Organisers of Comic Con Manchester have announced a ban on wearable recording devices at this weekend's event, citing privacy concerns. The family-friendly convention takes place on Saturday and Sunday at the BEC Arena in Trafford, featuring celebrities from shows such as Game of Thrones, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Doctor Who, Sons of Anarchy and Bones.
Decision follows consultation
In a social media post on Thursday (July 23), Monopoly Events, which organises the Manchester con and similar events across the UK, said the company-wide decision was made after a consultation period. The company stated that 'talent and agents' felt wearable recording devices were 'a violation of their privacy' and that many guests were uncomfortable with the possibility of being filmed without consent.
The post read: “After a consultation period we can no longer permit the wearing of any recording device at our events. The vast majority of the talent and agents at our events felt that these were a violation of their privacy and were damaging and spoiling the interactions at the tables. Several expressed concerns that they might not continue to attend in-person events if they were being recorded in secret.”
Enforcement and response
Anyone seen using such devices may be asked to leave and forfeit any unfulfilled autographs or photographs they had purchased. The post added: “Please let’s make these events a safe space for everyone.” The decision received mixed reactions, with many supporting the move. One comment on the Comic Con Liverpool page, promoting the October event, said: “About time!” Another wrote: “All comic cons need to do this.” However, concerns were raised about those who use such glasses with prescription lenses or for disabilities. One person asked: “What about for a blind person. My fiance uses them to get around and find out what stuff looks like?”
Medical use policy
The Manchester Evening News has approached Monopoly Events for clarification on the policy regarding medical use. In a response to a query, director Jason Anstice said they would 'look into it and take advise from the various charities and advisory groups we work with'.
Event lineup
This weekend's Comic Con Manchester features stars including Angel and Bones actor David Boreanaz, Doctor Who actress Michelle Gomez, Dexter star Julie Benz, and Buffy actor James Marsters. Oscar-winning actress Helen Hunt had been scheduled to attend but pulled out due to scheduling conflicts.
