—From “The Fantastic Walt Disney” by Bill Davidson, from the November 7, 1964, issue of The Saturday Evening Post
In the 1960s, the major film studios that had once been managed by tycoons were now being run by committees, boards of directors, banks, and others. But the Disney studio was bucking the trend. The organization ran from the top down, and no employee was left in doubt about it.
Nobody buys or sells or creates anything at the Walt Disney studios without the okay and involvement of the big man himself. Although everyone at the studio, from janitor to associate producer, calls him “Walt,” the “Walt” is spoken in tones of deference.
Not long ago a well-known executive came to work on a Walt Disney production. The first day on the job he was annoyed by the sound of a lawn mower outside his window, and he shouted at the gardener to desist. An hour later the executive received a call from Disney’s secretary, informing him that Disney wanted to see him. The executive rushed over, and Disney said, “You spoke harshly to that man. He’s been with me for 20 years. I don’t want it to happen again.”
The executive mumbled a contrite, “Yes, sir.”
Disney continued, “And there’s another thing I want you to remember. There’s only one S.O.B. at this studio — and that’s me.”
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Comments
Dear Editor:
Walt Disney’s family originally settled in Lindsay Ontario before moving to Chicago. His father held a contract with a newspaper distribution company that was partly owned by the Grand Trunk Railway. Learning of an opening in that company, at Chicago, the father moved the family there, and, its been said, but, not researched that, the Grand Trunk RR paid the moving expenses. Walt annoyed his teachers by his “doodling” than concentrating on his class lessons. There has been some suggestion that Walt was dyslexic though, that too needs further researching. However, in those early years, dyslexia was unknown, and, not attended to as it is today.
Sincerely.
Gord Young
Peterboro ON