Chris Hardwick, the controversial nerd caught up in a firestorm

Standing onstage in a packed convention hall, Chris Hardwick introduces the cast and crew of "The Walking Dead" to raucous applause. The comedian and TV host is in his element - his post behind the podium akin to a throne for this King of the Nerds - as he peppers the cast with questions while also sharing personal anecdotes.

It's a scene that has become familiar in recent years at San Diego Comic-Con. But fans attending this year's iteration of the pop culture extravaganza will not see Hardwick, as his vast nerd empire and his future involvement has Hardwick's future presence on convention panels and TV remain threatened by recent allegations of abuse.

Hardwick, who hosts series including "The Talking Dead," the talk