Legendary Disney animator Bernie Mattinson He died at the age of 87 after 70 years of work. Mattinson began working in obscure roles during Disney’s Silver Age of Animation, his first work being between films. Lady and Tramp six months after graduating high school. Mattinson went on to work on some of Disney’s biggest animated films of all time, including Aladdin, Beauty and the Beast, Mulanand dozens of others.
in a press release from The Walt Disney CompanyMattinson was confirmed dead on February 27 at Canyon Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Canoga Park, California.
Mattinson was 87 years old and died after a short illness. Disney honors Mattinson as the company’s longest-serving animator and was scheduled to receive Disney’s 70th Anniversary Service Award on June 4. Read Walt Disney Animation Studio Chief Creative Officer Jennifer Lee’s review below:
“Birney’s artistry, generosity and love of Disney Animation and the generations of storytellers who have come through our doors over seven decades have made us better – better artists, better technologists and better collaborators. All of us who had the privilege of knowing and learning from him will ensure that his legacy continues.”
Bernie Mattinson’s storied career as a Disney animator
At the time of his death, Mattinson was still working as a story consultant and consultant at Walt Disney Animation Studios. His last film was 2022 Strange world, for which Mattinson was the story artist. Contains his latest works Tinker Bell, Big hero 6and Ralph Breaks the Internet, Mattinson was best known for his work on the story team during the Disney Renaissance. Mattinson was a story artist for major films such as Aladdin, The Lion King, Pocahontas, The Girdle of Notre Dame, Mulanand Tarzan.
Mattinson recalled falling in love with Disney animation after watching it Pinocchio in theaters in 1940, and after graduating from high school, he took his briefcase to Disney in hopes of landing a job. Although his portfolio impressed a Disney security guard, no position was available, and Mattinson instead took a job in Disney’s transportation department. From there, he was mentored by other Disney employees until he rose through the ranks to become the renowned animator, storyboard artist, and director he is today.
Not only has Mattinson worked on some of Disney’s most successful films of all time, but he is the only Disney employee to remain with the company for seven decades. Mattison was named a Disney Legend in 2008 and in 2018 surpassed the previous record of 64 years of longevity. Bernie Mattinson will be remembered as an incredibly talented animator and artist, but he will forever be known as an important part of life. The historic success of the Walt Disney Company.
Source: The Walt Disney Company