Roger Allers, the Disney filmmaker behind hits including The Lion King and Aladdin, has died aged 76.
A cause of death was not immediately made clear. Allers’ death was confirmed by his frequent collaborator, Dave Bossert, who shared the news on social media.
“I am deeply saddened by the news that our friend Roger Allers has passed on to his next journey,” he wrote in a Facebook post. “Roger was an extraordinarily gifted artist and filmmaker, a true pillar of the Disney Animation renaissance.”
Disney CEO Bob Iger has also paid tribute to Allers, saying in a statement: “Roger Allers was a creative visionary whose many contributions to Disney will live on for generations to come. He understood the power of great storytelling — how unforgettable characters, emotion, and music can come together to create something timeless.
“His work helped define an era of animation that continues to inspire audiences around the world, and we are deeply grateful for everything he gave to Disney. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and collaborators.”
Born June 29, 1949, Allers attended Arizona State University and got his start at Lisberger Studios working on Sesame Street.
Allers’ first Disney project was working on the storyboard team on Tron (1982), Bossert noted. He later worked on animated films including Oliver & Company (1988) and The Little Mermaid (1989). He then became head of story for the 1991 masterpiece Beauty and the Beast, which became the first animated film to ever be nominated for a Best Picture trophy at the Oscars.
The filmmaker went on to work alongside Rob Minkoff on The Lion King (1994). The two men co-directed the animated feature, which earned a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture. Allers would also work on the film’s Tony Award-winning Broadway adaptation, which opened in 1998 and continues today.
Other credits during his Disney career included The Emperor’s New Groove, Lilo & Stitch and The Little Matchgirl.
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Minkoff’s wife, former Bravo star Crystal Kung Minkoff, posted a tribute to Allers on Instagram, writing that she and her husband were “heartbroken” by the loss of their “dear friend.”
“Roger was more than a creative partner to Rob — he was a brother, a mentor, and a friend,” she continued. “Together, they brought The Lion King to life, leaving a lasting mark on animation and on everyone who knew them. Roger’s talent, kindness, and passion touched so many. We send all our love to his family and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on in the stories he shared and the lives he inspired.”
Allers is survived by ex-wife Leslee Hackenson and their two children.