Two titans of heavy metal recently came together again — though this time far from the arena stage. On October 11 and 12 at the Marriott Burbank Convention Center in Burbank, California, Bruce Dickinson and Nicko McBrain reunited in public at the horror and special‑effects convention Son of Monsterpalooza, delighting fans with an unexpected crossover of metal and monster culture. 

IRON MAIDEN’s BRUCE DICKINSON And NICKO MCBRAIN Reunite At ‘Son Of Monsterpalooza’ In Burbank.

 

 

Two titans of heavy metal recently came together again — though this time far from the arena stage. On October 11 and 12 at the Marriott Burbank Convention Center in Burbank, California, Bruce Dickinson and Nicko McBrain reunited in public at the horror and special‑effects convention Son of Monsterpalooza, delighting fans with an unexpected crossover of metal and monster culture.

Dickinson appeared at the event on Saturday, October 11 only, while McBrain was present both Saturday and Sunday (October 11–12). Their joint appearance marked a rare shared public engagement outside the usual band setting.

For attendees, this was more than a photo opp — though the photo packages were a notable talking point. Photos with McBrain alone were priced at US $80 (plus a service fee), while a combined Bruce + Nicko photo was offered for US $185 for Saturday only. Selfies at their tables were explicitly disallowed, with only professional photo‑op packages available. Autographs were also available at McBrain’s signing station.

The reunion was unusual in context. Iron Maiden bandmates appearing at a horror/SFX convention rather than a music festival or concert underscores how modern fan culture blends genres and audiences. The two created a bridge between the realms of heavy metal and horror/FX fandom, offering fans a moment to meet legends in an unexpected environment.

McBrain’s presence carried additional resonance. The drummer officially announced his retirement from active touring with Iron Maiden in December 2024. His participation at the convention, following health challenges including a stroke in 2023, offered fans a chance to see him in public again. Meanwhile, Dickinson is in the midst of his solo re‑emergence via The Mandrake Project and its supporting tour.

Fan response was enthusiastic, with attendees lining up early for autographs and photo ops. Some took to forums and social channels to share their excitement and impressions of meeting the duo.

In short, the appearance of Bruce Dickinson and Nicko McBrain at Son of Monsterpalooza was more than a marketing stunt — it was a poignant moment of reconnection. For fans of metal, horror, or both, it underscored how iconic figures in one cultural sphere can bring fresh energy to another. It also served as a reminder that legacies endure, and that even beyond stadiums and records, fans still crave moments of direct connection with the people behind the music.