With heavy heart I found out on Sunday that Chris (Hagar the Horrible) died, ironically a day after the 50th anniversary of Hagar which was created by his father Dik. While I haven’t seen Chris in several years due to his health issues he used to participate in Sioux Falls Cartoonist events quite frequently and that guy could tell a story.
I won a personalized drawing by Chris
If you ever knew Chris you will know why he left Florida for Sioux Falls. After being invited to participate in Augie’s Viking Day Parade his wife Carroll told him she wanted to move here.
At one time Chris was most syndicated cartoonist in the world. I think Chris told me once he appeared in 2,000 daily newspapers across the world.
His famous cartoon that was featured in an episode of the Drew Carey Show.
Chris got his start in cartooning at Playboy Magazine with a strip called ‘Cruiser’. He told me many interesting tales about the parties at the mansion. The strip was based on his once roommate who didn’t do so well with the ladies.
Chris also used to date Dave Brubeck‘s daughter. Chris said, “Dave didn’t like me and nicknamed me The little devil.”
Chris was also known as a 100% tipper. Whether it was a haircut or a meal he would always tip 100%. He also told me a story about his family’s origin (not sure if it was true) As Chris explained it his family was Irish terrorists long before the IRA and the Crown sent them to prison camp in Australia. They escaped to America by stealing opals from the mine they worked in and used some of the jewels to pay for the trip. Chris claimed he still had one of the opals.
Chris was always entertaining to be around and one of the kindest people I ever met. I consider myself very fortunate to have spent time with him. He will be missed.