Robin Williams and Disney Had a Serious Disagreement After ‘Aladdin

After the release of ‘Aladdin,’ Disney implemented a corporate strategy that left the actor and comedian, Robin Williams, deeply angered.

Ten thousand years may give a crick in the neck, but in some cases, so can Disney. In 1992’s classic ‘Aladdin,’ Robin Williams breathed life into the Genie with his distinct voice, ranging from deep and rumbling to helium-infused high-pitched tones. He seamlessly imitated celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Arnold Schwarzenegger and delivered jokes that appealed to both kids and adults. The Genie, with his “phenomenal cosmic powers” trapped in an “itty bitty living space,” embodied Williams’ rapid-fire voice talents, elevating ‘Aladdin’ to a Disney classic. The film became a massive box office hit, but a public feud cast a shadow over the enchanting Disney castle seen in the opening logo.

Initially, the Genie’s role in the 1992 movie was meant to be smaller, but Williams’ presence transformed it. During recording sessions, he contributed nearly 30 hours of dialogue, blending script lines with improvisation. His witty and quick responses, such as “Like a vampire on a day pass,” made it hard for co-star Scott Weinger to keep a straight face. While the Genie dazzled with humor, he also revealed a softer, lonelier side, yearning for freedom.

Ron Clements, co-director of ‘Aladdin,’ reminisced about Williams’ recording sessions, where each take led to more ideas and laughter. However, this collaboration came to an abrupt end, leaving behind a treasure trove of unused material.

In 1993, during an appearance on ‘The Today Show’ to promote ‘Mrs. Doubtfire,’ Williams disclosed the rift between him and Disney. He had a clear agreement that his voice wouldn’t be used for merchandising. Yet, Disney disregarded this agreement, using his voice and character for promotional purposes. Williams expressed his disappointment, stating, “That was the one thing where they crossed the line.” He refused to work with Disney again until they apologized.

Disney defended themselves, claiming Williams was dissatisfied with his compensation and had approved marketing materials. The disagreement persisted, leading to the recasting of the Genie for ‘Aladdin: The Return of Jafar’ and ‘Aladdin: The Series.’ Dan Castellaneta, known for voicing Homer Simpson, took on the role but couldn’t fully replicate Williams’ high-pitched characters.

Disney’s attempts to mend fences, including sending a $1 million Picasso painting as a gift, failed to sway Williams. The feud continued until 1994 when Joe Roth replaced Jeffrey Katzenberg as Disney’s chairman. Roth offered the public apology Williams sought, leading to Williams’ return as the Genie in ‘Aladdin and the King of Thieves’ in 1996. This marked the reunion of Williams and the Genie, showcasing his talent for blending family-friendly humor with adult-oriented jokes.

In 2009, Williams was recognized as a Disney Legend at the D23 Expo, burying the hatchet between him and Disney. Subsequently, Dan Castellaneta and Will Smith portrayed the Genie in different adaptations, each paying homage to Williams’ iconic portrayal. However, Williams’ Genie remains a unique and irreplaceable Disney icon, forever tied to the magic of the 1992 original.

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