Disney's "Dark Ages" typically encompasses the late 1960s to the late 1980s. During this time the quality and success of Disney animated films suffered and it wasn’t until 1989’s The Little Mermaid that things turned around. But what happened? Why was one of the most successful studios of all time in decline? The answer likely lies with the man himself, Walt Disney, whose untimely death at 65 left the company struggling to find creative leadership that could fill his shoes. It turns out that Mr Disney liked a cigarette or three and probably didn’t live the healthiest lifestyle. What would have happened had Walt not died? Would things be different? Would the Dark Ages of Disney never come to be? Today’s guest, Em McGowan from the film-history podcast Verbal Diorama, is on a mission to find out. Can she stop Walt Disney from smoking and encourage a healthier lifestyle? Will Disney be saved? Tune in and find out [NOTE. Apologies for some slight technical issues with the video of this episode] Instagram 👉 @PastMasterPod (check out our AI-generated art illustrating what our adventures might have looked like) Twitter 👉 @PastMasterAI TikTok 👉 @PastMasterAI Gmail 👉 pastmasterpod@gmail.com Sign up to our newsletter 👉 https://pastmaster.beehiiv.com/subscribe to unlock goodies Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices