85 Years of Bugs Bunny!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today is the 85th anniversary of Bugs Bunny’s first official appearance and to celebrate we are taking a look into his legacy! Voice actor Jeff Bergman who has been voicing Bugs for over 30 years was nice enough to answer a couple of questions for me too!

Eighty-five years ago, one of animation’s most enduring icons made his official debut; and he didn’t even need a carrot cake to celebrate. Bugs Bunny first appeared in “A Wild Hare” on July 27, 1940, with his signature smirk and the now-legendary line, “What’s up, Doc?” Created by a team of brilliant minds at Warner Bros.; including Tex Avery, Bob Clampett, and voiced by the incomparable Mel Blanc; Bugs quickly set himself apart with his quick wit, fearless attitude, and ability to outsmart anyone from Elmer Fudd to Yosemite Sam. He wasn’t just another cartoon character; he became the face of a generation of animated mischief.

From World War II propaganda shorts to “Space Jam” and everything in between, Bugs Bunny’s greatest moments are a reflection of his adaptability and cultural relevance. He won an Academy Award for “Knighty Knight Bugs” in 1958, battled Marvin the Martian on the moon, and somehow managed to perform opera in drag; all while chomping on carrots and breaking the fourth wall like it was nothing. He wasn’t just a character kids loved; adults admired his confidence, sarcasm, and sly social commentary, making him one of the first true crossover stars in animation.

In recent years, Jeff Bergman has masterfully carried the carrot-torch for Bugs Bunny. As one of the first voice actors to take over the role after Mel Blanc’s passing, Bergman has stayed faithful to the original tone while also keeping Bugs fresh for modern audiences. His performances in “The Looney Tunes Show”, “Bugs Bunny Builders”, and HBO Max’s “Looney Tunes Cartoons” have been widely praised for nailing Bugs’ charm and timing; no easy task for such an iconic voice. Bergman’s work ensures that Bugs remains relevant and beloved, even as animation styles and platforms evolve.

As the wise-cracking rabbit turns 85, it’s clear that Bugs Bunny isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. His legacy spans generations, from Saturday morning TV to digital streaming, and his influence can be felt across pop culture. Whether he’s popping up in commercials, battling aliens in “Space Jam: A New Legacy”, or starring in new shorts with that familiar smirk, Bugs Bunny still has it. And with talented voice actors like Jeff Bergman keeping the “Looney Tunes” spirit alive, we can all look forward to many more “What’s up, Docs?” in the decades to come.

Bonus Question:

Giancarlo: What does being able to voice someone as iconic as Bugs Bunny mean to you?

Jeff Bergman: It means that my childhood is extended and all the joy I love to bring to everyone by doing Bugs Bunny’s voice.

Piece Of Advice:

Giancarlo: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Jeff Bergman: Remember that the biggest stars, the most powerful people in the world, put their pants on one leg at a time. Meaning you can do anything and can accomplish any goal. Just work hard and don’t give up.

Thank you for tuning in and I hope you’re having a great weekend! We’ll catch you with another fun one tomorrow!

-Giancarlo