Disney reportedly barred a voice actress from further work due to her portrayal of Snow White.
In the winter of 1987, Brian Sibley's article 'With a smile and a song - Adriana Caselotti' graced the pages of Animator Magazine, offering a glimpse into the life and career of the woman behind one of Disney's most iconic characters.
Born in Philadelphia, Adriana Caselotti's career as a voice actor was limited to one role: Snow White in Disney's 1937 classic, 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.' Her voice also echoed in a tiny singing part in 'It's a Wonderful Life' and a single voiceover line in 'The Wizard of Oz.'
Walt Disney's policy of keeping Caselotti's voice unique to Snow White resulted in her being restricted from other roles. Some sources claim that this effectively ended her showbiz career, with Disney putting her under contract and then never giving her any work.
The New York Times published an obituary for Caselotti on January 21, 1997, marking the end of a career that began and ended with a single character. In 1938, Caselotti and the actor who voiced Prince Charming unsuccessfully sued Disney and RCA for a share of soundtrack-record profits.
Despite the allegations of a blacklisting scheme, Caselotti received the Disney Legend Award in 1994 but never publicly mentioned such a scheme. Hollywood legend suggests that Walt Disney contractually prohibited Caselotti from revealing her 'secret identity' or performing as Snow White, as well as doing any further film, TV, and radio work for the rest of her career.
Caselotti was paid a total of $970 for about three years' work on 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,' which is approximately $16,000 in today's value. Stacey Conradt's article 'The Faces Behind Disney's 11 Princesses' published in Mental Floss on October 22, 2013, provides further information about Caselotti and other Disney princesses.
The Associated Press published an article titled 'Disney is sued by Snow White, Prince' on October 21, 1938, marking a significant moment in Caselotti's career. Yet, despite the legal battle and the allegations of a restrictive contract, Caselotti's voice continues to enchant audiences worldwide, reminding us of the magic that lies in the simplicity of a smile and a song.
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