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his or “I art ldnd a fan club for children which attracted soaring numbers in 50s America. Disneyland amusement park opened in California in 1955.
Later the Mickey Mouse Club TV show had child stars known as Mouseketeers and launched the careers of Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears and Ryan Gosling.
The black cap with mouse ears worn by the show’s stars became hugely popular merchandise.
In 1978 Mickey became the first fictional character to get a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. And in 1988 he returned once more in the hit comedy film Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
Over the years the Disney brand moved from fairy tale animations, such as Bambi and the Lion King, to dominating the popular culture landscape with the recent release of new Star Wars films and Marvel superhero blockbusters. But Mickey remains the brand ambassador for the largest entertainment conglomerate in the world.
Disney is hosting a series of events to mark his birthday.
Reflecting on his relationship with Mickey, Walt, who died in 1966, said: “It is understandable that I should have sentimental attachment for the little personage who played so big a part in the course of Disney Productions. He still speaks for me and I still speak for him.”