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Eric Larson: A Legacy of Animation and Mentorship

The eighth episode of The Disney Family Album features Eric Larson, one of Walt Disney’s Nine Old Men and a key figure in Disney animation history. Originally airing on The Disney Channel in January 1985, this episode highlights his 53-year career at Walt Disney Studios, spanning from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) to The Great Mouse Detective (1986).

A Disney Animation Pioneer

Throughout his five-decade career, Eric Larson contributed to nearly every major Disney animated classic, including:

  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) – Helped animate Disney’s first feature-length film.
  • Bambi (1942) – Brought Thumper and Bambi’s playful scenes to life.
  • Cinderella (1950) – Contributed to the graceful animation of Cinderella and her transformation.
  • Sleeping Beauty (1959) – Worked on Prince Phillip’s daring battle against Maleficent.
  • The Jungle Book (1967) – Helped develop the expressive and lively animal characters.
  • The Great Mouse Detective (1986) – His final film before retirement, marking the end of a legendary career.
Disney Family Album - Eric Larson
Disney Family Album – Eric Larson

Eric Larson’s Lasting Impact on Disney Animation

Beyond his animation work, Eric Larson played a crucial role in shaping future generations of Disney animators. In 1973, he launched a Disney training program to mentor young animators. Many of today’s top animation talents went through his program, including:

  • Brad Bird (The Incredibles, Ratatouille)
  • Tim Burton (The Nightmare Before Christmas, Frankenweenie)
  • John Lasseter (Toy Story, Cars)
  • Jerry Rees (The Brave Little Toaster)
  • Tad Stones (Darkwing Duck, Aladdin: The Animated Series)

Thanks to Larson’s guidance, Disney’s animation legacy continued into the modern era, paving the way for the Disney Renaissance of the 1990s.

Learn More About Eric Larson’s Legacy

➡️ Read about Eric Larson on the D23 Disney Legends page.
📺 Watch more Disney Family Albums right here on SamsDisneyDiary

Don’t miss any of the Disney Family Albums:  Clarence “Ducky” Nash, The Missing Episode, Ward Kimball, Sherman Brothers, Jim MacDonald, Milt Kahl, Ken Anderson, Disneyland Designers, Eric Larson, Peter and Harrison Ellenshaw, Wolfgang (Woolie) Reitherman, Frank Thomas, Voice Actors, WED Imagineers, Golden Horseshoe Revue, Ollie Johnston, Annette Funicello, Marc Davis, The Milotte’s and the Beebe’s, Fess Parker / Buddy Ebsen, The StoryMen

Disclosure

The Disney Family Album episodes are provided for historical reference only and are not monetized on any video platform. These videos amplify my love of Disney and Disney Parks, serving as an educational resource to celebrate the creativity and legacy of Disney’s greatest storytellers. All rights to the original content remain with The Walt Disney Company. No copyright infringement is intended.

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