Roger Allers, the acclaimed Disney animator and filmmaker known for his work on The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and The Little Mermaid, has passed away at the age of 76.
Allers’ death was confirmed by his colleague Dave Bossert. In a Facebook post on Sunday, January 18, 2026, Bossert shared the sad news and praised the director for his work throughout his career, explaining that Aller was an integral part of the evolution of Disney animation. The heartfelt post stated, “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. Roger was an extraordinarily gifted artist and filmmaker, a true pillar of the Disney Animation renaissance.”
Allers’ career at Disney began when he joined the storyboard team for the 1982 film Tron. He continued to hone his craft on projects such as Oliver & Company (1988) and The Little Mermaid (1989). He eventually became head of story on Disney’s critically acclaimed Beauty and the Beast (1991), which was the first animated film to ever be nominated for an Academy Award under the Best Picture category. Aller’s work helped shape what would later be called the Disney Renaissance, a period during which the studio produced some of its most iconic animated features.
One of his most notable achievements was when he co-directed The Lion King alongside Rob Minkoff in 1994. The film became a massive success, earning the duo a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy. Allers later adapted the film, writing the Broadway version of The Lion King, which won multiple Tony Awards.
Bossert continued his post by stating that throughout his career, Allers remained a respected figure in animation, not only for his work but for his kindness towards his colleagues. He contributed to a variety of Disney projects beyond the classics, including The Emperor’s New Groove and Lilo & Stitch.
I had the privilege of being part of the crew with Roger on many films in the late ’80s and throughout the ’90s. 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.
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 had a joyful, luminous spirit, and the world is dimmer without him. Rest in peace, my friend. Until we meet again on the other side.
Disney CEO Bob Iger also praised Allers, calling him a “creative visionary” whose work would continue to inspire future generations of animators and storytellers. Allers’ projects helped Disney redefine animated filmmaking and give viewers of all ages memorable films that they will cherish. Read Iger’s statement below:
Roger Allers was a creative visionary whose many contributions to Disney will live on for generations to come. 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.
This story originally appeared on Screenrant
