Todd McFarlane's curious connection to Felix the Cat

Felix the Cat: The Iconic Cartoon with a Hidden Comic Connection

   Beloved by millions, Felix the Cat is one of the most iconic cartoon characters of all time. Created in 1919 by Pat Sullivan and Otto Messmer during the silent film era, Felix was the first fully realized recurring animal character in the history of American film animation. With his black body, white eyes, giant grin, and mischievous personality, Felix quickly became a household name and remains a cultural icon to this day.

   But did you know Felix the Cat also made his way into the world of comics in a rather unexpected way?

   When comic book legend Todd McFarlane was drawing The Amazing Spider-Man, he included Felix the Cat hidden in some of his pages. Why? There’s a fascinating backstory behind this Easter egg.

    McFarlane met a war veteran in Vancouver who was a regular at a local comic shop. This veteran always carried a stuffed Felix the Cat toy and only bought items that featured Felix in some way. Intrigued by this obsession, McFarlane asked him, "If I put Felix in my comics, would you buy them?"

    The veteran confirmed he would, and McFarlane decided to give it a try. He began sneaking Felix the Cat into his Spider-Man artwork, securing a loyal customer in the process. It’s a testament to the charm of Felix—and a reminder of how small gestures can forge unique connections.

   Felix the Cat isn’t just a beloved character; he’s a part of the DNA of pop culture, crossing over into unexpected places. Whether you first met Felix in vintage cartoons or spotted his grinning face in a comic book panel, his influence is undeniable.

  What other hidden gems have you spotted in your favorite comics or collectibles? Let us know in the comments!