Guests
Meeting your favourite sports star might get your heart pumping, but what about seeing the faces behind your waifus and husbandos? Does it excite you to find out how your favourite manga, anime, and stories are created? How can you not take a selfie with your idol cosplayer if you had the chance?
Get pumped up! Every year, SMASH! invites international guests to Sydney for the con, including voice actors and actresses from popular anime, directors, artists, cosplayers and more! Not only that, you can see them at a SMASH! Guest Event, or bring a trophy home in the form of an autograph.
2026 VIP GUESTS
Introducing our very first guest for SMASH 2026… IT’S MACKENYU!
Mackenyu born on November 16, 1996, in Los Angeles, the son of legendary Japanese actor and martial artist Sonny Chiba. Raised in the United States, he developed a wide range of skills from a young age, including Kyokushin Karate, gymnastics, water polo, and wrestling, alongside musical training in piano, saxophone, and flute. His early exposure to both performance and discipline helped lay the foundation for his acting career.
He rose to prominence with his role as Arata Wataya in the Chihayafuru series, earning the Japan Academy Newcomer of the Year Award in 2017. His career expanded internationally with appearances in Pacific Rim: Uprising and leading roles in films like Over Drive and the Rurouni Kenshin: Final Chapter. More recently, he gained global recognition as Roronoa Zoro in Netflix’s One Piece and continues to take on major roles across film and streaming projects.
His bounty hunter status is booming through Sydney as the crowds are gathering! Stay tuned for more details on schedules, photo opportunities and autograph meet & greet sessions.
To make sure you can sit with your friends and loved ones, please buy your SMASH! tickets in the same, single order. Please note that entry to his scheduled panel will be determined through a lottery system, so purchasing tickets together does not guarantee access but ensures you’re grouped together if selected.
Check out Mackenyu's Instagram here!
Notable Films
Introducing our next SMASH! 2026 guest, TeddyLoid!!
TeddyLoid is a Japanese music producer and DJ artist. At the age of 18, he launched his career by touring as the main DJ and sound producer for the guitarist MIYAVI’s world tour.
Since then, he has produced many hits, with his major works including “Odo” and “Sho” by Ado, as well as anime works like “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” and “ME!ME!ME!”, game soundtracks, and commercial music.
His fame continues to rise, as in 2016, he became one of the 5 most-streamed Japanese artists on Spotify overseas, and in 2017-2018, he embarked on a world tour covering 13 cities in 4 countries.
With works surpassing various genres and national borders, expanding into the virtual world, TeddyLoid continues to leave his mark on the music space!
Check out TeddyLoid’s Instagram | X (Twitter) | Youtube here!
Next Guest Announced! Aussie V-Idol coming to town!
Let’s welcome Aries Faries, our next guest for SMASH! 2026
Aries is an Aussie V-Idol and variety Twitch streamer, with active involvement in the convention scene since 2022. She brings her virtual concerts to life using mocap technology
We are thrilled to have Aries join us for this year’s convention and share her talent in Sydney!
Check out Aries Faries Instagram | X (Twitter) | Twitch | Tiktok here!
Densetsu.EXE is an explosive, electric idol unit made up of three legendary beings!
Mint the yurei, Vicky the yokai, and Phoebe the yosei! Together the three sing in perfect harmony, protecting the moe culture they love so much while chasing dreams of idol stardom!✨
Won’t you become one of their loyal denshi and cheer them on to the very end!?⚡
Check out Densetsu.EXE’s Website | X (Twitter) | Youtube here!
AKrCos began cosplaying in 2014 and creates costumes based on characters from all forms of media including anime, cartoons, cinema, comic books, and video games.
She is proficient in videography, photography, makeup, sewing, wig styling, armour, and Social Media Marketing.
She has been making guest appearances at events for 12 years and enjoys spreading love for the community with fellow cosplayers and fans.
Outside of cosplay:
Prior to 2020, she studied Nuclear pharmacy and worked under an international modelling agency.
Currently, AKrCos works as a full-time romance game writer, Streamer, and Content Creator.
Check out AKrCos’ Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | Twitch | TikTok | Youtube here!
