Episode 30
Why Does Everyone Love Disney?
It all started with (a now public domain) Mickey Mouse, but today Disney is a cultural behemoth. A global household name. Walt Disney is synonymous with childhood, nostalgia, and joy. Recently, their multi-billion dollar empire continues to grow, with a string of high-profile and big money acquisitions. So is the magic still there? And why does everyone love Disney?
Special guests:
- Janet Wasko, an author and professor in Communication Research at the University of Oregon, whose book Understanding Disney was a huge resource for me during my time as an American Studies student.
In this episode, Janet and I discuss how Disney has become so embedded in childhood, and how many adults grow up with such a Disney obsession. We also look at recent acquisitions of Star Wars, Marvel and Fox, and consider how Disney manage to keep growing without losing their magic.
Additional resources:
BOOK: Understanding Disney by Janet Wasko
ARTICLE: Steamboat Willie enters the public domain
If you love this, you might also like:
What Makes Country Music so American?
Are the Oscars Still Relevant?
Why Does Everyone Love Disney?
Thank you for listening to our podcast. It's a labor of love by an American history nerd and some smarter folk. Making it does come at a small cost so if you'd like to help:
- Individuals - support the show with a one-off or monthly donation: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/support
- Universities & Colleges - become an academic partner, click here for more info: https://america-a-history.captivate.fm/partnerships
- Brands - for sponsorship and advertising enquiries, email liam@mercurypodcasts.com
Your support helps us keep the show running, and it is highly appreciated!
Are you a University, college, or higher education institution? Become an academic partner and your name will appear right here.
