John Lassseter, executive of Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar, has announced he is taking a six-month leave of absence from the animation juggernauts, following “a number of difficult conversations” regarding his apparent physical interactions with colleagues.
In an internal memo obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Lasseter said “it’s been brought to my attention that I have made some of you feel disrespected or uncomfortable,” adding “I especially want to apologize to anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of an unwanted hug or any other gesture they felt crossed the line in any way, shape, or form.
“No matter how benign my intent, everyone has the right to set their own boundaries and have them respected.”
While the specific incidents that lead to his departure are currently unclear, Variety reports employees have described his behaviour as inappropriate, and that it has contributed to an allegedly sexist company culture that is “toxic” for female employees.
“My hope is that a six-month sabbatical will give me the opportunity to start taking better care of myself, to recharge and be inspired, and ultimately return with the insight and perspective I need to be the leader you deserve,” the Pixar co-founder said.
The 60-year-old is perhaps the most prominent figure in mainstream Western animation, rising to prominence by directing the groundbreaking CGI work on Toy Story. He currently produces or executive produces every Walt Disney Animation Studios of Pixar film, with past credits including Finding Nemo, Up, and Frozen.
You can read his full memo below:
I have always wanted our animation studios to be places where creators can explore their vision with the support and collaboration of other gifted animators and storytellers. This kind of creative culture takes constant vigilance to maintain. It’s built on trust and respect, and it becomes fragile if any members of the team don’t feel valued. As a leader, it’s my responsibility to ensure that doesn’t happen; and I now believe I have been falling short in this regard.
I’ve recently had a number of difficult conversations that have been very painful for me. It’s never easy to face your missteps, but it’s the only way to learn from them. As a result, I’ve been giving a lot of thought to the leader I am today compared to the mentor, advocate and champion I want to be. It’s been brought to my attention that I have made some of you feel disrespected or uncomfortable. That was never my intent. Collectively, you mean the world to me, and I deeply apologize if I have let you down. I especially want to apologize to anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of an unwanted hug or any other gesture they felt crossed the line in any way, shape, or form. No matter how benign my intent, everyone has the right to set their own boundaries and have them respected.
In my conversations with Disney, we are united in our commitment to always treat any concerns you have with the seriousness they deserve, and to address them in an appropriate manner. We also share a desire to reinforce the vibrant, respectful culture that has been the foundation of our studios’ success since the beginning. And we agree the first step in that direction is for me to take some time away to reflect on how to move forward from here. As hard as it is for me to step away from a job I am so passionate about and a team I hold in the highest regard, not just as artists but as people, I know it’s the best thing for all of us right now. My hope is that a six-month sabbatical will give me the opportunity to start taking better care of myself, to recharge and be inspired, and ultimately return with the insight and perspective I need to be the leader you deserve.
I’m immensely proud of this team, and I know you will continue to wow the world in my absence. I wish you all a wonderful holiday season and look forward to working together again in the new year.
John
