Garfield is a beloved comic strip character known for his lazy demeanor and love for lasagna. Created by cartoonist Jim Davis, Garfield has become a pop culture icon since his inception in 1978.
Jim Davis – The Creator of Garfield
Jim Davis, the creator of Garfield, was born in Marion, Indiana in 1945. He grew up on a small farm where he developed a love for comics and drawing.
Davis attended Ball State University where he studied art and business. After graduation, he worked as an advertising executive and later as an assistant to Tom Ryan, the creator of the comic strip “Tumbleweeds.”
The Birth of Garfield
In 1978, Jim Davis created the character of Garfield. The fat orange cat first appeared in newspapers on June 19, 1978. The comic strip quickly became popular with readers due to its relatable humor and lovable characters.
Fun Fact: Jim Davis named the character after his grandfather, James A. Garfield Davis.
Growing Popularity
Garfield’s popularity continued to grow throughout the years. In addition to the daily comic strip, there have been numerous books, television shows, and movies featuring the beloved feline.
- In 1982, “Garfield on the Town” won an Emmy award for Outstanding Animated Program.
- In 2004, “Garfield: The Movie” was released with Bill Murray voicing Garfield.
- As of 2021, there have been over 14,000 Garfield comic strips published.
Impact on Pop Culture
Garfield has had a significant impact on pop culture since its creation. The character has appeared on everything from t-shirts to coffee mugs to stuffed animals. Garfield has even made appearances in video games such as “Garfield: Caught in the Act” and “Garfield Kart.”
Fun Fact: In 2014, an Italian astronomer named a star after Garfield.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jim Davis is the creator of the beloved comic strip character Garfield. The lazy orange cat has become a pop culture icon since his inception in 1978. With his relatable humor and lovable personality, Garfield is sure to remain a favorite for years to come.