Southern California is set to host a new kind of convention, as Jennifer Worthington, formerly a senior vice president at Jerry Bruckheimer Films, and George Kliavkoff, a Hulu founder and former NBC executive, prepare to launch Military Con. The new venture is described as applying the popular fan convention tactics of Comic-Con to America’s military community, with one of its inaugural events slated for the San Diego Convention Center.
Worthington brings a notable resume from her time working on films like *Black Hawk Down*, *The Rock*, and *Armageddon*. Kliavkoff, with his background in media from NBC and as a founder of Hulu, joins her in this endeavor. Their joint media and hospitality company, Two Dice Media, is producing Military Con, aiming to create a significant live event experience for a unique subculture.
According to a press release from Two Dice Media, Military Con promises attendees "a journey 'into the history, missions, technology and human stories of America’s military across every branch of service'." Each convention, including the one planned for San Diego, will unfold over a three-day narrative, structured around themes titled ”The Call,” “The Mission,” and “The Return.”
Visitors can anticipate a range of interactive attractions and displays. Planned experiences include interactive stations designed around real military operations and a dedicated “Hardware Alley” where military aircraft, vehicles, and various equipment will be showcased. Live demonstrations and gaming competitions are also on the agenda. Additionally, the event plans to feature Hollywood guests who will discuss military stories directly alongside the service members who experienced them.
The launch of Military Con takes place at a time of complex public sentiment regarding U.S. military engagement. The press release noted the event arrives eight months into the U.S. war with Iran, following an October AP-NORC poll that found seven in 10 registered voters want Congress to prioritize ending the conflict. Addressing this, Military Director Harry Humphries stated, "Military Con is not a political event." He further clarified that the convention is focused on "honoring the men and women who have served our country and the families who have supported them," adding that the military advisory board operates apolitically.
For those interested in attending, the San Diego Military Con is scheduled for September 4-6 at the San Diego Convention Center. Prior to the San Diego event, an initial convention will take place June 4-6, 2027, at San Antonio’s Henry B. González Convention Center. These dates offer ample time for preparation and for the public to consider this new event.
This move by Worthington and Kliavkoff represents a significant entry into a specialized media and events niche. While similar offerings exist, such as Defense One’s forums for Capitol Hill insiders or Military Times’ collaboration on the MCON expo in Las Vegas, Military Con appears poised to carve out a public-facing, fan-convention style experience. Further details, including specifics on ticket information and speaker lineups, are expected to be announced in the coming months.
