As a pioneering figure in the entertainment and animation industry, the legendary Walt Disney would have turned 115 this year if he were still alive. He is the man who inspired the world to believe in magic during the challenging times of the Great Depression, leaving behind a legacy of timeless masterpieces that continue to endure.
And of course, despite his fame, it’s undeniable that the iconic character Mickey Mouse remains a beloved figure for fans around the world. Below are 15 fascinating facts about Walt Disney, a man whose influence has reshaped the landscape of children’s entertainment globally.
1. Disney Started in Animation to Combat Boredom.
Born and raised on a farm in Missouri, Disney had limited entertainment options, which led him to begin drawing cartoons for fun.
2. Walt Disney Studios Wasn’t His First Animation Venture.
Disney’s first studio was called “Laugh-O-Gram,” where he began creating animated short films based on fairy tales. Unfortunately, the studio quickly went bankrupt, but Disney’s vision remained unshaken.
3. “Mortimer Mouse” Was the Original Name for Mickey Mouse.
However, Walt Disney’s wife persuaded him to change it to something more friendly, and thus, “Mickey Mouse” was born. Mortimer later became the name of one of Mickey’s rivals.