Joseph Barbera was born on March 24, 1911 in New York City, NY. He grew up in a working-class family and attended local public schools. During his high school years, Barbera was an avid athlete and won several boxing titles. Despite his success in sports, he always had a passion for drawing and cartoons.
After graduating high school, Barbera attempted to pursue a career in cartooning. During the Great Depression, he applied for a position as a cartoonist for The New York Hits Magazine, but unfortunately, he was never hired. Determined to succeed, he took odd jobs to make ends meet, including working at a bank.
Barbera's big break came when he began creating single-panel cartoons that were published in magazines such as Redbook, Saturday Evening Post, and Collier's. His unique style and keen sense of humor quickly caught the attention of audiences, leading to more opportunities in the world of animation.
In the early 1940s, Barbera crossed paths with William Hanna, a fellow animator and director. The two quickly formed a creative partnership and began working together on various projects. Their collaboration would ultimately change the landscape of animation forever.
Barbera and Hanna went on to co-create some of the most beloved and iconic animated characters of all time, including Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, and The Jetsons. These characters became household names and are still celebrated to this day.
Throughout their career, Barbera and Hanna were recognized with numerous awards for their contributions to the animation industry. They were awarded seven Academy Awards and eight Emmy Awards, solidifying their status as animation legends.
Barbera married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Earl, in 1935. Together, they had four children before divorcing in 1963. After his divorce, Barbera married Sheila Holden and they remained together for the rest of his life.
Barbera was known for his charismatic personality and was friends with many celebrities, including the iconic actress Zsa Zsa Gabor. Gabor often visited Barbera at his home, where they would share stories and laughs.
Joseph Barbera's contributions to the world of animation are immeasurable. His innovative storytelling and unforgettable characters have left a lasting impact on generations of viewers. His legacy continues to inspire animators and creators around the world.
Overall, Joseph Barbera's incredible talent, hard work, and dedication to his craft have cemented his place in animation history. His creations will continue to bring joy and laughter to audiences for years to come.