Since his debut on 29 October 1959 in Pilote magazine, Asterix has become one of the world’s most beloved comic book characters and a true international publishing phenomenon.

A Remarkable Legacy
First appearance: 29 October 1959 in Pilote magazine
First comic book: Asterix the Gaul (1961), with an initial print run of 6,000 copies
Over 370 million comic books sold worldwide
Translated into 111 languages and dialects
9 animated films
4 live-action films
1 theme park: Le Parc Astérix
More than 100 licensed products
A Global Success

The success of Asterix is truly extraordinary. More than 370 million copies have been sold around the world—enough books to stack the height of approximately 8,880 Eiffel Towers. If placed end to end, they would stretch twice around the Earth’s circumference, and together they would weigh approximately 12,900 tonnes, equivalent to about 400 fully loaded 35-tonne trucks.

Critical Acclaim

“If there’s anyone who can simply transcend age altogether, it’s my first choice, the little Gaulish warrior called Asterix. Despite the burden of expectations, the books never disappoint—they remain an absolute delight. While the creative team in France has changed over the years, English-speaking readers can be grateful that the incomparable Anthea Bell translated the series with wit, charm, and energy from the very beginning.”
— Daniel Hahn, The Independent