Disney legend Andrew Gunn dies aged 58 after ALS battle

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Andrew Gunn, the visionary Disney producer behind beloved classics such as Freaky Friday, Cruella, and Sky High. Gunn passed away at the age of 58 at his home in Toronto, Canada, on Monday.

His death comes after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a degenerative neurological disorder he was diagnosed with in 2024.

Surrounded by his family, the prolific filmmaker leaves behind a monumental legacy that shaped the childhoods of millions.

Beyond his box-office successes, Gunn was revered as a mentor within the industry. Film writer Blaise Hemingway offered a touching tribute, stating, “Andrew Gunn’s legacy will go far beyond the movies he made; he’s the ‘godfather’ to more writers, producers, directors, and executives than I can count.”

Hemingway added, “So many of us owe our careers to Andrew Gunn.” Fellow producer Shawn Ryan also expressed his heartbreak, describing ALS as “a truly horrific disease” and sharing how his family grew up closely together.

Gunn is survived by his wife, Jane, and their two children, Isabelle and Connor. Known for his keen eye for storytelling and his ability to revitalise live-action Disney features, his influence stretched across decades of Hollywood production.

As the industry reflects on his life, he is remembered not just for the magic he created on screen but for the countless professionals he championed behind the scenes.

His passing marks the end of an era for Disney’s live-action storytelling and a deeply personal loss for the creative community.