Which Disney animator created the evil stepmother in Cinderella?

The creation of the evil stepmother character in Disney's "Cinderella" is credited to Frank Thomas, who played a significant role as one of Disney's Nine Old Men. Thomas was known for his ability to imbue characters with emotional depth and complexity, making his contributions to animated storytelling particularly impactful.

In "Cinderella," the wicked stepmother, Lady Tremaine, is a pivotal antagonist whose personality and motivations drive a significant part of the plot. Frank Thomas's work on this character showcases his talent for animating strong, distinctive personalities that resonate with audiences. His approach to character animation emphasized subtle gestures and expressions, allowing the stepmother's maliciousness to be conveyed without needing dialogue.

This focus on character development and emotional nuance helped elevate Disney's storytelling, allowing animated films to go beyond mere entertainment and engage viewers on a deeper emotional level. Thomas's influence as a leading animator was integral not just to the success of "Cinderella," but to the evolution of animated filmmaking overall, demonstrating how animation can portray complex characters and themes.