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News & Blog

Pirates of Caribbean and Game of Thrones stars join star-studded guest line-up for Capital Sci-Fi Con 2026

Posted: 5th February 2026

Pirates of the Caribbean star Kevin McNally and Game of Thrones actor Murray McArthur are the latest stars to join the guest list for this year’s Capital Sci-Fi Con which will take place later this month in Edinburgh in aid of Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

The unmissable event, which attracts thousands of fans each year, is on at Edinburgh Corn Exchange on February 21 and 22.

Organisers are promising an action-packed weekend of celebrity guests, cosplay, and immersive experiences, all in aid of CHAS.

Although most famous for starring in Pirates of the Caribbean, Kevin McNally has also appeared in many other films and TV shows including Doctor Who.  Murray McArthur, who plays the Wildling chieftain, Dim Dalba in Game of Thrones has also starred in Doctor Who as well as films such as How to Train Your Dragon and Wonka.

Other famous faces attending this year’s event include Deadpool and Wolverine canine star Dogpool, whose real name is Peggy, Emmett J Scanlan (Guardians of the Galaxy), Dee Tails (Star Wars movies) and Samantha Alleyne, best known for being the first female Stormtrooper in Star Wars.

Popular voice actors Rich Keeble and Maxence Cazorla from Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 and Nola Klopp from Murder Drones who is also a singer and songwriter, will be in attendance to greet fans too.

Props for this year include exciting replicas from fandoms such as Stranger Things, Ghostbusters, Alien and Judge Dredd. There will also be a dedicated gaming room with an which includes a Super Mario section. For younger guests there will be famous cartoon mascots such as Sonia and Stitch, Minions and Moana.  There will also be a Little Mermaid throne and dinosaur inflatables.

Every ticket purchased helps the charity provide essential care and support for babies, children and young people with life-shortening conditions and their families,

The event has raised an incredible £484,014.62 since 2016 when it was originally set up by West Lothian volunteer fundraiser and community superhero, Keith Armour.

CHAS now runs Capital Sci-Fi Con itself although Keith is still involved in an advisory capacity along with a committee of dedicated volunteers.

Con guests have the chance to sign up to the LEGO Walk Challenge on the Sunday which involves walking barefoot across LEGO in aid of CHAS.

There will also be a spectacular range of trader stalls and artist areas with a large show floor for the perfect shopping experience for everyone across all fandoms.

Laura Campbell, Head of Community Fundraising and Retail at CHAS said, “We are delighted to be bringing CHAS’s Sci-Fi Con back to Edinburgh for an 11th year and excited to welcome Kevin McNally, Murray McArthur and all our other wonderful guests.

“Our Con has grown into one of Scotland’s most loved fan events, welcoming thousands of visitors from every corner of the country and beyond. It’s the ultimate place to celebrate all things pop culture—and a fantastic day out for fans of every age.

“From meeting your heroes and getting treasured autographs or photo ops, to hearing guests speak live on stage about their latest projects and iconic roles, there’s something unforgettable around every corner. Don’t miss out—tickets are selling fast, so get yours now!”

To find out more about Capital Sci-Fi Con 2025 and buy tickets visit: https://www.capitalscificon.com/tickets.html.  Further information is also available via the event’s Facebook page.

Business Comment

Business Comment is the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s bi-monthly magazine. It provides insight on Edinburgh’s vibrant business community, with features on the city’s key sectors, interviews with leading figures and news on new business developments in the capital.
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