Filmmaker Roger Allers, recognized for co-directing Walt Disney Feature Animation's "The Lion King," has died at the age of 76. His death was confirmed by film producer Dave Bossert via Facebook, who stated they had been communicating recently.
Bossert, who worked with Allers on numerous films in the 1980s and 1990s, described him as a kind person. He also noted that Allers maintained his demeanor even after the success of "The Lion King," treating colleagues with kindness and respect.
Prior to co-directing "The Lion King" in 1994 alongside Rob Minkoff, Allers had a career as an animator and writer. His work included notable projects such as "Beauty and the Beast," "Oliver & Company," "Sesame Street," "The Electric Company," "The Little Mermaid," and "Aladdin."
Allers married Leslee Hackenson in 1977, with a reported divorce filing in 2020. They had two children, Leah and Aidan.