual runway event feel more like a celebration than a competition. This year, audiences can once again expect Scott's signature charisma, humor, and powerhouse vocals to elevate one of Comic-Con's biggest opening-night events.
"Having Michael back by my side for a fourth year feels like welcoming home my ultimate Hype Friend!," said Ashley Eckstein. "There is no one who brings more joy, energy and heart to the stage. Whether we're laughing together, celebrating our incredible designers or he's bringing the house down with his powerhouse vocals, Michael makes every Her Universe Fashion Show even more epic. I can't wait for our San Diego Comic-Con family to experience everything we have planned this year!"
Image: Mark DiConzo
Scott is best known for his record-breaking run as the Genie in Disney's Aladdin on Broadway, becoming the longest-running actor to ever play the beloved character. His incredible voice and larger-than-life stage presence have made him a fan favorite both on Broadway and at Comic-Con.
DC Takes Center Stage
This year's fashion competition is inspired exclusively by DC, challenging twenty talented designers to transform legendary Super Heroes, Super-Villains, and iconic comic book stories into high-fashion couture creations.
Each finalist will debut their one-of-a-kind designs live on the runway before both an expert judging panel and a standing room Comic-Con audience. Two winners—one selected by the judges and one by fan vote—will each receive a $2,000 cash prize and could earn the opportunity to design an official fashion collection with Her Universe.
Star-Studded Judging Panel
IMAGES: MARK MALKIN/VARIETY; SYMANTHA PERRERA/SAM CANNON; FRANKEY SMITH/WARNER BROS.
Joining the excitement is an impressive panel of judges that blends fashion, fandom, and entertainment, including:
Award-winning entertainment journalist Marc Malkin
Symantha Perrera, Fashion Design Director for BoxLunch, Her Universe and Wholesale
Frankey Smith, DC Studios Showcase co-host
2025 Her Universe Fashion Show winners Lynleigh Sato and Caitlin Beards
With Ashley Eckstein and Michael James Scott once again leading the festivities, fans can expect an evening that celebrates creativity, inclusivity, and the incredible passion of the fandom community. Between breathtaking couture, Broadway-caliber performances, and plenty of emotional moments, the Her Universe Fashion Show continues to prove why it's one of San Diego Comic-Con's can't-miss events!
Stay tuned to Fashion andFandom. We’re heading to San Diego Comic-Con and will be covering the show in person again this year! Don’t forget to follow @HerUniverse across social media and use #HerUniverseFashionShow for behind-the-scenes coverage throughout Comic-Con.
Are you heading to the Her Universe Fashion Show this year? Let us know in the comments below or over on FACEBOOK or X!
