Iconic Disney animated film director Roger Allers has passed away at the age of 76. Dave Bossert, a producer and special effects expert who collaborated with Roger on Disney projects, announced the sad news on Sunday.
The cause of death has not been disclosed yet. Roger, known for directing the beloved animated classic “The Lion King” alongside Rob Minkoff, also helmed the Sony animated film “Open Season” and served as a Storyboard Artist on “The Little Mermaid” and “Return to Never Land.”
Dave took to Facebook on Sunday to pay tribute to his late friend and colleague. He expressed deep sorrow, mentioning that he and Roger had been in touch just last week while Roger was traveling in Egypt, making the loss feel particularly surreal. Dave praised Roger as an exceptionally talented artist and filmmaker, highlighting his pivotal role during the Disney Animation renaissance. Roger’s journey at Disney started with pre-production work on “Tron,” followed by contributions as a story artist on “Oliver & Company” and “The Little Mermaid,” eventually leading to being head of story on “Beauty and the Beast.”
Reflecting on their shared experiences, Dave recalled their collaboration on numerous films in the late ’80s and ’90s, emphasizing Roger’s kindness and professionalism. He noted Roger’s humble demeanor despite the massive success of co-directing “The Lion King.” Dave described working closely with Roger on projects like “The Little Matchgirl,” praising his contagious sense of wonder and enthusiasm that inspired everyone around him.
Remembering Roger as a person with a radiant spirit, Dave lamented the world’s loss with his passing. The heartfelt tribute was accompanied by a photo of Dave and Roger together at an Academy event in 2016, where Dave fondly admired Roger’s vibrant sports jackets.
Born in Rye, New York on June 29, 1949, Roger’s fascination with animation began at a young age after watching Disney’s “Peter Pan.” He pursued a Fine Arts degree at Arizona State University and later contributed animations to various projects at Lisberger Studios, including “Sesame Street” and “The Electric Company.”
After relocating to Los Angeles in the mid-1980s, Roger joined Disney by the end of that decade, kickstarting a remarkable animation career that encompassed credits on some of the most renowned animated films in history.
In his personal life, Roger married Leslee Hackenson in 1977, whom he met while traveling in Greece after graduation. They had two children together, a daughter named Leah and a son named Aidan. Although Roger and Leslee divorced in 2020, he is survived by his ex-wife and their children.