The American actor also played Mufasa in the Broadway version of 'The Lion King'
American actor Samuel E. Wright passed away in Walden, New York due to prostate cancer at age 74.
"He was the brightest light," Samuel's daughter Dee said to The Hollywood Reporter, confirming her father's demise.
Samuel was best known for lending his voice to the character Sebastian of Disney's animated movie "The Little Mermaid." The film spawned two Oscar nominations for the songs "Kiss the Girl" and "Under the Sea" featuring his voice, the latter took home the award for Best Original Song.
Samuel was also known as a gifted thespian. His theatrical career on Broadway started off in 1971 with the production of "Jesus Christ Superstar." He also garnered Tony nominations for portraying William Sheridan in "The Tap Dance" (1983) and Mufasa in "The Lion King."
A tribute by the town of Montgomery, New York was posted on its Facebook page, honoring the late actor and remembering his legacy.
“Sam was an inspiration to us all and along with his family established the Hudson Valley Conservatory,” the tribute said. “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. 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.”
Rest in peace, Samuel.