Samuel E. Wright passed away in his home in Walden, New York, at age 74. Mr. Wright was suffering from prostate cancer.
Well known for his unforgettable portrayal of Sebastian in Disney’s animated classic THE LITTLE MERMAID, Wright’s voice has serenaded countless people over multiple generations. He performed “Under the Sea” in the film, which would go on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song. Wright continued to voice Sebastian in TV series, sequels, tie-ins, and theme park shows and attractions for decades.
His Disney footprint expanded to Broadway with a starring turn as Mufasa in the original Broadway cast of THE LION KING. Wright received his second Tony Award nomination for his portrayal. His voice can be heard on the show’s original cast recording. In 2000, he voiced Kron in Disney’s DINOSAUR. Prior to becoming a Disney fixture, Wright had starred in many Broadway shows, including JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR and PIPPIN. His television appearances included Enos, All My Children, The Cosby Show, and Spencer For Hire.
