As the 97th Academy Awards approach, there’s much anticipation within the film industry about which of its nominees will secure a notable career boost, whether through on-screen or off-screen performances. However, in a time long past, there was an individual who surpassed all competitors, outshone their contemporaries, and still holds the record for the most Oscar wins and nominations in Hollywood history. Remarkably, this star didn’t appear in any frame of their work, though their voice could sometimes be heard. Instead, they were celebrated for their groundbreaking influence on the screen industry as a producer and accomplished storyteller for nearly 40 years. Undeniably, this person was none other than Walt Disney (1901-1966), whose posthumous acclaim seems fittingly everlasting. To date, Walt Disney has garnered 26 Oscar wins (four of which were Honorary Awards) and 59 nominations, a distinction that earns him recognition in the Guinness World Records.
1932 marked my first foray into Hollywood’s grandest stage at the 5th Academy Awards. That night, I walked away with not one but two statuettes – my inaugural competitive Award for Best Short Subject (Cartoon) for “Flowers and Trees,” and an Honorary Academy Award celebrating the birth of a legend – Mickey Mouse! Over the years, the esteemed Academy honored me with three more Honorary Awards, including one for the groundbreaking “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” in 1939. The pinnacle of my achievements came at the 26th Academy Awards in 1954 when I swept all four categories I was nominated in: Best Short Subject (Cartoon), Best Short Subject (Two-reel), Best Documentary (Feature), and Best Documentary (Short Subject). And while “Mary Poppins,” with its timeless tunes courtesy of Julie Andrews, earned me my only Best Picture nomination in 1965, I’ll forever cherish the memories of my unforgettable journey through the world of cinema.
On the evening of February 23rd, 1939, young sensation Shirley Temple hand-delivered a unique Oscar to Disney, honoring “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.” This honorary award recognized “Snow White’s” groundbreaking screen innovation that enchanted millions and paved the way for a revolutionary new era in animated films. As Frank Capra, Academy President and renowned filmmaker, recounts in his autobiography, it was he who came up with the idea for this special prize. The award itself was a full-sized Oscar statuette, with seven smaller ones following in a line beneath it.
Despite Disney claiming his films were for everyone, not just kids, it was decided that young Miss Temple, representing Disney’s younger audience, would give the presentation. When she unveiled the award, Temple exclaimed, “How dazzling and polished! Aren’t you pleased about it, Mr. Disney?” The embarrassed recipient responded, “I’m so proud I think I might burst!
The classic tale of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” held the record for highest box office earnings when it was released, and received widespread acclaim.
Walt Disney’s Special Award acceptance speech
14th Academy Awards in 1941 saw Walt receiving the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, given to creative producers whose film production consistently showcases high quality. Accepting the award, Walt expressed his astonishment, stating that he had underestimated the event’s grandeur. He acknowledged numerous people for their contributions, mentioning the short subject award they were proud of, his musicians for their music, and ‘Fantasia’, which he considered worthy of a bravery medal due to its challenges. Despite acknowledging mistakes, he felt this recognition was excessive.
As a recipient of this esteemed accolade, I’m humbly reminded of the lofty principles it represents. This award serves as a catalyst, inspiring me to renew my commitment to these ideals. The past year has been an incredibly challenging one, testing my resilience like never before. I hope and pray that I never have to face another year quite like it. Receiving this honor amidst such adversity, I view it not just as a recognition of my past dedication and honest mistakes, but also as a beacon of hope for the future. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Academy members, my dear friends, and everyone who has supported me along this journey. Thank you!
Earlier that evening, “Lend a Paw,” a Disney short film, triumphed in the Cartoon Short Subject category. Meanwhile, “Fantasia” was honored with two Special Awards: one for its exceptional music and another for groundbreaking audio innovations. Interestingly, “Fantasia”‘s soundtrack was recorded using multiple audio channels and played back using Fantasound, an advanced sound system developed by Disney and RCA. This innovative technology made “Fantasia” the first commercial movie to be exhibited in stereo and a forerunner of surround sound systems.
All of Walt Disney’s Oscar wins
- 1932 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Flowers and Trees
- 1934 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Three Little Pigs
- 1935 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): The Tortoise and the Hare
- 1936 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Three Orphan Kittens
- 1937 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): The Country Cousin
- 1938 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): The Old Mill
- 1939 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Ferdinand and the Bull
- 1940 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): The Ugly Duckling
- 1942 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Lend a Paw
- 1943 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Der Fuehrer’s Face
- 1949 – Best Short Subject (Two-reel): Seal Island
- 1951 – Best Short Subject (Two-reel): In Beaver Valley
- 1952 – Best Short Subject (Two-reel): Nature’s Half Acre
- 1953 – Best Short Subject (Two-reel): Water Birds
- 1954 – Best Documentary (Feature): The Living Desert
- 1954 – Best Documentary (Short Subject): The Alaskan Eskimo
- 1954 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Toot, Whistle, Plunk and Boom
- 1954 – Best Short Subject (Two-reel): Bear Country
- 1955 – Best Documentary (Feature): The Vanishing Prairie
- 1956 – Best Documentary (Short Subject): Men Against the Arctic
- 1959 – Best Short Subject (Live Action): Grand Canyon
- 1969 – Best Short Subject (Cartoon): Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day
On Sunday, March 2nd, the 97th Academy Awards of 2025 will air on ABC, with Conan O’Brien as the host.
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2025-03-02 19:10