We are saddened to announce that Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman, the musical genius behind some of the most iconic songs in Disney history, has passed away at the age of 95. Richard and his brother Robert were the illustrious Sherman Brothers, the dynamic duo responsible for delighting audiences with their timeless compositions like “It’s a Small World (After All)” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”.
Richard’s death, attributed to age-related complications, occurred at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, California. Together with his brother, Richard’s musical magic has become a vital part of Disney’s golden legacy. Hired by Walt Disney himself in 1958, the Shermans quickly became the in-house composers whose enchanting melodies defined a generation of Disney films.
Among their notable contributions, the Shermans created unforgettable scores for “The Jungle Book,” “The Parent Trap,” and of course, “Mary Poppins,” which earned them two Oscars for Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “Chim Chim Cher-ee.” Their joyous melodies and heartfelt lyrics have been a cornerstone of Disney’s musical heritage, ensuring their music endures in the hearts of fans young and old.
Disney CEO Bob Iger, expressed profound gratitude for the Shermans’ contributions, 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.”
Their compositions not only won accolades but also achieved something far grander: they became an integral piece of the Disney parks experience. “It’s a Small World (After All)” originally written for the New York World’s Fair, continues to entertain millions as a beloved theme park attraction.
Richard was portrayed by Jason Schwartzman in the 2013 film “Saving Mr. Banks,” a testament to his and his brother’s far-reaching influence, with Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson also starring as Walt Disney and Mary Poppins author, P.L. Travers. Even after Walt Disney’s death in 1966, the Sherman Brothers continued their musical journey with Disney, crafting compositions for films like “The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band” and “Bedknobs and Broomsticks.”
Recognized as Disney Legends in 1990 and inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005, the Shermans have received the U.S. National Medal of the Arts and three Grammy Awards, among many other accolades.
The world has lost a true maestro, but his music will continue to enchant and inspire future generations. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Richard’s family and friends. Share your favorite Sherman Brothers songs and memories in the comments below, and join us in celebrating the extraordinary legacy of Richard M. Sherman.
You can immerse yourself in Richard Sherman’s magical compositions by streaming “Mary Poppins” on Disney+ today.
[Sources: PBS, Disney]
[Image via PBS]
