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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Mizzou chapter.

Everyone knows that Mickey Mouse is a star. To celebrate his 90th Anniversary, a pop-up exhibit will be opening in New York City on Thursday, November 8, 2018. The exhibit will run through Sunday, February 10, 2018. “Mickey: the true original exhibition” will include 10 different rooms with art and memorabilia featuring the one and only Mickey Mouse. Tickets can be purchased for the exhibit here

When people reflect back on the 90 years that Mickey has been in existence, they are bound to remember all the wonderful reasons why he has been such an iconic character for generations. Here are a few reasons why Mickey should always be kept close to people’s hearts.

1. Mickey started it all

“Snow White and the Seven Dwarves” is known for being the first feature-length animated feature film to be released by Walt Disney in 1937. But earlier in 1928, Disney created “Steamboat Willie,” which was the first animated cartoon talking picture to ever be seen on the screen. And wouldn’t you know it, Mickey Mouse was the lead character.

“I only hope that we never lose sight of one thing – that it was all started by a mouse.” – Walt Disney

2. He is a reminder of childhood innocence

Honestly, who doesn’t smile or even laugh when watching Mickey? He allows us to revisit those days when we were carefree and full of youthful spirit. Mickey is a genuine character with a big heart. Watching him allows viewers to forget about the depressing problems that exist in the world. Even if it’s only for a short amount of time, we can always use a little bit of joy that Mickey brings into our lives.

“All we ever intended for him or expected of him was that he should continue to make people everywhere chuckle with him and at him. We didn’t burden him with any social symbolism, we made him no mouthpiece for frustrations or harsh satire. Mickey was simply a little personality assigned to the purposes of laughter.” – Walt Disney

3. This mouse just keeps going

One would assume that after a little while most characters die out and new characters are created for movies and tv shows. But Mickey certainly doesn’t follow that rule. He has appeared on screen over 100 times. From “Fantasia” to “Mickey Mouse Club House,” he has been around for almost a century, and he’s not going anywhere.

“There was a period of time when they estimated the two biggest stars in Hollywood were Charlie Chaplin and Mickey Mouse.” – John Lasseter

4. He is basically the face of Disney

When you think of Disney, oftentimes the first character that comes to mind is Mickey Mouse. He is always at Disneyland and Disney World. Everyone knows and loves him. Even the Mickey Mouse ears are iconic. He’s quite the popular mouse if you think about it.

“Kids, adults, men, women, everybody has a relationship with Mickey Mouse.” – Warren Spector

5.  This guy will always stick around

Even though we all grow up and have to say our goodbyes to childhood, Mickey Mouse is one of those characters that will always stay in our memories. He is an unforgettable mouse that reminds us of ourselves. He was always getting into trouble like any of us do, and constantly finding ways to solve the problems. Mickey’s relatable and humorous character allows everyone a chance to see themselves and connect with him personally.

“When people laugh at Mickey Mouse it’s because he’s so human, and that is the secret of his popularity.” – Walt Disney

 

Studying to be a journalist at the University of Missouri in Columbia. Senior Editor and Writer at Her Campus Mizzou.
HC Contributer Mizzou