Did Popeye Really Exist?
Did you know that the famous Popey in Italy known as Braccio di Ferro is inspired by a real person?
His name was Frank “Rocky” Fiegel, a Polish man born in 1868, known for his rugged appearance and his adventures as a bouncer. Segar, the inventor of Popeye, met him in a tavern in Chester, Illinois, and was impressed by his stories and his restless nature. Interestingly, Popeye’s sweet companion Olivia also has a real story: she was based on Dora Paskel, the owner of a local store. Find out more about this incredible connection between reality and comics!
Elzie Crisler Segar is said to have regularly sent money to Frank Fiegel in gratitude for the inspiration he had given him in creating Popeye. This generosity reflects Segar's recognition of Fiegel, who had a profound influence on the character. There is no documented evidence to support the veracity of these claims, but it remains a fascinating part of the legend surrounding the creation of Popeye.
Popeye fans honored Frank Fiegel by leaving a message of gratitude on his grave. This gesture symbolizes the recognition of Fiegel's contribution to the creation of the famous character. A photo of the comic book was also placed next to his gravestone, a sign of the affection and admiration of fans over the years.
