The seventeenth episode of The Disney Family Album highlights Marc Davis, a legendary animator and Imagineer. Originally airing on The Disney Channel in October 1985, this episode explores his remarkable influence on Disney animation and theme park design.
Marc Davis: A Master Animator
In 1935, Marc Davis joined Walt Disney Animation Studios, quickly establishing himself as a visionary artist. Over the next 26 years, he developed some of Disney’s most memorable characters. For instance, his ability to convey personality through movement set his work apart.
Davis animated many classic Disney characters, including:
- Snow White (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, 1937)
- Bambi (Bambi, 1942)
- Brer Rabbit, Brer Fox, and Brer Bear (Song of the South, 1946)
- Mr. Toad (The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, 1949)
- Cinderella (Cinderella, 1950)
- Alice (Alice in Wonderland, 1951)
- Tinker Bell (Peter Pan, 1953)
- Maleficent (Sleeping Beauty, 1959)
- Cruella de Vil (One Hundred and One Dalmatians, 1961)
Because of his deep understanding of visual aesthetics, Davis helped define Disney’s animation style for decades. As a result, Walt Disney relied on him for some of the studio’s most challenging character designs.
For more on Marc Davis’s transition from animation to theme park design, check out Marc Davis Goes to WED a breakout session from the 2017 D23 Expo.
Marc Davis: The Transition to Imagineering
In 1961, after finishing One Hundred and One Dalmatians, Marc Davis shifted his focus to WED Enterprises, becoming one of the first Disney Imagineers. At this point, he played a critical role in designing attractions for the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, including:
- Ford’s Magic Skyway – He created the prehistoric dioramas featuring dinosaurs.
- Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln – His expertise helped perfect the illusion of Abraham Lincoln standing up.
- It’s a Small World – He contributed to the design and layout of this classic attraction.
- Carousel of Progress – He helped shape the family characters featured throughout the attraction.
Following the World’s Fair, Davis focused on Disneyland, reimagining several existing attractions. Notably, he introduced humor into the Jungle Cruise, transforming it into the lighthearted adventure guests know today. Additionally, he played a major role in designing The Enchanted Tiki Room, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and The Country Bear Jamboree.
Because of his storytelling expertise, Davis became the go-to Imagineer for bringing Disney attractions to life during the late 1960s and 1970s.
Marc Davis & Alice Davis: A Legendary Disney Duo
Marc wasn’t the only Disney Legend in his family. His wife, Alice Davis, became a pioneer in costume design for Disney attractions, working on Pirates of the Caribbean, It’s a Small World, and more. To learn more about Alice Davis’s contributions, visit Remembering Disney Legend Alice Davis
Legacy & Recognition
In 1978, after more than four decades with Disney, Marc Davis retired. However, his influence on Disney animation and theme park design remains undeniable. For this reason, he received the Disney Legend Award in 1989.
Walt Disney once described Davis as a “Renaissance man,” praising his ability to bring stories to life through art and innovation. Even today, his work continues to inspire Imagineers and animators alike.
Learn More About Marc Davis
➡️ Explore more about Marc Davis on the D23 Official Disney Fan Club.
📺 Watch the Disney Family Album on Sam’s Disney Diary.
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 educational resources 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.
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, The Milotte’s and the Beebe’s, Fess Parker / Buddy Ebsen, The StoryMen
