Garfield Timeline ( Real )

creation
June 19, 1978

Creation of Garfield

Garfield was created by Jim Davis and first appeared in the comic strip.

publication
1980

First Garfield Book Published

The first book collection of Garfield comic strips was published, increasing the character's popularity.

media_adaptation
May 17, 1982

Garfield Animated TV Special Debut

The first animated television special featuring Garfield, 'Here Comes Garfield', aired and received acclaim.

media_adaptation
September 17, 1988

Launch of Garfield TV Series 'Garfield and Friends'

The Garfield and Friends animated TV series began airing, significantly expanding Garfield's audience.

media_adaptation
June 11, 2004

Garfield Movie Release

The first live-action/CGI Garfield movie was released, introducing Garfield to a new generation.

character_design
Circa 2000s

Garfield Gets Updated Look

Garfield's design was slightly updated over the years to modernize his appearance while retaining iconic features.

anniversary
June 19, 2018

Garfield's 40th Anniversary Celebration

The 40th anniversary of Garfield was celebrated with special events and merchandise.

Garfield Timeline ( Fictional )

origin
June 19, 1978

Garfield's Birth

Garfield is born in a small farm setting, showing early signs of his lazy and gluttonous personality.

relationship
August 10, 1978

Garfield Meets Jon Arbuckle

Garfield is adopted by Jon Arbuckle, beginning his life with the Arbuckle family and setting up their daily antics.

relationship
August 15, 1978

Garfield's First Encounter with Odie

Garfield meets Odie, the dog, sparking a love-hate relationship filled with pranks and occasional bonding moments.

character_trait
September 1, 1978

Garfield Develops a Love for Lasagna

Garfield discovers lasagna and it becomes his favorite food, a defining characteristic of his personality.

event
September 10, 1978

Garfield Plays His First Prank on Jon

Garfield plays a clever prank on Jon, setting up the comedic tone for their relationship.

relationship
November 5, 1978

Garfield Saves Jon from a Nervous Breakdown

Garfield comforts Jon during a stressful time, showing his subtle yet strong emotional bond with his owner.

character_trait
January 20, 1979

Garfield Becomes Lazy Champion

Garfield sets a record in laziness by refusing to leave the couch for an extended period, highlighting his signature laziness.

event
March 3, 1979

Garfield Learns to Use a Computer

Garfield surprisingly demonstrates his intelligence by learning to use a computer, typing sarcastic messages to Jon.

event
June 19, 1979

Garfield's Birthday Party

Jon throws a birthday party for Garfield, where all his favorite foods are served and friends gather.

relationship
July 15, 1979

Garfield's First Encounter with Nermal

Garfield meets Nermal, the 'world's cutest kitten,' sparking rivalry and humorous situations.