Father of 'The Lion King' Becomes a Star... Director Roger Allers Passes Away During Trip to Egypt

The legend of Disney who gifted the world with the emotion of 'Hakuna Matata', Roger Allers, has passed away at the age of 76.

According to foreign media and industry sources on the 19th (Korean time), Allers' long-time colleague Dave Bossert announced on Facebook that Allers suddenly passed away during a trip to Egypt on the 18th. The specific cause of death has not been disclosed.

◆ A Boy Who Dreamed of 'Peter Pan' Becomes a Disney Legend

Born in New York in 1949, Allers developed his dream of becoming an animator after watching 'Peter Pan' at the age of 5. He joined Disney in 1985 and played a key role as a storyboard artist for 'The Little Mermaid', 'Beauty and the Beast', and 'Aladdin', designing the golden age of the 'Disney Renaissance' in the 90s.

◆ Reaching the Pinnacle with 'The Lion King'

The pinnacle of his career was the co-direction of 'The Lion King' in 1994 with Rob Minkoff. This work grossed $771 million worldwide (at the time), rewriting animation history and winning the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture. Allers later participated in the production of the Broadway musical, earning a Tony Award nomination.

Even after leaving Disney, he ignited his creative spirit by directing Sony Pictures' first feature 'Open Season (2006)' and 'The Prophet (2014)', based on the work of Kahlil Gibran.

◆ "His Works Will Live On Forever"

Bob Iger, Disney CEO, stated in a press release, "Roger Allers was a unique visionary who contributed to Disney for decades," and mourned, "The stories he left behind will continue to inspire audiences around the world." He is survived by his daughter Leah and son Aidan from his former marriage.