Is Morticia Addams in the Original New Yorker Cartoons Based on Any Actress?

Charles Addams, the original creator of the Addams Family, has left many questions about the inspiration behind his iconic characters. One prominent question that has been circulating is whether Morticia Addams, the sophisticated and elegant matriarch of the Addams household, was based on any real-life actress or women. In this article, we delve into the origins of Morticia and the truth behind Charles Addams' inspirations.

Charles Addams and His Inspiration

According to Linda H. Davis in her biography of Charles Addams, there is no concrete evidence that Morticia was based on any single real-life actress or woman. Addams primarily focused on creating fictional characters, and his initial work on the Addams Family was a series of one-panel gags for the New Yorker magazine starting in 1938. It wasn't until the introduction of the TV series in 1964 that he provided names and backgrounds for the characters, including Morticia.

Morticia's Characterization and Legendary Traits

Morticia, as defined by Charles Addams, is described as a character who is 'even in disposition muted, witty, sometimes deadly.' This characterization highlights her enigmatic and sophisticated nature, traits that are deeply intertwined with the Addams Family’s eccentric and darkly comedic universe.

Marital Parts and Fond Memories

Charles Addams had a history of romance, having dated numerous actresses and celebrities. One of his most notable relationships was with Joan Fontaine, who acted in several of his cartoons. However, he never explicitly mentioned her as the inspiration for Morticia. He once remarked that he married 'Morticia' three times because his various wives resembled her. This statement underscores his fond memories and the allure of the character he created. However, it does not confirm a direct real-life connection.

The Naming Process

The names of the Addams Family characters, particularly Morticia, came from a unique naming process. Charles Addams named Morticia due to a naming initiative by Filmways Studios. These studios were creating the television series and were looking for names that had dark associations. The name 'Mortician' caught his eye, and he later chose 'Morticia' for the character. The name Pugsley, on the other hand, almost went by 'Pubert' initially, but this name was deemed too risqué.

Conclusion and Legacy

The legacy of the Addams Family, particularly Morticia, speaks to the timeless appeal of Charles Addams' work. While the inspiration behind Morticia remains a point of speculation, what is certain is her enduring popularity both in the original cartoons and beyond. The character's complexity and sophistication continue to captivate audiences, and her continued presence in popular culture underscores the lasting impact of Charles Addams' creation.

Keywords: Morticia Addams, Charles Addams, New Yorker Cartoons