After the unarguable success of what became known as the Davy Crockett Craze, Walt Disney was on the lookout for the next big thing. It was in 1956 that Mike approached Disney with an idea that had everything they could ask for: iconography, legend, presence and adventure. “They’ll go nuts for this!” Mike said assuringly. “Kids all over the country will be trading in their coonskin caps for a fake beard and a cap. It can’t miss!”
Knowing a sure thing when he heard it, Walt Disney bought all rights associated with Mike’s idea for an undisclosed sum.
A marketing blitz quickly began for the new “big hit”. Despite beloved characters donning the new look and advertisements placed in every comic book, the fad that was to be known as “The Fidel” never took off. Within months, production of all merchandise ceased, the pilot for “The Adventures of Fidel”, which was to star Guy Williams, was cancelled and replaced by a series based on the Zorro legend.
"Step Aside, Davy Crockett Craze. Here Comes Fidel Mania”
Davy Crockett, More Than Just a Craze