Mark Henn Becomes Disney Legend: Watch

Famed animator Mark Henn is officially a Disney Legend!

The D23 Expo 2024 will wrap up with the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony at the Honda Center, where 14 individuals will be celebrated for their significant contributions to Disney’s enduring legacy. Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, the event will feature special guests and surprise performances that promise to leave a memorable impact. This grand Hollywood affair pays tribute to key figures in Disney’s history for their storytelling and innovation. Fans who can’t attend in person can watch the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony on Disney+ this Monday, August 12, at 5 PM ET.

This year’s honorees come from various fields, including entertainers such as Miley Cyrus, Angela Bassett, and Harrison Ford. Director James Cameron and Walt Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde will also be recognized as Disney Legends. The list of new legends also includes Colleen Atwood, Martha Blanding, James L. Brooks, Steve Ditko, Mark Henn, Frank Oz, Kelly Ripa, and John Williams.

Mark Henn’s Work at Disney

Mark Henn began his career at Walt Disney Animation Studios in 1980 as an assistant animator on The Fox and the Hound (1981). His first major role involved animating Disney’s beloved character Mickey Mouse in Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983). This marked Mickey’s return to the big screen after a 30-year absence. Mark went on to become the supervising animator for a record number of iconic female characters: Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, and Tiana.

He also animated key characters such as Simba in The Lion King (1994), Pocahontas, and Giselle in Enchanted (2007). Recently, Mark has been instrumental in mentoring a new generation of Disney animators in creating “the illusion of life” for CG features, including Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018). He served as lead 2D animator on Big Hero 6 (2014) and Frozen (2013). He also contributed as a 2D animator for “Mini Maui” in Moana (2016). In 2000, Mark directed the acclaimed short John Henry, leveraging his extensive animation experience. He received the prestigious Winsor McCay award for lifetime achievement in 2013, ASIFA’s highest honor in animation.

In 2018, Mark was honored to paint Mickey Mouse’s official portrait for the character’s 90th anniversary. From Mickey to a little mermaid and Mini Maui, Mark’s career embodies the enchantment of Disney animation.