The Beano, a beloved British comic book, has reached a momentous milestone as it celebrates its 85th anniversary. This iconic publication has been a cornerstone of childhood entertainment, providing quizzes, games, jokes, and comic fun for kids across generations.

In a special edition commemorating 85 years of publication, Beano features a whimsical mix of fictional and real-life characters.

The Prince and Princess of Wales join the likes of King Charles, Queen Camilla, and numerous other UK celebrities. Even modern-day figures such as Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford and YouTuber KSI have made their appearances on the cover of this historic issue. However, it is worth noting that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were not part of the comic's celebration.

The Beano makes history with 85 years

As the head of "mischief" at The Beano, Mike Stirling expressed his joy in continuing to champion the essence of childhood through the comic's pages. He highlighted the dedication of the publication to show kids being kids, capturing the power and joy of youthful innocence. The Beano's commitment to bringing smiles to children's faces remains unwavering, ensuring that being a kid never gets old.

The world's longest-running comic has evolved over the years, embracing digital platforms with its interactive website offering games, quizzes, and thrilling adventures of its beloved characters. 

Since its debut on July 30, 1938, The Beano has released nearly four thousand issues, an unparalleled achievement in the realm of comic publications. Its weekly releases, with only occasional exceptions, have solidified its position as a cultural icon in the United Kingdom.

The comic's anthology format has given rise to several stars, including Big Eggo, Biffo the Bear, and the iconic Dennis the Menace (distinct from the U.S. comic strip by Hank Ketcham). The Beano has also been recognized for its Mad-style parodies of renowned American comic heroes such as the X-Men, Superman, and Spider-Man.

 While adventure stories were initially featured in the first three decades, the comic later transitioned to cover-to-cover humor, jokes, and pranks, resonating with readers of all ages.

Walt Disney's Comics and Stories marks 83 years 

In the United States, Walt Disney's Comics and Stories carved its own place in comic history. The U.S. counterpart to The Beano, Mickey Mouse Magazine, debuted in 1933 and continued for seven years before being relaunched as Walt Disney's Comics and Stories in 1940. 

Initially, it reprinted popular newspaper strips featuring Silly Symphonies, Mickey Mouse, and Donald Duck. However, it soon began producing original material, becoming the best-selling comic book in North America during the post-war 1950s with a circulation of over three million.

Throughout its journey, Walt Disney's Comics and Stories found itself under different publishers, including Dell, Gold Key, Whitman, Gladstone, Gemstone, BOOM!, IDW, and even an in-house Disney Comics company. 

Remarkably, the comic maintained its original continuous numbering, a testament to its enduring legacy. The first comic in Walt Disney's Comics and Stories #1 featured Donald Duck. And so far over 750 issues have been printed.

As The Beano and Walt Disney's Comics and Stories continue to charm readers of all ages, their timeless appeal remains a testament to the power of laughter, joy, and imagination that comic books can bring to our lives. Both comics hold a special place in the hearts of fans, evoking nostalgia and delight with every turn of the page. 

Here's to celebrating the remarkable journeys of these iconic comic books and the countless smiles they've brought to children and adults alike for decades.