How Famous Cartoonists Overcame Rejection

Many renowned cartoonists have faced significant rejection before achieving success, demonstrating resilience and determination in their careers. Here are a few notable examples:​

Matthew Diffee

Matthew Diffee, a prominent cartoonist for The New Yorker, encountered numerous rejections early in his career. Undeterred, he continued submitting his work, leading to eventual publication. Diffee later compiled these rejected cartoons in "The Rejection Collection," highlighting the prevalence of rejection in the creative process. ​

Bruce Eric Kaplan

Bruce Eric Kaplan faced initial setbacks, including form rejections, which deeply affected his resolve to pursue cartooning. However, his passion persisted, and he eventually found success in the field. ​

Gerry Alanguilan

Filipino cartoonist Gerry Alanguilan submitted his work to major publishers like Marvel and DC Comics for about seven years, facing continuous rejections. This period included a hiatus from 1993 to 1994, during which he worked in architecture. Despite these challenges, Alanguilan returned to comics, self-publishing his series "Wasted," which gained recognition and established his reputation in the industry. ​

John Porcellino

John Porcellino, creator of "King-Cat Comics," encountered multiple rejections early in his career. He often received feedback criticizing his drawing skills, leading to self-doubt. Despite this, Porcellino persisted, and his work eventually gained acclaim, with "King-Cat Comics" becoming one of the most enduring minicomics. ​

Lesley Imgart

Lesley Imgart, winner of the 2024 Observer/Faber Graphic Short Story Prize, faced multiple unsuccessful attempts before her victory. Her persistence paid off with her story "Witch Way?", reflecting her dedication to her craft. ​

Walt Disney

Before creating the iconic Mickey Mouse, Walt Disney's initial cartoon business failed in the early 1920s. He faced numerous rejections, with one account stating that Disney was turned down 300 times before achieving success. ​

These stories underscore a common theme in the creative industry: rejection is a natural part of the journey. The perseverance demonstrated by these cartoonists highlights the importance of resilience and dedication in achieving success.