Ep 2. SDCC 2019: Rick and Morty Panel

In the second episode of season 13 of Convention Panels, viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most highly anticipated panels from San Diego Comic-Con 2019: the Rick and Morty panel.

The episode begins with footage of fans lining up outside the convention center, eagerly waiting to get into the panel. As they file into the enormous Hall H, they are greeted by a giant Rick statue, signaling that they are in the right place.

Once everyone is settled into their seats, the panel begins with a montage of scenes from the upcoming fourth season of Rick and Morty. The crowd goes wild as they catch glimpses of familiar characters and new worlds.

The panel is moderated by Terry Schwartz, a senior editor at IGN, who introduces the panelists: co-creators Dan Harmon and Justin Roiland, as well as cast members Sarah Chalke, Spencer Grammer, and Chris Parnell.

Schwartz kicks off the panel by asking about the show's biggest influence, which Harmon cites as The Simpsons. He explains that the show's structure of having multiple storylines happening at once was a technique he borrowed from The Simpsons. Roiland adds that he was inspired by science fiction and horror movies from the 80s and 90s, as well as classic animation like Looney Tunes and Tex Avery.

The conversation then turns to the new season, and the cast and creators share some details about what fans can expect. Chalke, who voices the family's matriarch Beth, explains that the new episodes will delve deeper into her character's background and motivations. Grammer, who plays Morty's sister Summer, says that fans will see her character grow and change in interesting ways. Parnell, who voices the beleaguered dad Jerry, jokes that his character will continue to be the butt of the show's jokes.

Harmon and Roiland also reveal that there will be some surprising guest stars in the new season, including Sam Neill and Taika Waititi. They also share some details about the show's creative process, explaining that they often start with a "what if?" scenario and build a story around it.

One of the most interesting parts of the panel is when the panelists discuss the show's impact on popular culture. Roiland admits that they never expected the show to become as big as it has, and Harmon notes that the show's humor can sometimes be divisive. However, both agree that they are grateful for the passionate fanbase that has sprung up around the show.

The panel wraps up with a Q&A session, during which fans line up to ask the panelists questions about everything from their writing process to their favorite episodes. Harmon and Roiland are gracious and funny, taking the time to engage with fans and make jokes at their own expense.

Overall, the Rick and Morty panel at SDCC 2019 was an entertaining and informative look at one of the most beloved shows on television. Fans of the show, science fiction, and animation will definitely want to tune in to this episode of Convention Panels.