Disney songwriter Richard M Sherman has passed away

Mary Poppins songwriter has died at the age of 95

He was working with his brother Robert and won two Oscars together for Mary Poppins in 1965.

Their works as joint lyrist and composers include the films as Winnie the Pooh, The Slipper and The Rose, Snoopy Come Home, Charlotte’s Web and The Magic of Lassie and soundtracks for films such as The Jungle Book, The Sword and The Stone, The Parent Trap and so on.

The brothers won an Oscar for “Chim Chim Cher-ee” from Mary Poppins, and were nominated for “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “The Age of Not Believing” from Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and several others. They also have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Sherman Brothers appeared on screen as actors B J Novak (Robert) and Jason Schwartzman (Richard) in the movie Saving Mr Banks about Mary Poppins' creation.

Sherman is survived by his wife Elizabeth Gluck, his children and grandchildren.

Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Iger said: “From films like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book to attractions like ‘it’s a small world,’ the music of the Sherman Brothers has captured the hearts of generations of audiences. We are forever grateful for the mark Richard left on the world, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family.”

Cameron Mackintosh, who co-produces Mary Poppins on stage in the UK “The great Richard Sherman wrote instantly infectious, joyous songs to lift the heart. His iconic score for Mary Poppins, written with his brother Bob, will be enchanting audiences around the world forever more. He was also one of the great gentlemen of showbusiness, always charming, supportive and kind. We will all miss you, Dick – you are truly supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.”

His funeral will take place on 31 May in California.