What happened between Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney?

The Dynamic Saga of Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney: A Tale of Collaboration and Tension

The annals of animation history are enriched with tales of visionary partnerships that shaped the industry. Among these stories, the complex relationship between Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney stands out as a narrative of collaboration, friendship, and eventual divergence.

Inception at Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio

The journey of Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney began at the Pesmen-Rubin Commercial Art Studio in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1919. As fate would have it, this encounter laid the foundation for a friendship that would lead to groundbreaking achievements in the world of animation.

Failed Ventures and Resilience

The entrepreneurial spirit of Walt and Ub prompted them to launch their own business, an endeavor that faced setbacks and ultimately failed.

Undeterred by this initial setback, they both found employment at the Kansas City Film Ad Company before their paths converged again on the road to animation stardom.

Birth of Disney Animation

In 1923, Walt Disney founded his own cartoon studio, a venture that would become the bedrock of the Disney empire. In a testament to their enduring connection, Walt invited Ub Iwerks to join him as the first animator of the newly established Disney Animation Studio.

The Turning Point

The pivotal year of 1930 marked a turning point in the relationship between Ub Iwerks and Walt Disney.

In an acrimonious departure, Ub resigned from the Disney studio, citing Walt’s demanding nature and a perceived lack of credit for his contributions. Ub sought the autonomy to forge his own creative path.

The Iwerks Studio

Post-departure, Ub Iwerks launched his own studio, aptly named The Iwerks Studio. This marked a departure from the world of Mickey Mouse, with Flip the Frog taking center stage in Ub’s creative endeavors.