Abe Levitow was a pivotal figure in the Chuck Jones production unit during the latter half of the Golden Age of Animation, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His impressive body of work includes some of the most beloved Looney Tunes cartoons of the 1950s, such as Deduce, You Say (1956),Ali Baba Bunny (1957),and Robin Hood Daffy (1958).
Levitow's remarkable career began in 1939 when he signed on with Leon Schlesinger, marking the start of a 15-year tenure at Warner Brothers. However, his time at the studio was temporarily interrupted by his service in the Army Signal Corps during World War II.
Following his military service, Levitow returned to Warner Brothers and eventually progressed to the role of animation director. In 1953, he left Warner Brothers to join the United Productions of America (UPA),where he oversaw the production of two series of 'Mr. Magoo' cartoons.
Levitow's collaboration with UPA also led to the creation of a critically acclaimed animated adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, Mister Magoo's Christmas Carol (1962),as well as the charming animated feature Gay Purr-ee (1962).
In 1966, Levitow briefly worked at MGM, producing a series of 'Tom & Jerry' cartoons. He then went on to establish his own production company, Levitow/Hanson Films, in January 1972. The company specialized in animated commercial projects and specials.
Tragically, Levitow's life was cut short when he passed away at the age of 52 in May 1975. Despite his untimely death, his legacy as a pioneering animator and director continues to be celebrated by animation enthusiasts around the world.
