US newspaper Comic strip (1934-current) created by Lee Falk (1911-1999) and for many years drawn by Phil Davis (1906-1964); subsequently by Fred Fredericks, who has also written the strip since Falk's death. The caped and top-hatted Mandrake is a master of Hypnosis, imposing his illusions on criminals, Mad Scientists and other foes by mere gesture: "Mandrake gestured hypnotically . . ." There have also been various Mandrake standalone Comics, e.g. from King Comics 1966-1967; a 1940-1942 Radio serial; and a twelve-part Cinema serial (1939). [DRL]
Previous versions of this entry