Garfield is a fictional cat created by cartoonist Jim Davis, first appearing in the comic strip "Garfield" on June 19, 1978. Known for his laziness, love of lasagna, and disdain for Mondays, Garfield quickly became a cultural icon, leading to television adaptations, merchandise, and a significant following. The comic strip has been celebrated for its humor and satire over the decades, making Garfield one of the most recognizable characters in comic history.