Barrie Tomlinson isn't one of the names at the forefront of histories of 2000 AD, but his influence on British comics for 30 years cannot be understated and with the archive of Fleetway/IPC now joining the Galaxy's Greatest Comic at Rebellion it's a great time to hear a different perspective on the seminal period of the 1970s and 1980s.

With his uncanny knack for securing celebrity endorsements which saw him rub shoulders with TV and sporting stars alike, Barrie was probably one of the most successful editors in British comics. Not only did he give the hugely popular Roy of the Rovers his own 300,000-selling title, he also relaunched Eagle, and launched titles such as Scream, Speed, Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles, Mask, Ring Raiders and many more. He was group editor for 2000 AD and his hands-off approach allowing Steve MacManus and Richard Burton to guide the comic to the great heights of its 1980s heyday.

In a two-part interview, we talk to Barrie about his work in comics, his unique approach to marketing, and the rise and rise of Roy Race of Melchester Rovers...

The 2000 AD Thrill-Cast is the award-winning podcast that takes you behind-the-scenes at the Galaxy’s Greatest Comic! As well as interviewing top creators and famous fans, publicity droid Molch-R brings you announcements, competitions, and much more! You can subscribe to the Thrill-Cast on iTunes or listen now atwww.2000ADonline.com/podcast

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