Walt Disney, born on December 5, 1901, in Chicago, Illinois, began his illustrious career in the early 20th century. After serving in the Red Cross during World War I, Disney moved to Kansas City, Missouri, where he worked as an advertising cartoonist and commercial artist. It was here that he created his first animated series, “Laugh-O-Gram,” which, despite its eventual failure, laid the groundwork for his future success.

In 1923, Disney relocated to Hollywood, California, with his brother Roy. Here, he founded the Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio, which would later become The Walt Disney Company. His breakthrough came with the creation of Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, but when the rights to the character were taken from him, Disney responded by creating a new character: Mickey Mouse. The iconic mouse debuted in 1928 in the short film “Steamboat Willie,” marking the beginning of Disney’s rise to fame.

Walt Disney When Died’s Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, Walt Disney’s estate is estimated to be worth around $10.5 billion. This figure takes into account his vast portfolio of entertainment properties, including Disney Parks, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. It’s important to note that this is an estimate, as the actual worth could be higher or lower depending on various factors.

Career

Walt Disney, born in 1901, was an American entrepreneur, animator, and film producer. He co-founded The Walt Disney Company in 1923, which eventually grew into one of the world’s largest and most successful entertainment companies. Disney is best known for creating iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and for his innovative contributions to the field of animation.

Other Ventures

Beyond animation, Disney was also involved in other ventures. He founded Walt Disney Productions, which produced live-action films, television shows, and theme parks. He also established the Disney Music Company and Walt Disney Records. Additionally, he was a pioneer in the use of television for promoting his films and merchandise.

Assets

Disney’s assets included his stakes in various companies, his film and television libraries, and his real estate. His most valuable asset was likely his 43% stake in the Walt Disney Company, which was estimated to be worth around $7 billion at the time of his death. He also owned several properties, including his Holmby Hills estate in Los Angeles.

Annual Income

While it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact annual income for Disney, given the varied nature of his earnings, it’s estimated that in his peak years, he was earning around $1 million annually. This would be equivalent to approximately $12 million in today’s dollars. This income came from his various business ventures, including his film and television productions, his stake in the Disney Company, and his theme parks.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Walt Disney When Died

Frequently Asked Questions: Walt Disney’s Net Worth

1. When did Walt Disney die?

Walt Disney died on December 15, 1966.

2. How old was Walt Disney when he died?

Walt Disney was 65 years old when he died.

3. What was Walt Disney’s cause of death?

Walt Disney died of lung cancer, which was likely caused by his long-time smoking habit.

4. What was Walt Disney’s net worth at the time of his death?

Walt Disney’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $1 billion.

5. How did Walt Disney amass his wealth?

Walt Disney amassed his wealth through his successful career as a cartoonist, film producer, and television personality. He founded The Walt Disney Company, which became one of the largest and most successful media conglomerates in the world.

6. What was Walt Disney’s first successful cartoon?

Walt Disney’s first successful cartoon was “Steamboat Willie,” which was released in 1928. It was the first cartoon to feature synchronized sound and introduced the iconic character Mickey Mouse.

7. How many Academy Awards did Walt Disney win?

Walt Disney won a total of 22 Academy Awards from 59 nominations throughout his career.

8. What was Walt Disney’s last project before his death?

Walt Disney’s last project before his death was the development of EPCOT, a city of the future that was intended to be a real, functioning community. However, it was eventually turned into a theme park within Walt Disney World.

9. Who inherited Walt Disney’s fortune?

Walt Disney’s fortune was left to his wife, Lillian Disney, and their two daughters, Diane Disney Miller and Sharon Disney Lund. His brother, Roy O. Disney, also received a significant portion of the estate.

10. How has Walt Disney’s legacy impacted popular culture?

Walt Disney’s legacy has had a profound impact on popular culture. His company has created some of the most beloved and iconic characters in entertainment history, including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Winnie the Pooh. The Walt Disney Company continues to be one of the most powerful and influential forces in the entertainment industry, with a presence in film, television, theme parks, and consumer products.