85 Years of Tom and Jerry: How a Cat and Mouse Redefined Global Humor

Pujit Siddhant

Jan 16 2025

<div class='bc_element' id='bc_element'1 style=' background:#FFFFFF;color:#000000;font-family:Verdana;width:auto;padding:5px;max-height:100%;'>It starts with a mouse stealing a piece of cheese. A trap is set, a plan devised, but inevitably, it backfires. The mouse saunters away with a full belly, while the cat nurses yet another bruise. This is the story of Tom and Jerry, and for 85 years, it has repeated itself endlessly—each time finding new ways to entertain, provoke, and resonate with audiences around the world. This year, as the iconic duo celebrates their 85th anniversary, it's worth reflecting on how these seemingly simple characters have remained a part of global consciousness for nearly a century. Born from Desperation The creation of Tom and Jerry wasn't a grand plan but rather an act of desperation. In the late 1930s, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera worked at MGM's animation department, which was struggling to produce a hit character like Mickey Mouse or Porky Pig. "Out of boredom," as Barbera put it, the two animators, both under 30, began sketching ideas. A classic cat and mouse chase—a premise that had already been done countless times—caught their attention. In 1940, the duo released Puss Gets the Boot, featuring an unnamed cat and mouse. The short was an unexpected hit, earning an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Short. But despite its success, MGM's managers weren’t convinced. They told Hanna and Barbera not to put all their eggs in one basket. A change of heart came when a letter arrived from an influential industry figure in Texas, asking when the studio would produce more of those "wonderful cat and mouse cartoons." The characters were soon named Jasper and Jinx, later rebranded as Tom and Jerry. From the beginning, Tom and Jerry stood out for their silent slapstick humor. There was no debate about whether the characters should speak. Hanna and Barbera, having grown up with silent film legends like Charlie Chaplin, knew they could be funny without dialogue. Instead, they relied on expressive animation, precisely timed gags, and music composed by Scott Bradley to tell their stories. Tom's humanlike screams—voiced by Hanna himself—became part of the duo's signature. The formula worked. Over the next two decades, Hanna and Barbera oversaw the production of more than 100 Tom and Jerry shorts. Each one took weeks to make and cost up to $50,000, but they were worth it. The shorts became hits, winning seven Academy Awards and earning cameos in Hollywood films. Gene Kelly famously danced with Jerry in Anchors Aweigh (1945), and the duo swam alongside Esther Williams in Dangerous When Wet (1953). According to cartoon historian Jerry Beck, this period defined the duo's legacy. "There's something about animation. It's evergreen; it doesn't fade. A drawing is a drawing," he said, adding that these cartoons "really are great art." Transitions and Challenges In 1957, MGM shut down its cartoon division, convinced they could make as much money rereleasing old shorts as producing new ones. Hanna and Barbera, left without jobs, founded their own studio, pivoting to television with hits like The Flintstones and ScoobyDoo. But Tom and Jerry didn’t fade away. MGM revived the series in the 1960s, outsourcing production to a studio in Prague led by Gene Deitch. However, Deitch faced tight budgets and animators unfamiliar with the original series. His 13 shorts were poorly received, and he later admitted they deserved their reputation. Next, Chuck Jones of Looney Tunes fame took the reins. Under Jones, Tom's design became sharper, with thicker eyebrows and a resemblance to the Grinch. While his 34 shorts brought a fresh perspective, they didn’t recapture the magic of the originals.</div><div class='bc_element' id='bc_element'1 style=' background:#FFFFFF;color:#000000;font-family:Verdana;width:auto;padding:5px;max-height:100%;'> Cultural Shifts and Controversies By the 1970s, television networks deemed many early episodes "too violent." New guidelines pushed Hanna and Barbera to create tamer versions, portraying Tom and Jerry as friends. These episodes lacked the chaotic charm that had made them famous. The series also faced criticism for its depictions of race. "Mammy Two Shoes," the black housemaid featured in early episodes, was labeled a racial caricature. When the originals aired on U.S. television in the 1960s, scenes were edited, and Mammy was replaced with new characters. Today, the most offensive episodes are often excluded from rereleases. Despite these controversies, Tom and Jerry remain a global phenomenon. They’ve been a regular on television schedules worldwide, from Japan to Pakistan, with newer episodes animated in flash since 2014. A mobile game featuring the duo boasts over 100 million users in China, and in India, the cartoons are broadcast in multiple languages. In surprising moments, they’ve even entered political discourse. In 2016, a top Egyptian official blamed the cartoons for rising violence in the Middle East. Iran's Supreme Leader has compared U.S.Iran relations to Tom and Jerry, suggesting an endless cycle of conflict. Jerry Beck believes their enduring appeal lies in relatability. "I think most people can identify with little Jerry because there's always an oppressor in our lives," he says. "We're just trying to live our lives, and somebody wants to disturb it." A Legacy That Endures Eighty-five years later, Tom and Jerry continue to evolve. Warner Bros., which now owns the rights, is set to release a live action film. The duo’s appeal remains as strong as ever, a testament to the timelessness of their simple premise. As Jerry Beck noted, "A drawing is a drawing. It still speaks to you today." At its heart, Tom and Jerry’s story isn’t just about a cat chasing a mouse. It’s about persistence, creativity, and the ability to adapt to changing times. They’ve survived studio closures, cultural shifts, and even death threats against their creators, proving that some stories truly stand the test of time.</div>

