Roger Allers, a highly successful Disney animator known for co-directing The Lion King, has died at age 76.
Disney visual effects supervisor Dave Bossert confirmed Allers’ passing via a Facebook post in remembrance of the longtime colleague. Allers worked with Disney from 1985 to 2003, and he continued in filmmaking through 2019.
"Roger Allers was a creative visionary whose many contributions to Disney will live on for generations to come,” Iger stated. “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," Iger continued. "Our hearts are with his family, friends, and collaborators."
Allers was born on June 29, 1949, in Rye, New York, but grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. Disney’s “Peter Pan” inspired his interest in animation at age 5, and he obtained a fine arts degree at Arizona State University.
Early on, Allers assisted with “Sesame Street” and “The Electric Company” with Lisberger Studios in Boston. His work with “Animalympics” after a move to Los Angeles in 1978 opened the door to work with Disney on “Tron” in 1982.
“I had the privilege of being part of the crew with Roger on many films in the late ’80s and throughout the ’90s,” Bossert wrote. “And he was, without question, one of the kindest people you could hope to know and work alongside. He went on to co-direct The Lion King, a phenomenal success, yet it never went to his head … he carried a sense of wonder, generosity, and enthusiasm that lifted everyone around him.”
After “The Lion King,” Allers worked with “The Emperor’s New Groove,” “Lilo & Stitch,” and “The Little Matchgirl.” Besides Disney films, Allers contributed to “Open Season” and “The Prophet.”
He is survived by his partner, Genaro Pereira, daughter Leah, son Aidan, and the children’s mother, Leslee Hackenson.