Walt Disney once famously said that when it came to the creation of The Walt Disney Company—which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year—he hoped that audiences wouldn’t “lose sight of one thing—that it was all started by a mouse.”
But before Mickey, there was a lucky rabbit who played a crucial role in Disney’s beginnings.
The Birth of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit first appeared in Trolley Troubles 96 years ago and was one of Walt Disney's earliest creations after founding his animation studio in 1923. Between 1927 and 1928, Walt Disney and his team produced numerous Oswald cartoons for Universal Pictures, which helped establish his early studio's success.
“Although the Disney brothers made their mark on Hollywood’s animation industry with the Alice Comedies, Oswald was truly Disney’s first breakout cartoon star,” said Rebecca Cline, director of the Walt Disney Archives. “He was very popular with audiences and allowed Walt to create a unique character that was charming, lovable, a bit naughty, and truly appealed to audiences.”
A Devastating Loss and a New Beginning
Despite Oswald's popularity, Walt Disney learned during a trip to New York that the character was legally owned by Universal. This devastating loss forced Walt to find a new character—one he could fully own. That setback led to the birth of Mickey Mouse, who would become one of the most enduring icons in pop culture.
Oswald's Triumphant Return to Disney
Oswald's story did not end there. In 2006, Disney CEO Bob Iger orchestrated a deal with NBCUniversal to bring Oswald back to The Walt Disney Company. Recognizing Oswald's historical importance, Iger traded sportscaster Al Michaels’ contract to NBC in exchange for the rights to Oswald.
Since his return, Oswald has regained his place in the Disney family. He recently made appearances at Disney headquarters in Burbank and New York, celebrating his anniversary with employees.
A New Chapter for Oswald
Oswald's revival extended beyond corporate offices. He has appeared in video games, merchandising, and, to commemorate Disney100, starred in a special one-minute animated short, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit—his first at Disney in 95 years.
“As the forerunner to Mickey Mouse and an important part of Walt Disney’s creative legacy, the fun and mischievous Oswald is back where he belongs,” Iger said in 2006.
Rebecca Cline added, “Walt felt the loss of Oswald deeply in 1928 and would have been absolutely thrilled to have Oswald back home in the fold. He is just as popular with Disney fans today, and probably even more so than he was in the 1920s.”
Oswald's return not only honors Disney's past but also solidifies his place in its future, ensuring that this lucky rabbit continues to charm audiences for generations to come.
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