Roger Allers, the Disney director known for successes such asThe Lion King and Aladdin, passed away at the age of 76.
The reason for the death was not immediately disclosed. Allers’ passing was verified by his regular collaborator, Dave Bossert, who announced the information on social media.
I am profoundly heartbroken by the news that our friend Roger Allers has embarked on his next journey,” he wrote in a Facebook post. “Roger was an exceptionally talented artist and filmmaker, a genuine cornerstone of theDisney Animation renaissance.”
Disney CEO Bob Igerhas also honored Allers, stating: “Roger Allers was a creative genius whose numerous contributions to Disney will endure for many generations. He recognized the impact of compelling storytelling — how memorable characters, emotions, and music can unite to produce something eternal.”
His contributions shaped a period of animation that still influences viewers globally, and we are sincerely thankful for all he brought to Disney. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
Born on June 29, 1949, Allers studied at Arizona State University and began his career at Lisberger Studios working onSesame Street.
Allers’ first Disney projectwas part of the storyboard team onTron (1982), Bossert mentioned. He subsequently contributed to animated films such asOliver & Company (1988) and The Little Mermaid(1989). He subsequently took on the role of head of story for the 1991 masterpieceBeauty and the Beast, which was the first animated movie to ever receive a Best Picture nomination at the Academy Awards.
The director continued to collaborate with Rob Minkoff onThe Lion King (1994). The two individuals co-directed the animated film, which received a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture. Allers would also be involved in thefilm’s Tony Award-winning Broadway adaptation, which commenced in 1998 and is still ongoing.
Additional credits throughout his Disney tenure includedThe Emperor’s New Groove, Lilo & Stitch and The Little Matchgirl.
Minkoff’s wife, Previous Bravo star Crystal Kung Minkoff, shared a tribute to Allers on Instagram, stating that she and her partner were “heartbroken” over the passing of their “dear friend.”
Roger was more than just a creative collaborator for Rob — he was like a brother, a teacher, and a close friend,” she added. “In unison, they createdThe Lion KingTo life, making a permanent impact on animation and all who were fortunate to know them. Roger’s skill, compassion, and enthusiasm influenced numerous people. We offer our deepest love to his family and everyone who had the honor of knowing him. His memory will continue through the tales he told and the lives he motivated.
Allers is survived by his former wife, Leslee Hackenson, and their two children.
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