Eric Larson

Eric Larson (1905–1988) was one of Disney’s revered “Nine Old Men,” known for his warm, expressive animation and his dedication to mentoring future generations of animators. Born in Cleveland, Utah, he grew up on a farm and later studied journalism. He joined the story department of the Walt Disney Studios in 1933 thanks to Richard Creedon, before shifting his focus to animation, first as an assistant to Hamilton Luske. He quickly proved himself a skilled animator during the studio’s early years.

During the production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Larson worked on the animation of the forest animals, bringing them to life with a sense of charm and personality that would become a hallmark of Disney animation. His work was particularly evident in the sequences where Snow White interacts with the woodland creatures, showcasing his ability to infuse emotion into non-human characters. His delicate, appealing style helped define the film’s gentle and heartwarming tone.

Following Snow White, Larson became a key figure in Disney animation, animating iconic moments such as the flight over London in Peter Pan (1953) and Peg’s song in Lady and the Tramp (1955). In the 1970s, he led Disney’s animation training program, mentoring a new generation of artists who would carry on the studio’s legacy. His influence shaped Disney animation for decades, ensuring its continued success.