Celebrities Who Launched Careers with the Mickey Mouse Club: A Look at Famous Mouseketeers

The Mickey Mouse Club began in 1955 as a way to fund the construction of the new Disneyland theme park. The first seasons starred Annette Funicello, probably the most notable of the Mickey Mouse Club alumni.

The original series ended in 1959, but was revived with new episodes in the late 80s into the 90s with The All New Mickey Mouse Club. Some stars of the silver screen, as well as some of the biggest pop stars of today began their careers on the kid's variety show, the Mickey Mouse Club.

Here is a look at some former Mickey Mouse Club cast members, and where they are now:

Annette Funicello

When she was 12, Funicello was spotted by Walt Disney himself when he saw her perform in a local theater production of Swan Lake. After several years in the Mickey Mouse Club, she recorded a few pop albums. But, Funicello is best known for her roles in the popular 60s "beach party" movies with her costar, Frankie Avalon. She and Avalon also toured the nation as a singing duo. As she matured into an adult actress, she and Avalon did a parody movie of the beach party films, Back to the Beach. She also appeared in classics like the Shaggy Dog. Funicello also starred as the spokeswoman for Skippy peanut butter for a number of years. In 1992, the former Mousekateer announced she had multiple sclerosis.

Britney Spears

By today's standards of stardom, Spears is probably the most globally-known star to graduate from the Mickey Mouse club. She appeared on the show from age 11-13, before returning to Louisiana. Soon after, she hit the music scene. From teenage pop star to tabloid fixture for her outbursts, marriage woes and parenting skills, Spears has had quite a ride on the walk of fame.

Christina Aguilera