Introduction
Olivia Jaimes is the pseudonym of an American cartoonist currently authoring and illustrating the daily comic strip Nancy. She is notable for reviving the over 80-year-old comic strip, creating material for a modern audience.
Nancy
Comic strip
On April 9, 2018, Jaimes took over the comic strip from Guy Gilchrist, who stepped down earlier in the year. She has introduced unique themes and designs into the comic since taking over. Artistically, Jaimes' style deviated significantly from Gilchrist, portraying Nancy more like Ernie Bushmiller's Nancy. Additionally, Jaimes toned down overly sexualized aspects of characters, particularly Aunt Fritzi, choosing instead to depict her in a similar style as the other characters in the strip.
The Jaimes-era Nancy also relies heavily on current trends and technologies. Smartphones, social media, ear buds, and robotics club play major roles in the setting Jaimes has created.
Reception
While some previous fans of Gilchrist's run of Nancy were not pleased with the change, most professional criticism has remained positive.
Social engagement on the comic strip's page has increased 500 percent compared with the end of Gilchrist's run.
Notable awards
2018
For her first year, Olivia Jaimes' Nancy was recognized in numerous "year's best" awards including:
- Tech Crunch, Favorite Things of 2018
- The Ringer, Year in Review, Best Comic Strip
- The Hollywood Reporter, The Best Comics of 2018
- AV Club, Best Comics of 2018
- Paste Magazine, 25 Best Comic Books of 2018 (Honorable Mention)
2019
- The Mike Wieringo Comic Book Industry Awards (Ringo Awards), Best Comic Strip or Panel
"Sluggo is Lit"
Jaimes' 2018 Labor Day strip introduced a panel with Nancy riding a hoverboard announcing, 'Sluggo is Lit'. The panel quickly became an internet meme, replacing the phrase in various comic book panels and other images.