Xavier "X" Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend

Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend

On November 4, 2025, a new book will be coming out. Called Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend, this book is written by family members of Atencio. X Atencio was both an animator and Imagineer at Disney. He is often associated with his work on the script and lyrics for Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and The Country Bear Jamboree. He was named a Disney Legend in 1996. Recently, while at a media event at Walt Disney World Resort, Daps Magic had the opportunity to interview the authors and also the family of Atencio, Tori Atencio McCullough, Kelsey McCullough, and Bobbie Lucas. In this interview, Mr. Daps had the opportunity to ask about the book, working together on the book, and more. Take a look at this interview here:

Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend Official Description

From apprentice animator on Pinocchio to the lyricist behind “Yo Ho, Yo Ho A Pirates Life for Me,” Xavier “X” Atencio’s Disney career was diverse and spectacular.

Now for the first time his talent, humor, and creativity come to life in a book celebrating the body of work and the legacy of one of Walt’s original and most versatile Imagineers.

Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend depicts the life,art, and lasting legacy of X, detailing how he put himself into his work and used his talents,passion, humor, and creativity to inspire generations. It is the most comprehensive look to date at the one of Walt’s original and most versatile Imagineers.

Featuring previously unpublished artwork and photographs from X’s personal collection, this book grants readers the unique opportunity to discover the true depths of influence X attained on his life journey. For while it was rare to become a Disney Imagineer, it was even rarer to end a career at Disney with as diversified a resume as X’s—from “small-town Colorado boy” to art school attendee, Disney animator, attraction scriptwriter, lyricist, voice-over artist, and finally Disney Legend.

Set against the historic and cultural evolutions of The Walt Disney Company, Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend provides a deeply personal perspective into the life and career of a Disney Legend whose story, until now, had remained largely untold.

Xavier “X” Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend can be preordered on Amazon or other booksellers. Daps Magic will have a review up of this book ahead of its release. From the pages that have been read so far, it is a fascinating book that will be a treasure in Disney fans’ libraries.

Have you preordered this book yet? Are you going to? What are you most excited about with this book? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!

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