:'(
I just found out today that Wayne Allwine died.
Today. August 13, 2009. He passed away May 18, 2009. Almost a full three months later. How could I not have known? I feel horrible. Granted, I left on a plane to Japan the day after his death and didn't have internet or US news access for a while after I got there. But still. I should have found out some way, right? God. I couldn't be there to grieve with everyone. Join in the tributes. Post comments on every blog post about it saying how wonderful he was. But, in a way, I guess that meant he was alive to me for just a little bit longer.
I am crushed. I have never felt this sad about the loss of someone I have never met. I feel like part of my childhood has just died. I truthfully cannot stop the tears.
I know it's not like he WAS Mickey Mouse. Mickey is made up of a lot of people and a lot of dreams. Walt, Ub, Jimmy, he's pretty much the entire Walt Disney Company. But, for me, a lot of him was Wayne. Walt and Jimmy and all the animators did a wonderful job of putting fun and personality and meaning and value and leadership and imagination into Mickey. But Wayne gave him a warmth that surpassed Jimmy and even, dare I say it, Walt. With Wayne behind the mic, Mickey wasn't just a squeaky falsetto. He brought a soft quality to his voice that made it so soothing, so easy to listen to. He brought heart and sweetness to his character. His voice just made me smile from ear to ear and made me feel really comforted. It was HIS signature laugh, HIS "Oh boy", HIS "See ya real soon" that became what Mickey is known for.
I think it's also important to point out that Wayne really "acted" as Mickey. Sure the others acted while playing Mickey, but, while they were all truly wonderful, his voice was pretty much one straight tone. Wayne's high pitches had dips and peaks, when Mickey was sad or scared or happy, one small noise out of him could give off a sense of what he was feeling. Wayne was trule a master of his craft, a true Disney Legend and a voice acting great. This entry is a testament to how difficult Wayne's style of Mickey was.
And he was married to the incredibly talented Russi Taylor, the voice of Minnie Mouse (as well as several other Disney characters). How could they not be perfect for the roles! And you could hear it in his voice too how much he loved her too. "Aww Minnie" just melts my heart whenever he says it. I just can't imagine how Russi must be feeling. My heart goes out to her, as well as to Tony and Bill.
Speaking of love, Wayne also just loved Mickey as well. He was probably the actual "Mickey's biggest fan." Just watch this interview with him and Russi and you'll see how he understands and respects the work that he does and how important it is. And rumor has it he was very active in the search for the next Mickey Mouse (sounds like a bad reality TV series). I think part of what makes me this sad is he passed away before the baton was officially passed. I don't know if I can listen to the new Mickey Mouse voice though when they hire the new guy. Especially if Russi, Tony and Bill all continue on. I know they are looking for someone who does it near exactly like Wayne does it. But in a way, I kind of think I would like it better if it's a little different. Just as Wayne brought something new to Mickey, I want the next guy to bring something new to him as well, so he can keep evolving. And, in all truth, they're not looking for someone to fill Wayne's shoes. As Wayne was told when he started, he's just "filling in for the boss."
But in a strange way, Wayne's passing signifies a new generation of the Disney studios. When Wayne took over, a new age of Disney animation had just begun. And now another one is starting, by the looks of it.
Rest in Peace Wayne Allwine. Thank you for everything you have done for me and for the rest of the world. You will be terribly missed. Some people may not even know that they are missing you. But they'll feel a little different when they hear Mickey next and wonder what it is. You did amazing things for Disney and spectacular things for the Mouse. Give my love to Walt and all the rest of the gang!
"Some imagination, huh?"