(Photo by Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images)
Samuel E. Wright, best known as the voice of Sebastian in The Little Mermaid, has sadly passed at the age of 74.
The news of Wright’s passing was announced by the town of Montgomery, New York, where he resided with his family. “Today, the Town of Montgomery mourns the loss of Sam Wright,” a post on the town’s Facebook page read. The post referred to Wright as “a pillar in our community” and noted that he and his family founded the Hudson Valley Conservatory.
“Sam and his family have impacted countless Hudson Valley youth always inspiring them to reach higher and dig deeper to become the best version of themselves,” the tribute continued. “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. He loved to entertain, he loved to make people smile and laugh and he loved to love.”
Wright’s most iconic role was the voice of Sebastian in Disney’s The Little Mermaid. In the role of Sebastian Wright sang “Under the Sea,” which won Best Original Song and Best Original Score at the Academy Awards. He also sang the iconic song “Kiss the Girl,” which was also nominated for Best Original Song.
Wright continued to voice Sebastian in later spinoff projects including in Disney’s House of Mouse, Mickeypalooza, and two sequels of The Little Mermaid.
Wright is survived by his wife Amanda Wright and their three children.
Olivia Di Pede
Olivia loves all things fashion, beauty, and entertainment. In her free time, she can be found taking yoga classes, reading thriller novels, and styling outfits on Instagram.