Comic Strip / Comics

When Did the Blondie Comic Strip Start?

Blondie is a popular comic strip that has been entertaining readers for decades. The comic strip follows the lives of Blondie Bumstead and her husband Dagwood, along with their family and friends.

But have you ever wondered when the Blondie comic strip started? Let’s take a trip down memory lane and find out.

The Early Days of Blondie

Blondie made her debut on September 8, 1930, in a comic strip called “Blondie Boopadoop” by cartoonist Chic Young. The strip was originally about a flapper named Blondie Boopadoop who was single and looking for love. The character proved to be popular with readers, and the focus of the strip shifted to her relationship with Dagwood Bumstead.

The Love Story Begins

Dagwood Bumstead was originally a playboy millionaire who fell in love with Blondie at first sight. His parents disapproved of the relationship and cut him off from his inheritance. This forced Dagwood to get a job and support himself, which he did by taking a job at his father-in-law’s construction company.

The Evolution of the Characters

Over time, the characters evolved to become more relatable to readers. Dagwood became less of a playboy and more of an average guy struggling with work-life balance. He was often seen taking naps on the couch or sneaking sandwiches when he should be working.

Blondie also evolved from a flapper girl into a devoted wife and mother who managed their household while also pursuing her own interests, such as cooking and fashion.

The Legacy Continues

Blondie has continued to be popular with readers over the years, spawning movies, TV shows, and even a musical. Chic Young passed away in 1973, but his son Dean Young took over the comic strip and continued to write it until his death in 2011. The strip is now written and illustrated by Dean’s brother, John Marshall.

Conclusion

The Blondie comic strip has been a beloved part of American culture for over 90 years. It all started with a flapper named Blondie Boopadoop and her love story with Dagwood Bumstead.

Over time, the characters evolved into relatable figures that readers could identify with. Today, the legacy continues with new stories written by John Marshall Young.