Bill Watterson, a renowned cartoonist, is celebrated for creating the iconic comic strip ‘Calvin and Hobbes’. His journey from a passionate child artist to a respected figure in the cartooning world is a story of creativity, determination, and success.
RELATED: Dess Dior Bio, Net Worth: The Rapper’s Rising Riches
RELATED: George Benson Bio, Net Worth: The Jazz Guitarist’s Melodic Wealth
Table of Contents
Who is Bill Watterson?
Born on July 5, 1958, in Washington, D.C., William Boyd Watterson II grew up in a family that nurtured his artistic talents. His father, a patent attorney, and his supportive family environment played a significant role in his early development as an artist.
Bill Watterson Bio
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | William Boyd Watterson II |
| Birth Date | 5 July 1958 |
| Birth Place | Washington, D.C., United States |
| Early Interest | Drawing and Cartooning |
| Relocation | Moved to Ohio in 1965 |
| Family | Son of G. Watterson (a lawyer) and Kathryn; Brother – Thomas Watterson |
| Education | Attended Kenyon College (1976-1980); Bachelor’s degree in Political Science |
| Influences | Charles Schulz, George Herriman, Walt Kelly |
Early Life and Influences
Relocating to Ohio in 1965, Watterson’s childhood was immersed in drawing and artistic pursuits. Influenced by cartoonists like Charles Schulz, George Herriman, and Walt Kelly, he contributed to school publications and nurtured his dream of becoming a cartoonist. Watterson’s formal education at Kenyon College, where he studied political science, further honed his skills in political cartooning.
Career Beginnings
After graduating in 1980, Watterson faced initial setbacks in his career. He briefly worked as an editorial cartoonist for the Cincinnati Post and then at a small advertising agency. During this period, he continued developing his own cartoons and submitting them to syndicates.
Career of Bill Watterson
| Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Post-Graduation | Hired at Cincinnati Post (editorial cartoonist); Later worked at a small advertising agency |
| Freelance Work | Cartoons for commodities, clothing, calendars, books, posters, etc. |
| Major Breakthrough | Creation of ‘Calvin and Hobbes’ (1985) |
| Syndication Period | 1985 – 1995 |
| Post-Retirement | Focused on painting and humanitarian work |
Rise to Fame with ‘Calvin and Hobbes’
Watterson’s breakthrough came in 1985 with ‘Calvin and Hobbes’. The strip, showcasing the adventures of a young boy and his imaginary tiger friend, was widely acclaimed and syndicated from 1985 to 1995. This period marked the height of Watterson’s career in cartooning.
Personal Life
Bill Watterson is known for his private nature, rarely appearing in public or giving interviews. He married Melissa Richmond in 1983, and they have a daughter named Violet. His reclusiveness extends to his professional life, where he has been a vocal critic of the commercialization of comic art.
RELATED: Alec Monopoly Bio, Net Worth: The Street Artist’s Priceless Portfolio
RELATED: George Janko Bio, Net Worth: The Social Media Star’s Viral Value
Net Worth and Financial Success
Bill Watterson’s net worth is estimated at $110 million. This wealth primarily stems from the success of ‘Calvin and Hobbes’, though Watterson has been notably conservative in licensing and merchandising his work, focusing instead on the artistic integrity of his creations.
The Wealth Behind Calvin and Hobbes
The financial success of ‘Calvin and Hobbes’ is a testament to Watterson’s talent and the universal appeal of his work. Despite his reluctance to commercialize his characters, the comic strip has remained a significant cultural and commercial success.
Post-Retirement Endeavors
Since retiring from regular cartooning in 1995, Watterson has pursued painting and collaborated on various humanitarian projects. His post-retirement life reflects his enduring passion for art and his commitment to using his talent for philanthropic causes.
What happened to Bill Watterson?
Following his retirement, Watterson consciously stepped away from the public eye, dedicating his time to painting, music, and family. He maintained a private profile, keeping his post-retirement artistic creations largely to himself. While he remained reclusive, he did participate in a handful of interviews, though they were few and far between.
Did Calvin marry Susie?
In the strip, an adult Calvin is portrayed as married to Susie Derkins, and they have a young daughter named after the philosopher Francis Bacon. Calvin passes on his beloved companion, Hobbes, to her.
Is Calvin and Hobbes still being written?
Almost three decades since the last ‘Calvin and Hobbes’ comic strip was published in numerous newspapers, the reclusive artist Bill Watterson is making a comeback. His new book, titled ‘The Mysteries’, is scheduled for release on October 10th by Andrews McMeel Publishing.
Conclusion
Bill Watterson’s journey from a child artist to a celebrated cartoonist exemplifies the power of passion and perseverance. His creation, ‘Calvin and Hobbes’, remains a beloved part of global popular culture, and his legacy continues to inspire aspiring artists and cartoonists worldwide.
RELATED: Jared Keeso Bio, Net Worth: The Actor’s Letterkenny Earnings
RELATED: Jesse Lee Peterson Bio, Net Worth: The Controversial Figure’s Financial Standing
FAQs About Bill Watterson
- What inspired Bill Watterson to create ‘Calvin and Hobbes’?
- Watterson’s love for cartoons and his creative imagination led to the creation of ‘Calvin and Hobbes’, influenced by his childhood experiences and artistic influences.
- Has Bill Watterson won any awards for his work?
- Yes, Watterson has received several awards, including the prestigious Reuben Award from the National Cartoonists Society.
- Why did Bill Watterson retire from cartooning?
- Watterson retired to focus on painting and to maintain the integrity of his work, avoiding the commercialization of his characters.
- What is unique about Watterson’s approach to cartooning?
- Watterson is known for his emphasis on artistic integrity, storytelling, and his reluctance to commercialize his work.
- How has ‘Calvin and Hobbes’ impacted popular culture?
- ‘Calvin and Hobbes’ has had a lasting impact on popular culture, celebrated for its humor, philosophical depth, and commentary on social issues.
