I'm so sorry to pass on the news (as published on downthetubes) that Frank McDiarmid has passed away.
Frank was one of the mighty figures in British comics (see his obituary in the link above), and his zenith was undoubtedly Cheeky Weekly. I would go as far as saying that the toothy funster's title was Frank's comic, so inextricable was the link between the multitudinous funny folk of Krazy Town and the artist who illustrated their weekly pun-strewn escapades. Frank clearly had a lot of fun illustrating the gag-packed pages and he took full advantage of the freedom he was given, cramming extra jokes of his own into every imaginatively-constructed page. So much so that he became a character in his own comic.
From what I've read about Frank it's clear he was always happy to reply to Cheeky fans who contacted him and would often send them specially-drawn pictures of his striped-jersey-wearing creation.
Those of us reading comics in the late 70s were so fortunate to be able to experience the ground-breaking, hilarious Cheeky Weekly. Thanks for all the fun, Frank.
My condolences to Frank's family and friends.
I am saddened by the loss of the legendary Frank, it goes without saying that he was a major influence in my life and I have one of his original drawings on my hobby room wall. Commiserations to Frank's family and friend.
ReplyDeleteAll friends of Cheeky are mourning the loss of a great talent.
DeleteHi Niblet
ReplyDeleteThis is what I wrote on my Frank fansite on facebook
Thinking and praying for Frank's family..
His comic work especially Cheeky makes me laugh out loud..kind of the two ronnies...naughty seaside postcards type humour.. which I love..
Has an adult I can see he really enjoyed drawing and adding extra jokes..which give it another layer.. His comic art works for all ages and that is a good thing..
Love the energy and freedom of his art line.. the comic outer panels in Cheeky are also joining in the fun.. But you could see Frank could draw very well... and its amazing how he made each character different..especially looking at Cheeky and the different characters..very hard to do... I'm glad I've done this fansite to him.. he deserves it.. Thanks Frank for all your amazing comic art... hopefully Rebellion will do a book one day.. Peter Gray.
Thanks Niblet for this brilliant blog you've done and research..a real tribute to Frank.
Hi Peter - that's a very nice tribute to Frank, and sums up my feeling about his work. As you say, he clearly loved drawing Cheeky - that affection shines through every page.
DeleteThanks for your kind comment about the blog.
Thanks so much for the kind words,Gary (Frank's Son)
ReplyDeleteMy sympathies to you and your family, Gary.
DeleteThank you
Delete