Ann Sullivan (animator) facts for kids

Ann Sullivan (April 10, 1929 – April 13, 2020) was an American animator. She worked mainly for Disney Animation, helping to create many beloved cartoon characters.

Ann Sullivan's Early Life and Education

Ann Sullivan was born Sara Ann McNeese in Fargo, North Dakota, on April 10, 1929. Her father, Thomas, was an accountant, and her mother, Helen, worked as a stenographer. Ann went to a Catholic school and then studied at North Dakota State University.

Later, she moved to California to be with her sister. There, she enrolled at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena to study art.

Ann Sullivan's Career in Animation

After graduating in the 1950s, Ann Sullivan began working at Disney Studios. She started in the animation paint lab, helping with classic films like Peter Pan. She later took a break from her career to raise her four children. In 1973, she joined another animation studio called Hanna-Barbera.

Ann returned to Disney around 1987. She worked on many popular animated movies, including Oliver & Company (1988), The Little Mermaid (1989), and The Prince and the Pauper (1990).

Ann Sullivan's Work in the 1990s and 2000s

In the 1990s, Ann helped paint the cels (the clear sheets used for animation) for big Disney hits. These included The Lion King (1994), Pocahontas (1995), Hercules (1997), Tarzan, and Fantasia 2000 (both from 1999). She continued her work into the 2000s, contributing to films like The Emperor's New Groove (2000), Lilo & Stitch, and Treasure Planet (both from 2002).

Ann Sullivan's Personal Life

In the early 1950s, Ann married Kevin Sullivan. They had four children together before divorcing in the 1970s. Ann loved painting and was a very artistic person. She also enjoyed teaching art to children in her neighborhood of La Mirada, California, where her family lived.

Retirement and Passing

Ann Sullivan spent her later years living at the Motion Picture & Television Country House and Hospital. She passed away on April 13, 2020, just three days after her 91st birthday. Her death was due to health issues related to COVID-19. She is remembered by her four children, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

See also

In Spanish: Ann Sullivan para niños