In the summer of 2023, Richard Sherman met with Disney CEO Bob Iger to share a new verse for the iconic song, It’s a Small World. Today, The Walt Disney Company shared a short film called The Last Verse that shows the legacy of Richard and Robert Sherman, who wrote the theme for the beloved it’s a small world attraction. It also includes the third verse which Richard Sherman shared with Bob Iger.
“As the legendary creators of some of the most cherished music of the past century, the Sherman brothers will be remembered for their profound impact on our global culture,” said Bob Iger. “Hearing Richard Sherman recite the final verse to ‘It’s a Small World’ before he died will be a moment I will carry with me forever. This beautiful short film is our tribute to their immeasurable musical contributions, their memory, and to the countless memories they helped create for generations of people around the world.”
The Last Verse
Behind the Verse
At D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney CEO Bob Iger shared about the moment that Richard Sherman brought this new verse to him. Along with sharing his own thoughts, Iger brought a video of this magical moment to Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman. Watch this very special moment here:
Richard, and his brother Robert, wrote many of the songs that are known and loved by Disney fans. This includes the songs of Disney movies like Mary Poppins, The Parent Trap, and Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Their music can also be heard in favorite Disney attractions like the Carousel of Progress, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, and it’s a small world. Robert Sherman passed away in 2012 and Richard Sherman passed away earlier this year.
The Last Verse was directed by Henry Alex Rubin, best known for his award-winning documentary Murderball. He did so for Disney and creative partner adam&eveDDB.
Richard Brim, Global Chief Creative Officer for adam&eveDDB said, “It’s hard to truly capture the influence and impact that Disney has had on our lives over the past century. With this film, we wanted tap into those feelings of nostalgia that are so often associated with the iconic brand, whilst paying homage to the legends that are the Sherman brothers.”
What do you think of The Last Verse? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
