Disney legend RUSSI TAYLOR died on Friday at the age of 75. She might not be a recognizable name, but you’d know her voice. She’s been the official voice of Minnie Mouse since 1986. There’s no word on a cause of death.
Russi also voiced characters like Strawberry Shortcake and Pebbles Flintstone in the ’80s . . . plus the nerd Martin Prince and the purple-haired twins Sherri and Terri on more than 100 episodes of “The Simpsons” and “The Simpsons Movie”.
Disney boss Bob Iger said, quote, “Minnie Mouse lost her voice . . . for more than 30 years, Minnie and Russi worked together to entertain millions around the world.
“We’re so grateful for Russi’s talent as well as the tremendous spirit and great joy she brought to everything she did. It was a privilege to have known her and an honor to have worked with her, and we take comfort in the knowledge that her work will continue to entertain and inspire for generations to come.”
Statement from Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger on the passing of Disney Legend Russi Taylor: pic.twitter.com/4TpSVkT8BE
— Walt Disney Company (@WaltDisneyCo) July 27, 2019
Russi was married to Wayne Allwine, who was the third voice of Mickey Mouse, from 1977 until his death in May of 2009. They were both named Disney Legends in 2008. Disney has not said who will replace Russi as Minnie
Here’s Russi doing Minnie in 1987, early in her tenure. And here’s another clip from “Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas” in 1999. And here’s a special on Russi Taylor, which includes a LOT of her voice work.
