Floyd Norman, Disney’s first Black animator, will receive an honorary Oscar at the 17th Governors Awards on November 15. Norman, who began his career at Disney in 1956, worked on classics such as “Sleeping Beauty” and “The Jungle Book”. His contributions to film have been recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which announced the award alongside other notable recipients, including actress Glenn Close and filmmaker Ridley Scott.

A Legacy of Innovation and Perseverance

Norman’s career spans over seven decades, during which he has worked as an animator, storyboard artist, writer, and consultant. He has been an inspiration to generations of artists, and his work has had a lasting impact on the film industry. The Academy’s recognition of Norman’s achievements is a testament to his dedication and perseverance in a field where he faced many challenges as a Black artist.

Norman’s story has been documented in the film “Floyd Norman: An Animated Life,” which chronicles his career and legacy. At 90, Norman remains a revered figure in the animation community, and his honorary Oscar is a well-deserved recognition of his contributions to the art of filmmaking.

Original reporting: The Washington Informer — read the source article.