Comic Strip / Comics

When Did the Comic Strip for Better or for Worse End?

For Better or for Worse is a Canadian comic strip created by Lynn Johnston. It was first published in 1979 and became one of the most beloved comic strips of all time. The strip focused on the daily life of the Patterson family, covering topics such as marriage, parenting, and aging.

History of For Better or for Worse

The strip was originally published in black and white, but later transitioned to full color. It was syndicated in over 2,000 newspapers worldwide and translated into multiple languages. The relatable characters and storylines made it a favorite among readers.

Lynn Johnston received numerous awards for her work on For Better or for Worse, including the Order of Canada in 1992.

The End of For Better or for Worse

After 29 years of publication, For Better or for Worse came to an end on August 30, 2008. However, instead of simply ending the strip, Lynn Johnston decided to do something unique – she began retelling the story from the beginning.

Starting in September 2008, For Better or for Worse began re-publishing old strips with new art and updated dialogue to reflect changes that had occurred since they were originally published. This allowed readers to revisit their favorite moments from the strip while also seeing them in a new light.

The Final Strip

On August 31, 2010, Lynn Johnston published the final strip of For Better or for Worse. The strip featured Elly and John Patterson sitting on a bench reminiscing about their life together. The final panel read:

“In memory of Farley.”

This was a reference to one of the most emotional storylines in the strip, where the Pattersons’ beloved dog Farley tragically died while saving a child.

Legacy of For Better or for Worse

For Better or for Worse has left a lasting impact on the world of comics. Its relatable characters and storylines have resonated with readers for decades, and it continues to be beloved by fans all over the world. The retelling of the strip also allowed new readers to discover and enjoy the story from the beginning.

  • The strip has been collected into multiple books and graphic novels, allowing fans to revisit their favorite moments at any time.
  • In 2008, a musical adaptation of For Better or for Worse premiered in Canada.
  • Lynn Johnston has continued to work on other projects since ending For Better or for Worse, including writing children’s books and creating new comic strips.

Conclusion

For Better or for Worse is a comic strip that will always hold a special place in the hearts of its fans. Its relatable characters and timeless storylines have made it an enduring classic that will be remembered for generations to come.