A Comic-Con streaming service is coming this May
Only the lucky few will have secured a ticket to this summer's Comic-Con in San Diego, but that doesn't mean the rest of the world won't be able to see some of its sought-after content.
Comic-Con International and Lionsgate have unveiled "Comic-Con HQ", a subscription video-on-demand service that will be available to consumers before San Diego's event kicks off this summer.
Announcing the plans on Monday, the entertainment businesses plan on including an array of programs and movies on the platform, such as original scripted/unscripted series; an "eclectic collection" of films; and recurring daily/weekly programs.
News about the video service has been in the pipeline for almost a year now, with both firms announcing the product back in April 2015, with the hope of releasing it during that same year.
The service will however now begin its free soft launch period on May 7, before its official launch rolls out in June, ahead of Comic-Con International: San Diego, which happens in late July.
When San Diego Comic-Con does take place, the ad-free streaming platform plans on providing "unparalleled" access to the event. This is expected to include airings of particular panels, immersive access to the convention floor, and live-streamed programming from the event.
Ever since it began in 1970, the annual Comic-Con has been the one place for fans to express their enthusiasm for comics and pop culture; Seth Laderman, EVP and general manager for Comic-Con HQ (CCHQ) believes the new service will be able to deliver this passion all year round.
"The new platform will provide a year-round destination to enjoy all facets of the community and access the vast diversity of content the world has come to expect from the largest and longest-running pop cultural celebration of the year," said Laderman in a statement.
While a price for the paid-subscription service has yet to be announced, more details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks. The service is expected to be available on several connected devices, including Apple TV and Xbox One.
"CCHQ is welcoming both attendees and fans new to the Comic-Con phenomenon to join our community and enjoy all aspects of the experience in ways never before imagined," David Glanzer, chief communications and strategy officer for Comic-Con International, said in a statement.
"We're excited to see what we can accomplish with a dedicated Comic-Con channel 365 days a year."
—By CNBC's Alexandra Gibbs, follow her @AlexGibbsy and @CNBCi