Quick Draw McGraw

The Rootin' Tootin' Sheriff of Animation

I chose Quick Draw McGraw this week because of his enduring charm and the humour he brings to every situation. His classic adventures and memorable catchphrases embody a timeless appeal, making him a perfect mascot for a blog that aims to blend nostalgia with insightful commentary.

The History

Quick Draw McGraw, the anthropomorphic horse and charismatic sheriff of the animated Old West, first appeared on television screens on 29 September 1959. Created by the legendary animation duo William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Quick Draw McGraw became one of the defining characters of the golden age of television animation. The show aired until 1961, producing 45 episodes over three seasons. The series was part of the Hanna-Barbera Productions portfolio, including iconic shows like The Flintstones and Yogi Bear.

In the 1970s, The Banana Split Adventure Hour became the primary outlet for Quick Draw and other characters. However, the show was dominated by the popular Banana Splits, although later in the decade, he would feature in Yogi’s Gang and Scooby’s All-Star Laff-A-Lympics, which saw many HB characters competing in different sports.

In the early 1990s, he appeared in Yo Yogi! (1991). Quick Draw McGraw made guest appearances in this series that reimagined classic Hanna-Barbera characters as teenagers.

From 2019 to 2021, he also appeared in Jellystone! (2019). He appeared in this HBO Max animated series that features many Hanna-Barbera characters in a shared universe.

Quick Draw has also appeared in other Hanna-Barbera specials, commercials, and crossover episodes.

The animation style of Quick Draw was typical of Hanna-Barbera's work during that era. It was characterised by limited animation techniques prioritising dialogue and humour over detailed movement. This approach allowed for cost-effective production while maintaining a high entertainment value.

The Characters

The show revolves around a colourful cast of characters, each adding to the charm and comedic appeal of the series:

• Quick Draw McGraw: The titular character, Quick Draw is a well-meaning but often bumbling horse who serves as the sheriff. His catchphrase, "I'll do the thinkin' around here!" underscores his determination and somewhat misplaced confidence. Occasionally, he takes on the masked vigilante persona of El Kabong, using a guitar to subdue his foes.

• Baba Looey: Quick Draw's faithful sidekick, a donkey who often voices reason amidst Quick Draw's antics. Baba Looey's "Si, Quick Draw" catchphrase highlights his supportive yet sometimes sceptical nature.

• Snuffles: A loyal bloodhound who assists Quick Draw in various escapades, he is known for his love of dog biscuits, which send him into euphoric fits when rewarded.

  

The Plotlines

Quick Draw McGraw's plotlines typically follow the classic Western genre, with Quick Draw and Baba Looey tackling various outlaws and villains. The episodes often involve Quick Draw's clumsy but earnest attempts to uphold justice, which lead to humorous and entertaining situations.

His alter ego, El Kabong, adds an extra layer of comedy, as Quick Draw uses his guitar as a weapon to hilarious effect. Despite his frequent mishaps, Quick Draw's bravery and determination always shine through, ensuring justice is served by the episode's end.

Famous People

The enduring appeal of Quick Draw McGraw has attracted fans from various walks of life, including several celebrities. Notably, musician and actor Davy Jones of The Monkees was a known fan of Hanna-Barbera cartoons, including Quick Draw McGraw. The series' influence has extended to modern-day animators and entertainers who grew up watching the show and were inspired by its humour and creativity.

Popular Culture

Quick Draw has left a lasting impact on popular culture, embodying the humorous and adventurous spirit of the Old West. The character's distinctive voice, provided by Daws Butler, and his memorable catchphrases have been referenced in numerous television shows, movies, and other media. The show's influence is evident in the continued popularity of Western-themed parodies and homages in animation and beyond.

Spin-Offs and Related Work

While Quick Draw McGraw did not spawn direct spin-offs, the character has appeared in various Hanna-Barbera crossover projects and specials. Quick Draw and Baba Looey featured in Yogi's Ark Lark (1972) and Yogi's Gang (1973), joining other Hanna-Barbera characters in new adventures. Additionally, merchandise such as toys, clothing, and comic books featuring Quick Draw McGraw has been produced, contributing to the character's enduring legacy.

Quick Draw McGraw starred in several commercials, most notably for Kellogg's cereals in the 1960s. These ads showcased his humorous cowboy antics, promoting products like Rice Krispies and Sugar Smacks. The charming and funny commercials capitalised on Quick Draw's popularity, 

Financials

Hanna-Barbera Productions, the studio behind Quick Draw McGraw, experienced significant financial success during the 1960s. The studio's innovative approach to television animation allowed for efficient production and widespread syndication, resulting in substantial revenue and solidifying its position as a powerhouse in the animation industry.

Legacy

Quick Draw McGraw's legacy lies in his status as a beloved character from the golden age of television animation. The show's humorous take on Western tropes and its memorable characters have left an indelible mark on the genre. Quick Draw's influence can be seen in the continued popularity of Western parodies and the character's enduring presence in popular culture. His iconic persona has inspired subsequent generations of animators and remains a nostalgic favourite for many fans.

Fun Facts

1. El Kabong's Inspiration: The character of El Kabong was inspired by the legendary masked vigilante Zorro, with a comedic twist that involved using a guitar as a weapon.

2. Voice Talent: Daws Butler, the voice behind Quick Draw McGraw, was a prolific voice actor who also voiced other famous characters, including Yogi Bear and Huckleberry Hound.

3. Cultural References: Quick Draw McGraw's catchphrases and character have been referenced in various forms of media, including an episode of The Simpsons, highlighting his lasting impact on popular culture.

Summing Up

Quick Draw McGraw is a testament to the creativity and humour of Hanna-Barbera's golden age of animation. From his debut in 1959 to his enduring presence in popular culture, Quick Draw's bumbling yet brave persona has captured the hearts of audiences for decades.

Through memorable characters, humorous plotlines, and an unmistakable style, Quick Draw McGraw has secured his place as an iconic figure in the history of animation. His legacy inspires and entertains, ensuring that the rootin' tootin' sheriff of animation remains a beloved character for generations.

Appear Here

Over the past year, we've featured several guest writers who shared their unique Animated Anecdotes, highlighting animations that have significantly impacted them. Here's an example to help you out. I’d love to hear from you if you have an animated story to share and would like to feature your Substack. Reach out to join our vibrant community of animation enthusiasts.

Here’s a great example of Carmen Sandiego’s animated Anecdote