Fifty years ago, a legendary mascot burst onto the scene in San Diego, dressed in vibrant orange and yellow feathers. Known as the San Diego Chicken, this iconic figure has entertained fans with his comedic acts and performances worldwide. Recently, the Chicken made a special appearance at the FOX 5 backlot to support the San Diego Padres in their game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
But how did the San Diego Chicken come to be? The origin story dates back to April 9, 1974, when Ted Giannoulas, a journalism student at San Diego State University, first donned the chicken suit as part of a promotion for KGB radio station. After a successful stint at the San Diego Zoo, Giannoulas proposed wearing the suit to a Padres game, leading to the birth of the KGB Chicken. Despite some legal troubles with the station, Giannoulas ultimately won the rights to the character and emerged as The Famous San Diego Chicken.
Over the years, the Chicken has made nearly 10,000 appearances in over 900 venues across the U.S. and beyond. While he used to perform up to 275 times a year, Giannoulas now limits his appearances to around 75 annually. However, he remains steadfast in his commitment to being the sole performer behind the beloved mascot, emphasizing that no one else will carry on the legacy of the San Diego Chicken.
As the San Diego Chicken continues to delight audiences with his antics, fans can rest assured that the man behind the mask, Ted Giannoulas, will always be the one bringing the iconic character to life. With a rich history spanning five decades, the San Diego Chicken remains a cherished symbol of entertainment and joy for fans of all ages.
