Dr. Evil's iconic cat was named Mr. Bigglesworth.
Mr. Bigglesworth: Dr. Evil's Feline Companion
Mr. Bigglesworth is the memorable and often-unfortunate feline companion of Dr. Evil in the Austin Powers film series. He is a fictional cat, famously known for his transformation from a fluffy Persian to a hairless Sphynx-like cat.
Originally, Mr. Bigglesworth was a typical white Persian cat, designed as an homage to the classic villain's cat from the James Bond movies, particularly Blofeld's. His distinctive hairless appearance, however, became one of the most recognizable traits of Dr. Evil's lair. This change occurred due to a malfunction during Dr. Evil's cryogenic unfreezing process, where the cat's fur was lost.
Key Details About Mr. Bigglesworth
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Mr. Bigglesworth |
| Owner | Dr. Evil |
| Species | Originally a Persian cat, he later became hairless (resembling a Sphynx) due to a cryogenic accident. |
| Status | Fictional character from the Austin Powers film series. |
| Portrayed By | The cat was notably portrayed by an animal actor named Ted Nude Gent, whose name playfully reflects the character's hairless state. |
The Evolution and Significance of Mr. Bigglesworth
- Initial Conception: The character of Mr. Bigglesworth began as a direct parody of the archetypal villain's pet seen in spy thrillers. His initial form as a white Persian cat was a clear nod to this trope, setting the comedic stage for his subsequent transformation.
- Comedic Transformation: The loss of his fur in the first Austin Powers movie, Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, due to an "unfortunate warming incident," became a running gag and a visual signature for Dr. Evil's character.
- Emotional Connection: Despite Dr. Evil's villainous nature, he often displays a deep, albeit sometimes misguided, affection for Mr. Bigglesworth, treating him with more care than he does most human subordinates. This provides a humorous contrast to his evil schemes.
- Cultural Impact: Mr. Bigglesworth has become an iconic figure in comedy, symbolizing eccentric villains and their often-peculiar companions. His distinctive look is instantly recognizable to fans of the film series.
For further information on Dr. Evil and his cinematic universe, refer to the Dr. Evil Wikipedia page.
