Former Disney Animator Davy Liu Reveals to Tony Evans Why He Left to Follow God’s Calling

Davy Liu helped create some of Disney’s most beloved animated films. But at the height of his career, he realized professional success could never replace his kingdom purpose.

During an appearance on “The Unbound Podcast” with Dr. Tony Evans, Liu described his journey from a struggling student in Taiwan to an animator who worked on “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin” and “The Lion King.”

Liu discovered his artistic ability after moving to America at age 13. As he grew in his faith, he recognized that his creativity was not an accident.

“Even though I can’t make straight A’s, I can draw straight lines,” Liu said. “Only God knew that He gave me that gift, and I was meant to be set apart.”

Disney taught Liu how powerful excellent storytelling could be. Yet as the company’s creative direction changed, he faced a defining spiritual decision.

“Do I want to face my Savior using the God-given talent to serve something that’s going to bring children to hell?” Liu recalled asking himself.

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He ultimately walked away, determined to create imaginative stories that would introduce children to biblical truth. The decision, however, carried a painful cost. Liu’s first marriage ended, his finances collapsed and he entered a season of anxiety and spiritual darkness.

He also turned to pornography as an escape. But God did not abandon him. A faithful group of Christian men surrounded Liu, giving him a safe place to confess his struggle and begin rebuilding his life.

When Disney later offered him an opportunity to return, Liu found direction in Jesus’ parable of the treasure hidden in a field in Matthew 13:44.

“I had two choices, either sell my house or go back to work for Disney,” Liu said. “When I saw that verse, I joyfully sold my house, everything that I have.”

Evans said Liu’s testimony demonstrates how Scripture and Christian community can restore us when life falls apart.

“People who are in dark places … can still find hope in the Word and with people who care about you,” Evans said.

Liu has now spent more than two decades pursuing his calling to reach children through excellent biblical storytelling. His journey reminds us that obedience does not always produce immediate results, but God remains faithful through every sacrifice.

“Maybe it’s not for you to finish the ark, but at least you start,” Liu said. “You just got to be faithful.”

James Lasher, a seasoned writer and editor at Charisma Media, combines faith and storytelling with a journalism background from Otterbein University and ministry experience in Guatemala and at the LA Dream Center. A Marine Corps and Air Force veteran, he is the author of The Revelation of Jesus: A Common Man’s Commentary and a contributor to Charisma magazine. For interviews and media inquiries, please contact media@.