This article originally featured in the Evening Telegraph on 30 July 2024.
One of the many things that makes me proud to be a Dundonian is the amazing innovations and achievements this city has made, be it pioneering aspirin or inventing statistical graphs.
But there is one Dundee creation that has stood the test of time—and 86 years on, it still holds a significant place in British pop culture: The Beano!
First published by DC Thomson on 30 July 1938, The Beano became an essential part of British childhoods and achieved immense success, selling over 2 billion copies globally, making it the best-selling comic book magazine outside of Japan.
The success of The Beano lies in its timeless humour, relatable characters, and ability to adapt to changing times while retaining its core identity. Characters like Dennis the Menace, the Bash Street Kids, and Minnie the Minx have continued to entertain both children and adults, resonating through generations. The comic’s humour, a blend of slapstick, wit, and a hint of rebellion, has made it a cultural staple.
The Beano pioneered creative concepts now prevalent in today's media. For instance, the "shared universe" idea popularised by franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and Star Wars was evident in The Beano's early days. A comic titled "The Beano and Dandy in A Library of Laughter" amusingly parallels modern stories like “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Similarly, the concept behind Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out—little people managing one's mind—was predated by The Beano's strip The Numskulls.
I recently acquired memorabilia from the Dennis the Menace Fan Club, which highlights its iconic status. Items like badges, secret decoders, and personalised membership cards made the club as legendary as The Beano itself. Dennis the Menace, in particular, remains one of British culture’s most recognisable and beloved characters.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of Dennis the Menace becoming The Beano’s official mascot, debuting on the comic's cover on 14 September 1974, 20 years after his first appearance. Dennis's cheeky grin and trademark red and black jumper epitomise The Beano’s playful and adventurous spirit.
While The Beano has entertained generations, I believe it has the potential to expand its presence even further. Despite being less known outside the UK, it could leverage its nostalgic appeal to reach a global audience through various media platforms. One example being that it can have a strong presence at comic conventions, both nationally and potentially worldwide, and that could introduce international audiences to The Beano's unique charm.
In a city renowned for its pioneering spirit, The Beano is a testament to Dundee's creative legacy. It has the opportunity to innovate in how it reaches fans, ensuring that this vibrant piece of heritage continues to thrive and inspire future generations.
By expanding its global presence and exploring new media, The Beano can transform from a cherished national treasure into a beloved international icon, delighting audiences worldwide and proving that Dundee’s creative spirit can resonate far beyond its borders.
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