Brad and Paul Anderson are the father and son cartoonists behind the acclaimed comic panel Marmaduke. Known as America's most lovable Great Dane, the classic comic canine created by Brad has delighted comics readers for nearly six decades. The daily panel strikes a chord with pet owners. “People who’ve had a pet in their lives, or wish they had, will identify with the antics of this loving dog,” said Paul. “He doesn’t lecture or get political. He’s good-natured and kind, lives a dog’s life, gets into mischief and takes care of his family, generating smiles along the way.”
Marmaduke on a Mission
A canine with a conscience, Marmaduke and the Andersons have helped many charities, including the Delta Society's Pet Partners program. Marmaduke was the official "spokesdog" for the group's animal-assisted therapy program, in which volunteers and their pets visit hospitals and care-center patients. Marmaduke also lent a paw to the American Cancer Society, leading its "Paws for a Cause" dog walk-a-thon for years as Chairdog. The American Association of Blood Banks chose Marmaduke to star in several public service announcements to help promote a summer blood drive. Additionally, the writing duo continues to receive outreach on how Marmaduke has taught children how to read for generations through its approachable tone and messages.
History
Brad’s interest in cartooning dates back to his early childhood, when he drew popular cartoon characters to amuse himself. Born in Jamestown, N.Y., he is a graduate of Syracuse University. After years of freelance cartooning for magazines (including the Saturday Evening Post and Collier’s), Brad created Marmaduke in 1954. The comic was a success, with Brad winning the National Cartoonists Society awards for Best Comic Panel in 1976 and Lifetime Achievement in 2012. Brad remains an active part of the creative team 59 years (or more aptly, 413 dog years) later.
Paul was born in San Fernando, Calif. He received his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University and his graduate degree in management from Troy State University. Paul grew up with Marmaduke — hanging out in his father’s studio, poring over the comic, contributing gag ideas and assisting Brad’s work. After a 20-year career with the Air Force as a helicopter pilot and overseeing financial operations, Paul retired as a lieutenant colonel and resumed work with Brad in 2003. Paul has since become a full-time Marmaduke creator. Paul lives in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex while Brad resides in Lake Conroe, Texas, north of Houston.