Jim Borgman (1954-): A Master of Satire and Comics

Jim Borgman, an American cartoonist born on February 24, 1954, has made an indelible mark on the world of political cartoons and comic strips. With a career of over four decades, Borgman’s work has garnered immense respect and numerous accolades, including the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning.

While he may be best known as the co-creator of the widely syndicated comic strip “Zits,” his editorial cartoons have satirized politicians and newsmakers for years. In this article, we delve into the life and career of Jim Borgman, exploring his journey from a young art major to an iconic figure in the world of cartooning.

Early Life and Education

Jim Borgman’s journey as a cartoonist began in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he was born to parents James and Marian Borgman. Growing up in the blue-collar neighborhoods of Cincinnati, he developed a keen interest in art and journalism. His passion for art led him to Kenyon College in Ohio, where he initially pursued an English major before switching to art. He exhibited remarkable talent and dedication, graduating in 1976 with Phi Beta Kappa honors.

Borgman’s artistic talents were first recognized during his college years when he contributed to the Kenyon Collegian, the college’s newspaper, as a staff artist and editorial cartoonist. His work on the newspaper laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious career in cartooning.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Immediately after graduating from Kenyon College, Jim Borgman was offered a remarkable opportunity to become the daily cartoonist for The Cincinnati Enquirer, one of the city’s prominent newspapers. This offer resulted from the outstanding weekly cartoon he had drawn for the Kenyon Collegian. His appointment marked a significant achievement, as he proudly proclaimed himself “the first Kenyon art major ever to repay his student loan.”

Borgman’s editorial cartoons at The Cincinnati Enquirer swiftly gained recognition for their wit and sharp social commentary. His work was not limited to local readers; it soon began to reach a national audience through syndication. King Features Syndicate distributed his editorial cartoons between 1980 and 2007, and later, Universal Press Syndicate took over distribution in 2007.

Awards and Accolades

Jim Borgman’s career is marked by a long list of awards and honors; many considered the highest accolades in cartooning. In 1991, at 37, he received the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning, a remarkable achievement that solidified his reputation as a leading figure in political cartoons.

Over the years, he amassed numerous accolades from the National Cartoonists Society (NCS). His fellow cartoonists voted him the Best Editorial Cartoonist in America an impressive five times, in 1987, 1988, 1989, 1994, and 2005. In 1993, the NCS honored Borgman with the prestigious Reuben Award for Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year.

Apart from these coveted awards, Borgman received the Sigma Delta Chi Award in 1978 and 1995. He also won the Golden Plate in 1992, the National Headliner Award in 1991, and the Ohio Governor’s Award in 1989. His contribution to the cartooning field was recognized with honorary degrees from Xavier University, the University of Cincinnati, and his alma mater, Kenyon College.

Editorial Cartoons and Syndication

Jim Borgman’s editorial cartoons have been published in newspapers across the United States and beyond. Universal Press Syndicate distributed his cartoons to approximately 200 newspapers and websites, including notable publications like The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and the Los Angeles Times.

Borgman’s impact extended to the political realm, as well. At the request of The Washington Post, he created a weekly political comic strip titled “Wonk City” from 1994 to 1996. This unique strip provided a satirical perspective on inside-the-beltway politics during the administration of Bill Clinton, using humor to dissect the complexities of the political landscape.

Co-creator of “Zits”

In the summer of 1996, Jim Borgman embarked on a collaborative venture that would further solidify his place in the world of comics. During a vacation in Sedona, Arizona, Borgman met cartoonist Jerry Scott, known for his work on “Baby Blues.” Scott proposed an idea for a comic strip centered around a teenager’s life, and thus, “Zits” was born. Debuting in July 1997, the comic strip showcased Borgman’s artistic talents, while Scott contributed his writing expertise.

“Zits” chronicles the life of sixteen-year-old Jeremy Duncan, a typical teenager navigating the ups and downs of adolescence, much to the chagrin of his long-suffering parents. The comic strip struck a chord with readers, and within a year of its launch, it appeared in over 500 newspapers, marking it as one of the fastest-growing comic strips in history.

Today, “Zits” is syndicated in over 1,600 newspapers worldwide and has been translated into nine languages, including German, Chinese, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, Finnish, and Polish. The National Cartoonists Society recognized “Zits” as the Best Comic Strip for two consecutive years. In 2003, the strip received the Max und Moritz Award as International Comic Strip of the Year, cementing its status as a global phenomenon.

Personal Life

Both personal triumphs and tragedies have marked Jim Borgman’s life. He met his first wife, Lynn Goodwin, during his senior year at Kenyon College while attending a class titled “Jesus and the Gospels.” Together, they had two children named Dylan and Chelsea. Tragically, Lynn Goodwin passed away in 1999 due to a blood clot following surgery to alleviate chronic neck and shoulder pain.

