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I know Astro's spikes were an inspiration Dr. Tezuka got from his own curly hair in the morning (bed head!) . . . but I wonder about Astro's basic appearance (and NO not the speedoes) - has anyone ever read where he drew Astro's character based on a real child he knew?

Many artists and cartoonists do put the likenesses of real people into their imaginary world, and I did see once that Moustachio/Mr. Pompous is actually based on a real person - so imagine . . . if there WAS a "real" inspiration for Astro, he's likely walking around, about 70 years old (OMG - a BALDING Astro!)

Naaa uhhh! My points are permanent!

Idk. I have seen some kids with likenesses to Astro so it is possible

"AprilSeven" wrote: if there WAS a "real" inspiration for Astro, he's likely walking around, about 70 years old (OMG - a BALDING Astro!)

Put on the 'ol bowling shoes!

Balding Astro I think it was made by Strange Wings.

ROFL!!!!

How distinguished!! uhhh except for his top "spike" being "fleshy" that's a little unappealing!

Looks like he's going on safari

yes, it's true, I have permenant lumps on my head!

"AprilSeven" wrote:I know Astro's spikes were an inspiration Dr. Tezuka got from his own curly hair in the morning (bed head!) . . . but I wonder about Astro's basic appearance (and NO not the speedoes) - has anyone ever read where he drew Astro's character based on a real child he knew?

Many artists and cartoonists do put the likenesses of real people into their imaginary world, and I did see once that Moustachio/Mr. Pompous is actually based on a real person - so imagine . . . if there WAS a "real" inspiration for Astro, he's likely walking around, about 70 years old (OMG - a BALDING Astro!)

Naaa uhhh! My points are permanent!

I think it might be safe to say that since he drew on his own "bed head" for Atom's "hair", it stands to reason that he may have patterned Atom's appearance after his own "younger" self. At least that's my guess, as I know of no reference material for the origin of the appearance of the Astro Boy character himself. (As you mentioned Hige Oyaji (Mr. Pompous/Daddy Walrus/et. al) was based on a friend's drawing of Tezuka's father. (Or was it Tezuka's grandfather?)
One more thing I believe I read some where that he actually patterned Atom after Mighty Mouse! So go figure!

I

well there are lots of stories....1 is that like u said he model it off his own hair. 2. based it off a girl. 3. walt disneys bambi gave him the idea of bambi.