It all started in 1944 when Miss Chiquita was created to put a face on one of  the world's first brands of bananas. She was drawn by artist Dik Browne who also drew her cousins the Campbell Soup "kids" and "Hagar the Horrible." In her early years, Miss Chiquita appeared as an animated banana, helping to teach consumers about the great nutritional value of bananas and how to ripen them. She was a big celebrity, making guest appearances in top radio shows including those of Fred Allen and Alec Templeton. Other broadcast personalities inviting Miss Chiquita to be on the air were Charlie McCarthy and Bert Lahr. Live models and personalities were hired to bring the First Lady of Fruit to life, beginning with Patty Clayton in 1944. Puerto Rico-born Elsa Miranda (no relation to movie star Carmen) was the most famous Miss Chiquita. In 1945 and 1946, she was active in numerous personal appearances. Miss Chiquita made many guest appearances in the movies, in commercials and even with Arthur Fiedler and the Boston Pops Symphony Orchestra. A likeness of Miss Chiquita has appeared on the labels that identify Chiquita bananas and other products since 1963. She was depicted as a banana until 1987, when artist Oscar Grillo, creator of the Pink Panther, transformed her into a woman. The change reflected the image the public had of Miss Chiquita as a real person. One of America's most famous and beloved icons, Miss Chiquita celebrated her 50th birthday in 1994. It was a proud moment. Elizabeth Testa of New York was selected from a national talent search for this landmark occasion. That year, she made numerous broadcast and personal appearances as part of her nationwide Good Will, Good Nutrition Tour, with a mission of giving every person she met a Chiquita banana and educating them on healthy eating. In 2000, Angela Lanza of New York took on the role of Miss Chiquita. Her activities included the Chiquita Perfect For Life Tour in 2001 during which she visited with the media, school children, and the public in many cities across the country. The latest in a series of women handpicked to portray the number one ambassador of fruit is Jennifer Canales of Los Angeles. In 2003, she launched her duties as Miss Chiquita by ringing the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Chiquita Brands International listing on the NYSE. Jennifer always enjoys greeting the public, entertaining people with her famous Chiquita jingle and teaching both kids and adults about the importance of good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Miss Chiquita continues to reign as the indisputable first lady of fruit. And who knows, she may be at a nearby grocery store waiting to meet you right now! Above images are Copyright 2004 by Chiquita Brands, Inc. All rights reserved. This page is used for educational purposes only. Trademarks used on this web site are protected by their respected owners.