Guy Gilchrist at Fan Expo

Writer, artist, musician Guy Gilchrist might be best known for the comic strip Nancy. As iconic as that character and strip is, Gilchrist's creations go well beyond that.

In addition to Nancy, he produced a Muppets comic strip for several years with his brother. He also designed logos for Minor League Baseball teams, including the Portland Sea Dogs, New Britain Rock Cats and Norwich Navigators. He also worked with the Pink Panther, Tom & Jerry, Looney Tunes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Minnie Mouse. He has also written many children's books.

Gilchrist is one of the more popular guests at Fan Expo events. With his varied accomplishments, he appeals to a wide range of fans, including me. I first met him years ago and was so excited.

While I lament the decline of newspapers and comic strips therein, I cherish the memories of reading them even as an adult. Nancy is iconic and Gilchrist was a huge part of its legacy for more than 20 years.

Fan Expo hosts several conventions across the country. The next one March 15-17 in Toronto. Go to FanExpoHQ.com for more info, guest lists and schedules.

 Guy Gilchrist and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2024.

Guy Gilchrist at Wizard World Chicago 2017

Wizard World has taken over Madison, Wisconsin through Sunday, December 2. I'll be crossing the northern border to be "On the Beat." Over the last few days, I've recalled some of my memories from past Wizard World events.
For 22 years, Guy Gilchrist had been the writer/illustrator of the popular Nancy comic strip. Earlier this year, Gilchrist stepped away from the world of Nancy, Aunt Fritzi, Sluggo and the others in their world. Far from retiring, Gilchrist is concentrating on other projects, including some tv projects.
Nancy's origin dates back to 1922, when Fritzi Ritz debuted in newspapers. Nancy joined the strip in 1933, soon becoming the focal point. Nancy became the new strip title in 1938.
Gilchrist's final story arc saw Aunt Fritzi marry boyfriend Phil. Nancy took a 2 month hiatus after Gilchrist's departure, but has since returned with the strip's first-ever female author.
Starting his career in the late 1970's Gilchrist has been producing many forms of comic art and also some sports logos over the years. He has designed logos for Minor League baseball teams, including the Portland Sea Dogs, Norwich Navigators, and New Britain Rock Cats.

When I first met him at Wizard World, Gilchrist was happy to discuss his work on Nancy, as well as his other creations. I loved our conversation and also just listening to him talk to his many fans. He clearly has a deep passion for what he does. He lovingly described his characters as friends.

It had to be hard stepping away from Nancy, but he is still creating. I haven't talked to him since his career turn, but I hope to catch him at a future Wizard World.

Go to AGuyGilchristProduction.com for more info on this talented creator. There's a lot of fun stuff there, including an opportunity to have Guy "Muppetize" you!
Check out WizardWorld.com for more info and schedules. You can also check here for recurring coverage year round.

Guy Gilchrist and me in Rosemont, IL-August 2017.

Guy Gilchrist at Wizard World Columbus 2016

When I checked the Artist Alley list for Wizard World Columbus 2016, one of the first names that stood out was Guy Gilchrist.  I had to meet the man behind Nancy.

Larry Whittington began the Fritzi Ritz comic strip in 1922 and Ernie Bushmiller took over the strip three years later.  In 1933, the character of Nancy was introduced.  Since then, Nancy has taken the spotlight and the title of the comic.

In 1995, Guy and Brad Gilchrist took control of Nancy.  One of the changes they made was to return Nancy back to the more traditional style.  Guy now has sole control.

I have always been fascinated by comic strips.  They are so simple, yet so much work goes into each panel.  I have talked to many comic creators and I know the effort involved, although I also see the passion.  It sounds cliche, but these people have such passion for their characters.  They actually have to look at them almost like real people, like family members.

Gilchrist fits that mold.  His passion for "Nancy" is evident as he talks about his work.  While he did not create Nancy, he keeps her alive today.

Aside from Nancy and other comic work, I learned that Gilchrist designed a few logos for minor league baseball teams.  That is almost as cool as working on one of the most iconic comic characters ever!

You can learn more about Gilchrist and "Nancy" by following Guy Gilchrist on twitter.

Guy Gilchrist and me in Columbus, OH-August 2016.