Samuel E. Wright, who played a vital role in many childhoods, has passed away at age 74.
Wright is known by millions for voicing Sebastian the crab in The Little Mermaid and for his lead vocals in the film’s Oscar-winning song “Under the Sea.” The fan-favorite won the Academy Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy.
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The town of Montgomery, New York confirmed his passing in a heartfelt Facebook post on Tuesday, commending his role in co-founding local performing arts school Hudson Valley Conservatory.
“On top of his passion for the arts and his love for his family, Sam was most known for walking into a room and simply providing PURE JOY to those he interacted with,” the town wrote. “He loved to entertain, he loved to make people smile and laugh and he loved to love.”
Today, the Town of Montgomery mourns the loss of Sam Wright. Pictured here with Town Supervisor Brian Maher and his...
Posted by Town of Montgomery on Tuesday, May 25, 2021
The South Carolina native has starred in a myriad of productions such as “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “The Tap Dance Kid,” “Bird,” “Dinosaur” and the original Broadway production of the “Lion King.” His roles in both “The Tap Dance Kid” and “Lion King” earned him two Tony Award nominations.
The distinguished actor also made appearances in a plethora of well-known TV shows such as “All My Children,” “The Cosby Show,” “Spenser: For Hire” and “Jonny Zero.”
His loving personality impacted many people around him.
“He was the brightest light,” his daughter, Dee Kelly, told The Hollywood Reporter.
The New Amsterdam Theatre honored his legacy on its marquee, “Look at the stars. The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars. Rest In Peace, Samuel E. Wright | 1946 – 2021 Original Broadway Cast, Mufasa.”
“Look at the stars. The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars.” Rest In Peace, Samuel E. Wright | 1946 – 2021
— The Lion King - Musical (@TheLionKing) May 25, 2021
Original Broadway Cast, Mufasa. pic.twitter.com/MDuQAZJalZ
In addition, The Hudson Valley Conservatory announced on Tuesday that it will be starting The Samuel E. Wright Scholarship Fund to pay homage to his legacy. Funds will be used to support the children, school and community of young artists.
While his legacy will live on in the hearts of many, his light will be most remembered by his hometown.
“The greater Town of Montgomery Community mourns together today as we say goodbye to a pillar in our community,” the town said in a Facebook post. “We ask everyone to share a memory and help us celebrate the life of this great man.”