Tom Nabbe

In 1956, Walt Disney recognized the Tom Sawyer in a young Nabbe, and he became the “Luckiest Boy in the World.” That’s what the cover of the April 7, 1957 issue of Parade magazine said, beneath a full-color photo of Tom dressed as Mark Twain’s paragon of American boyhood.

Milt Albright

In 1953, in an attempt to gain some attention from Walt and transfer to his new “amusement park” in Anaheim, Milt, an automobile buff, designed a miniature car for the Autopia, then in the planning stages as an attraction for Disneyland. When he saw that Milt had created a car as a calling card, Walt said, “Well, anybody that crazy belongs at Disneyland!”

Frank Gifford

“Governor Reagan had his arm around John Lennon, and he was explaining American football to him. Only on Monday Night Football would you get those two guys, who were poles apart, united.” —Frank Gifford

Mary Jones

Mary once said, “My philosophy on our responsibility has always been that good community relations is making sure that Disneyland is a good neighbor and citizen, and if we can do that, it benefits the community, our cast members, and Disneyland.”

Russi Taylor

“Russi has imbued Minnie with so much of her own appeal, her strength, her spirit; a sense of gentleness, but combined with a certain sauciness. In the process, she has really helped to define Minnie’s character for new generations.” —Roy E. Disney

Mary Anne Mang

“Walt Disney was clear in his wishes that his Park and its cast members should always strive to give something back to the surrounding community,” Mary Anne once recalled. This made community relations an integral part of her role in Public Relations.

Wayne Allwine

“In time, you actually realize all of the characteristics that this character has in yourself. I’ve got all his naive qualities, and all of his optimistic qualities.” —Wayne Allwine on his prolific performances as Mickey.

James Cora

In 1999, Jim was promoted to chairman, Disneyland International, where his primary focus was to develop and maintain the strategies that ensured the continued growth and success of the Tokyo Disney Resort.

Bea Arthur

Tall, husky-voiced, hilariously forthright if not downright acid-tongued, Beatrice “Bea” Arthur commanded attention, whether she was on stage or the TV screen.

Jack Wagner

It has been said that no other man’s voice has been heard over so many loudspeakers by so many people.