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entertainment1d ago
Sad Reason Original 'Winnie the Pooh' Voice Actor Sterling Holloway Was Pushed Out After Decades of Bringing Characters to Life
- Sterling Holloway originated Winnie the Pooh, shaping the character for generations in Disney projects.
- Disney pivoted to Jim Cummings for Pooh as Holloway aged and could not perform as many readings.
- Holloway’s impact persisted despite his ousting, with colleagues considering his early work the 'mortar' for Pooh’s success.
- Holloway remained connected to Disney and his characters, even as the company chose a new voice for Pooh.
- Holloway suffered a heart attack in 1977; President Jimmy Carter called him during recovery.
- The switch to Cummings addressed production realities, like the need to consistently deliver voice work for ongoing series.
- Holloway died in 1992 at age 87, ending a long, influential run with Disney characters.
- Biographer Rod Taylor provided context on Holloway’s relationship with Disney and his departure.
- Reitherman noted the decision was ultimately Walt Disney’s, influencing Holloway’s replacement.
- The article notes Holloway’s lasting legacy and the enduring appeal of Pooh, even after the transition.
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