Rebellion has announced the return of the 2000 AD Talent Search, an exclusive competition held at the Thought Bubble Comic Convention in Harrogate on the 14th and 15th of November 2026. The publisher is looking for new writers and artists and is offering the winner paid work in the comic anthology.
The talent search aims to find the next generation of comic creators. Rebellion notes they are especially looking for pitches from women and creators from marginalised communities. The competition is strictly for amateurs and small-press creators; professionals with prior paid publisher work are not eligible.
The artist challenge
Artists must download and illustrate at least 3 pages from a Time Twisters script by Rob Williams. The script is titled “The Prophect of Lekbith The Great And Terrible”. Entries can be submitted in black and white or colour.
Participants must bring their finished, physical pages to the 2000 AD table between 12:00 and 14:00 on Saturday the 14th of November. The editorial team will conduct short portfolio reviews during this two-hour window, though they warn they cannot guarantee time for everyone due to high demand. A shortlist of five to seven entries will advance to a live judging panel on Sunday at 15:30.
The writer challenge
Writers are tasked with preparing a two-minute pitch for a Future Shock story. This format requires a five-page story featuring a twist on the final page.
Writers must register their name at the 2000 AD booth on Saturday. On Sunday, the editorial team will select names via a random ballot. Those chosen will stand before a panel of judges to pitch their idea live.
Strict AI ban and physical requirements
Rebellion has taken a definitive stance on emerging technology for this talent search. The company states that any entry found to use generative AI in the creative process will be removed, and the creator will be permanently banned from entering future contests.
The publisher has not detailed the specific page rate or financial scale of the paid work offered as the prize. All entrants must be physically present in Harrogate for both the Saturday registration and the Sunday judging panels.
Quick Links
- 2000 AD: Talent Challenge
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