Heckle and Jeckle

Created by legendary animator Paul Terry – the driving force behind Terrytoons and one of the most prolific figures in animation history – Heckle and Jeckle stands as a delightful relic from the golden age of American cartoons. Debuting in 1946 with the short The Talking Magpies, this irreverent duo went on to become firm favourites in the post-war cartoon landscape, their anarchic antics and razor-sharp banter setting them apart from the more wholesome animated fare of the era.

The two titular characters – anthropomorphic magpies distinguishable more by voice than appearance – were instantly recognisable for their constant wisecracks and gleeful disregard for authority. Heckle sported a tough-talking Brooklyn accent and often referred to his cohort as "chum" or "pal", while Jeckle, with a clipped British accent, preferred "old chap". Their names, a playful nod to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, hinted at their unpredictable, chaotic behaviour, which often involved elaborate pranks, slapstick humour, and unrepentant cheek.

What made Heckle and Jeckle so distinct was not just the visual comedy – although that was plentiful – but the dialogue. Unlike many silent or semi-silent cartoon characters of the time, these magpies were motor-mouthed, and their fast-paced repartee often stole the show. Their banter added an extra layer of wit to the already manic animation, elevating the humour to something closer to vaudeville or radio comedy.

Produced under the Terrytoons banner, the series came from a studio that also gave the world Mighty Mouse, Gandy Goose, Sourpuss, Dinky Duck, and Deputy Dawg. In fact, between 1915 and 1955, Paul Terry produced over 1,300 animated shorts – an extraordinary output that cemented his legacy as one of the true workhorses of early animation. Heckle and Jeckle, despite being just one part of this vast catalogue, managed to carve out a niche of its own thanks to its unique characters and enduring appeal.

The final original Heckle and Jeckle cartoon aired in 1966, but the characters continued to live on through television reruns, introducing new generations to their gleeful mischief. Though some aspects of the series reflect the era in which it was made – and may not always align with contemporary sensibilities – there is still much to admire in its clever writing, energetic pacing, and bold sense of humour.