Don Hahn produced Beauty and the Beast in 1991, the first animated film to receive a Best Picture Academy Award nomination, as well as receive more nominations than any animated movie in Oscar history. In 1994, he went on to produce The Lion King, the top-grossing traditionally animated film of all time.

Don writes, paints, plays music, makes films and feels each activity keeps the others fresh and interesting. Throughout our conversation, he returned to the theme of honoring the people he most admires, those who have remained creative throughout their lives and continually evolve in their view of both their art and the world.

Don’s most recent project is his documentary celebrating the life and genius of the lyricist Howard Ashman, who along with Alan Menken wrote the music for Little Shop of Horrors, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and many other shows. This was only my second interview conducted during the pandemic and my first done virtually.