Today a Disney legend has passed away…
Roy E. Disney was 79. He was a preserver of Disney’s true culture, fighting to keep the brand alive and well. Walt’s nephew, Roy, was the true link to his uncle at the company that bears his family name.
This is especially meaningful to Pixar fans because in the studio’s talks with Disney Co. prior to the 2006 acquisition, he was one of the key player’s who helped the companies reconcile. Roy also heralded the revivial of Disney animation (known as their second golden age) and helped save the company twice by ousting corrupt company toppers.
John Lasseter said it best, "[Roy] was a great man who believed deeply in the art of animation. He put his heart and soul into preserving Disney’s legendary past, while helping to move the art of animation into the modern age by embracing new technology" (From CBC obituary)
After winning many battles to preserve the company, he has lost his last fight to cancer. He is gone now, but his legacy surely won’t be forgotten.
R.I.P. Roy Edward Disney (1930-2009)
Last modified: December 16, 2009
As sad as this news is, I’m glad he was able to live a long life. 79 years is a long time to live, and no doubt about it he has left an impression on many people, myself included. Truthfully, I believe he was one of the last few people at the studio who tried hard to preserve Walt’s standards, and it’s a shame even fewer people can continue doing that now. John Lasseter put it best.
Rest in peace.
—Leirin
How sad. Roy was personally responsible for not only getting Pixar and Disney together in the first place, but getting them together AGAIN after Steve Jobs split with Eisner.
RIP Roy.
It’s a sad day. Roy fought to preserve Walt’s dreams and legacy. A set of dreams that is larger than life itself and a legacy that will outlive us all.
It is indeed a very sad day. Although he was 79 and had stomach cancer, for me it still came as quite a shock yesterday. I thank Roy for everything he did for the company including both revolts which were more than necessary. He was my hero of the year in 2004! He will be sorely missed. May he rest in peace.
May he rest in peace