The all-new original short film Once Upon a Studio begins quietly at Walt Disney Animation Studios in Burbank, California. Artists, technologists, and storytellers head home for the day—leaving one legendary figure behind. Disney Legend Burny Mattinson, the longest-serving employee in the company’s 100-year history, is the last to exit.
Burny Mattinson’s Final Disney Cameo
After the building empties, Mickey and Minnie step out of a framed picture to summon hundreds of characters for a centennial portrait. The first scene’s emotional power lies in Mattinson’s appearance, filmed just months before his passing in February 2023. Mattinson delivers the poignant line, “If these walls could talk…” with a knowing twinkle that represents seven decades of Disney storytelling.
A 70-Year Legacy in Animation
Clark Spencer, President of Disney Animation, reflected on the significance of Mattinson’s role. “His smile lit up the Studio,” Spencer said. “He truly inspired us to be the best we could be.” Mattinson’s career began in 1953, and his impact spanned eras—contributing to Lady and the Tramp, Sleeping Beauty, The Jungle Book, and even Strange World (2022).
He worked under legends like Marc Davis and Eric Larson, directed Mickey’s Christmas Carol, and produced The Great Mouse Detective. In fact, that film’s pitch may have saved Disney Animation from being shut down, according to animator Eric Goldberg.
The Influence Behind the Studio’s Survival
Goldberg shared how Mattinson’s pitch of The Great Mouse Detective swayed executives who were considering shuttering the division. A single story reel—featuring a barroom sequence with Ratigan—helped secure the film’s greenlight and solidified animation’s place at Disney.
Mattinson continued mentoring and inspiring new generations, working closely with teams on Winnie the Pooh (2011) and other modern projects. His leadership in story development and his ability to bridge eras earned him admiration from veterans and apprentices alike.
A Dedication that Echoes Through Time
The closing credits of Once Upon a Studio offer a heartfelt dedication: “For our Pal Burny and his 70 years of legendary storytelling at Disney Animation.”
Clark Spencer summed it up: “Burny’s first film as an artist was Lady and the Tramp. He was still making an impact with Once Upon a Studio. He helped define what Disney Animation is today.”
