Roger Allers, the acclaimed Disney animator and filmmaker identified for his work on The Lion King, Magnificence and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid, has handed away on the age of 76.
Allers’ demise was confirmed by his colleague Dave Bossert. In a Fb put up on Sunday, January 18, 2026, Bossert shared the unhappy information and praised the director for his work all through his profession, explaining that Aller was an integral a part of the evolution of Disney animation. The heartfelt put up said, “I’m deeply saddened by the information that our buddy Roger Allers has handed on to his subsequent journey. We have been simply buying and selling emails this previous week whereas he was touring in Egypt, which makes this loss really feel all of the extra unreal. Roger was a very gifted artist and filmmaker, a real pillar of the Disney Animation renaissance.”
Allers’ profession at Disney started when he joined the storyboard workforce for the 1982 movie Tron. He continued to hone his craft on initiatives reminiscent of Oliver & Firm (1988) and The Little Mermaid (1989). He ultimately turned head of story on Disney’s critically acclaimed Magnificence and the Beast (1991), which was the primary animated movie to ever be nominated for an Academy Award underneath the Finest Image class. Aller’s work helped form what would later be referred to as the Disney Renaissance, a interval throughout which the studio produced a few of its most iconic animated options.
Certainly one of his most notable achievements was when he co-directed The Lion King alongside Rob Minkoff in 1994. The movie turned a large success, incomes the duo a Golden Globe for Finest Movement Image – Musical or Comedy. Allers later tailored the movie, writing the Broadway model of The Lion King, which received a number of Tony Awards.
Bossert continued his put up by stating that all through his profession, Allers remained a revered determine in animation, not just for his work however for his kindness in the direction of his colleagues. He contributed to a wide range of Disney initiatives past the classics, together with The Emperor’s New Groove and Lilo & Sew.
I had the privilege of being a part of the crew with Roger on many movies within the late ’80s and all through the ’90s. And he was, with out query, one of many kindest folks you would hope to know and work alongside. He went on to co-direct The Lion King, an exceptional success, but it by no means went to his head.
Roger handled everybody with real kindness and respect, no matter title or place. I labored very intently with him on The Little Matchgirl, and it was nothing wanting a pleasure—he carried a way of marvel, generosity, and enthusiasm that lifted everybody round him. Roger had a joyful, luminous spirit, and the world is dimmer with out him. Relaxation in peace, my buddy. Till we meet once more on the opposite facet.
Disney CEO Bob Iger additionally praised Allers, calling him a “artistic visionary” whose work would proceed to encourage future generations of animators and storytellers. Allers’ initiatives helped Disney redefine animated filmmaking and provides viewers of all ages memorable movies that they’ll cherish. Learn Iger’s assertion beneath:
Roger Allers was a artistic visionary whose many contributions to Disney will reside on for generations to return. He understood the facility of nice storytelling — how unforgettable characters, emotion, and music can come collectively to create one thing timeless. His work helped outline an period of animation that continues to encourage audiences world wide, and we’re deeply grateful for every part he gave to Disney. Our hearts are together with his household, mates, and collaborators.