Elzie Crisler Segar
- Born:
- December 8, 1894, Chester, Illinois, USA
- Died:
- October 13, 1938, Santa Monica, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Cartoonist
Early Life and Education
- Elzie Crisler Segar (often referred to in reference to the biography of Popeyes, his most famous creation) worked at a local movie theater, painting sets and playing piano for silent films.
- He took a correspondence course in cartooning from W. L. Evans of Cleveland.
- Segar's early work appeared in local newspapers, showcasing his artistic talent.
Career and Major Achievements
- Segar moved to Chicago and was hired by the Chicago Evening American in 1916.
- In 1919, he created Thimble Theatre, a comic strip that would later become the vehicle for Popeye.
- Popeye, a minor character initially, debuted in Thimble Theatre on January 17, 1929.
- Popeye's immense popularity quickly eclipsed the other characters in Thimble Theatre.
- Segar continued to write and draw Thimble Theatre (later renamed Popeye) until his death.
Notable Works
- Thimble Theatre (later Popeye) comic strip
- Numerous Popeye-related stories and characters, including Olive Oyl, Bluto, and Wimpy.
Legacy and Impact
E.C. Segar's creation of Popeye has had a lasting impact on popular culture. Popeye's image and catchphrases are instantly recognizable worldwide. Segar's work popularized the spinach-eating sailor and influenced generations of cartoonists and animators.