In 2003, Jim Borgman married Suzanne Soled, an educational psychologist and professor at Northern Kentucky University. This new chapter in his personal life added balance and happiness to his life after losing his first wife.

Legacy and Influence

Jim Borgman’s impact on the world of cartooning goes beyond the numerous awards and accolades he received during his illustrious career. He served as an inspiration to many budding cartoonists and left an indelible mark on the field. Cartoonists like Wes Alexander, Bob Englehart, Jouko Innanen, and Bill Watterson cite Borgman as an influence on their work, a testament to his enduring legacy.

Borgman’s ability to blend humor with social and political commentary made his work relatable and thought-provoking for readers of all ages. He entertained and challenged readers to think critically about the day’s issues. His artistry and wit helped pave the way for the continued success and evolution of the comics medium.

Conclusion

Jim Borgman, born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 24, 1954, is a testament to the power of talent, dedication, and the ability to transform personal passions into a lifelong career. His journey from a young art major to a Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist and the co-creator of the iconic comic strip “Zits” is an inspiring tale of artistic achievement. Borgman’s work has touched the lives of readers across the globe, providing humor, insight, and social commentary for over four decades.

His legacy endures through his accolades and the countless individuals who found inspiration in his work. Jim Borgman’s impact on the world of cartooning remains a cherished part of American culture, and his contributions continue to be celebrated by readers and fellow artists alike.

Read also

• Zits (Since 1997): A Teenage Chronicle in the World of Comics
• Jerry Scott (1955-): The Renowned Cartoonist Behind Baby Blues and Zits

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Jim Borgman

1. Who is Jim Borgman?

Jim Borgman is an American cartoonist known for his work as an editorial cartoonist and co-creator of the nationally syndicated comic strip “Zits.” He was born on February 24, 1954, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and gained fame for his satirical cartoons on political and social issues.

2. What are Jim Borgman’s notable works?

Jim Borgman served as the editorial cartoonist for The Cincinnati Enquirer from 1976 to 2008 and co-created the comic strip “Zits” with Jerry Scott in 1997. “Zits” is a famous comic strip that revolves around the life of teenager Jeremy Duncan and his parents.

3. Did Jim Borgman receive any awards for his work?

Yes, Jim Borgman has received numerous awards throughout his career. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Editorial Cartooning in 1991. He also received several National Cartoonist Society awards, including Best Editorial Cartoonist in America five times (in 2005, 1994, 1989, 1988, and 1987). In 1993, he was awarded the Reuben Award, the highest honor from the National Cartoonists Society for Outstanding Cartoonist of the Year.

4. Tell me more about Jim Borgman’s background and education.

Jim Borgman was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and attended Elder High School. He initially pursued an English major at Ohio’s Kenyon College but later switched to an art major. He graduated from Kenyon College in 1976 with Phi Beta Kappa honors. His first job as a cartoonist came at The Cincinnati Enquirer shortly after his graduation.

5. Can you explain Jim Borgman’s personal life and family?

Jim Borgman was married to Lynn Goodwin, with whom he had two children, Dylan and Chelsea. Unfortunately, Lynn passed away in 1999. In 2003, Jim Borgman married Suzanne Soled, an educational psychologist and a professor at Northern Kentucky University.

6. Where can I see Jim Borgman’s editorial cartoons?

Universal Press Syndicate distributes Jim Borgman’s editorial cartoons. It can be found in approximately 200 newspapers and websites, including notable publications like the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and the Los Angeles Times.

7. What is “Zits,” and where can I read it?

“Zits” is a comic strip co-created by Jim Borgman and Jerry Scott. It debuted in July 1997 and centers on the life of teenager Jeremy Duncan and his parents. “Zits” is syndicated in over 1,500 newspapers worldwide and has been translated into multiple languages, making it accessible to a global audience.

8. Has Jim Borgman created other comic strips besides “Zits”?

Yes, besides “Zits,” Jim Borgman also created a weekly comic strip called “Wonk City,” which ran from 1994 to 1996 in The Washington Post. “Wonk City” was a satirical take on the political happenings of the time.

9. Is Jim Borgman’s work still available to the public?

Jim Borgman retired from The Cincinnati Enquirer in 2008 but continued to work on “Zits.” His editorial cartoons are still distributed, and “Zits” is regularly published in newspapers worldwide.

10. How can I learn more about Jim Borgman’s work and career?

To learn more about Jim Borgman’s work, career, and accomplishments, you can explore articles, books, and resources on editorial cartooning and comic strips, as well as his interviews and presentations available online.