Superstar comic writer/author Neil Gaiman, "comics noir auteur" and Spirit director Frank Miller, and Spirit co-star Eva Mendes have been added to the guest roster for New York Comic Con.  The star power at the show is growing rapidly, as these new guests join the Hellboy director and cast members announced last week (see "Hellboy Helmer at NYCC"), and other major guests previously announced.

Gaiman's appearance, a special ticketed event, will benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.  He will present a live reading on Friday evening, with tickets at $20 each; and host a VIP reception which includes an opportunity to meet Gaiman, two signatures, a gift bag of exclusive Gaiman items from the CBLDF, and preferred seating at the reading, all for $500 each.  The ticketed benefit event will be Gaiman's only appearance at the show.

Miller and Mendes will appear at the show as part of the Lionsgate panel on Saturday, which will include a first look at the Spirit film.  New York Comic Con will also mark the first release of the Spirit teaser poster, which Miller and Mendes will be available to sign for con attendees.  The Spirit has completed principle photography and is in post-production, with release planned for January 2009 (see "The Spirit Movie Update").