We all know that Disney has created amazing stories that are stored in our mind since childhood.
Many of their characters have become our favorites, and some of them are close to our hearts. But, do you know that many of them were based on real people and in some cases, celebrities?
We share some iconic Disney characters that were based on real people!
1. The 4 vultures — The Beatles
While creating the animated version of the novel The Jungle Book, Disney and the filmmakers in charge of the adaptation, conceived a rather ingenious cameo of The Beatles. It was the most popular bands of the time in 1967.
John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr were the voices behind the 4 vultures. The animals had crazy hairstyles and they sang the song That’s What Friends Are For.
2. Maleficent — Eleanor Audley
Eleanor Audley gave her voice to Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty, and Disney filmmakers also asked her to perform in the film to help the animators in producing the fictional character. This means that the actress’ features and gestures inspired the movements and face of Maleficent.
Additionally, Eleanor also served as inspiration for creating the animated character, Lady Tremaine, Cinderella’s legendary and evil stepmother.
3. Jessica Rabbit — Rita Hayworth
The bombshell of Who Framed Roger Rabbit? became an iconic character due to her portrayal in the film and her sexy figure. But her appearance wasn’t just a matter of luck: Jessica Rabbit was based on the beautiful actress Rita Hayworth.
In the beginning, the writer Gary K. Wolf based her character on the dancer of the animated short film Red Hot Riding Hood, created by Tex Avery. However, during the production of the movie, Jessica Rabbit’s image shifted. This shift was inspired by several actresses, but mostly by Rita. Richard Williams, the director of the animation for the film, said he tried to make the character look similar to Hayworth, but with Veronica Lake’s hair.
4. The Mad Hatter — Ed Wynn
The Mad Hatter is one of Alice’s most popular and unique characters in Alice in Wonderland. In the film, the Hatter was inspired by the gestures, appearance, and personality of the actor Ed Wynn. He also gave his voice to the character, so it’s fair to say that he served as a perfect model for the animators to use to design the Hatte.
5. Edna Moda — Linda Hunt
Edna’s character in the movie The Incredibles was originally based on the life of fashion designer Edith Head. However, the character has an almost perfect resemblance to actress Linda Hunt.
6. Ursula — Divine
Harris Glenn Milstead, also known as Divine, was a distinguished American actor and drag queen who was the inspiration behind creating the evil Ursula from The Little Mermaid. His shows and presentations were critical for shaping the features, stunning style, and personality of the villain.
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