‘The Karnival Kid’: Mickey Spoke his First Words 91Years Ago

(This story was first published on 30 May 2017. It has been reposted from The Quint’s archives to mark the anniversary of the release of ‘Steamboat Willie’ – an animated short film featuring Mickey Mouse.)

In 1929, America saw the release of a short animated film, ‘The Karnival Kid’, directed by Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks. It was the ninth film in the Mickey Mouse Series but more importantly, was the first film in which Mickey Mouse said his first words - ‘Hot Dogs’! Composer Carl Starling gave his voice to Mickey’s words in the film.

Before his first words in ‘The Karnival Kid’, Mickey Mouse was known to only whistle and laugh. After this film, Mickey Mouse became the first ever cartoon character to talk.

The film is divided into two main segments. The first, which features Mickey Mouse selling hot dogs at the carnival and the second, where Mickey can be seen playing guitar on a moonlit night outside his love Minnie Mouse’s window.

From Humble Work Desk Mouse to Superstar

Mickey Mouse made its debut in ‘Steamboat Willie’ which was released in 1928. It was considered to be the first sound film and since then, Mickey Mouse went on to become the official mascot of the Walt Disney Company. And a phenomenal hit among kids and adults alike.

It is believed that the inspiration behind Mickey Mouse came to Walt Disney from a mouse at his work desk. Since 1928, Mickey Mouse had made appearances in more than 130 films.

Mickey has also been extensively featured in comic strips, cartoon shows, TV series, merchandising, games. A lasting image is of him greeting kids and adults at the various Disney Parks.

Mickey Mouse also went on to become the first cartoon character to have a star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame on his 50th anniversary in 1978.

Mickey Mouse till date, remains in the hearts of cartoon lovers all over the world and 88 years after he spoke his first words, go watch ‘The Karnival Kid’ to relive the magic.