The Real Inspiration And Evolution Of The Betty Boop Cartoon

Fleischer Studios

Although Fleischer Studios was only in business from 1921 to 1942, it was responsible for a great many of the animated works that we’re familiar with today. The studio was known for its darker, “rougher” approach to animation than Walt Disney Productions, its main competitor. At one point hiring up to 800 employees, Fleischer was responsible for Popeye the Sailor, the Superman cartoon, Koko the Clown, and other popular shows. The studio was acquired by Paramount on May 27, 1942, after a period of PR crises and financial troubles. 1600 Broadway in Manhattan, where Fleischer was based, now houses condominiums. A Miami branch is now a police department.