Reportedly there will be a Dennis the Menace makeover of sorts. In a new BBC series, the cartoon character Dennis the Menace is said to be more ‘politically correct.’ See photos, video and find out more about the character’s evolution.
First created by in 1951 as a daily syndicated newspaper comic strip in the U.S., Hank Ketcham, the Dennis the Menace character as his name implies has always been a bit of a rogue, along with his pet dog and side kick, the aptly named Gnasher. The characters have appeared in TV series and movies, both as animation and live action since 1959.
Now in the new TV series for the BBC, he reportedly is to appear without his signature catapult, water pistol and peashooter. Further, the Dennis the Menace makeover extends to facial expression; and he is given a softer look, appearing with a grin instead of a scowl. Due to possible allegations of gay bashing, the new character will no longer be permitted to pick on Walter the Softie. Even Gnasher does not escape a makeover as he will no longer gnash people. Additionally, the new series — which is the first new production of the familiar cartoon for the BBC in 10 years — will feature the other familiar characters, including Dennis’ parents, Curly, Pie-Face as well as his little sister Bea.
According to The Telegraph, a source reveal to The Sun:
“Dennis can’t be seen to use weapons and giving other kids grief in a BBC cartoon. The BBC doesn’t want to be accused of encouraging children to be violent.”
The Guardian quotes from a statement from a BBC spokeman which defends the transformation of the character.
Dennis the Menace has been evolving since its creation in 1951 but remains as boisterous and mischievous as ever.’ The results will be there for all to see in the CBBC series, which airs next month.
You can see Dennis the Menace makeover photos here.
More photos and video of the character before he got the much discussed ‘Dennis the Menace Makeover’ below.
