Roger Allers, Director of ‘The Lion King,’ Dies at 76. The animation world lost a giant this week. Roger Allers, the visionary director, writer, and storyboard artist who helped shape the modern era of Disney, has passed away at the age of 76.
Allers is perhaps best known for co-directing the 1994 classic The Lion King, a film that became a global phenomenon and remains one of the most successful animated movies ever made. But his career spanned decades and included work on nearly every major hit of the Disney Renaissance.
In the wake of his passing, Disney CEO Bob Iger released a statement honoring the filmmaker’s massive impact on the studio:
“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.” — Bob Iger, CEO, The Walt Disney Company
Allers fell in love with animation at the age of five after seeing Peter Pan. After studying fine arts at Arizona State University, he spent years honing his craft in Boston, Los Angeles, and Tokyo.
He eventually landed at Disney in 1985, where he quickly became a key player. He worked on the storyboards for The Little Mermaid and Aladdin, and served as the head of story for the Oscar-winning Beauty and the Beast.
Beyond the director’s chair, Allers was a talented writer. He co-wrote the book for the Tony-winning Broadway musical adaptation of The Lion King, earning a Tony nomination for his work.
After his time at Disney, Allers continued to push the medium. He co-directed Sony Pictures Animation’s first feature, Open Season (2006), and led the 2014 animated anthology The Prophet. He also received an Oscar nomination for his hauntingly beautiful 2006 short film, The Little Matchgirl.
Friends and colleagues remember him as a man who stayed calm and kind, even under the high pressure of movie deadlines.
“Roger was an extraordinarily gifted artist and filmmaker, a true pillar of the Disney Animation renaissance,” said Disney author Dave Bossert. “He carried a sense of wonder, generosity, and enthusiasm that lifted everyone around him.”
Allers is survived by his children, Leah and Aidan. His daughter, Leah, is currently working on a documentary about her father’s life and career to ensure his story continues to be told.
