The longtime Disney writer and director, nominated for an Oscar for his 2006 animated short, ‘The Little Matchgirl,’ passed away at his home in Santa Monica following a short illness.
Writer and The Lion King co-director Roger Allers passed away on Saturday at his Santa Monica home following a short illness. He was 76.
“Every once in a while, life puts someone in our path who helps us see more clearly,” said Don Hahn, producer on The Lion King and Allers’ 2006 animated short, The Little Matchgirl, which was nominated for an Oscar. “Roger was that person for me, and for so many of us who worked with him. He was the rarest of people: endlessly curious, playful, and deeply human, always eager to tell stories that reminded us of the wonder in life. He lives on in his work, and in the hearts of all of us who were lucky enough to know him.”
Allers, who worked at Disney from 1985 through 2003, co-directed 1994’s The Lion King along with Rob Minkoff. The film went on to become one of the most successful and influential animated films in cinematic history, including sales of a home video record of 55 million copies. He also contributed to Aladdin, The Emperor’s New Groove, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Brother Bear, The Lion King 1 ½, and others. He co-directed the 2006 film Open Season alongside Jill Culton and Anthony Stacchi for Sony Pictures Animation, and wrote and directed the 2014 animated adaptation, Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet. Along with The Lion King writer Irene Mecchi, Allers earned a Tony Award nomination for best book of a musical for Disney’s The Lion King Broadway musical, which went on to win the Tony for Best Musical in 1998.
“Roger Allers was a creative visionary whose many contributions to Disney will live on for generations to come,” commented Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “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.”
Allers is survived by his partner Genaro and his children, Leah and Aidan.
Journalist, antique shop owner, aspiring gemologist—L'Wren brings a diverse perspective to animation, where every frame reflects her varied passions.
