IDW Publishing is going big for one of science fiction’s most iconic franchises. This September, Star Trek: 60th Anniversary Special arrives as a 68-page anthology packed with new stories from an impressive lineup of creators spanning comics, television, and Trek history.
Coming to comic shops on September 2, the special offers stories set across The Original Series, The Next Generation, Lower Decks, The Animated Series, Starfleet Academy, and more. The issue also includes a prelude to the upcoming Star Trek #1 relaunch, setting the stage for what comes next in IDW’s publishing plans.
The creative roster is stacked. Highlights include a Sulu story written by Brian Michael Bendis, with art by Michael Gaydos; a Harry Mudd tale from original series writer David Gerrold; and a Lower Decks story from showrunner Mike McMahan, with art by Mike and Laura Allred. Other contributors include Christopher Cantwell, Ryan North, David Walker, Dave Baker, Meghan Camarena, and more, covering a wide spectrum of Trek storytelling.
The anthology serves as a celebration and a reflection on the franchise’s legacy. Since its debut in 1966, Star Trek has influenced generations with its forward-looking themes and commitment to exploring humanity’s place in the universe. This special leans into that history while also pointing toward the future.
“As a lifelong Star Trek fan, this is honestly the kind of project you dream about getting to make,” said Senior Group Editor Heather Antos. “For the 60th anniversary, we knew we couldn’t just put together another anthology — we had to go bigger, bolder, and bring together the kind of creative lineup that makes fans do a double take.”
David Gerrold, one of the last living writers from the original series, also returns with a new story, reflecting on the franchise’s enduring message. “Star Trek was special. It is still special. It says, ‘The way things are is not the way they have to be.’ It promises a future that works for all of us, with no one and nothing left out.”
The issue will also play a key role in IDW’s broader plans for the franchise, including a new flagship Star Trek series launching later this year. Christopher Cantwell’s prelude story teases that next phase, asking a central question: where does Star Trek go from here?
With a mix of legacy creators and new voices, Star Trek: 60th Anniversary Special looks to honor the past while charting a course forward. It hits comic shops September 2, with pre-orders due July 27.
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