FCBD Interview: Keith Richardson Talks About 2000 AD Special

Get ready for a sci-fi anthology too big to contain on just one planet! Spacemen and spectors clash, blood-thirst and battles rule the day, and Judge Dredd lays down the law in the 2000 AD Special!

Free Comic Book Day talked with editor Keith Richardson about 2000 AD Special, 2000 AD's 2015 Free Comic Book Day offering.

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Free Comic Book Day: For those who might be new to your comic book, give a quick rundown. What can we expect to see in terms of story and art?

Keith Richardson: 2000 AD is a weekly British (mainly) sci-fi anthology comic, that has, in its near 40-year history unleashed some of the finest talents known to the industry. Alan Moore, Garth Ennis, Dave Gibbons, Brian Bolland…the list goes on. This year we have a Thrill-packed selection of stories, both new and old. From a brand-new Judge Dredd strip, illustrated by the mighty Mike Hawthorne, to old school magic in the form of Dan Dare—this is a comic that has something for everyone, man, woman and insectoid.

Free Comic Book Day: What has been your favorite part of the book or character to tackle?

Keith Richardson: The whole thing has been a pleasure to work on. I love the new cover from Henry Flint—the man is a genius! It was also great re-introducing a pretty obscure character from the vaults called Doctor Sin. Rob Williams has delivered a fantastic script, while new artist Luca Pizzari has just proved why he is soon to become one of the hottest artists over at Marvel.

Free Comic Book Day: Tell FCBD fans why they should pick your book first on Free Comic Book Day!

Keith Richardson: Brilliant storytelling, awe-inspiring artwork…most importantly, bonus digital strips within the comic!

Free Comic Book Day: What are you most looking forward to for Free Comic Book Day?

Keith Richardson: Watching people pick up 2000 AD, especially first-timers. You can always spot them…they’re the most euphoric-looking customers in the store!

Free Comic Book Day: What other titles would you associate with your FCBD book? “If a comic reader likes _______ , they should pick up my title"?

Keith Richardson: If a comic reader likes the strangeness of Saga, the black humor of The Punisher, the action of Preacher, they should pick up 2000 AD.

Free Comic Book Day: What do you think is the best part about Free Comic Book Day?

Keith Richardson: FREE COMICS!

Free Comic Book Day: What’s your favorite thing about working in comics?

Keith Richardson: See above.  

Free Comic Book Day: Where will you be for this year’s FCBD? Do you have any annual FCBD traditions?

Keith Richardson: I will be visiting several comics around London town—especially those hosting 2000 AD signings.

Free Comic Book Day: Looking to the future of the book, is there anything you can tease about what's upcoming?

Keith Richardson: As well as many fantastic trade collections, including Dark Justice (where Judge Dredd battles his arch nemesis Judge Death) and Dan Dare – The 2000 AD Years Volume 01,  2000 AD is welcoming the return of Peter Milligan who is working on a brand new Bad Company story with Tank Girl artist, Rufus Dayglo.

Free Comic Book Day: Tell us why everyone should read comic books?

Keith Richardson: Because comics are a portal into a world of infinite possibilities and glorious wonder.

Find a comic shop near you at Comic Shop Locator.com to celebrate Free Comic Book Day 2015!