By Kayla DeKraker
Winnie the Pooh is turning 100! In 1926, A.A. Milne published the very first Winnie-the-Pooh book, setting the Hundred Acre Wood crew off on what he didn’t know would be a century-long journey — and counting.
Disney will be celebrating the milestone all year long.
“Pooh’s relationship with Disney began nearly 60 years ago, when Walt Disney introduced the Hundred Acre Wood to audiences through animation,” the Walt Disney Company said. “Since those early featurettes, generations of Disney animators have shaped Pooh’s on‑screen personality with warmth, simplicity and storybook-inspired artistry. Disney Legend Mark Henn served as supervising animator for Pooh in the 2011 Walt Disney Animation Studios feature WINNIE THE POOH, helping further define the gentle charm that continues to resonate with fans.”
“Animating Winnie the Pooh has been one of the greatest joys of my career,” said Disney animator Mark Henn. “His warmth, curiosity and subtle expressions allow animators to explore some of the most heartfelt storytelling in the Disney tradition.”
Disney will honor the character’s centennial birthday by giving fans a peek into the extensive collection of Pooh-related memorabilia, dating back to the 1960s. This includes “artwork, documents, animation materials, consumer products and one-of-a-kind artifacts.”
“This collection gives fans a rare opportunity to see some materials that would shape Winnie the Pooh’s on‑screen and consumer‑products legacy, from early merchandise to early studio production documentation that reflects the craft behind his charm,” said Kevin M. Kern, Sr. Manager of Research at Walt Disney Archives.
Amanda Dhalluin, VP Global Brand Commercialization for Disney Consumer Products, added, “Winnie the Pooh’s 100th anniversary gives us an incredible opportunity to celebrate the products that have shaped his legacy. From classic storybook‑inspired collections to modern lifestyle lines, every item we create is designed to connect fans with Pooh Bear in a way that feels personal and joyfully nostalgic.”
The Disney Instagram account posted a sweet video of Pooh over the years to celebrate his 100th birthday.
“Celebrate 100 years of Winnie the Pooh & friends’ timeless wisdom. A gentle reminder to slow down, choose kindness, and find joy in the little things. 🍯💛#WinnieThePooh100” the caption read.
People in the comment section showed love for the nostalgic character.
“We love that silly old bear 🍯💛✨” one person said. Another added, “Winnie the Pooh is my absolute fav💫🌟✨ happy 100 years!!!!!”
The official Winnie the Pooh Instagram account posted a vintage photo of Winnie the Pooh holding hands with Walt Disney a few years ago. “Friendship is a wonderful thing,” the caption said.
Winnie the Pooh is proof that wholesome and family-friendly content can live on for centuries.
Read Next: Why We Still Love Winnie-the-Pooh 100 Years Later
Questions or comments? Please write to us here.
– Content: +1Share:
– Content: +4