Helmi Sigg: A Swiss Media Legend Through the Eyes of cartoonist Ian David Marsden
Helmi Sigg is an old personal friend of mine.
He stands as a true icon in Swiss media, with an illustrious career that bridges comedy, theater, literature, and radio. From his pioneering contributions at Radio 24, Switzerland’s first private radio station, to his unforgettable stage performances, Sigg’s influence has shaped Swiss cultural history.
As part of the comedic and musical group Trio Eden, Sigg brought razor-sharp satire to stages across the country. Among his many achievements, his role in the 2007 Swiss musical phenomenon Ewigi Liebi remains particularly notable. Playing the quirky character of Murmelimutter Martha, Sigg became central to the musical’s appeal. Blending Swiss hit songs with a heartfelt story set in a mountain village, Ewigi Liebi achieved record-breaking success, with Sigg’s performance etched in its legacy.
My own collaboration with Helmi began in our comedy duo, Die Sugardaddies. Together, we wrote and performed original comedic songs like Zipfelhart—a parody of Rammstein—and The Greasy Goose Blues, each accompanied by animated music videos. Our creative partnership extended to Das Lustige Fussball ABC, a series of 20 animated shorts for Blick, and satirical contributions to Zurich’s magazine Hauptstadt.
Beyond performing, Helmi is a gifted and prolific writer. His works include Sherlock Holmes and The Giessbach Fall, a humorous twist on the iconic detective, and Hackfleisch und Hecht: Unheimliches am Zürichsee, a collection of eerie tales set around Lake Zurich. His rich storytelling, whether comedic or suspenseful, cements his place among Switzerland’s most prolific authors.
In honor of Helmi Sigg’s extraordinary career, I recently created a cartoon portrait of him. Capturing his iconic humor and vibrant presence was both a joy and a privilege, reflecting his enduring impact on Swiss media, entertainment, and literature.
As a Swiss cartoonist and freelance illustrator, it is always inspiring to work with such a dynamic creative force. Helmi Sigg’s legacy not only honors Swiss artistry but also resonates with anyone who values creativity, wit, and storytelling at its finest.
