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First appearing in newspapers on August 5, 1924, Harold Gray's Little Orphan Annie featured the adventure, pathos and humor the nation demanded in the popular continuity strip form. Gray probably immortalized his creation with often overt social messages that continued to appeal to Americans through world wars and a depression.
The comic strip boasts a rich history and is indelibly tied to American pop culture. Highlights include the radio program of the same name, sponsored by Ovaltine, with a famous theme song that began: "Who's that little chatterbox?/The one with pretty auburn locks?/Cute little she/It's Little Orphan Annie."
The strip was revitalized by the smash hit Broadway musical, Annie, in 1977. In 1979, Leonard Starr assumed the creative role for the comic strip, renamed Annie, as well. Myriad merchandising and licensing projects have spun off the comic strip, including a major motion picture based on the theatrical production.
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