In Era of Fake News, Intrepid Belgian Reporter Tintin Turns 90

  • Youngster inspired many journalists in their choice of career
  • Herge Foundation unveils plans for year-long celebrations

Tintin books

Photographer: Georges Gobet/AFP via Getty Images

Lock
This article is for subscribers only.

As the world grapples with the consequences of fake news, a Belgian icon and timeless hero of many a journalist, Tintin, celebrated his 90th birthday yesterday.

It was on Jan. 10, 1929 when the first of the adventures of the intrepid international reporter was published in “Le Petit Vingtieme’’ newspaper supplement in Brussels. Created by Belgian artist Hergé, the adventures of the fictional character -- with his customary blue sweater, rolled pants and flipped copper hair -- took him and his faithful dog Snowy across the world, building an image of journalists as do-gooders.