Roger Allers
Film director and screenwriter
Roger Allers, the visionary American film director and screenwriter whose storytelling prowess captivated generations, passed away on January 15, 2026, at the age of 68. Renowned for co-directing the animated masterpiece "The Lion King" and contributing to the beloved "Aladdin," Allers left an indelible mark on the world of animation. His unique ability to blend profound emotional depth with vibrant visual narratives defined a significant era of cinematic storytelling. He will be remembered for his contributions to some of the most cherished films in animation history.
Born in New York on August 29, 1957, Allers developed an early passion for drawing and storytelling, which he honed through his studies at Arizona State University and the California Institute of the Arts. His journey into animation began at Walt Disney Feature Animation, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He contributed his talents as a story artist to films like "The Little Mermaid," demonstrating a keen eye for character development and narrative structure. These foundational experiences laid the groundwork for his future directorial successes.
Allers's creative genius truly shone during the Disney Renaissance. He served as Head of Story for the critically acclaimed "Beauty and the Beast" before co-writing the screenplay for the magical "Aladdin." His crowning achievement came in 1994 as co-director of "The Lion King," a film that garnered immense critical and commercial success, becoming a cultural phenomenon. His direction brought to life the epic tale of Simba with breathtaking animation and unforgettable musical numbers, solidifying its place as a timeless classic.
Following his groundbreaking work at Disney, Allers continued to explore diverse animated projects. He co-directed the computer-animated feature "Open Season" in 2006, showcasing his versatility across different animation styles. Later, he directed the beautifully artistic "Kahlil Gibran's The Prophet" in 2014, an anthology film that further demonstrated his commitment to meaningful and visually rich storytelling. Roger Allers's legacy is one of imaginative vision, emotional resonance, and a profound dedication to the art of animation, inspiring countless artists and enchanting audiences worldwide.