Popeye the Sailor, released in 1933 by Fleischer Studios, marks the first animated appearance of the iconic spinach-loving sailor. Though the character had already become popular in the Thimble Theatre comic strip, this cartoon short officially launched Popeye’s long and successful career in animation.
Premiering as part of a Betty Boop cartoon, Popeye the Sailor cleverly introduces Popeye alongside familiar faces like Olive Oyl and Bluto, who would go on to become recurring characters in the series. Betty Boop herself makes a cameo appearance, linking Popeye to Fleischer’s larger cartoon universe.
The short showcases the distinct rubber-hose animation style of the 1930s, full of exaggerated movement and clever visual gags. Fleischer Studios’ work on Popeye was known for its gritty, urban charm and its fluid, expressive animation, which set it apart from Disney’s polished fantasy.
This cartoon is also the first to feature the now-iconic “I’m Popeye the Sailor Man” theme song. Popeye’s strength comes from eating spinach—a humorous, patriotic symbol of health and perseverance during the Great Depression, making him a working-class hero for the times.
Popeye the Sailor became an immediate success and led to one of the longest-running cartoon franchises in history. It also helped solidify Fleischer Studios’ reputation as a major player in the early animation industry.
Whether you’re a fan of classic animation or curious about the origins of one of America’s most enduring characters, this short remains a must-watch for animation history enthusiasts.