Otakon announced that Madhouse founder Masao Maruyama will attend this year's event. This year will mark Maruyama's seventh visit to Baltimore for Otakon.

Since Madhouse's founding in 1972, Maruyama served as producer for a number of popular anime titles, including Record of Lodoss War (OVA), The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, and Death Note. He also mentored a number of now-prominent directors, including Satoshi Kon (Perfect Blue, Paprika) and Atsuko Ishizuka (Monster, Nana).

In addition to a guest appearance, Maruyama will produce an original animation piece made specifically for Otakon 2009's opening ceremonies. The piece will be co-directed by Takuji Endo (Paranoia Agent, Highlander: Search for Vengeance) and Yoshinori Kanemori (Death Note, X), with character designs by Kanemori.

Otakon 2009 will be held from July 17-19 at the Baltimore Convention Center.