Beloved Disney Songwriter Richard M. Sherman Passes Away at 95
The melody of Disney’s golden age grew a bit quieter today with the sad news that legendary composer Richard M. Sherman has passed away at the age of 95 in Beverly Hills. Renowned for his indelible contributions to Disney classics such as “Mary Poppins” and “The Jungle Book,” Sherman’s songs have been the soundtrack to countless cherished childhood memories.
Sherman, alongside his brother Robert, formed a dynamic duo that won the hearts of audiences worldwide. Their collaboration earned them two Academy Awards in 1965 for their spectacular work on “Mary Poppins.” Among their most celebrated creations were “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’s” delightful “Truly Scrumptious,” and “The Jungle Book’s” enchanting “Trust in Me.”
Disney announced Sherman’s passing, attributing it to age-related illness at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Reflecting on his storied career, Disney highlighted Sherman’s role within Walt Disney’s “inner circle of creative talents.” The Sherman brothers’ legacy was cemented further when they were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and received the US National Medal of the Arts in 2008.
In addition to “Mary Poppins,” the Sherman brothers’ genius graced films like “The Aristocats,” “Bedknobs and Broomsticks,” and the timeless “Winnie the Pooh” shorts. Sherman’s enduring influence also appeared in modern cinema, with actors Jason Schwartzman and B.J. Novak portraying the brothers in the 2013 film “Saving Mr. Banks,” which explored the making of “Mary Poppins.”
Sherman’s career was nothing short of prolific. Born on June 12, 1928, in New York City, his journey in music spanned over six decades. He accumulated an impressive collection of accolades, including three Grammy Awards and 24 gold and platinum albums, leaving an indelible mark on the arts industry. Even in his later years, Sherman continued contributing, composing a new song in 2023 for the animated short film “Mushka” by Disney Legend Andreas Deja.
Richard Sherman leaves behind his wife Elizabeth, their children, and grandchildren. His funeral is scheduled for May 31 in California. The magic of his music will undoubtedly continue to enchant and inspire for generations to come.
Share your favorite Richard M. Sherman song in the comments below, and tell us how his music has touched your life. Don’t forget to share this story to celebrate the legacy of a truly remarkable Disney legend.
