Donald Duck: 90 years of laughter and endless fun

Donald Duck, that endearing character from the Disney factory, has reached the impressive age of 90 years. Nine decades in which he has managed to conquer the hearts of millions of people around the world with his unique personality and unmistakable voice. On the occasion of this special celebration, it is interesting to delve into the origins of this beloved duck, his evolution over the years, and the plans that the Disney company has for him in the future. Among the vast repertoire of films in which Donald Duck has participated, there is a little-known gem that is set in Peru. In the short film "Donald Visits Lake Titicaca," released in 1942, we see the duck on an Andean adventure riding llamas and navigating totora reed boats. This foray into Peruvian lands holds a special connection to Walt Disney's visit to the country a year earlier, touring the landscapes of Cusco and Puno to capture the essence of Andean culture in his illustrations. Donald Duck made his first appearance on the big screen in 1934, sporting his classic sailor suit in the film "The Wise Little Hen." This character was born from the genius of Walt Disney, who was inspired by the peculiar voice of actor Clarence Nash to bring a talking duck to life. Nash voiced Donald for decades, giving him a grumpy and unmistakable character that has accompanied him throughout his career in film and television. Despite his initial fame as a supporting character, Donald Duck managed to establish himself as one of the fundamental pillars of the Disney universe, alongside Mickey Mouse, Pluto, and Goofy. Over the years, he has undergone various transformations in his role, from being a teacher to a military figure. His three nephews, Huey, Dewey, and Louie, joined his adventures, and Daisy Duck arrived to be his female counterpart, enriching his universe and his stories. One of the highlights in Donald Duck's career was in 1943 when he won an Oscar for the animated short film "Der Fuehrer's Face," which contained a powerful anti-Nazi narrative during World War II. Since then, he has starred in numerous appearances that have elevated him to the status of a superstar, even co-hosting the Academy Awards in 1958, sharing the stage with figures such as Bob Hope and James Stewart. With 90 years under his belt, Donald Duck has become the most published comic book character outside the realm of superheroes, in addition to being the protagonist of an extensive list of films and short films that have kept him relevant in the collective imagination. According to Laura Bonnet, Marketing Manager of The Walt Disney Company Latin America, the emotional connection he has managed to establish with his fans over the years is one of the reasons for his enduring popularity. To celebrate this special date, Donald Duck was honored with a grand party at the Rockefeller Center in New York, which brought together 350 content creators from around the world. Representing Peru, actress Alexia Barnechea and athlete Eduardo Romay attended, enjoying an unforgettable evening in honor of the famous duck. As for Donald's future in the country, new collections of products and clothing are expected to expand the offerings available in physical and digital stores. Thus, with 90 years under his belt, Donald Duck remains an iconic figure in the world of entertainment, captivating generations with his charisma and his fun adventures. His legacy endures over time, and his presence grows stronger with each new generation of fans who discover and fall in love with this special duck. Here's to many more years of laughter and fun with the unforgettable Donald Duck!