Meet Rudy the Ostrich, a forgotten comic-strip troublemaker who first appeared in 1924. After 94 years away, this feathered character is finally returning to the funny pages.
Rudy debuted on January 14, 1924, in Billy DeBeck's Barney Google and Spark Plug, where he became a mischievous stablemate to Barney Google's famous racehorse. Throughout the 1920s, Rudy brought plenty of comic chaos to the strip and even inspired vintage merchandise, including tin wind-up toys and cloth dolls. He made his final appearances during five Sunday instalments in January and February 1932. Then he disappeared, leaving behind a little piece of comic-strip history and a very long absence.
Now cartoonist John Rose, who has guided Barney Google and Snuffy Smith since 2001, is bringing Rudy back for a special crossover with Li'l Sparky, the grandson of the original Spark Plug. It's a meeting of comic-strip generations, giving longtime readers a nostalgic surprise while introducing a forgotten character to a new audience. After 94 years away, Rudy has some catching up to do. Let's hope he hasn't forgotten how to stir up trouble. Welcome back, Rudy! The funny pages just got a little more feathered. #mtlcomics