Thurl Ravenscroft 2/6/14 – 5/22/05
Today, The Main Street Mouse remembers Disney Legend, Thurl Ravenscroft. Some may not recognize the name, but you sure would recognize the voice. The voice of Thurl Ravenscroft is an enormous contribution to Disney history, and still is today.
The Disney Community lost an absolute legend on this date, May 22, back in 2005. Mr. Ravenscroft passed away at the age of 91. He was the voice of “Tony the Tiger” in the cereal commercials for many, many years. He also sang the theme song for How the Grinch Stole Christmas. His contribution to Disney Fans could be even more memorable. Haunted Mansion fans know him as the lead voice (and head singing bust) for the song “Grim Grinning Ghosts.” Ravenscroft can also be heard in other Disney Attractions such as Pirates of the Caribbean, The Enchanted Tiki Room, and the Country Bear Jamboree. He also was an announcer and participated in opening day ceremonies at Disneyland, with Walt Disney in California. He began working with Walt, early in his career when he was in a barbershop quartet called The Mellomen.
Even though Thurl Ravenscroft is especially known for voicing Tony the Tiger (they’re grrrrrreat!), I still can’t help but associate him mostly with Disney. The Haunted Mansion itself is a legend, and having Thurl Ravenscroft as a main contributor is part of Disney “magic.” When I was younger, I always thought the singing bust of Ravenscroft was actually supposed to be Walt Disney. I know a lot of other people thought the same. Once I was older and started learning more facts about all things Disney, I came across his name, and realized who he was. I’m sure kids today, heck, even my own kids, would have no idea who Thurl Ravenscroft was….. but they’d know the voice! That voice will always be an important part of the core of what Disney is. Thank you Thurl Ravenscroft for all the magic you gave to us Disney Fans, and thank you Walt for hiring him!
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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