Indian-Origin Musician Chandrika Tandon Wins Grammy for Best Global Music Album

Chandrika Tandon’s recent Grammy win is more than a personal achievement; it marks another milestone for Indian musicians on the global stage. At the 66th

76 Years After Gandhi: Non-Violence and Its Relevance to Global Conflicts Today

Gandhi's advocacy for non-violence was not passive; it was a deliberate strategy to challenge power structures without resorting to physical aggression. His methods

Priyamvada Natarajan: Time's 100 Most Influential Scientist in Astronomy

A theoretical astrophysicist and professor at Yale University, Priya focuses on understanding phenomena that remain invisible to the human eye, like dark matt

Trump’s Inauguration and the Growing Influence of the Indian Diaspora

The Indian diaspora in the United States consists of over 5.1 million people, making up about 1.5% of the U.S. population. Despite their small percentage, Indian

India’s Unwanted Export: A Gujrati in the FBI’s Top 10 List

The FBI recently took to X (formerly Twitter), pleading for tips and offering a $250,000 reward for information on Patel. They even shared four photos of him, ranging from “I just woke up” to “I’m practicing

Celebrating Pongal and Makar Sankranti in American Winters

Makar Sankranti marks the Sun’s northward journey, symbolizing light, growth, and new beginnings. It’s a time to celebrate change and progress, with kiteflying being a key tradition.

Ancient Indian Ethics in Corporate Sustainability: Aligning Dharma with ESG Principles

Exploring the connection between Dharma and ESG not only reveals the timeless relevance of Indian traditions but also offers valuable insights for creating sustainable and ethical corporate practices.

What Indian Traditions Teach Us About Time and Resolutions

In Indian traditions, time is not a straight arrow but a repeating cycle, much like the seasons. This concept is central to many Indian philosophies and practices, where time is divided into kalpas (epochs),

After the Festivities: Coping with Homesickness During the Holiday Season

The holiday season, typically filled with joy and connection, can paradoxically highlight the distance from family and familiar traditions back home. For those navigating this emotional terrain, understanding

Dr Manmohan Singh: The Architect of a Transforming India

On the 26th of July, 1991, a soft-spoken and unassuming Finance Minister stood before the Indian Parliament and delivered what would later be seen as a watershed moment in India's economic history. Dr.

MySilsila Re-Wind: The Stories That Shaped Our World in 2024

As the curtains fall on 2024, it’s clear this year will be etched in history as one of seismic shifts, unexpected triumphs, and the redefinition of global norms. From political upheavals to groundbreaking technological

Preparing for the American Holiday Season

Don’t Fall for FOMO: Just because something is “50% off” doesn’t mean you need it. Ask yourself: “Would I buy this at full price?” Beware of Impulse Buys: Flash sales are designed to pressure you. If it’s not on your list, skip it.

Understanding Credit Scores and Building Credit in the USA

Your credit score is more than just a number—it’s a gateway to financial freedom and stability. Building and maintaining a good score takes time, discipline, and

Thanksgiving and Indian Cuisine

Infusing Indian flavors into a Thanksgiving menu is more than just a culinary experiment; it’s a way to celebrate the harmony between two cultures. Whether it’s adding a masala twist to stuffing or re-

Celebrating Indian weddings in the USA: Venues Rituals and Legalities

Indian weddings in the USA are a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. With meticulous planning and attention to cultural nuances, couples can create a celebration that honors their heritage while

A Telugu Celebration: Andhra Pradesh Cheers for Usha Vance and Trump’s Victory

Vadluru village, located just a few kilometers from the town of Tanuku in West Godavari district, was alive with festivities as Usha’s connection to the village was celebrated. Villagers burst firecrackers, offered

Winter Clothing Tips for Indians in the USA

For many Indians traveling to or residing in the USA, adjusting to the winter season requires some planning. Unlike India’s mild winters, parts of the USA can have harsh cold, snow, and icy conditions.

Winter Travel : Top Destinations for Indian Families

Fairbanks is one of the top spots to witness the Northern Lights, providing an exciting winter experience for families. You can view the lights from heated glass domes, or take guided night tours to prim

Halloween and Indian Culture: Blending Traditions for a Unique Celebration

Halloween originates from ancient Celtic festivals, particularly Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. Over time, it evolved into a holiday characterized by

Caste and Class in the Diaspora: Does It Still Matter?

The Indian caste system, with its origins steeped in ancient social stratification, has long been criticized for perpetuating inequality. In the diaspora,

The Green Card Waiting Game: Untold Stories of Uncertainty and Dreams Deferred

The United States is a nation built on the aspirations of immigrants. Each year, countless individuals arrive, bringing with them skills, talents, and

Applying for Spring Internships: Tips for Indian Students

Securing an internship is a pivotal step for students, offering invaluable professional experience and networking opportunities. For Indian students in the United States, navigating the internship application

The Aftermath of Immigration: Unpacking Generational Guilt and Identity Struggles

The story of Indian immigration to the U.S. is frequently told through a lens of opportunity and perseverance. Indian-Americans are one of the most educated

The Role of Faith: How Indian-Americans Keep Spirituality Alive in a Western World

The question arises: how do Indian-Americans keep their spiritual roots alive in the midst of a Western world that often views faith as an afterthought? The

MySilsila - the online magazine by Radar108, is a destination for the Global Indian diaspora. We bring stories, news, information, vendors and deals relevant to the rich fabric of Indian communities.

Bazaar

Deals

Luminaries

Lifestyle

Learn

Humor

Recipes

Short Stories

Write

Vendor

FAQ

Privacy Policy

Terms of Service

Disclaimer