For decades, fans have pondered the age of the beloved comic book reporter Tintin. The mystery is finally solved, thanks to a candid revelation from his creator.
Since his debut in 1929 with Tintin in the Land of the Soviets, the intrepid reporter, always accompanied by his loyal dog Snowy, has captivated millions. Tintin has become a global icon of comic books and popular culture, yet his precise age has remained conspicuously absent from the adventures he embarks on.
Did you know? Tintin’s very first adventure, Tintin in the Land of the Soviets, was serialized in 1929.
So, how old is this enduring character?
Hergé Reveals Tintin’s True Age
The answer comes directly from Hergé, the creator and screenwriter behind The Adventures of Tintin. In a 1979 television interview with Bernard Pivot, Hergé addressed the persistent question of Tintin’s age.
Around the 11-minute mark of the interview, available on the INA Culture YouTube channel, Hergé confirmed that Tintin is 15 years old. He explained the creative decision behind keeping Tintin eternally youthful.
“It is difficult, for a character like that, to make him age,” Hergé stated. “Because if he aged, he would become 20, then 22, he would meet a pretty girl, get married, have children, grandchildren…”
“These Characters Cannot Age”
This very problem, Hergé suggested, was why the character’s age was never specified in the comic book saga. He believed that these characters, by their nature, were meant to remain ageless.
When Pivot playfully asked if he was jealous of his creation’s perpetual youth, Hergé reflected, “Ah no, I’m not jealous, but it is possible that it is a projection of myself that would hope not to age. I know that it is impossible, but finally, it may be it. I don’t know. Then I really believe that these characters cannot age.”
- Tintin, the famous comic book reporter, was revealed to be 15 years old by his creator, Hergé.
- Hergé stated in a 1979 interview that making Tintin age would complicate his adventures.
- The creator believed his characters were meant to remain ageless.
This insight offers a fascinating glimpse into the creator’s mind and the enduring appeal of Tintin’s timeless adventures.
