Betty Boop Animation Cels

Betty Boop was the first female star of animation. She was flirtatious, sweet, and simply charming and had a voice that you'd never forget, provided by actress Mae Questal (with occasional stand-ins). Betty was created by a true pioneer of animation, Grim Natwick. Natwick created Betty in the 1930's while working with the Fleisher Bros producing cartoons for Paramount Studios. Betty was patterned after a star at Paramount named Helen Kane. Maggie's always been fond of Betty. She adorns our business cards, Maggie's checks, and several of our walls. We were surprised a couple of years ago when we asked a long-time friend who shares the same last name as Betty's creator if he was related to the legendary artist and he said, "Oh, you mean Uncle Grim!" We were awestruck! We also found they were related to the legendary movie actress Mildred Natwick who appeared in such memorable films as "The Adventures of Robin Hood" with Errol Flynn, and "The Court Jester" with Danny Kaye and Basil Rathbone. It turned out that our friend hadn't spoken to his uncle in many years and was motivated to make contact. Soon following these events, our friend and his son were able to attend Grim's 100th Birthday Party, which was thrown for him by his fans and fellow artists in Hollywood where Grim was hailed all night. Sadly, Grim passed away shortly thereafter, but we were happy that the family members were reunited.

Animation Collectibles > Disney Cels & Artwork > Betty Boop Cels and Artwork