Butch Hartman

What is your name and your current occupation?
Butch Hartman, Executive Producer/Creator of T.U.F.F. Puppy, The Fairly OddParents, and Danny Phantom
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
I worked at a Drive-In movie theatre, drew cartoons of people at local art fairs in Michigan, and painted faces on pumpkins
What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
T.U.F.F. Puppy, The Fairly OddParents, and Danny Phantom
How did you become interested in animation?
I got started in animation when I was six. I drew a picture of my teacher and she just thought it was great. She hung it up on the wall in front of the whole class, and all the other kids had to listen to her rave about it. I realized I could get attention from adults, so I started drawing to get their attention.
Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I’m from Michigan. I went to Cal Arts from ’83-’86, and I got my first job when I was still in school. I was an in-betweener on An American Tail.
What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
A typical day consists mainly of fixing storyboards, collaborating on scripts, editing, and drawing storyboards.
What part of your job do you like best? Why?
I would say writing, because I get to laugh the most.
What part of your job do you like least? Why?
I would say having to fixing things; it just takes a long time.
What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
My Mac computer, and I draw on a Wacom tablet in Photoshop.
What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
Constantly getting shows picked up to keep everybody employed.
In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Yes, I’ve met nearly every famous person in animation, and use to be personal friends with Seth MacFarlane and Rob Minkoff. I’ve also met Chuck  Jones and a young John Lasseter before he started Pixar.

Describe a tough situation you had in life.
I currently have a close family member with cancer, but we are getting through it!
Any side projects or you’re working on or hobbies you’d like to share details of?
I am working on side projects, but can’t share any details at this time. I do, however, like playing the guitar.
Any unusual talents or hobbies like tying a cherry stem with your tongue or metallurgy?
I do a mean impression of Michael J. Fox.
Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Yes, keep practicing!