Dave Fleischer

David "Dave" Fleischer (July 14, 1894 – June 25, 1979) was a prominent American animator, film director, and producer, recognized for his pivotal role in the animation industry as a co-founder of Fleischer Studios alongside his brother Max Fleischer. Born in New York City, Dave began his career around 1913-1914 as a film cutter for Pathé, which was the leading global film production and distribution company at the time.

Dave's contributions to animation were significant, particularly as the rotoscope model for the iconic character Koko the Clown. He held the title of director for all Fleischer studio films from 1921 to 1942, although his primary function was that of a producer while lead animators carried out directorial tasks. Under his supervision, the studio produced beloved series such as Talkartoons, Betty Boop Cartoons, and Popeye the Sailor, with Popeye emerging as a major competitor to Mickey Mouse. He also oversaw two animated features distributed by Paramount Pictures: Gulliver's Travels (1939) and Mr. Bug Goes to Town (1941).

Despite his success, tensions between the Fleischer brothers grew, particularly after Dave's personal life became tumultuous. In 1942, he departed Fleischer Studios to become President of Screen Gems at Columbia Pictures, while still managing Fleischer Studios until its reorganization into Famous Studios under Paramount. Later, he transitioned to Universal Pictures, where he worked as a special effects expert on notable films like The Birds (1963) and Thoroughly Modern Millie (1967). Dave Fleischer passed away from a stroke on June 25, 1979, in Woodland Hills, California, after enjoying a decade of retirement.