Longtime Disney Imagineer Marty Sklar,
who had creative input in the company’s attractions ranging from “it’s a small world” to Epcot, died Thursday at his California home at age 83.
Marty Sklar, a longtime Imagineer who had creative input in Disney attractions ranging from “it’s a small world” to Epcot, has died. He was 83. He died at his home in Hollywood Hills, Calif., on Thursday.
“Everything about Marty was legendary — his achievements, his spirit, his career,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of Walt Disney Co. “He embodied the very best of Disney, from his bold originality to his joyful optimism and relentless drive for excellence. He was also a powerful connection to Walt himself.”
Sklar was a student at UCLA when he was hired to create The Disneyland News for Disney’s brand new theme park in 1955.
He joined the company full time the next year and eventually became Walt Disney’s right-hand man and trusted adviser, the company said.
Later, he joined WED Enterprises, which became Walt Disney Imagineering, where he became the creative leader.
He was named an official Disney Legend in 2001, and he officially retired as executive vice president and Imagineering ambassador in 2009.
He wrote several books about his experiences with the company, the latest of which was “One Little Spark!: Mickey’s Ten Commandments and the Road to Imagineering,” published in 2015.
Bob Chapek, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, called him “the ultimate Disney Imagineer and cast member.”
“From his days working as an intern with Walt to just two weeks ago engaging with fans at D23 Expo, Marty left an indelible mark on Disney Parks around the globe and on all of the guests who make memories every day with us,” he said.
Others agreed.
“For us, it’s hard to imagine a world without Marty, because Marty is synonymous with Imagineering,” said Bob Weis, president of Walt Disney Imagineering.
“His influence can be seen around the world, in every Disney park, and in the creative and imaginative work of almost every professional in the themed entertainment industry.”
Sklar is survived by his wife, Leah, a son, a daughter and four grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested that donations be made in his name to Ryman Arts, a nonprofit foundation that teaches drawing and painting skills to young artists.
“Everything about Marty was legendary — his achievements, his spirit, his career.” Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of Walt Disney Co.