Its Bugs Bunnys birthday! America celebrated as the beloved cartoon rabbit turned 70 on Tuesday. Bugs was created by Tex Avery and Robert McKimson in 1940 and premiered July 27 with nemesis Elmer Fudd in A Wild Hare.
Ever since, Bugs Bunny has delighted all of us with his Ehwhats up, Doc? slogan, clever tricks, and Brooklyn accent. Some of his other catchphrases include Of course you realize, this means war, Aint I a stinker? and I knew I shoulda taken that left turn at Albuquerque. In 2002, TV Guide named Bugs Bunny the best cartoon character of all time.
The voice of the gray rabbit was provided by Mel Blanc for 49 years, who passed away in 1989. The appearance of Bugs was changed slightly in the 1950s, making his cheeks protrude more and giving him pointier ears and eyes. After this time Bugs Bunny appeared in the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series. His last appearance was in the 1964 cartoon False Hare.
So let us take this moment to commemorate Bugs Bunny as a truly original and creative character, who brought together children and adults for many laughs throughout the years.
