After the commercial disappointment of The Black Cauldron, Disney needed a win, and The Great Mouse Detective delivered. In this episode of Disney Junkie: Magic and Myth, Jennifer and Brennon explore the surprising history behind the animated adventure that helped revive Disney Animation while introducing audiences to one of its most memorable villains.

From the fascinating life of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and the enduring legacy of Sherlock Holmes to the creation of Basil of Baker Street, Ratigan, and Disney’s mouse-sized version of Victorian London, they uncover the real-world history and literary inspiration behind the film. They also discuss Vincent Price’s unforgettable performance as Ratigan, the groundbreaking use of computer animation in the iconic clock tower finale, the film’s troubled development, and how it quietly paved the way for Disney’s Renaissance.

Whether you grew up wearing out your VHS copy or are discovering Basil and Dawson for the first time, this episode celebrates the mystery, adventure, and remarkable comeback story behind one of Disney’s most underrated animated classics.

In this special bonus episode of Disney Junkie, Jennifer sits down with actor Keith Coogan, the voice of young Tod in The Fox and the Hound and star of beloved classics including Adventures in Babysitting, Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead, Toy Soldiers, and more.

Keith shares stories from his remarkable career as a child actor, recording for Disney Animation, working with director Chris Columbus, filming Adventures in Babysitting, and the legacy of his grandfather, Jackie Coogan, whose experience led to the creation of the Coogan Law protecting child performers. Along the way, he reflects on Hollywood in the ’70s, ’80s, and ‘90s, the realities of growing up in the entertainment industry, and why The Fox and the Hound remains one of Disney’s most enduring animated classics.

Whether you know Keith as Tod, Brad, Kenny, or from one of his many other film and television roles, this conversation is packed with behind-the-scenes stories, Hollywood history, and plenty of nostalgia.

Follow Keith Coogan:

Instagram: @KeithCoogan

X: @KeithCoogan

In this episode of Disney Junkie: Magic and Myth, Jennifer and Producer Brennon venture into one of Disney’s most ambitious and misunderstood films: The Black Cauldron. Often remembered as Disney’s darkest animated feature, the 1985 fantasy adventure draws heavily from Welsh mythology, ancient folklore, and Lloyd Alexander’s beloved Chronicles of Prydain series.

Together, they explore the Four Branches of the Mabinogi, the legendary tales that inspired the film’s magical cauldrons, enchanted pigs, powerful sorcerers, and the terrifying Horned King. Along the way, they discuss the movie’s surprising connections to The Lord of the Rings, The Legend of Zelda, and other fantasy stories that followed.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering The Black Cauldron for the first time, this episode uncovers the myths, history, and hidden legacy behind one of Disney’s most fascinating cult classics.