Roger Allers, a longtime Disney writer and the co-director of the 1994 animated classic “The Lion King,” has died. He was 76.
Allers’ death was confirmed by veteran visual effects supervisor Dave Bossert, who honored his friend and collaborator on Facebook.
Allers helmed “The Lion King” alongside Rob Minkoff.
Starring Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons and James Earl Jones, the film is widely considered among the best in Disney’s animated catalog.
Released in 1994, “The Lion King” grossed US$771 million globally in its original theatrical run.
The 2019 remake is one of the highest-grossing films of all time at US$1.6 billion worldwide.
Disney CEO, Bob Iger says Allers was a creative visionary whose many contributions to Disney will live on for generations to come.
He says Allers understood the power of great storytelling – how unforgettable characters, emotion and music can come together to create something timeless.
Iger says his work helped define an era of animation that continues to inspire audiences around the world, and they are deeply grateful for everything he gave to Disney.
He says their hearts are with his family, friends and collaborators.
[Source: The Lion King]