Notable Cosplays
Inspector Lemon “Liz” is a cosplayer and influencer from North Florida. She creates content from popular anime, video games, and manga series. She is proficient in sewing, prop making, and wig styling.
Outside of cosplay:
Prior to 2020, she studied English and Criminal justice, with hobbies centred around cinema.
Currently, Liz works as a full-time romance game writer, Streamer, and Content Creator.
Check out Inspector Lemon’s Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | Twitch | TikTok | Youtube here!
Notable Cosplays
We’re thrilled to welcome Giorgia to SMASH! 2026!
A key figure in the Australian Cosplay scene, with highlights such as representing Australia at the 2018 World Cosplay Summit and winning PAX Aus Cosplay Central Crown Championship 2025.
With more than 23 years in cosplay and costume design, she brings unmatched expertise and passion for the craft!
Catch her panels and see her expertise in action - get your tickets to SMASH! 2026 now!
Notable Cosplays
Astercat is a long-time competitive cosplayer with 18 years of experience in the craft. What began as a casual creative outlet has evolved into qualifications as a Sewing Machinist, Pattern Drafter, and Fashion Designer.
With 18 cosplay awards across New Zealand and Australia — including multiple 1st Place and Best in Show titles — Astercat brings both technical expertise and competitive insight to the stage. She is thrilled to have the opportunity to jump into the judging panel this year and looks forward to being inspired by the incredible talent on display.
In addition to judging, Astercat will be hosting a panel and meeting attendees at her table throughout the event. Be sure to stop by for a chat!
Check out Astercat’s Instagram here!
Notable Cosplays
Yuka Nishio is a multi-talented voice actress known for her extravagant work in anime and music, with additional talents in singing, violin, calligraphy, and DJing!
She’s best recognised for voicing Rinku Aimoto in D4DJ, Nanami Hiromachi in BanG Dream! (Morfonica), and Nao Inabe in Cardfight!! Vanguard DivineZ.
Outside of her day-to-day career, she loves her time getting deep in gaming, poker, watching live shows, and creating things, often bringing a youthful, surprise-loving energy to her work. Her mix of artistic talents and vibrant personality has made her a standout presence in the voice acting and music scene.
Yuka Nishio can be found on: Website | Instagram | X (Twitter) | Youtube
Toshiaki Takayama is a highly regarded illustrator known for his dynamic style and versatility across a wide range of visual genres. His work spans from intricate mecha designs to imaginative creatures and compelling character art, showcasing both technical precision and creativity. Over the course of his career, he has contributed to a variety of major projects, building a strong presence within the illustration and gaming industries. His artwork has been featured across trading card games, console and mobile titles, as well as in published books, reaching audiences around the world.
Toshiaki Takayama can be found on: Website | X (Twitter) | Youtube | Pixiv
We're welcoming back at-home cafe to SMASH! 2026!
This iconic maid cafe, a beloved staple in the world of themed entertainment, has been enchanting visitors for over two decades with its unique blend of immersive experiences and heartfelt hospitality; an inviting space where everyone, regardless of age or gender, can relax and enjoy the bubbly atmosphere themselves.
Known for their famous “moe moe kyun” phrase by hitomi, at-home cafe is excited to bring signature moe and magic to SMASH! 2026, offering attendees a delightful taste of its one-of-a-kind service to all Princesses and Masters.
Check out their Website | Instagram | X (Twitter) here!
We’re welcoming back Swallowtail to SMASH! 2026!
Swallowtail Butler’s Operetta is a performance group, formed by members of the Swallowtail Butler Cafe, that trains day and night to perform musicals and concerts that bring a smile to your face. Aside from their musical talents, the butlers are attentive and discerning, ensuring a delightful tea salon experience.
Swallowtail celebrates its 20th anniversary of being the gold standard of elegance, warmth and theatrical charm. For many Princesses and Masters, it is a cherished escape into a carefully crafted world that feels both indulgent and personal.
SMASH! Maid Cafe is thrilled to welcome back these exemplary butlers to SMASH! 2026, where their dedication and flair promise to delight and inspire.
Check out Swallowtail’s Website | Instagram | X (Twitter) here!