PIERRE CULLIFORD, born in Belgium in 1928, was the cartoonist known as Peyo. Peyo began his career working with some of Belgium's most talented cartoonists, including his lifelong writing partner Yvan Delporte. In 1958, The Smurfs made their first appearance and went on to become the world-famous characters we know and love today. WILLY MALTAITE, also known as Will, was a French comics creator and artist who created the backgrounds and scenery for BENNY BREAKIRON. He is a founding member of the Marcinelle school, and one of the most respected French comics artists of his generation. From 1958-1960, he was the artistic director of Tintin. He died in February 2000, having spent over 50 years in comics.