Everyone’s favorite tuna is celebrating his 50th Birthday. Charlie the Tuna has been making waves and history.

Happy 50th Birthday Charlie!

Created in 1961, StarKist's Charlie the Tuna was the brain-fish of notable character creators Tom Rogers and the Leo Burnett agency. StarKist hired the duo to develop a brand icon strategy to establish StarKist's iconic quality image. "Charlie's red beret, trendy glasses and cool mannerisms have made him a pop culture icon, who brings about a comforting sense of nostalgia," says animation historian Joe Wos, Executive Director of the ToonSeum. 

Initial character designs for animation were done by the legendary director and animator Chuck Jones of Warner Brothers. However, the designs didn't quite capture the modern bold line and look needed for Charlie's persona. DePatie-Freleng Studios, the creative animation studio behind the Pink Panther, was selected to bring Charlie to life. When the commercial debuted in 1961, Charlie was an instant hit, going on to star in more than 80 commercials.

A category leader in innovation, StarKist was the first brand to introduce the StarKist Flavor Fresh Pouch

While Charlie never actually uttered the popular phrase, "Sorry Charlie," he did have a catch phrase of his own: "Tell 'em Charlie sent ya." Both phrases entered the American lexicon and are among the most recognized taglines in advertising history.

Charlie celebrated his 50th Birthday in New York City in February 11th with help from Jillian Harris, former ABC’s “The Bachelorette” and interior design expert on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”.

About StarKist

StarKist Co. is a leading producer, distributor and marketer of shelf-stable seafood products in the United States.

A category leader in innovation, StarKist was the first brand to introduce the StarKist Flavor Fresh Pouch; StarKist Tuna Creations, a line of lightly marinated tuna; and, a dolphin-safe policy.

As America's favorite tuna, StarKist represents a 65-year tradition of quality, innovation and consumer trust and is well known for its charismatic brand icon, Charlie the Tuna, who swam into the hearts of tuna fans in 1961 and is still a fan favorite today. StarKist Co. is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Dongwon Group.

Source: StarKist

Margaret E.L. Stacey
Editor Companies and Products
[email protected]
www.seafood.media

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