Richard M. Sherman, a legendary composer for Disney, has passed away at the age of 95. Sherman, known for his work on beloved Disney classics, died of an old age-related illness on Tuesday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.
Disney officials confirmed the news in a statement.
Contributions to Disney Classics
Sherman, along with his late brother Robert, formed an iconic songwriting duo that left an indelible mark on the world of music and film. The Sherman brothers won two Oscars in 1965 for their work on “Mary Poppins.” Their contributions to Disney include timeless songs such as “Truly Scrumptious” from “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Trust in Me” from “The Jungle Book,” which remain beloved by audiences today.
Celebrated Career and Legacy
Richard Sherman’s career was celebrated widely, with his induction into the Songwriters’ Hall of Fame in 2005 highlighting his significant achievements. In 2008, he was honored with the United States National Medal of Arts.
His music featured in other Disney blockbusters like “Bedknobs And Broomsticks,” “The Aristocats,” and the “Winnie-the-Pooh” series, showcasing his versatility and enduring talent.
Iconic Hits and Awards
One of Sherman’s most notable hits, “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” from “Mary Poppins,” became an instant pop sensation, making it to the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965. Along with his brother, Sherman wrote over 150 songs for Disney, achieving 24 gold and platinum albums.
Their work included scores for “The Parent Trap,” which was remade in 1998 starring Lindsay Lohan, and a song for Andreas Deja’s animated short film “Mushka” in 2023.
Enduring Impact and Final Honors
Throughout his career, Sherman was an integral part of Disney’s creative team, earning ten Oscar nominations and three Grammy awards. His contributions were immortalized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Richard Sherman is survived by his wife Elizabeth, their children, and grandchildren. He will be laid to rest in California, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire and enchant future generations.
