Was Kirby Named After?
The question of whether Kirby, the beloved Nintendo character, was named after a real person or entity has sparked debate among fans and historians alike. In this article, we will delve into the origins of the character’s name and explore the possible inspirations behind it.
The Origins of Kirby’s Name
According to Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of Kirby, the character was named after John Joseph Kirby Jr., an American attorney who defended Nintendo in a lawsuit against Universal Studios over the copyrightability of the character Donkey Kong in 1984. Miyamoto has stated that he was impressed by Kirby’s ability to successfully defend Nintendo and chose to name the character after him as a token of appreciation.
Kirby’s Name: A Surname of Irish and English Origin
While John Joseph Kirby Jr. is a notable figure in the world of law, it’s worth noting that the surname "Kirby" has a rich history of its own. As a surname of Irish and English origin, "Kirby" is derived from the Old Norse "kirkja" meaning "church" and "býr" meaning "settlement". This makes Kirby a common surname found in many English-speaking countries.
Other Possible Inspirations
While John Joseph Kirby Jr. is the most widely accepted inspiration for Kirby’s name, some fans have suggested alternative origins. One theory is that the character was named after Kirby Vacuum Cleaners, a company that was founded in 1914 and is known for its iconic suction technology. This theory is plausible, given the character’s ability to inhale and copy his enemies’ abilities.
Table: Notable People with the Surname Kirby
| Name | Occupation | Birth Year | Death Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Joseph Kirby Jr. | Attorney | 1939 | 2019 |
| Abner Kirby | Mayor of Milwaukee | 1818 | 1893 |
| More notable people with the surname Kirby can be found on Wikipedia |
Red Kirby’s Name
Red Kirby, a notable variant of the character, has also sparked debate over his name. According to Kirby fan fiction, Red Kirby is one of seven Puffals who were orphaned by The Collector prior to hatching. The directors of Scream 6 have confirmed that Red Kirby survived and grew up to become an FBI agent. This raises questions about the character’s true identity and whether he is related to the original Kirby.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while John Joseph Kirby Jr. is the most widely accepted inspiration for Kirby’s name, there are other possible origins that have been suggested. Whether you believe that Kirby was named after a lawyer, a vacuum cleaner company, or another entity, the character remains a beloved and iconic figure in the world of Nintendo.