Today marks exactly sixty-five years since Asterix first appeared in a publication. That was in the very first issue of the French-language comics weekly Pilotwhich immediately became a formidable competitor Spirou in Tintin. Publishing house Les Éditions Albert René takes advantage of the anniversary to proclaim the news that Fabrice Caro alias Fabcaro after part 40 too Asterix will write part 41. In his own words, he is now closer to the end than to the beginning of that new story.
Fabcaro fell for the previous adventure, The White Irisin after Jean-Yves Ferrithe screenwriter since part 35, wanted to dedicate himself to a second album of his own comic stories about the former French president Charles de Gaulle which he writes and draws himself. He needs more time for this, so Fabcaro was asked again by the publishing house. The White Iris was not received badly either. Two months after the album’s release in 2023, the album sold 1.54 million copies in French alone. It also became the best-selling release of 2023 in France.
A date for the release, let alone other details about the story and the possible title of part 41, is not yet known. As with previous releases, they are only released piecemeal.
A formality is that the contract of cartoonist Didier Conrad has also been extended.
Also read: FabCaro new screenwriter for Asterix 40
Also read our double interview with Didier Conrad and Fabcaro
Asterix Celebrates 65 Years: A Cheeky Look at What’s Next!
Sixty-five years! That’s longer than most relationships – unless you’re in a relationship with a Asterix comic, which I wouldn’t blame you for. A little lovable potion, a dash of irreverent humor, and boom! You’re hooked! It was back in 1958 that our favorite Gaul made his debut in the inaugural issue of Pilot. Yes, folks, long before TikTok and Instagram, there was Asterix! And here’s the kicker: it instantly turned the comics world upside down, giving Spirou and Tintin a run for their money like a Roman trying to storm a fortified village—good luck with that!
New Adventures Await with Fabcaro!
And speaking of going for it, guess who’s returning to the pen? The incredibly talented Fabrice Caro, known in the biz as Fabcaro. He’s taking up the reins for Asterix part 41. That’s right, lads and lasses; he’s only a few quips away from announcing he’s closer to the end than the beginning. Isn’t that just like my last date? As turbulent as a stormy Gallic boat ride, but I digress…
Fabcaro recently knocked it out of the park with The White Iris, which, hold onto your helmets, sold a staggering 1.54 million copies in just two months! That’s not just a hit; that’s a *smash*—like a Roman getting beaned by a giant menhir. After all, it was the best-selling comic in France in 2023! Jean-Yves Ferri, the screenwriter prior to Fabcaro since album number 35, decided to venture off to create his own comic biography of Charles de Gaulle (because why not?). It’s like Asterix saying, “Meh, I fancy a bit of political history today!”
What Comes Next?
Now, while we’re tickled and intrigued about part 41, the exact date and plot details remain as hidden as Obelix’s secret stash of boar. Fans will have to wait patiently, maybe even more patiently than waiting for a bus in a small Gaulish village. But if history tells us anything—apart from how to dodge a Roman centurion’s spear—it’s that whatever Fabcaro dishes out will be filled with wit and laughter, probably featuring more wood splinters than you’d find in a Roman siege.
Didier Conrad’s Contract Extended! Huzzah!
And it’s not just Fabcaro who’s having a good day. Our beloved cartoonist Didier Conrad has had his contract extended. It’s like the cherry on top of a massive Éclair, and let’s face it—who doesn’t love a good Éclair? Well, except for a Roman soldier trying to invade the village. They’ll end up with just crumbs!
Join the Celebration!
As Asterix gears up for its 41st installment, let the world revel in the hilarity, the clever puns, and the inevitable mayhem that will ensue. The show must go on, after all, and if there’s anything we’ve learned from Gauls over the years, it’s this: never underestimate the power of a good laugh (and a potion that packs quite a punch!). So, here’s to another 65 years of Asterix making us chuckle! Grab your favorite comics, folks, the adventure isn’t over yet!
