Blow Me Down! Popeye the Sailor Man Celebrates Anniversary

Yes, it may be hard to believe, but Popeye has been around a long time. Today, January 17, marks the first appearance of Popeye the Sailor 91 years ago. He was featured in the comic strip "Thimble Theatre" and was created by E.C. Segar.

The "Thimble Theatre" comic strip had been running for about 10 years before Popeye made his debut as a minor character. The strip's initial focus was on Olive Oyl and her boyfriend, but the popularity of Popeye was not to be denied and he quickly became the central character.

Popeye proved to be so popular in fact, that before long, the character moved into theatrical cartoons produced by Max Fleischer Studios. These cartoon shorts were very popular during the 1930's and production continued through the late 1950's.

Eventually, Popeye expanded his reach through comic books, television cartoons, commercials, video games, and of course, the live-action movie from 1980 that starred Robin Williams as the titular one-eyed sailor.

Popeye's image graced everything from t-shirts, hats, candy, spinach(of course), and razor blades. And who doesn't remember the Popeye theme song? That instantly recognizable tune has been hummed by everyone from 6 to 60(or 80)!.

"I'm strong to the finish, cause I eats me spinach, I'm Popeye the Sailor Man!" Happy Anniversary and here's to another 91 fun, laughter-filled years. Just keep eating that green, leafy stuff....