Tor Alosson
Chris Browne: The world of comics has been graced by countless talented artists and creators, each leaving their indelible mark on the medium. Among these luminaries, Christopher Kelly Browne, or Chris Browne, is a prominent figure in American comic strip history. Born on May 16, 1952, in South Orange, New Jersey, and raised in Wilton, Connecticut, Chris Browne’s life was intertwined with the art of comic strips from an early age.
The son of legendary cartoonist Dik Browne and brother to fellow cartoonist Chance Browne, Chris inherited a legacy of artistic excellence. Over the years, he made significant contributions to the world of comics, most notably with his work on the iconic comic strip “Hägar the Horrible.” Beyond this renowned creation, Browne’s artistic journey also included forays into the realm of autobiographical comics and children’s literature. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Chris Browne, paying tribute to a talent that enriched the world of comics.
Chris Browne
| Born | May 16, 1952 |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | South Orange, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Died | February 5, 2023 (aged 70) |
| Place of Death | Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S. |
| Occupation | Cartoonist |
| Notable Works | Hägar the Horrible |
| Spouse | Carroll Browne |
The Browne Family: A Cartooning Legacy
Chris Browne’s introduction to the world of comics was a family affair. His father, Dik Browne, was a celebrated newspaper cartoonist, and his brother, Chance Browne, later followed in their father’s footsteps. Dik Browne’s contributions extended beyond the comic strips, as his assistant Dick Hodgins, Jr. mentioned. The Browne family’s creative lineage included Annette T. Rubenstein, Chris Browne’s aunt, a Classics Illustrated comic book series scriptwriter.
However, Chris Browne’s approach to his career was grounded in a desire to stand on his own merits. He consciously avoided emphasizing his familial ties, allowing his work to be evaluated independently. This early independence laid the foundation for his distinctive artistic voice and style.
Co-Authoring Hägar the Horrible
Chris Browne’s journey with “Hägar the Horrible” began in 1972 when the comic was nascent. His role was that of a co-gag writer, collaborating with Ralston Jones to infuse humor into the lives of the bumbling Viking warrior Hägar and his family. As the comic grew in popularity, it became a family endeavor, with his brother Chance, sister Sally, and mother Joan also contributing to the creative process.
“Hägar the Horrible” was no small achievement. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, it found a home in 45 countries and was translated into 13 languages. This enduring comic strip introduced readers to the humorous misadventures of Hägar, an overweight Viking whose attempts at pillaging often ended in comical failure. The strip also delved into Hägar’s tumultuous family life, complete with a bickering wife, a non-confrontational son, and an object of unwelcome male attention in the form of his teenage daughter. Even Hägar’s loyal dog, Snert, was a source of exasperation.
Chris Browne’s connection with “Hägar the Horrible” continued when he co-authored “Hägar the Horrible’s Very Nearly Complete Viking Handbook” in 1985, a compendium of Viking wisdom and humor. In the 1980s, as Dik Browne’s eyesight deteriorated, Chris and Dick Hodgins, Jr. took on more significant roles in the comic’s production. Eventually, Chris took over the reins of “Hägar the Horrible” entirely, officially credited as the author from April 1990.
While maintaining the essence of the strip’s humor, Chris Browne did make certain adjustments to accommodate the changing times. He moderated Hägar’s alcohol consumption and womanizing, acknowledging a sense of responsibility to the younger readers. Despite these changes, the spirit of the comic remained intact, and its global popularity continued to grow.
The Continuing Saga of Hägar
Chris Browne’s dedication to “Hägar the Horrible” endured throughout his career. From 2015, he collaborated with artist Gary Hallgren, breathing new life into the Viking’s escapades. The strip’s enduring humor and timeless appeal spoke to readers of all generations, a testament to Chris Browne’s storytelling skills.
Autobiographical Comics: Chris Browne’s Comic Strip
Beyond the realm of Viking warriors and comic strips, Chris Browne explored the terrain of autobiographical comics. From November 1993 to July 1994, he introduced readers to “Chris Browne’s Comic Strip,” a syndicated work that delved into his personal experiences. This semi-autobiographical series recounted two decades of his life, navigating artistic and emotional challenges while searching for love. Through this comic, Chris Browne laid bare his odyssey for readers to explore.
Raising Duncan: A Family-Centric Comic
The year 2000 saw Chris Browne venturing into another exciting project – the creation of “Raising Duncan.” Running until December 2004, this comic strip was a heartwarming exploration of family dynamics. Chris and his wife’s experiences in raising pets, including Scottish Terriers and cats, served as the inspiration for this work.
“Raising Duncan” revolved around a couple, Big Daddy and Adelle, both writers. Their lives were forever altered when they adopted Duncan, a black Scottish terrier.
