DDA Guest Lecture Series Spring 2026: Michael Hirsh

Michael Hirsh is a significant figure in the Canadian television industry, a highly accomplished entrepreneur and executive who began his career as a filmmaker and later founded three successful animation companies: Nelvana, Cookie Jar, and WOW! Unlimited Media.

He is recognized industry-wide as a leading business and brand builder since his achievements have helped shape today’s era in animation production and distribution.

Some of the shows that he developed and produced include Babar, Tintin, Care Bears, Droids, Ewoks, The Magic School Bus, Franklin, Little Bear, Beetlejuice, Arthur, Caillou, Doodlebops, Johnny Test, Castlevania, and Bee and PuppyCat.

Animation Nation, published in 2024, is Michael Hirsh’s behind-the-scenes account of working with such famous cartoon franchises and larger-than-life personalities including George Lucas, Stephen Spielberg, and Tim Burton. Michael is proudest of his work building the Canadian and global animation business.

This event is free and open to the public. If not Pratt affiliated, please RSVP by clicking on “register”.