Judge Dredd Classics Series, Free Comic Book Day Issue Coming From IDW

In addition to printing new, American versions of Judge Dredd comics, IDW Publishing announced today that they will begin publication of Judge Dredd Classics, reprinting classic 2000 AD tales for the first time in color. "Much like we did with our Doctor Who Classics series, I'm happy to expose fans new and old to these wonderful stories from years past, and even moreso to have Charlie Kirchoff again bringing new hues to such amazing artwork," said Chris Ryall, IDW's Chief Creative Officer. "It's very exciting to see these classic Dredd stories given an extra dimension," said 2000 AD Editor in Chief Matt Smith. "New readers will get to see some of the seminal tales that established Dredd as the UK's most important comics character, and old-school fans of the future lawman can re-experience their favorite series in a whole new light." The first such book will be IDW's Free Comic Book Day title, which will reprint the fan-favorite Judge Death stories by John Wagner, illustrated by Brian Bolland, and featuring new colors by Charlie Kirchoff. That same story, minus the colors, was recently selected as the first graphic novel ever to be given away at World Book Night in late April. A special print of the book will be printed and it will be given away to people in need along with dozens of other books on April 23. Beginning in July, the monthly Judge Dredd Classics series, also featuring new colors by Kirchoff on every issue, will begin with the seminal "Block Mania"/"Apocalypse War" storyline scripted by John Wagner and Alan Grant, and illustrated by Mike McMahon, Ron Smith, Steve Dillon, Brian Bolland and Carlos Ezquerra. Artist Jim Fern will be providing all-new covers for every issue when the series makes its monthly debut this summer. The Free Comic Book Day special will feature a newly colored cover by the inimitable Brian Bolland.