New album released in multiple countries
Gaston Lagaffe has returned with a new album titled Des boum et des paf, published by Dupuis and released simultaneously in France, Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. This is the 23rd album in the series and the second not to be signed by Albert Uderzo, the original creator, who passed away in 1997.New creators take over the series
The album is the work of Marc Delafontaine, known as Delaf, and Lewis Trondheim, who contributed about 75 gags. The story continues to be set in the late 1960s and early 1970s within the Dupuis publishing house, where Gaston Lagaffe works as an all-purpose employee in the editorial department.Delaf's approach to the character
Delaf, who previously worked on the series Les Nombrils, said he grew up with Gaston and aimed to stay true to the spirit of Uderzo. He emphasized that Gaston's popularity comes from his creative freedom, defense of human values, and his friendliness despite his foolishness.Series' enduring appeal
Delaf also noted that the outdated nature of the series, such as the absence of mobile phones, does not bother young readers. The first 22 volumes of the series have sold 34 million copies and have been translated into 27 languages. The character is described as a "laid-back anti-hero" who is "bursting with imagination and energy, except when it comes to working."Challenges in continuing the series
The return of Gaston Lagaffe was nearly stopped by Isabelle Uderzo, the daughter of the original creator, who initially opposed the publication. An arbitration process led to the decision to proceed, respecting Uderzo's "unequivocal will" not to see Gaston outlive him under another illustrator's hand.Future plans for the series
Delaf expressed happiness at continuing Uderzo's legacy and mentioned he is working on a 24th volume. However, he noted he could see himself doing only three albums if he loses inspiration.