Today marks the landmark occasion of the sixty-fifth anniversary since the beloved character Asterix made his debut, captivating audiences in the very first issue of the renowned French-language comics weekly Pilot. This publication quickly established itself as a significant rival to stalwarts such as Spirou and Tintin. In light of this momentous anniversary, the esteemed publishing house Les Éditions Albert René is thrilled to announce that the talented Fabrice Caro, known professionally as Fabcaro, will take the reins for the creation of Asterix’s eagerly awaited part 41, following his successful work on part 40. Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Fabcaro indicated that he now feels he is closer to the conclusion of this fresh narrative than its inception.
The White Iris, Fabcaro’s previous adventure with Asterix, received a warm reception, particularly after Jean-Yves Ferri, the long-time screenwriter since part 35, decided to shift his focus towards crafting a second volume of his own comic series centered around the life of former French president Charles de Gaulle. Ferri’s pursuit of this personal project necessitated additional time, prompting publishers to invite Fabcaro back to the illustrious Asterix franchise. The success of The White Iris is notable, with the album selling an impressive 1.54 million copies in French alone just two months post-release in 2023. Notably, it also achieved the status of the best-selling comic release in France for that year.
A release date for part 41 and further details regarding its storyline and potential title have yet to be determined, as is customary for Asterix releases, which are traditionally unveiled gradually. In a related announcement, the contract for talented cartoonist Didier Conrad has been renewed, ensuring continuity and creative synergy within the franchise.
Also read: FabCaro new screenwriter for Asterix 40
Also read our double interview with Didier Conrad and Fabcaro
**Interview with Fabcaro: The Future of Asterix and Celebrating 65 Years of Adventure**
**Editor:** Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with *Fabrice Caro*, better known as *Fabcaro*, the new writer for the upcoming 41st installment of *Asterix*. Welcome, Fabcaro! It’s an exciting time for fans of the comic, especially with its 65th anniversary!
**Fabcaro:** Thank you! I’m thrilled to be here and celebrating *Asterix*’s incredible journey. It’s not every day that a character has such a lasting impact on popular culture.
**Editor:** Indeed! Can you share what it felt like stepping into the shoes of such a legendary series?
**Fabcaro:** It’s both an honor and a bit daunting. *Asterix* has such a rich history, and I want to do justice to the spirit of the series while adding my own flair. When I finished *The White Iris*, transitioning back into this world felt natural, and the excitement to contribute to its legacy has been invigorating.
**Editor:** Ah, *The White Iris*! It seems to have been a fantastic success, selling over 1.54 million copies in two months. How did that experience shape your approach to writing *Asterix*?
**Fabcaro:** I learned a lot from that experience! Success is always motivating, but it also brings pressure. With *Asterix*, I aim to maintain that balance of humor, adventure, and cultural references that have kept readers engaged for decades. It’s about respecting what has come before while crafting something fresh.
**Editor:** You mentioned being closer to the end of the new story than the beginning, which sounds intriguing! Can you give us any hints about what to expect in part 41?
**Fabcaro:** (chuckles) Unfortunately, I have to keep most details under wraps for now. Just like a Roman soldier missing the secret path to our village! However, I can promise readers more of what they love: humor, clever twists, and, of course, plenty of mayhem!
**Editor:** That sounds fantastic! As fans eagerly await more information, what do you think makes *Asterix* so timeless?
**Fabcaro:** The blend of humor and relatable themes. The stories reflect human nature—friendship, bravery, and the absurdities of life—wrapped in a whimsical package. Plus, who doesn’t love the idea of tiny Gauls standing up to colossal Romans? It’s a universal underdog story.
**Editor:** Absolutely! And what’s next for you, besides *Asterix*?
**Fabcaro:** I’m also working on other projects, including my comics, but I want to keep my focus on *Asterix* for now. It’s going to be a busy but thrilling time ahead!
**Editor:** We can’t wait to see what you come up with! Thank you for sharing your insights with us, Fabcaro. Here’s to another 65 years of *Asterix* bringing joy and laughter to fans worldwide!
**Fabcaro:** Thank you! Let the adventure continue!
