The Smurfs — Who is That Smurf?

Papercutz to Release The Smurfs – Who’s That Smurf? by French Cartoonist Tebo in March 2025.

The most famous export from Belgium might be its iconic waffles, but in the late 1970s, Hanna-Barbera didn’t waffle around when they recognized the untapped potential of a small blue phenomenon that had already captured hearts across France and much of Europe—the Smurfs. While American audiences were blissfully unaware, these pint-sized, mushroom-dwelling adventurers were on the verge of changing Saturday morning television forever. When the Smurfs debuted stateside, they didn’t just make a splash—they made a blue tidal wave, becoming a pop culture sensation that has never faded from the spotlight.

Although Peyo, the brilliant mind behind the original series, is no longer with us, the Smurfs’ legacy endures. Unlike Tintin, whose adventures came to an abrupt halt with Hergé’s passing, the Smurfs continue to evolve with new material, keeping the spirit of Peyo’s creation alive. Their latest escapade comes courtesy of the immensely talented French cartoonist Tebo, who injects a fresh artistic flair into the beloved franchise.

Véronique Culliford, the daughter of Pierre Culliford—better known by his iconic pen name, Peyo—is the guardian of her father’s beloved creation, the Smurfs. Since taking the reins of IMPS in 1984, Véronique has skillfully steered the company, preserving the charm and whimsy that made the Smurfs a global phenomenon while strategically expanding their reach. Under her leadership, the franchise has flourished, embracing new generations through innovative merchandising, entertainment ventures, and creative collaborations. Alongside LAFIG Belgium, she holds the worldwide rights to the Smurfs, ensuring that the legacy of her father’s mischievous yet endearing blue characters continues to thrive across the globe.

Joining this ever-growing Smurf universe is Frédéric Thébault—known simply as Tebo—a French cartoonist born in Caen, France, in 1972. With a bold and imaginative artistic style, Tebo has brought a fresh, modern twist to the Smurfs, infusing them with his signature flair. Early indications of his work show tremendous promise, striking a perfect balance between honoring Peyo’s timeless legacy and introducing a contemporary edge. Tebo’s creative approach signals a vibrant new chapter for the Smurfs, ensuring that their adventures will continue to delight both loyal fans and a new generation of readers.

In this new adventure, Tebo brings his distinctive style and playful energy to the Smurf village, reimagining the familiar world with a modern twist. Smurfette, Brainy Smurf, Hefty Smurf, and the ever-wise Papa Smurf return, embarking on a daring quest filled with smurf-tastic dangers, unexpected twists, and plenty of smurferies along the way. Together, they must solve mysteries and aid a peculiar, enigmatic Smurf in need.

A Smurf who can’t speak Smurf? Now that’s unheard of! But stranger still—this mysterious blue visitor seems to have completely smurfed his memory. He can’t recall who he is, where he came from, or how he ended up in the village. Even more baffling, none of the other Smurfs recognize him. Is he a long-lost Smurf, or could there be something more peculiar at play? As the villagers attempt to unravel the mystery, they soon discover that this enigmatic Smurf may hold the key to a smurf-tacular secret that could change their world forever.

Tebo’s take is not a mere imitation of Peyo’s classic aesthetic—it’s a bold, fresh interpretation that stands on its own. Known for his dynamic and whimsical storytelling, Tebo first made his mark with Samson et Néon (Glénat, 1999) before teaming up with the renowned Zep for the action-packed and hilarious Captain Biceps series. With his signature blend of humor, heart, and boundless creativity, Tebo’s Smurf adventure offers a thrilling new chapter for fans old and new—proving that while the Smurfs may be small, their legacy is larger than life.