Russi Taylor, the voice of Disney's Minnie Mouse, has passed away

The famous vocal actor Russi Taylor, who has played Minnie Mouse, Disney's icon for over 30 years, has died at the age of 75.

The Walt Disney Company confirmed that Taylor pbaded away on Friday, July 26, while CEO Bob Iger paid tribute to "a Disney legend" in a statement.

"Minnie Mouse lost her voice with the death of Russi Taylor," said Iger. "For more than 30 years, Minnie and Russi have collaborated to entertain millions of people around the world, and this partnership has made Minnie a global icon and Russi a legend of Disney that is much appreciated by fans around the world.

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"We are very grateful for the talent of Russi, as well as for the great spirit and joy that she has brought to all that she has done. having known and honored to have worked with her, we are comforted by the fact that her work will continue to entertain and inspire future generations.

"Russi will be sorely missed and our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends, as well as our most sincere condolences."

Russi won the role of Minnie Mouse in 1986, after auditioning against 200 other hopes. He has been Minnie's official voice for over 30 years in hundreds of Disney projects, including movies, TV shows and theme park experiences.

Russi was married to Wayne Allwine, the voice of Mickey Mouse, who died in 2009.

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"Russi Taylor played the role of Minnie Mouse," said Rick Dempsey, senior vice president of Disney Character Voices.

"She was truly one of the kindest, most graceful, optimistic and loving people with whom I had the privilege of working and counting as a friend." Whenever anyone met Russi, his day would always brighten a little.

"Not only was she incredibly talented and gifted, but she really wanted to make the world a better place with the gifts that were blessed to her.The world has lost a real treasure, we will miss her, but her voice will be missed. "

In addition to Minnie Mouse, Russi was known to have performed several other Disney characters, including nephews Donald Duck, Huey, Dewey and Louie, in the original. ducktales animated series.

She was also the voice of Strawberry Shortcake, the favorite of children, and Martin Prince, Bart Simpson's clbadmate, in The simpsons, as well as Sherri and Terri binoculars.

"Deeply saddened to learn of the death of Russi Taylor, a real pleasure to work with," Simpsons Host Al Jean shared on Twitter.

"Farewell to the wonderful Russi Taylor, who has brought such joy to many of our favorite characters such as Martin Prince, Üter and many others on Simpsons & Disney and the animated world," Josh Weinstein added.

Many fans and colleagues of Russi paid tribute to the actress after the announcement of her death:

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