James Robert "Jim" Davis is a renowned cartoonist, television writer, and television producer from Marion, Indiana. He is best known for creating the iconic comic strip "Garfield" in 1978, featuring a lovable yet cantankerous cat and his supporting cast of characters. The strip has been adapted into three animated television series, 12 prime-time television specials, two theatrical films, and numerous video games.
Born in 1945, Davis grew up on a small cow farm in Fairmount, Indiana, where he developed a passion for art and storytelling. He attended Fairmount High School and later studied art and business at Ball State University. After graduating, Davis worked as an assistant artist for experienced cartoonist Tom K. Ryan on the Western comedy strip "Tumbleweeds".
Davis's early attempts at creating his own comic strip, "Gnorm Gnat", were unsuccessful, but he persisted and eventually created "Jon", a comic strip featuring a pet owner and his cat. This led to the creation of "Garfield", which was launched in 1978 and quickly gained popularity. Davis's deal with United Feature Syndicate allowed him to syndicate the strip nationally, and it soon became a global phenomenon.
Throughout his career, Davis has received numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for his work on "Garfield" television specials. He has also founded the company Paws, Inc. to handle the licensing rights to the comic strip and its characters. Davis has continued to work on "Garfield" to this day, and has expanded his creative output to include other projects, such as the comic strip "Mr. Potato Head".
In addition to his work on "Garfield", Davis has also been recognized for his contributions to the world of animation and comics. He has been inducted into the Cartoon Hall of Fame and has received numerous awards for his work. Davis has also been a professor at Ball State University, teaching students about the creative and business aspects of the comics industry.
In his personal life, Davis has been married twice and has raised several children and step-children. He currently resides in Indiana and continues to work on "Garfield" from his home. Despite the decline of the comic strip market in recent years, Davis's beloved character remains a beloved and iconic part of popular culture.
