Asterisk fro the comic new

You're referring to the asterisk symbol (*) used in comics, particularly in the style of New Yorker cartoons!

The asterisk is often used to indicate a punchline or a humorous aside, usually in a caption or a speech bubble. It's a way for the cartoonist to add an extra layer of humor or irony to the joke, and to create a sense of surprise or unexpectedness.

The use of asterisks in comics is a nod to the tradition of using footnotes or asides in written humor, and it's a way for cartoonists to play with the format and structure of the comic strip. It's also a way to add visual interest and create a sense of rhythm and pacing in the comic.

Some notable cartoonists who have used asterisks in their work include Peter Arno, Charles Addams, and Saul Steinberg, all of whom were known for their clever use of language and visual humor.