Tributes to renowned Batman and Judge Dredd comic book writer Alan Grant after death at 73

Tributes have been paid to a renowned Scottish comic book author who created some of the DC Universe’s best known villains.

Alan Grant passed away at the age of 73 after working on iconic series including Batman and Judge Dredd during a career spanning several decades.

The writer was hailed as “one of the finest talents of his generation” by weekly British sci-fi comic magazine 2000AD after his wife confirmed his death in a short social media post.

They added his work had a “profound and enduring influence” on the comic book world.

Grant was renowned for his work on the Judge Dredd series for 2000AD. (Image: 2000 AD/Rebellion)

Born in Bristol in 1949, Grant moved to Netwongrange as a youngster before settling in Monavie in Dumfries and Galloway – later returning to live in the village.

He helped dozens of locals produce a comic book chronicling their battle with Covid-19 during the pandemic in 2020 and organised a yearly comic book festival in the area in an effort to boost tourism following the devastation caused by the foot-and-mouth outbreak.

He was also responsible for co-creating villains Anarky, Victor Zsasz, and the Ventriloquist – all of whom have featured in a variety of media from the DC Universe.

Grant also worked on publications for Marvel, Lego and independent publishers after starting his career with DC Thomson in Dundee.

He later joined 2000AD where his Strontium Dog series gained international recognition while also earning praise for his frequent collaborations with John Wagner on the Batman and Judge Dredd strips.

“For the generations who grew up reading Alan’s work for 2000 AD, who were touched by the pathos and compassion of his characters, who felt the joy of their victories and the sting of their deaths, Alan’s passing is a painful gut punch,” a tribute from the magazine read.

“His impact on comics and standing in the industry simply cannot be understated. But he was more than just a giant in his field – he was a fascinating man whose sharp wit and boundless warmth touched all those who met him.

“One cannot separate 2000 AD from Alan Grant, his humour, humanity, and intelligence made it what it is, and his talent was integral to its success.

“We are forever poorer without him.”