Read the text and fill in each gap (8.1.–8.4.) with one word only. The text must be logical and correct in both grammar and spelling. Write the missing word in the space provided.

BUGS BUNNY

More than eighty years ago, in 1940, a grey rabbit hopped out of a hole in the ground. Then he knocked on a bald man's head and asked, "What's Up, Doc?" to the sound of the crunching of a large carrot. 8.1. ____________________ the rabbit had appeared previously in short cartoons, it was this memorable scene that paved the way for the version of the rabbit that would become the cultural icon named Bugs Bunny. In the decades since then, Bugs has appeared in over 150 films, earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and even got his face on a postage stamp. What is the reason for such immense popularity? Some might say that, 8.2. ____________________ Disney's Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck, who come with their own set of physical characteristics but lack much personality, Bugs is sharply defined by his know-it-all attitude and witty banter. Others claim that what sets Bugs Bunny 8.3. ____________________ from many cartoon characters is his ability to stay true to himself. The fact is that from his opera debut in "What's Opera, Doc?" to his appearances in action films, Bugs Bunny hasn't changed at all. More recent animated characters have established themselves through a sliding scale of meanness but Bugs still remains the lovable character who only 8.4. ____________________ fun of those who deserve it most. So this could be the reason why Bugs Bunny still goes down really well with people all over the world.