Veteran actor Mickey Rooney died yesterday at age 93.
He began his career in the silent film era, and became most famous for portraying Andy Hardy in a series of classic films. He was also one of the stars of "The Black Stallion," as well as many other films and stage productions. He also delivered a standout performance in the "Twilight Zone" episode "The Last Night Of A Jockey."
In animation, he was the voice of Santa Claus in "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town," and "The Year Without A Santa Claus," both produced by Rankin-Bass. He continued acting well into the new millenium.
RIP, Mr. Rooney. You're another legend the world will miss. :(
Mickey Rooney used to tell the story of how when he was a child actor playing Mickey (himself) Mcguire in the Toonerville comedies, he met Walt Disney, who was visiting the Warner Brothers Studio.
Walt had with him a display picture of The Mouse and showed it to the young boy, to test his response. Rooney said the mouse was "terrific" and Disney asked him his name. On hearing it was Mickey he thought for a moment, then said, "How would you like it if I named the mouse after you?" - to which the five-year-old replied, "I’d like that very much."
It is probable, however, that at this stage Walt had already settled on the name, and was only interested in the youngster's reaction.
Mickey Rooney played the voice of Tod in Disney's "The Fox And The Hound." He also appeared in live action as Lampie in "Pete's Dragon." Great acting career...and a lot of marriages/divorces, too.
Rooney was impressive in the tv movie "Bill" as a mentally challenged man, for which he won an Emmy Award.
Loved his character in It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World. Hysterical with Buddy Hackett.
