A Disney icon has passed away at 76, remembered as a “true foundation of the Disney Animation revival.”
The unexpected death of Roger Allers, the director who co-created theDisneyclassic The Lion King and was famous for other films like Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Watership Down, was honored on Sunday, January 18, during a long, heartfelt tribute by producer Dave Bossert.
In his sincere declaration, theHollywoodA producer stated that Allers “moved on to his next journey,” but did not disclose when the director passed away or hiscause of death. However, Bossert mentioned that he had been in touch with the filmmaker “this past week.”
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Bossert stated, “I am extremely heartbroken to learn that our friend Roger Allers has moved on to his next adventure. We were exchanging emails just last week while he was in Egypt, making this loss feel even more unbelievable.”
Roger was an exceptionally talented artist and filmmaker, a genuine cornerstone of the Disney Animation revival. He started at Disney working on pre-production concepts for Tron. Later, he served as a story artist on Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid, along with other movies, and eventually took on the role of head of story for Beauty and the Beast.
I was fortunate to be a member of the team with Roger on numerous films during the late ’80s and into the ’90s, and he was undoubtedly one of the most kind-hearted individuals you could ever wish to meet and collaborate with.
Bossert continued by stating that Allers went on to co-direct The Lion King, which was a “phenomenal success,” and that he never let it “go to his head.” The producer remarked, “Roger showed genuine kindness and respect to everyone, no matter their title or position.”
I collaborated very closely with him on The Little Matchgirl, and it was truly delightful—he brought a feeling of wonder, kindness, and excitement that elevated those nearby.
Bossert’s heartfelt tribute ended with, “Roger had a happy, bright spirit, and the world feels darker without him. Rest in peace, my friend. Until we see each other again on the other side. I’m shown with Roger in 2016 at an Academy function. I always appreciated his vibrant sports jackets.”
Disney CEO Bob Iger stated in a release (perDeadline), “Roger Allers was a creative genius whose numerous contributions to Disney will endure for many generations. He recognized the strength of compelling storytelling — how memorable characters, emotions, and music can unite to form something everlasting.”
His contributions helped shape a period of animation that still influences viewers globally, and we are sincerely thankful for all he gave to Disney. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
Allers was born on June 29, 1949, in Rye, New York, but spent his childhood in Arizona, where he earned a degree in fine arts from Arizona State University. After graduating, he began working at Lisberger Studios, contributing to Sesame Street and other endeavors before moving to Los Angeles.
He quickly started working on the 1980 animated film Animalympics alongside director Steven Lisberger, followed by his involvement in Tron. Allers began his career at Disney as a storyboard artist for movies such as Oliver & Company, The Little Mermaid, The Rescuers Down Under, and The Prince and The Pauper, later co-directing The Lion King (1994) with Rob Minkoff.
The movie won them the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy. Allers went on to write the 1998 Tony-winning Broadway version of The Lion King. While working at Disney, Allers was involved with The Emperor’s New Groove, Lilo & Stitch, and The Little Matchgirl. He later co-directed Open Season with Jill Culton for Sony and directed 2014’s The Prophet.
Allers is survived by his former wife Leslee Hackenson, their daughter Leah, and son Aidan.