We’re saddened to share that Richard M. Sherman, one of Disney’s most iconic music legends and half of the famed Sherman Brothers duo, passed away on Saturday at the age of 95 due to age-related illness at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills. The news was confirmed by The Walt Disney Company in an official statement on their website.
Throughout his 65-year career, Richard Sherman, along with his brother Robert B. Sherman, crafted melodies that have become the heartstrings of Disney’s vast storytelling universe. The duo’s unforgettable contributions earned them nine Academy Award nominations and two Oscars for their work on the 1964 classic, “Mary Poppins.” If you’ve ever found yourself humming “Chim Chim Cher-ee” or the tongue-twisting “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” you’ve been touched by Sherman’s magic. Their brilliance also extended beyond the silver screen, earning them three Grammy Awards and 24 gold and platinum albums (source: Daily Caller).
Variety shared a heartfelt tweet celebrating Sherman’s remarkable legacy, highlighting some of his most famous contributions like “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and the timeless Disneyland anthem, “It’s a Small World (After All).” His work not only graced movies but also Broadway stages and Disney theme parks, creating soundtracks that became synonymous with the Disney brand.
“Richard Sherman was the embodiment of what it means to be a Disney Legend,” said Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “Together with his brother Robert, he created beloved classics that have become a cherished part of the soundtrack of our lives. From films like ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘The Jungle Book’ to attractions like ‘it’s a small world,’ the music of the Sherman Brothers has captured the hearts of generations of audiences. We are forever grateful for the mark Richard left on the world.”
The Sherman Brothers’ songs have an enduring ability to capture the essence of Disney storytelling. One of Walt Disney’s favorite melodies was “Feed the Birds” from “Mary Poppins,” echoing the tender simplicity and emotional depth that marked their work. As we remember Richard M. Sherman, let’s celebrate the melodies that turned dreams into reality and brought countless smiles to our faces.
We would love to hear your fondest memories of Richard Sherman’s music. Please share your thoughts and favorite Sherman Brothers’ songs in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this story to honor the legacy of this musical genius. (Original source: Daily Caller).
For more details and to read the official statement from The Walt Disney Company, click [here](https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/remembering-disney-legend-richard-m-sherman/).
[Photo credits: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images, Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images, Paul Hiffmeyer/Disneyland Resort via Getty Images]