[Trending] When TV Logos Were Actual Physical Objects

When it comes to modern TV logos, any kind of design can be dreamed up and produced with a few swift clicks on a screen. Back in the day, ho...

When it comes to modern TV logos, any kind of design can be dreamed up and produced with a few swift clicks on a screen. Back in the day, however, producers had to get a little more creative, and you may be surprised to find out that many iconic TV logos still in use now were physical objects fashioned for filming.

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The most famous example of a ‘living logo’ would have to be Leo the Lion, the official mascot for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studios, who you’ve definitely seen roaring at the begininng of countless films. MGM had filmed a variety of real lions for their opening sequence since 1917, but they found a true superstar when they discovered Leo in 1957. He’s been featured inside the studio’s golden frame for 60 years now, making him the longest-used MGM lion by far.

See amazing behind-the-scenes photos of several notable logos being crafted by hand below, and breathe a sigh of relief at the advent of animation technology. (h/t)