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Les Clark

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description Les Clark Overview

Les Clark was an American animator and one of Walt Disney's "Nine Old Men," the core group of studio animators who created the studio's early feature films. Joining the Disney studio in 1927, Clark was the first employee hired specifically as an animator, working on early Oswald the Lucky Rabbit and Mickey Mouse shorts. His career progressed to directing animation for major features such as Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Sleeping Beauty. He is recognized for his consistent dedication to the studio over a decades-long tenure.

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When did Les Clark join Disney?

Les Clark joined the Disney studio in 1927. He was the first employee hired specifically as an animator, after the studio's early Oswald period had begun.

Was Les Clark one of Disney's Nine Old Men?

Yes. Les Clark was one of Walt Disney's Nine Old Men, the core group of animators associated with Disney's classic feature era.

What kind of animation did Les Clark do at Disney?

He worked on early Oswald cartoons and later helped animate Disney feature films. His career connected the studio's 1920s short-film work with its later feature animation.

Why is Les Clark important in Disney animation history?

Clark joined Disney in 1927 and became part of the Nine Old Men, giving him a place in both the studio's early and classic eras. His work is especially relevant to the development of character animation at Walt Disney Productions.