Leo the Lion: The Enduring Symbol of Hollywood’s Golden Age

by Kim June 26, 2021

written by Kim June 26, 2021

The Story of Hollywood’s Most Famous Lion: Leo the Lion of MGM

The Origins of Leo the Lion

MGM’s iconic mascot, Leo the Lion, has been a staple of the film industry since the studio’s founding in 1924. However, the first MGM lion was not named Leo but rather Slats. Slats made his debut in the pre-sound era and simply looked around, lacking the signature roar that would become synonymous with the studio.

Slats was chosen as the MGM mascot by designer Howard Dietz, who drew inspiration from his alma mater, Columbia University, and its athletic team, the Lions. The lion’s regal nature and strength made it an ideal symbol for the burgeoning film studio.

Jackie and the Sound Era

After Slats, came Jackie, another lion trained by Volney Phifer, MGM’s animal wrangler. Jackie’s roar, captured via gramophone, graced MGM films from 1928 to 1956. Jackie also holds the distinction of being the first lion to appear in Technicolor, opening the classic film “The Wizard of Oz.”

The Legacy of Leo

Over the years, several other lions have appeared in the MGM logo, including Tanner, George, and the current Leo, who has been featured since 1957. In the 1980s, MGM trademarked the familiar lion’s roar, although that “sound mark” has since expired.

Spoofs and Adaptations

The MGM logo has been the subject of numerous spoofs and adaptations over the years. The Marx brothers famously appeared in the lion’s place, while Mary Tyler Moore Enterprises created adaptations featuring a kitten and a tipsy lion. These remixes pay homage to the iconic logo and its enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.

The Latin Motto: “Ars Gratia Artis”

The MGM logo is adorned with the Latin motto “Ars Gratia Artis,” which translates to “Art for Art’s Sake.” This motto reflects the studio’s commitment to producing high-quality films that prioritize artistic expression over commercial success.

The Impact of Leo the Lion

Leo the Lion has become an enduring symbol not only of MGM but of the Golden Age of Hollywood itself. His regal presence and unforgettable roar have left an indelible mark on the film industry and continue to resonate with audiences to this day.

Timeline of MGM Lions

1924: Slats becomes the first MGM lion
1928: Jackie becomes the first MGM lion to roar
1939: Jackie appears in the first Technicolor MGM film, “The Wizard of Oz”
1956: Jackie’s reign ends
1957: Leo becomes the current MGM lion
1980s: MGM trademarks the lion’s roar
Present: Leo continues to appear in MGM’s logo, serving as a timeless symbol of the studio

Kim

Nestled comfortably between the bustling art scene and the vibrant scientific community thrives Kim, a multifaceted artist and staff writer at LifeScienceArt. Their path to creative expression wasn't linear. While a degree in social studies equipped them with a keen understanding of human systems and interactions, a deep-seated love for the natural world and a burgeoning desire for sustainable living nudged them in a different direction. This fascination with the delicate balance of our planet blossomed into a multitude of artistic expressions – drawing, sculpting, and capturing the essence of nature through the lens of a camera. Kim's artistic journey is a testament to their boundless curiosity and a rejection of rigid categorization. They seamlessly navigate between mediums, wielding charcoal to translate the intricate details of an ecosystem onto paper, meticulously crafting models that capture the elegance of biological forms, and using light and shadow to sculpt captivating narratives about the environment. Their artistic voice is as diverse as the ecosystems they strive to represent. Kim's passion for environmental stewardship extends beyond the realm of art. Their decision to pursue a career at LifeScienceArt is a testament to their desire to bridge the gap between scientific understanding and artistic expression. They believe that by translating complex scientific concepts into visually compelling narratives, art can become a powerful tool for environmental advocacy. Kim's writing for the art section is infused with this very philosophy. Their words weave together scientific Erkenntnisse (German for Erkenntnisse: acquired knowledge/discoveries) with artistic flair, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the urgent need to protect it. Mirroring their artistic eclecticism, Kim's taste in music reflects a similar disregard for genre boundaries. Their playlists might seamlessly flow from the haunting melodies of Björk to the infectious grooves of Fela Kuti, with a detour into the experimental sounds of Radiohead. This eclectic mix fuels their creativity, offering a constant source of inspiration that transcends categorization, just like their art.