Early Life and Education

Glen Keane was born on April 13, 1954, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He comes from a family of artists, with his father being the famous cartoonist Bil Keane, creator of the comic strip "Family Circus." Glen showed an interest in art from a young age and was encouraged by his parents to pursue his passion.

He attended the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where he studied character animation under the guidance of legendary Disney animators such as Ollie Johnston and Frank Thomas. It was during his time at CalArts that Glen honed his skills and developed his unique style of animation.

Career at Disney

After graduating from CalArts, Glen Keane joined Walt Disney Feature Animation in 1974. He quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the most sought-after animators in the industry. Glen worked on a number of iconic Disney films, including "The Little Mermaid," "Beauty and the Beast," "Aladdin," and "Pocahontas."

One of Glen's most famous creations is the character of Ariel from "The Little Mermaid." His animation of Ariel swimming underwater is considered a masterpiece of traditional hand-drawn animation. Glen's work on "Beauty and the Beast" earned him critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a top animator in Hollywood.

Transition to CGI Animation

In 2012, Glen Keane left Disney to pursue new opportunities in computer-generated animation. He joined Google's Advanced Technology and Projects group (ATAP) to work on a short film called "Duet," which combined hand-drawn animation with cutting-edge CGI technology. The film was well-received and showcased Glen's versatility as an animator.

Glen later collaborated with Netflix on the animated feature film "Over the Moon," which was released in 2020. The film received positive reviews for its stunning visuals and heartfelt story, further cementing Glen's status as a pioneer in the world of animation.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Glen Keane's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. His successful career in both traditional hand-drawn animation and CGI animation has made him one of the most respected figures in the industry. Glen continues to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of animators with his innovative work.

Personal Life

Glen Keane is married to Linda Hesselroth, who is also an artist and illustrator. They have two children together and reside in Los Angeles, California. In his free time, Glen enjoys painting, sculpting, and spending time with his family.

In conclusion, Glen Keane is a true legend in the world of animation. His contributions to the industry have left an indelible mark on countless films and inspired generations of artists. With his innovative approach to storytelling and animation techniques, Glen continues to push boundaries and redefine what is possible in the world of animated entertainment.