Beloved Disney Legend and iconic songwriter, Richard M. Sherman, passed away on May 25, 2024, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills at the age of 95 due to age-related illness. Best known as one half of the Sherman Brothers, alongside his late brother Robert B. Sherman, Richard co-composed timeless Disney classics that have enchanted audiences for generations.
Richard, born on June 12, 1928, in New York City, moved to Beverly Hills with his family in 1937. Both he and Robert were inducted as Disney Legends in 1990, a fitting tribute to their unmatched contributions to the magic of Disney. Their illustrious career saw the creation of unforgettable songs for films like “Mary Poppins,” “The Jungle Book,” and even theme park attractions including “It’s a Small World” and “The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room.”
Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, expressed his heartfelt condolences, stating, “Richard Sherman was the embodiment of what it means to be a Disney Legend, creating along with his brother Robert the beloved classics that have become a cherished part of the soundtrack of our lives.”
At Disney, Richard and Robert’s creative prowess earned them nine Academy Award nominations and two wins, specifically for “Mary Poppins.” Their songwriting talents also shone bright beyond Disney with contributions to beloved family films like “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Snoopy Come Home.”
Throughout the years, Richard’s buoyant spirit and love for creativity remained unmatched. Pixar’s Pete Docter fondly remembered him, saying, “You don’t get songs like ‘Spoonful of Sugar’ without a genuine love of life, which Richard passed on to everyone lucky enough to be around him.”
Richard’s legacy lives on through his memorable music, cherished by Disney fans worldwide. He leaves behind his wife Elizabeth, children Gregory, Victoria Wolf, Lynda Rothstein, and their families. His contributions to Disney will forever echo in the melodies he created, enriching the hearts of countless generations.
Do you have a favorite Sherman Brothers song? Share your thoughts and memories in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you! Feel free to share this story with fellow Disney enthusiasts and celebrate the lasting legacy of Richard M. Sherman.
