Frank in ’41

Frank Thomas joined the Disney Studio a couple years after Art Babbitt did, and climbed the ranks to be among the top dozen-or-so animators in 1941 (Art Babbitt was among the top four).  However, while Art Babbitt led the strike, Frank was a non-striker, and his loyalty to Walt earned him a place as one of the “Nine Old Men” of Disney animation, an honor bestowed only upon the most loyal, talented animators at Disney.

Below, at Art’s memorial service in 1992, Frank tells a story about his experience with Art Babbitt within the halls of the Disney Studio, and gives Art a very thoughtful and sincere tribute.