Richard M. Sherman, the talented songwriter behind beloved Disney movies such as “Mary Poppins” and “The Jungle Book,” has passed away at the age of 95. He succumbed to an age-related illness at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Richard Sherman was a prolific songwriter who often collaborated with his brother Robert B. Sherman. Together, they created songs that have become classics in the entertainment industry. Their work earned them many accolades, including two Oscars and three Grammy Awards.
Disney CEO Bob Iger paid tribute to Richard Sherman, saying, “Richard was the embodiment of what it means to be a Disney Legend. His songs have become a cherished part of the soundtrack of our lives, from ‘Mary Poppins’ to ‘It’s a Small World.’ He has captured the hearts of generations.”
Pete Docter, Chief Creative Officer at Pixar Animation Studios, also expressed his admiration for Richard, saying, “Richard’s love for life was contagious. He had more energy and enthusiasm than anyone, and his music was a true reflection of that.”
Richard Sherman was born on June 12, 1928, in New York City. He and his brother followed in their father’s footsteps and became songwriters themselves. In 1958, they founded their own music publishing company, the Music World Corporation.
Their breakthrough came in 1964 when “Mary Poppins” premiered with music by the Sherman brothers. The film earned them two Oscars for Best Score and Best Original Song. They also wrote other iconic songs, such as “It’s a Small World (After All),” which debuted at the New York World’s Fair in 1964.
Richard’s impressive filmography includes scores for movies like “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “The Aristocats,” “The Jungle Book,” and “Charlotte’s Web.” He received nine Academy Award nominations, winning two, and received three Grammy Awards. In 2005, the Sherman brothers were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and named Disney Legends in 1990.
Richard Sherman’s musical contributions extended beyond the big screen. He also played a role in stage musicals like “Mary Poppins” and “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” Even popular songs like “You’re Sixteen,” sung by Johnny Burnette and later covered by Ringo Starr, featured his musical talent.
Richard Sherman leaves behind a legacy of timeless melodies that have brought joy to millions of people worldwide. He will be remembered as a true Disney Legend whose music will continue to touch the hearts of generations to come.
A funeral is scheduled for Friday, May 31, at Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery in Culver City, California. Richard is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Gluck, their two children, Gregory and Victoria, and his daughter, Lynda, from a previous relationship.
