Richard M. Sherman, Disney Legend and Songwriter for Mary Poppins and It's a Small World, Passes Away at 95

Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman, half of the Sherman Brothers songwriting duo, has passed at 95, leaving behind an incredible legacy.

Richard M. Sherman, a true Disney Legend and one half of the iconic Sherman Brothers songwriting duo, has passed away at the age of 95. His contributions to timeless classics such as Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, and The Aristocats have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Songs like 'There's a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow,' 'The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room,' and 'It's a Small World' will forever be etched in the hearts of generations to come.

The Walt Disney Company announced Sherman's passing on Saturday, May 25, at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills, citing age-related illness as the cause. Despite his physical absence, Richard Sherman's legacy will endure through his remarkable body of work that has touched the lives of so many.

Throughout his illustrious 65-year career, Sherman earned two Academy Awards for Mary Poppins and received a total of nine Oscar nominations. His musical genius also earned him three Grammy Awards, 24 gold and platinum albums, and a revered place within Walt Disney's inner circle of creative talent.

Richard and his brother Robert's work on Mary Poppins, which garnered them two Oscars for Best Score and Best Original Song, produced iconic tunes such as 'Chim Chim Cher-ee' and 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.' Their song 'Feed the Birds' was a personal favorite of Walt Disney himself, highlighting the profound impact their music had on the man behind the magic.

Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, praised Sherman as the epitome of a Disney Legend, whose timeless creations have become an integral part of our cultural tapestry. Pete Docter of Pixar Animation Studios lauded Sherman's infectious joy for life, evident in songs like 'A Spoonful of Sugar' that continue to inspire and uplift.

Born in New York City in 1928, Richard Sherman's journey to becoming a musical maestro began early in life. His collaboration with his brother Robert on hits like 'Tall Paul' led to their partnership with Disney, resulting in a prolific output of over 200 songs for numerous films and TV projects.

The Sherman Brothers' contributions extended beyond Disney, encompassing projects like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Charlotte's Web, and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Their induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and the National Medal of the Arts in 2008 solidified their status as legends in the music industry.

Despite Robert's passing in 2012, Richard continued to create, penning new lyrics for The Jungle Book and composing songs for Christopher Robin. His enduring passion for music culminated in a special recording of 'Feed the Birds' for Once Upon a Studio, celebrating Disney's centennial anniversary.

Richard Sherman's legacy lives on through his family, including his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth, their children, grandchildren, and extended relatives. His impact on the world of entertainment and the hearts of millions will be cherished for years to come.

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