Celebrities Celebrate 40th Anniversary of Cartoon Classic Characters

This year Mr. Men and Little Miss have received birthday messages from celebrity fans all over the world to celebrate the 40^th year since the characters first outing.

Roger Hargreaves originally created Mr. Tickle after his six year-old son, Adam, asked him, “Daddy what does a tickle look like?” The resulting illustration launched the world famous books, which have since been translated into 15 different languages globally.

Adam Hargreaves, now 47, commented on the 40th milestone, “It is truly incredible that something so personal to my father went on to become such a global phenomenon. If he were alive today, I think he would be ecstatic to see how popular his creations have become. My Dad managed to capture basic human characteristics that can be recognised as part of each and every one of us. We’ve all been a Mr. Happy, Mr. Funny and even a Little Miss Naughty at times.”

Celebrities lining up to wish the characters a Mr Happy day include icons of pop and television.

X Factor creator Simon Cowell said: “Mr. Men have provided an awful lot of fun for so many people over the last 40 years, I hope the next 40 years will be even more successful. Congratulations!”

Eliza Doolitte added: Happy 40th anniversary Mr. Men! I will always remember reading you when I was little. My favourite was Mr. Bump!

JLS said, “Happy Birthday Mr. Men – we are all big fans. We’ve worked out we are Mr. Happy (JB) Marvin is (Mr. Tall) Mr. Small (Aston) and Mr. Strong (Oritse)”

James Argent from hit show The Only Way Is Essex said, “40 years of Mr Men? Shut up! Congratulations!”

The characters are also fondly remembered for the television version which aired on the BBC and was voiced by the late Arthur Lowe of Coronation Street and Dad’s Army fame.