The Tick

About The Tick

The Tick is an American animated television series adaptation of the New England Comics satirical superhero of the same name. The half-hour show aired from 1994 to 1996 and was about a nigh-invulnerable hero in a blue tick suit, who arrives in the city to help combat crime and uncover his mysterious past. The Tick is a humorous and surrealistic show, offering a satirical take on the superhero genre.

Making / Production

Created by cartoonist Ben Edlund, The Tick was a successful comic series before being picked up for television animation by Fox's children's programming division. The show was produced by Sunbow Productions, Graz Entertainment, and Fox Children's Productions.

Actors

• Townsend Coleman played The Tick. His sprightly, over-the-top portrayal of the goofy superhero has remained iconic.
• Rob Paulsen wonderfully portrayed Arthur, The Tick's moth-costumed sidekick, adding depth and humor to his role.
• Kay Lenz voiced American Maid, a patriotic superheroine, with sincerity and strength.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Tick's battle cry, "Spoon!" was inspired by a common, non-threatening, household item.
• Creator Edlund, was only 18 when he came up with the idea for The Tick.
• The character Die Fledermaus is a parody of Batman, also a dark, nocturnal superhero.

Awards

The series has yet to receive any major awards

Quotes

• "Well, once again my friend, we find that science is a two-headed beast. One head is nice, it gives us aspirin. The other head is bad, oh beware the other head of science, Arthur. It bites."
• "You know, evil comes in many forms, be it a man-eating cow or Joseph Stalin."
• "Remember, there's no 'I' in 'teamwork'."

Music, Soundtrack

• The memorable theme tune was composed by Doug Katsaros.
• Character-specific themes were often used in the series, adding to the humor and drama of scenes.