Was Walt Disney cryogenically frozen?

This is one of the more bizarre Disney conspiracy theories, but nevertheless remains very popular. Basically the theory proposes that Walt Disney arranged to have himself cryogenically frozen at the time of his death, in order that future science could someday use space age technology to reanimate him. But could it be true?

It certainly makes sense. The details surrounding his death were not immediately revealed, and there was no public funeral for one of the most beloved entertainment minds of all time. Is it possible that Walt would stop at nothing to experience a distant future and perhaps take a real space cruiser to the forest moon of Endor?

Well, considering that Star Tours didn’t even open until after his death freezing, I’m guessing no. In fact, I’m going to say that this conspiracy is about as ridiculous as most other conspiracy theories. Nobody knows how the whole “frozen Disney” legend got started, but there doesn’t exist a shred of evidence to back it up.

Here is what we do know. Walt Disney is buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Glendale, CA. It’s right off the 134 freeway just East of the San Fernando Valley. You can visit the gravesite for yourself. If you’re still skeptical, you can dig him up. Really. You have my permission. He is cremated, though, so it may take you a little while to piece him back together.

Many famous people are buried at Forest Lawn including Michael Jackson…wait a minute…wasn’t Michael Jackson also rumored to be cryogenically frozen? Perhaps there’s a connection! Or perhaps not. According to Walt’s death certificate, he died of lung cancer in 1966. At Snopes.com, you can even view the death certificate and will for yourself.

But don’t let irrefutable facts get in the way of a good conspiracy. It’s fun to believe that the mind behind the Disney empire is buried only a few feet beneath you in a frozen cryonic chamber as you float along the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. If you listen really carefully, perhaps you can even hear him calling out to you.

But then take a moment and stop to realize just how absurd it is. I mean, really? The Pirates of the Caribbean ride? Wouldn’t it make far more sense to lean him against the wall in the Star Tours line like Han Solo in a carbonite block, his hands sticking out and his face forever molded in an expression of utter torment? That would certainly get me in the door.

For more detailed information debunking this conspiracy, check out Snopes and Mythbusters.