Today in Comics History, January 17: Happy birthday, Betty White!

Born on this day 100 years ago: actress, comedian, and activist Betty White (The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls, Hot in Cleveland, Password, Match Game, Tattletales and much more)! Sadly, Betty didn't stick around quite long enough for us to fête her in person, but we all know the good angels get to read my blog and I hope somebody passes this wishes onto her!

Also sadly: Betty White never had her own comic book. What's up with that, Dell? Why'd that not happen, Charlton? You dropped the ball, Aspen! IU honestly can't believe it, what will all the guest appearances of Bea Arthur in Deadpool. But Betty did make occasional appearances in MAD — sometimes savage pokes at her, sometimes good-humored, but here's a few of the more fun ones.




from "Messy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" in MAD #148 (January 1972), script by Dick DeBartolo and Kedzie North, pencils and inks by Angelo Torres


from "TV Theme Songs" in MAD #266 (October 1986), script by Frank Jacobs, pencils and inks by Sam Viviano


from "The Mad Nasty File, Volume V" in MAD #302 (April 1991), script by Tom Koch, pencils and inks by Gerry Gersten
The best way to celebrate Betty's birthday, however, is to find a local rescue or animal shelter in your area and make a donation in Betty White's name. Join me, won't you?


Happy birthday, Betty. And thank you for being a friend!