On 27 July 1940, Bugs Bunny, the iconic Warner Bros. cartoon character, made his official debut in A Wild Hare, a short film produced for the Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies series.
Created by animator Tex Avery and character designer Bob Givens, Bugs Bunny emerged as a clever, relaxed and quick-witted rabbit who would go on to become one of the most famous figures in animation history.
Although earlier versions of the character appeared in previous Warner Bros. cartoons, A Wild Hare marked the first appearance of the Bugs Bunny personality audiences would recognise today.
A new kind of cartoon hero
In A Wild Hare, Bugs faces off against hunter Elmer Fudd, introducing the famous rivalry that became a defining part of the character’s legacy.
The short also featured Bugs’ signature catchphrase, “What’s up, Doc?”, which helped establish his laid-back attitude and playful confidence.
Bugs’ unique combination of humour, intelligence and charm quickly made him a favourite among audiences and set him apart from other cartoon characters of the era.
From cartoon rabbit to cultural icon
Following his debut, Bugs Bunny became a central figure in Warner Bros.’ animated productions and appeared in hundreds of cartoons, films and television programmes.
The character became the face of the Looney Tunes franchise and earned recognition as one of the greatest animated characters of all time.
Bugs Bunny’s influence extended beyond animation, with his image becoming a symbol of American pop culture and a lasting example of classic cartoon storytelling.
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