Arthur Rankin Jr.
- Biography
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Arthur Rankin Jr. (1924-2014) was an American animator, producer, and director who was best known for his work on the Rankin/Bass animated television specials. He was born in New York City on December 27, 1924.
Early Life
Rankin was born to a Jewish family in New York City. His father, Arthur Rankin Sr., was a successful businessman and his mother, Margaret, was a homemaker. Rankin attended the High School of Music and Art in New York City and graduated in 1942. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II.
Career
After the war, Rankin returned to New York and began working in the advertising industry. He eventually became a successful commercial director and producer. In the late 1950s, Rankin and his business partner, Jules Bass, formed the production company Rankin/Bass Productions. The company was best known for its stop-motion animated television specials, which included Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964), The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974), and The Hobbit (1977). Rankin and Bass also produced the animated series ThunderCats (1985-1989) and SilverHawks (1986-1987).
Rankin and Bass also produced several feature films, including The Last Unicorn (1982) and The Flight of Dragons (1982). Rankin was also the executive producer of the animated series The Jackson 5ive (1971-1973).
Later Life
Rankin retired from Rankin/Bass Productions in 1987. He continued to work as a producer and director on various projects until his death in 2014.
Legacy
Rankin's work has been praised for its innovative use of stop-motion animation and its ability to capture the spirit of the holiday season. His work has been cited as an influence on many modern animators, including Tim Burton and Henry Selick. Rankin's work has been honored with several awards, including an Emmy Award for Outstanding Children's Program for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964).
Rankin's legacy lives on through his work, which continues to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. He is remembered as one of the most influential animators of all time.
Date modified: Apr 3, 2023We seek for an accuracy and correctness in our content. In case you spot any mistake, please contact us
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