History of Betty Boop

Betty Boop is one of the most beloved female cartoon characters in the world. Originating along with Mickey Mouse in the heyday of cartoon prominence in the 1930s, Boop has been featured in films and comic strips for over 70 years. Though she is animated, Betty Boop is often regarded as one of the first mainstream sex symbols.

First Appearance

Betty Boop made her first appearance as an animated character on August 9, 1930. This appearance was in the film cartoon "Dizzy Dishes," an installment of the Talkartoon series.

Creator

The original designer of Betty Boop was renowned animator Grim Natwick, who would later become lead director and animator at Walt Disney Studios.

Identification

Betty Boop's strong accent and characteristic dress were modeled after two 1920s film stars: Helen Kane and Clara Bow. She was seen as a stereotypical "flapper girl" in the mode of 1920s teens.

Change of Character

The minor sex-symbol Boop became after three successful years in her own animated series was altered in 1933 by the National Legion of Decency and Production Code. She was toned down to become a career girl with a full dress or skirt.

Appearances

By 1955, Betty Boop had made 110 cartoon appearances. She made two television specials in the 1980s and has starred in various television commercials. Today, the rights to Betty Boop are owned by Time Warner.

Legacy

In 1995, an eight-volume set, "Betty Boop: The Definitive Collection," was released on VHS. Since the 1930s, Betty has been the highest-selling female cartoon character in merchandise.

Fun Fact

Betty Boop made a famous cameo in the highly successful 1988 film "Who Framed Roger Rabbit." This appearance was one of only a few animated appearances by Boop that were in full color.