You may know Don Bluth as the legendary animator behind such classic films as The Secret of NIMH, An American Tail, and The Land Before Time. You may also know Mitt Romney as the former governor of Massachusetts, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee, and the current senator of Utah. But did you know that these two famous figures are actually related?
That’s right, Don Bluth and Mitt Romney are second cousins, sharing a common ancestor in Helaman Pratt, an early leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and one of the founders of Prattville, Utah. Pratt had three wives and 31 children, one of whom was Rey Pratt, the maternal grandfather of Don Bluth. Another was Anna Amelia Pratt, who married Gaskell Romney, the paternal grandfather of Mitt Romney.
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How Did They Discover Their Connection?
According to Deseret News, Bluth and Romney first learned about their family ties in 2008, when Romney was running for president for the first time. Bluth received a phone call from a cousin who told him that he had a famous relative in the race. Bluth was surprised and curious, so he did some research and found out that he and Romney were indeed related through the Pratt family.
Bluth said that he was impressed by Romney’s achievements and character, and that he felt a kinship with him. He also said that he hoped to meet him someday and talk about their shared heritage. Bluth even sent Romney a copy of his autobiography, Somewhere Out There: My Animated Life, with a personal note.
Have They Ever Met in Person?
It is not clear whether Bluth and Romney have ever met face to face, but they have exchanged some correspondence over the years. In 2012, when Romney was running for president again, Bluth sent him another letter of support and encouragement. He also offered to make an animated campaign ad for him, but Romney politely declined.
In 2019, when Bluth published his second book, Don Bluth’s Art of Storyboard, he sent a copy to Romney with another note. He also invited him to visit his studio in Arizona and see some of his work. Romney replied with a thank-you letter and said that he would love to visit someday.
What Do They Have in Common?
Besides their ancestry, Bluth and Romney have some other things in common. They are both members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and have served missions for their faith. They are both successful businessmen who have founded their own companies. They are both involved in politics, though on different levels and with different views. And they are both passionate about their respective fields of animation and public service.
They also have some differences, of course. Bluth is a Democrat who has been critical of former President Donald Trump, while Romney is a Republican who has been supportive of Trump on some issues but not others. Bluth is known for his artistic vision and innovation, while Romney is known for his pragmatic approach and management skills. Bluth is more outspoken and expressive, while Romney is more reserved and diplomatic.
What Do They Think of Each Other?
Despite their differences, Bluth and Romney seem to have a mutual respect and admiration for each other. Bluth has praised Romney’s leadership and integrity, while Romney has complimented Bluth’s creativity and talent. They have also expressed interest in learning more about each other and their family history.
According to Deseret News, Bluth said: “I think he’s a very good man. I think he’s very honest. I think he’s very capable. I think he’s very smart.” He also said: “I would love to sit down with him sometime and just talk about our family.”
According to The Washington Post, Romney said: “I’m a fan of his work. I think he’s very imaginative. I think he’s very original.” He also said: “I’m proud of the fact that we share some DNA.”
Conclusion
Don Bluth and Mitt Romney are two prominent figures who have made their mark in different fields. They are also second cousins who share a common ancestor in Helaman Pratt, an early leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They have discovered their family connection relatively recently and have exchanged some letters over the years. They have some similarities and some differences, but they seem to respect and admire each other as relatives and professionals.
Is Don Bluth related to Mitt Romney? The surprising truth is yes, they are. And they may even meet someday to talk about it.
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