DISNEY TAPS CHANCE THE RAPPER, GIGI HADID FOR NEW CAMPAIGN

by Stephen Garner
Chance the Rapper

Disney has launched a new global campaign inspired by the “Sensational Six” – Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto – and their iconic friendship that has spanned over several decades.

Starting this week and culminating on July 30th, International Friendship Day, fans across the globe are invited to ‘shout out’ their friends and thank them for “staying true” through social media challenges, free digital activations and more, using #MickeyFriendsStayTrue.

Chance the Rapper, Gigi Hadid, and Yara Shahidi helped kick off the campaign on Thursday with posts celebrating their best friends Sayeed Shahidi, Ehsan Shahidi, Olivia Perez, and Taylor Bennett.

“My brother is my best friend and I’m excited to celebrate International Friendship Day alongside him and Mickey Mouse,” said Chance the Rapper.

“I’ve always been such a big Disney fan, and know any day I get to step foot into a Disney park will be another great one,” added Gigi Hadid. “I have so many amazing memories from childhood to adulthood that include Mickey and the Sensational Six. I’m so happy to be celebrating International Friendship Day alongside these iconic characters!”

Additionally, Good Morning America and syndicated morning talk show Live with Kelly and Ryan are joining in the celebration, with special messages to encourage viewers to participate. Some friendship stories could end up being featured on Disney’s social platforms and on Good Morning America.

“Celebrating friendship and those who help us stay true to ourselves and others is more important than ever before,” said Kareem Daniel, president of Disney Consumer Products, Games and Publishing. “As families around the world look to Disney to add magic to their daily lives, this campaign highlights the enduring bonds between Mickey and his pals – inviting fans to share in their exciting adventures, and iconic friendships.”

In celebration of the campaign, new product collaborations such as Primark, H&M, Adidas, Big W, BaubleBar, Ray-Ban, Otterbox, and Kellogg’s will be available, along with cross-category products for all ages at retailers all over the world, with more to come later this year.

Disney’s “Mickey & Friends: Stay True” campaign will continue throughout the year, including celebrating Friendsgiving in November.