Mickey Mouse is an American cartoon character co-created in 1928 by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. He is the longtime icon and mascot of The Walt Disney Company, and one of the most popular and universally acclaimed fictional characters of all time. Mickey was created as a replacement for a prior Disney character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, who was owned by Universal Studios. Disney wanted to have a character that he could call his own, so he came up with the idea of a mouse2. He originally planned to name him “Mortimer Mouse”, but his wife Lillian suggested “Mickey” instead. Mickey made his public debut in the short film Steamboat Willie (1928), which was also one of the first sound cartoons. He soon became a sensation, starring in over 130 films, including The Band Concert (1935), Brave Little Tailor (1938), and Fantasia (1940). He also appeared in comic strips, books, television shows, video games, and merchandise. He was nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning one for Lend a Paw (1941). He also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 19781. Mickey’s appearance and personality have changed over the years, reflecting the evolution of animation and culture. He started out as a cheeky and mischievous rogue, inspired by silent film stars like Charlie Chaplin and Douglas Fairbanks. He later became a more sympathetic and heroic figure, often facing challenges bigger than himself with pluck and ingenuity. He also developed a distinctive falsetto voice, originally provided by Walt Disney himself, and later by other actors like Jimmy MacDonald, Wayne Allwine, Bret Iwan, and Chris Diamantopoulos. Mickey’s popularity has transcended borders and generations, making him a global icon of entertainment and happiness. He has been recognized as a symbol of American culture, as well as a goodwill ambassador for children and families around the world. He has inspired countless artists, filmmakers, writers, and fans to follow their dreams and express their creativity. He has also been honored by various institutions and organizations, such as the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, the United Nations, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Mickey Mouse is more than just a cartoon character; he is a legend, a friend, and a source of joy for millions of people. As Walt Disney once said: "I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse."

• published: 01 Oct 2023
• views: 621