Richard M. Sherman, ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘It’s a Small World’ songwriter, dies

Lyricist Richard M. Sherman, known for writing the lyrics and music for “Mary Poppins” and “It’s a Small World,” has died at the age of 95.

Sherman died Saturday at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills from an “age-related” illness, the release said. announcement A citation from The Walt Disney Company described him as “one of the most prolific composers and lyricists in the history of family entertainment and a central figure in the creative talents of Walt Disney.”

Over the course of his 65-year career, he was nominated for nine Academy Awards, won two Oscars (in 1965 with his brother), won three Grammy Awards and earned 24 platinum and gold albums.

“Generations of moviegoers and theme park guests have been introduced to the Disney world through the Sherman Brothers’ epic, timeless songs,” The Walt Disney Company said in a statement Saturday. “Today, the duo remains Walt Disney’s quintessential lyric voice.”

She won two Academy Awards alongside her late brother Robert for their performance in Mary Poppins, who also won a Grammy Award for Best Original Score.

The 2013 film “Saving Mr. Banks” portrayed the brothers and the behind-the-scenes production of “Mary Poppins.”

The brothers were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and received the National Medal of Arts in 2008.

“Richard Sherman is the epitome of Disney legend, and along with his brother Robert, he created beloved classics that have become part of the cherished soundtrack of our lives,” Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger said in a statement. “From films like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book to attractions like It’s a Small World, the Sherman brothers’ music has touched the hearts of audiences for generations.”