Who was William Hanna?
William Hanna was an American animator, voice actor, and musician who co-created some of the most beloved cartoon characters of all time, such as Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, Yogi Bear, and Scooby-Doo. Along with his partner Joseph Barbera, he founded the animation studio and production company Hanna-Barbera, which became the most successful television animation studio in the business
Hanna was born on July 14, 1910, in Melrose, New Mexico Territory. He developed a love of the outdoors and music from an early age. He joined the Harman and Ising animation studio in 1930 and met Barbera at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in 1937. They formed a lasting partnership that spanned more than six decades
How did William Hanna die?
William Hanna died on March 22, 2001, at his home in North Hollywood, Los Angeles. He was 90 years old. The cause of death was laryngeal cancer, also known as throat cancer
Laryngeal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the larynx, or voice box, which is located in the neck. The larynx is responsible for producing sound and helping with breathing and swallowing. Laryngeal cancer can cause symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, pain in the throat or ear, a lump in the neck, or coughing up blood
The risk factors for laryngeal cancer include smoking, alcohol consumption, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and a family history of the disease. The treatment options depend on the stage and location of the cancer, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy
What was William Hanna’s legacy?
William Hanna’s legacy is immense and enduring. He and Barbera created some of the most iconic and influential cartoons in history, which have entertained and inspired generations of viewers and animators. Their cartoons have won seven Academy Awards, eight Emmy Awards, and numerous other honors. They have also been adapted into films, books, toys, and other media
Hanna and Barbera were also pioneers in the field of television animation, developing a simpler and less expensive form of animation that suited the small screen and the mass audience. They produced thousands of half-hour shows that featured memorable characters, humorous situations, and catchy theme songs. They also tackled social issues and introduced diversity and representation in their cartoons
Hanna and Barbera’s work has had a lasting impact on the culture and the industry of animation. They have influenced many other animators and studios, such as Chuck Jones, John Lasseter, Matt Groening, Seth MacFarlane, and Pixar. They have also been recognized and honored by various institutions and organizations, such as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Television Academy, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Smithsonian Institution
