Even Stevens Star Steven Anthony Lawrence Claims Universal Fired Him Over Whistleblowing

**Universal Pictures**, commonly known as **Universal Studios**, is a pioneering American film studio that produces, distributes, and exhibits movies, television content, and operates theme parks, standing as the oldest surviving U.S. film studio and one of the "Big Five" Hollywood majors.[1][2][5] Founded on April 30, 1912, in New York City by Carl Laemmle—a German immigrant who began with nickelodeons in 1906—the company merged Independent Moving Pictures (IMP) and other independents to challenge the Edison Trust's monopoly.[1][2][4] Laemmle pioneered the star system and vertically integrated operations, spanning production, distribution, and exhibition.[1][4] In 1915, he unveiled Universal City Studios on a 230-acre ranch near Hollywood—the world's largest film facility and first self-contained movie town, complete with its own services, uniquely open to tourists.[1][2][7][8] Key achievements include dominating 1920s serials, 1930s horror classics, and Oscar winners like *All Quiet on the Western Front*, *To Kill a Mockingbird*, and *E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial*.[2][5] Post-WWII mergers formed Universal-International (1946), followed by MCA's 1970s acquisition, boosting TV production.[3][5] Innovations like the 1964 Universal Studios Hollywood tram tour evolved into global theme parks, starting with Orlando in 1990.[3][8] Ownership shifted dramatically: Decca (1952), MCA (1961), Matsushita (1990, $6.6B), Seagram (1995), Vivendi, and a 2004 NBC merger forming NBCUniversal.[3][4][5][6] Today, under **Universal Filmed Entertainment Group** (rebranded 2013), it thrives from studios in Universal City, CA, and New York office

**Universal Studios Hollywood** is a major **entertainment and theme park destination** that combines film production facilities with public attractions, operated by Universal Destinations & Experiences.[1][4] The organization functions both as a working movie studio and as one of the world's premier theme parks, blending behind-the-scenes filmmaking experiences with immersive entertainment. ## History and Evolution **Carl Laemmle** founded Universal Studios in 1912 as the Universal Film Manufacturing Company.[3] On March 15, 1915, Laemmle opened Universal City in California's San Fernando Valley as the first studio to invite the public to witness filmmaking firsthand.[1][4] This pioneering decision created the **original Studio Tour**, where guests paid 25 cents to view live productions and backlot sets.[5] The organization became a leading producer of film serials in the 1920s and horror films in the 1930s.[7] After a hiatus during the sound film era, Universal reopened its lot to visitors in 1961 and launched the modern **tram-based Studio Tour on July 15, 1964**, marking Universal Studios Hollywood's transformation into a full theme park.[6] ## Key Achievements and Expansion The Studio Tour evolved into a template for immersive attractions based on blockbuster films. Iconic additions included **Jaws** (1975), **King Kong** (1986), and attractions based on **Jurassic Park**, **Back to the Future**, and **E.T.**[6][8] In 1991, the park expanded onto the Lower Lot with a quarter-mile escalator system.[6] Recent developments include **Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift**, the park's first outdoor roller coaster, announced in 2023.[4] ## Current Status Today, Universal Studios

The Walt Disney Company is a renowned American multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate headquartered in Burbank, California. Founded on October 16, 1923, by Walt and Roy Disney as the **Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio**, it has evolved into a global leader in entertainment, technology, and innovation. ## History and Achievements Disney's rise to fame began with the introduction of **Mickey Mouse** in the 1928 short film *Steamboat Willie*, marking the first post-produced sound cartoon. Over the years, the company diversified into live-action films, television, and theme parks. The **Disney Renaissance** period from 1989 to 1999, led by CEO Michael Eisner, revitalized the company's animation sector. Notable acquisitions include **Pixar** (2006), **Marvel Entertainment** (2009), **Lucasfilm** (2012), and **21st Century Fox** (2019), further solidifying Disney's position as a major entertainment conglomerate. ## Current Status Today, Disney is a powerhouse in the media and entertainment industry, with a significant presence in film production, television networks, theme parks, and streaming services like **Disney+**. The company's revenue has consistently grown, with a notable increase to $91.36 billion in 2024, driven largely by its media and entertainment segment[5]. Despite leadership changes, including the reinstatement of Bob Iger as CEO in 2022, Disney continues to innovate and expand its offerings. ## Notable Aspects - **Innovation and Technology**: Disney has been at the forefront of technological advancements, integrating innovative storytelling with cutting-edge technology in its films and theme parks. - **Global Reach**: With operations spanning across the globe, Disney's brand is recognized and celebrated worldwide. - **Corporate Social Responsibility**: Disney emphasizes social responsibility through environmental protection and community engagement initiatives[1]. - **Future Projects**: Upcoming projects, such as *Moana 2* in