Bob Lambert, an executive who played an integral role in developing computer animation, has passed away at the age of 55. Cause of death was undisclosed.
Lambert worked as a senior executive in various departments of The Walt Disney Co. for 25 years, and was one of the chief executives who helped design a strategy to replace cell animation with CGI technology.
Dick Cook, former chairman of the Walt Disney Studios, said:
I am deeply saddened by the loss of my friend and former colleague Bob Lambert. Not only was he a great person, he was a highly respected visionary who forever changed the moviegoing experience by leading the motion picture industry into the digital era. His passing is a great loss.
In addition to his work for The Walt Disney Co., Lambert was also the founder and chairman of DCI, a company that helped movie theaters transition into the world of digital exhibition. He is survived by his wife, brother and nephew.
