Roger Allers, co-director of The Lion King, dies at 76

Roger Allers, the veteran Disney animator, writer, and filmmaker best known as the co-director of the 1994 animated classic The Lion King, has died at the age of 76. 

His death was confirmed by longtime collaborator and visual effects supervisor Dave Bossert, who shared a tribute honoring Allers’ artistic influence and character.

Bossert described Allers as a defining figure of the Disney Animation renaissance, noting that they had been exchanging emails only days before his passing. He praised Allers for his creativity, generosity, and enthusiasm, calling him a gifted artist whose presence elevated everyone around him.

Allers co-directed The Lion King alongside Rob Minkoff. Featuring the voices of Matthew Broderick, Jeremy Irons, and James Earl Jones, the film became one of Disney’s most celebrated animated features. Upon its release in 1994, The Lion King grossed approximately $771 million worldwide, while its 2019 live-action remake went on to earn over $1.6 billion globally, cementing the franchise’s cultural impact.

Beyond The Lion King, Allers directed the animated feature Open Season in 2006 and the Oscar-nominated short film The Little Matchgirl. He also served as a writer and story developer on several notable Disney productions, including Aladdin, The Emperor’s New Groove, and Brother Bear, and contributed to the direct-to-video release The Lion King 1½.

Throughout his career, Allers was widely respected for his collaborative spirit and storytelling instincts. Colleagues frequently highlighted his kindness and passion for animation, qualities that made him a beloved figure within the industry.

Roger Allers’ work helped shape a golden era of animated filmmaking, leaving a legacy that continues to influence audiences and creators worldwide.