The creator of the iconic Jack Reacher will appear at a Cumbrian festival next year.
Lee Child, who came up with the character’s name while in a Kendal supermarket, will appear at the Festival of Ideas in Kirkby Lonsdale in February.
He is part of the town’s Festival of Ideas, which runs from February 7 to February 20.
The best-selling author is one of the town’s most famous ex-residents; he penned the first of his Jack Reacher thriller series in his Kirkby Lonsdale home, overlooking the church tower.
Reacher has since gone on to be a global publishing phenomenon, triggering a multi-billion-dollar media empire and captivating fans from all over the world.
Child said: “I wrote the first three Jack Reacher books in Kirkby Lonsdale, and they went on to become the foundation of what has turned into a $3bn global entertainment franchise.
“Clearly, Kirkby Lonsdale was an inspiration for me, and it can be for you, too. Come to Illuminate 2026 and find out how!”
The festival features over 40 live performances, film screenings and speaker events, as well as creative and wellbeing workshops at venues across the town.
Child will appear at St Mary’s Church on Saturday February 7. He will talk about his life and work before holding a book-signing session.
Other festival highlights include live music from Newfoundland group Rum Ragged, quick-change drama from the Jane Austen Abridged players, a glamorous After Dark murder mystery event and comedy gameshow hi-jinks from Black Liver.
There will also be six days of free family events—including an immersive theatre experience—as part of the festival’s half-term programme.
A specially curated programme of six films exploring the festival’s 2026 theme Futures: Real and Imagined will be staged at the Lunesdale Hall.
Wellness events including yoga and sound bath sessions will take place at the QEStudio school.
Tickets go on sale in December.
