Disney Character Animator Dale Baer Has Passed Away

Disney Animation films would not be complete without the eclectic array of characters that span from film to film.

The characters can be the best part of films and lots of that work can be attributed to character animators. These are animators that work specifically on one character throughout the production, essentially becoming character experts. And, a long-time Disney animator who took on this role in some classic films, Dale Baer, has passed away.

Disney Animation reported via social media that Baer passed away on Saturday at the age of 70.

A statement from Walt Disney Animation Studios pic.twitter.com/zlit6UqDDL

— Disney Animation (@DisneyAnimation) January 17, 2021

Baer was known for his work as a supervising animator of Disney characters like Yzma in The Emperor’s New Groove and Owl in Winnie the Pooh.

And, over the years he worked on projects, including Disney shorts like “Get a Horse!” and “Feast.” He had a long career with Disney and carried on the legacy of Disney’s legendary Nine Old Men (Walt Disney’s original core animators). Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this time.

Did Baer work on any of your favorite Disney Animation films? Let us know in the comments!