Roger Allers has passed away at the age of 76. He is best known for his work as a director on Disney Animation movies. Dave Bossert, who is also a film producer, confirmed Allers' death via a post on Facebook.
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"I am deeply saddened by the news that our friend Roger Allers has passed on to his next journey. We were just trading emails this past week while he was traveling in Egypt, which makes this loss feel all the more unreal," Bossert wrote. "Roger was an extraordinarily gifted artist and filmmaker, a true pillar of the Disney Animation renaissance."
Bossert then continued by pointing toward the character of Allers. He noted that even after The Lion King became a generational classic, he remained grounded and didn't let success alter his personality.
"He went on to co-direct The Lion King, a phenomenal success, yet it never went to his head. Roger treated everyone with genuine kindness and respect, regardless of title or position. I worked very closely with him on The Little Matchgirl, and it was nothing short of a joy—he carried a sense of wonder, generosity, and enthusiasm that lifted everyone around him."
Roger Allers Worked on Ore Than Just the 'Lion King'
While The Lion King was undoubtedly Allers biggest success, he was also established in the industry. Allers worked on Disney's Beauty And The Beast, The Little Mermaid, and Aladdin, among others.
Clearly, his talent was grounded in animation, as everything he touched turned into a success.
"He began at Disney doing per-production concepts for Tron," Bossert wrote. "He then became a story artist on Oliver & Company and The Little Mermaid and other films, eventually becoming head of story on Beauty and the Beast. I had the privilege of being part of the crew with Roger on many films in the late '80s and throughout the '90s. He was, without question, one of the kindest people you could hope to know and work alongside."
In total, Allers worked on eight movies as a director. He worked on a further 10 as a writer, also including Aladdin.
Allers is survived by his ex-wife, Leslee, and his two children, Leah and Aidan.
