He’s a character who’s been entertaining generations. Millions flock to California and Florida to be with him and his friends every year, and today is his 89th birthday.
Mickey Mouse was born in 1928 when Walt Disney's first sound-synchronized animated cartoon, "Steamboat Willie" premiered in New York, ABC News reports.
While generations have invited Mickey and his friends in to their homes and hearts over the years, and he was the first animated character to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, we’re still learning a thing or two about the beloved mouse thanks to an article on CNN and facts from Disney.
- Mickey Mouse wasn't supposed to be a mouse at all. A dispute with his business partner over Oswald the Lucky Rabbit forced Walt Disney to create a new character. The two resemble one another with their red shorts, big ears and wide eyes.
- While most everyone knows Mickey and Minnie are a couple, some might be surprised to learn they're married. Though there's no film of their vows, Disney decided that the mice were happily hitched from the start. They even debuted together in "Steamboat Willie" in 1928, making today Minnie's birthday too.
- Mickey Mouse imparted wisdom to generations, but was silent for 8 films before he uttered his first words: "Hot Dogs!" He's laughed and babbled before, but it wasn't until 1929 that the world learned he could speak. He was also voiced by none other than Walt Disney himself, as Disney wasn't satisfied with the first few actors chosen to provide a voice for the character. Disney voiced Mickey until 1947.
- In addition to his fame among children, he's frequently a write-in candidate in elections. Those votes, along with votes cast for his friends don't typically amount to much. Voters can hope for a little magic, though.
- With thanksgiving around the corner, fans of Mickey might be surprised to learn he first appeared in the "Macy's Santa Claus Parade" (now "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade") in 1934. Measuring 40-feet-tall, the balloon was hand painted and guided by men and women dressed in Mickey and Minnie Mouse costumes.