- Do YOU have a tale? Send tips@Live Streaming Movie Film Online
Roger Allers, the director who helped create the Disney classic The Lion King, is said to have passed away at the age of 76.
The news of the loss was shared by producer Dave Bossert, who mentioned on Sunday that Allers has moved on to his next adventure in a heartfelt message.
The reason for death remained undisclosed.
Bossert mentioned Allers, who has worked on popular movies such as Aladdin, TheLittle Mermaidand Watership Down – as a “true cornerstone of the Disney Animation renaissance.”
The tribute did not specify the exact date of Allers’ passing, but Bossert mentioned he had been in touch with the filmmaker “this past week.”
“I am profoundly distressed to learn that our friend Roger Allers has moved on to his subsequent path,” Bossert wrote.
We had been exchanging emails this past week as he was on a tripEgypt, which makes this loss feel even more surreal. Roger was an exceptionally talented artist and filmmaker, a genuine cornerstone of the Disney Animation renaissance. He started at Disney working on pre-production concepts for Tron.
He later worked 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.
He continued to co-direct The Lion King, which became an extraordinary success, but it never affected his humility. Roger showed true kindness and respect to everyone, no matter their rank or role. I had the opportunity to work very closely with him on The Little Matchgirl, and it was an absolute pleasure—he brought a feeling of magic, generosity, and excitement that inspired everyone nearby.
Roger possessed a cheerful and radiant personality, and the world feels less bright without him. May you rest in peace, my friend. Until we reunite on the other side. I am shown with Roger in 2016 at an Academy function. I always appreciated his vibrant sports jackets.
A skilled animator and screenwriter, Aller has created some of the most cherished Disney movies.
His filmography on IMDb features roles in Tron, The Prince and the Pauper, Ice Age, Kung Fu Panda, The Emperor’s New Groove, and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh.
In addition, he worked as a storyboard artist for the movie featuring a profane teddy bear named Ted.
His colleagues and supporters expressed their sorrow on the internet.
Animation Magazine states that Disney producer Don Hahn wrote: “Feeling upset and sorrowful to announce that our dear friend and creative partner Roger Allers has passed away—a remarkable artist, a man who lived passionately and generously, and someone I deeply loved; 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 Dave Woodman shared on Instagram: ‘We have all been touched by his incredible art and personality. Roger Allers was one of my most cherished friends. It’s heartbreaking to learn he has passed away.’
Disney CEO Bob Iger commended Allers as a significant ‘creative visionary’ in a statement celebrating the late animator.
Roger Allers was a talented innovator whose numerous achievements at Disney will continue to inspire future generations. He recognized the impact of compelling narratives — how memorable characters, feelings, and melodies can unite to form something enduring.
His contributions shaped a period of animation that still influences viewers globally, and we are profoundly thankful for all he offered to Disney. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
Fans of The Lion King expressed their grief on Reddit, with one user referring to him as the ‘director of the greatest animated film ever created.’
“Rest in peace, Roger Allers, thanks for bringing us The Lion King,” another user commented.
Allers was born in Rye, New York but spent his childhood in the city of Glendale in Arizona.
The renowned actor’s initial fascination with the realm of animation began when he was only five years old, after viewing the 1953 Disney film Peter Pan.
He earned a Fine Arts degree following his studies at Arizona State University, but his interest in animation reignited after he enrolled in a course at Harvard.
Allers started his animation career at Lisberger Studios in Boston, where he contributed to commercials and other endeavors like Sesame Street.
Read more