The word has started to circulate that a Disney icon has sadly passed away.
According to Animation Magazine,Referencing various statements from industry professionals, Roger Allers has passed away. Allers was the co-director of the renowned animated filmThe Lion King, among other works.
The circumstances surrounding Allers’ death remain unclear, with information regarding the cause of death, method of death, and exact date unknown. Nevertheless, he was in Egypt just before his passing, according toLion King and Hercules visual artist Dave Bossert.
“I am profoundly distressed by the news that our friend Roger Allers has embarked on his next journey,” Bossert wrote onFacebookWe had been exchanging emails this week while he was in Egypt, making this loss even more difficult to believe. Roger was an exceptionally talented artist and filmmaker, a genuine cornerstone of the Disney Animation renaissance.
Allers is most recognized asThe Lion King’sco-director, working alongside Rob Minkoff. He continued to be part of the franchise, co-writing the musical version (with Irene Mecchi) and providing script content for The Lion King 1½. He was also acknowledged in the credits of the 2019 release.Lion Kingremake – which directly replicates many components from the 1994 film.
He also directed Disney’s 2006 short film.The Little Matchgirl and the 2014 collection filmThe Prophet. He co-directed the 2006 Sony filmOpen Season(by Jill Culton). He also worked behind the scenes on many other Disney films, includingThe Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Lilo & Stitch, The Emperor’s New Groove, Tron, and The Rescuers Down Under.
Animation Magazine shares a reaction from Lion King and The Little Matchgirl Producer Doh Hahn stated, “Feeling shocked and sorrowful to announce that our dear friend and creative colleague Roger Allers has passed away—a remarkable artist, a man who lived passionately and selflessly, and someone I cherished deeply; along with everyone who knew and collaborated with him. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts, and let his spirit continue to live within you.”
Animator and historian Tom Sito also honored Allers, writing onFacebookRoger was a wonderful friend and a true expert in his field. Despite the challenges, pressures, and political issues that often affected a film project, I never witnessed him lose his calm. In my mind, I will always remember the image of his kind smile. Until we meet again, dear friend.
As our story was being released, Bob Iger, the long-time leader of Disney, also made a statementstatement on the Lion King co-director’s passing.
Roger Allers was a creative genius whose numerous contributions to Disney will endure for generations,” Iger wrote. “He recognized the strength of compelling storytelling—how memorable characters, emotions, and music can unite to produce something eternal. His efforts helped shape a period of animation that still motivates viewers globally, and we are profoundly thankful for all he contributed to Disney. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.