The challenges and joys of raising Duncan were lovingly chronicled, along with the amusing interactions with the family cat, Brambley. This comic strip starkly contrasted contemporary newspaper comics’ prevalent cynicism and coarseness. Instead, “Raising Duncan” celebrated love and acceptance as central themes.
During the holiday season, Browne even offered readers “Duncan’s First Christmas,” a delightful spin-off that added to the charm of the original strip.
The Multifaceted Artist
Chris Browne’s creative talents extended beyond the realm of comics. He was a painter, sculptor, illustrator, and author, working from his Bunny Hill Studio in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. His illustrated children’s book, “The Monster Who Ate The State,” was published by the South Dakota State Historical Society Press in 2015. The book featured a prehistoric dinosaur named Soozy, known for her insatiable appetite and travels across South Dakota landmarks.
In 2015, Chris Browne also joined numerous artists in paying tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks on the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, showcasing his commitment to artistic expression that transcended borders.
A Tribute to a Comics Legend
On February 5, 2023, the world lost a true comics luminary. Chris Browne passed away after battling a long illness, coincidentally one day after the 50th anniversary of “Hägar the Horrible.” At the age of 70, he left behind a rich legacy of humor, creativity, and storytelling that touched the lives of readers across the globe. Chris Browne’s contributions to the world of comics, from the Viking warrior Hägar to his own autobiographical and family-centric creations, will continue to entertain and inspire future generations.
In celebrating the life and work of Christopher Kelly Browne, we remember not only the artist but also the enduring power of comics to bring joy and laughter to our lives. His legacy lives on in the pages of his creations and in the hearts of those fortunate enough to experience his unique brand of humor.
Read also
- Chance Browne (1948-): A Legacy of Laughter and Artistry
- Dik Browne (1917-1989): The Man Behind Hägar the Horrible and Hi and Lois
- Hägar the Horrible: The Viking Comic Strip That’s Been Entertaining Readers for over 50 Years
Frequently Asked Questions about Chris Browne and Hägar the Horrible
1. Who was Chris Browne?
Chris Browne was an American comic strip artist and cartoonist best known for his work on the comic strip “Hägar the Horrible.” He was born on May 16, 1952, in South Orange, New Jersey, and passed away on February 5, 2023, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
2. What is Chris Browne’s connection to Hägar the Horrible?
Chris Browne was involved with “Hägar the Horrible” early on. He started as a co-gag writer for the comic when it was first launched in 1973, along with Ralston Jones. Later, he became the primary writer and artist for the strip.
3. Did Chris Browne create any other comic strips?
Yes, he created two short-lived autobiographical comic strips: “Chris Browne’s Comic Strip” (1993 – 1994) and “Raising Duncan” (2000 – 2004). These strips featured elements of his personal life and family.
4. What can you tell me about “Hägar the Horrible”?
“Hägar the Horrible” is a famous comic strip created by Chris Browne’s father, Dik Browne. It has been translated into 13 languages and appears in 45 countries. The strip humorously follows the adventures of Hägar, a bumbling Viking who frequently clashes with his wife Helga and faces various comical challenges in his life.
5. How did Chris Browne contribute to “Hägar the Horrible”?
From the beginning, Chris Browne contributed to the comic strip by co-writing and co-drawing it with his father. He also co-authored “Hägar the Horrible’s Very Nearly Complete Viking Handbook” in 1985. After his father’s passing, he became the primary writer and artist, continuing the strip’s legacy.
6. What are some notable characteristics of Hägar’s character?
Hägar is an overweight Viking with a penchant for adventure, though he often fails to impress his victims. He frequently argues with his wife, and his children have unique characteristics – his son, Hamlet, is a bookworm, while his daughter, Honi, attracts attention from unwanted suitors. Even his dog, Snert, is disobedient.
7. Did Chris Browne change “Hägar the Horrible” after taking over from his father?
Chris Browne did make some changes to the strip. He toned down Hägar’s alcohol consumption and womanizing, considering his responsibility toward younger readers. However, the core comedy and cast members remained broadly consistent.
8. What was “Raising Duncan” about?
“Raising Duncan” was an additional comic strip crafted by Chris Browne. It centered on the lives of a couple, Big Daddy and Adelle, as they embarked on the adventure of raising a mischievous black Scottish terrier named Duncan. The strip was dedicated to exploring the themes of love and acceptance, with a spotlight on the trials and tribulations of nurturing a playful canine companion.
9. How can I learn more about Chris Browne’s work?
You can explore Chris Browne’s work through his comic strips, “Hägar the Horrible,” “Chris Browne’s Comic Strip,” and “Raising Duncan.” He was also involved in magazine cartoons and illustrated children’s books.
10. When did Chris Browne pass away?
Chris Browne passed away on February 5, 2023, in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Coincidentally, his death occurred one day after the 50th anniversary of his iconic comic strip, “Hägar the Horrible.” He was 70 years old at the time of his death.
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