Ken Reid was a talented British artist and writer known for his unique style and sense of humor. His work has entertained children for decades, especially through his comic series “World-Wide Weirdies.” This series ran from September 12, 1974, to October 1978. It was part of the popular IPC comic publications like Whoopee! and Shiver and Shake.
In “World-Wide Weirdies,” Reid introduced readers to a bizarre world filled with strange characters and odd events. These features were often found on the back cover of the comics, where they stood out in vibrant colors. Each Weirdie was a unique creation that showcased Reid’s imagination and artistic skills.
Ken Reid: The Artist Behind the Weirdies
Ken Reid was born in 1919 and grew up in a time when comics were becoming increasingly popular. He started his career working for various newspapers and children’s comics. One of his most famous creations is Roger the Dodger, who first appeared in The Beano in April 1953. Roger was a clever character who always found ways to dodge trouble.
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Reid also created Jonah, a jinxed sailor whose bad luck led to him sinking every ship he boarded. Another popular character was Faceache, a boy with a bendable face who could twist his features into any shape. These characters showcased Reid’s talent for creating funny and engaging stories.
In 1964, Reid made a significant career move when he switched from The Beano to Odhams Press. There, he began to explore a darker side of humor, introducing elements of comic horror into his work. This shift led to the creation of Frankie Stein, a goofy monster living with his mad scientist father, Professor Cube. Frankie was inspired by Mary Shelley’s classic novel but added a humorous twist.
The “World-Wide Weirdies” series brought Reid’s quirky humor to a larger audience. Each installment featured strange characters and bizarre situations from different parts of the world. The Weirdies often included odd creatures, unusual people, or silly events that would make readers laugh.
One popular feature included “Creepy Creations,” where Reid introduced readers to bizarre monsters and odd inventions. The colorful illustrations would grab the attention of young readers and spark their imaginations. The combination of humor and horror made Reid’s work stand out during this time.
The series also included “Wanted Posters.” These posters featured silly characters and outrageous descriptions, adding to the fun. Readers could enjoy the colorful artwork while laughing at the absurdity of the situations presented.
