It all started with (a now public domain) Mickey Mouse, but today Disney is a cultural behemoth. A global household name. Walt Disney is synonymous with childhood, nostalgia, and joy. Recently, their multi-billion dollar empire continues to grow, with a string of high-profile and big money acquisitions. So is the magic still there? And why does everyone love Disney?
Special guests:
- Janet Wasko, an author and professor in Communication Research at the University of Oregon, whose book Understanding Disney was a huge resource for me during my time as an American Studies student.
In this episode, Janet and I discuss how Disney has become so embedded in childhood, and how many adults grow up with such a Disney obsession. We also look at recent acquisitions of Star Wars, Marvel and Fox, and consider how Disney manage to keep growing without losing their magic.
Additional resources:
BOOK: Understanding Disney by Janet Wasko
ARTICLE: Steamboat Willie enters the public domain
If you love this, you might also like:
What Makes Country Music so American?
Are the Oscars Still Relevant?
Why Does Everyone Love Disney?
Could Friends BE Any Bigger?
How Accurate is Forrest Gump?
Contact us: america@podcastsbyliam.com
Join the community: https://www.patreon.com/cw/americathestoryoftheusa - use code USA26 for 50% off your first month
Get the newsletter: https://america-the-story-of-the-usa.beehiiv.com/
Brand & advertising enquiries: liam@mercurypodcasts.com
Want to advertise with us and support the American Studies community?
Email liam@mercurypodcasts.com and let's talk.
Mentioned in this episode:
This episode is sponsored by What's Your Map
What's Your Map is the British Podcast Award-winning show from map expert Professor Jerry Brotton. In each episode, he invites a special guest to share a map that means something to them. It's a fascinating show, and you can listen to the new season right now: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/whats-your-map/id1766500219
