This fun Disney TV special was a nightmare behind the scenes

Disney’s TV special for EPCOT Center's opening may have looked great, but behind the scenes, it was a nightmare!

Looking back at television in the early 1980s is an interesting experience. Cable TV was in its infancy, VCRs were barely used, and the overall tone was more conservative in many ways. It was also pretty old school as networks relied on tried and true stuff like the old variety show aspects and musical specials.

Disney had used that well for years as their TV specials were always unique, mixing in original songs with some fun stars. By the 1980s, they were working with Smith-Hemion, which is well known for some award-winning variety specials featuring stars such as Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Elvis, Bette Middler, and more. They could be silly and cheesy yet fun to watch. The company was also behind the now-infamous Star Wars Holiday Special. 

One of the first times Disney and Smith-Hemion worked together was 1980's Kraft Salutes Disneyland's 25th Anniversary, which was hosted by Danny Kaye and packed with celebrity cameos and fun musical numbers. So when Disney wanted a host for a big program on the opening of their newest theme park, Kaye seemed a safe bet. 

A short history of Kaye

He may be forgotten now, but in his prime, Danny Kaye was one of the best-loved comics around. He broke out in the 1940s with his great singing voice, excellent physical comedy and ability to pull off rapid-fire, tongue-twisting lyrics with ease.

Kaye was showcased in films such as Up in Arms and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty. His height was in the 1950s with The Court Jester and the holiday classic White Christmas. In the mid-1960s, he moved to hosting his own variety show and remained a popular figure for some time. That included starring in a Smith-Hemion production of Peter Pan as Captain Hook.

Kaye was also well-regarded for his work with UNICEF, traveling the world and raising millions for the charity. His performance in the Disneyland special was good, playing multiple roles and good comedy and musical numbers. Thus, Kaye was seen as a good pick for the big special to show off Disney's epic park.