Richard Sherman, Oscar-winning songwriter of ‘Mary Poppins’ has died. He was announced dead today, Saturday, the 25th of May 2024. Disney Legend Richard M. Sherman, one half of the Academy Award-winning Sherman Brothers songwriting duo (alongside his late brother and fellow Disney Legend Robert B. Sherman), passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills due to age-related illness. He was 95 years old.
“Heartbroken to hear this. The Sherman Brothers created some of the most iconic songs of so many childhoods, and Feed The Birds remains one of the most beautiful songs of all time. RIP Richard Sherman, a true Disney legend.” Thoughts and prayers are with his family and the entertainment industry during this difficult time.
Richard Sherman’s early life
Sherman was born on June 12, 1928, in New York City. After serving in the military, he attended Bard College, majoring in music. Encouraged by their father Al, a successful songwriter, Richard and Robert began their songwriting career together. Their early success with “Tall Paul” led to their hiring by Disney, where they wrote over 200 songs, including for films like “The Jungle Book” and “The Aristocats.”
Career
He and his brother Robert, who passed away in 2012, created many iconic Disney songs, including those for “Mary Poppins,” which earned them two Oscars. Disney CEO Bob Iger praised Sherman as the epitome of a Disney Legend, whose music touched generations.
The Shermans left Disney in the 1970s but continued to work in the industry, contributing to projects such as “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “Charlotte’s Web.” They received numerous accolades, including induction into the Disney Legends the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the National Medal of the Arts.
Survived by
Richard M. Sherman is survived by his wife Elizabeth, their children and grandchildren, and a daughter from a previous marriage.
Richard Sherman obituary
A private funeral will be held on May 31, with a celebration of life to be announced later.
