Saxophonist Plas Johnson, known for Pink Panther Theme solo, dies at 94

Saxophonist Plas Johnson, best known for his iconic tenor sax solo on Henry Mancini's The Pink Panther Theme, died at the age of 94 on July 15, 2026, in Granada Hills, Los Angeles Source: LA Times. His death was first reported by Louisiana hometown newspaper the Donaldsonville Chief and Los Angeles jazz station KKJZ Source: The Guardian.

The Pink Panther Legacy

Johnson's performance on the 1963 theme became a cultural touchstone. The score won three Grammy awards and an Oscar nomination, and the American Film Institute ranked it among the top 20 greatest film scores Source: LA Times. Johnson recalled that only two takes were needed, and that even the string players applauded Source: The Guardian.

Session Career and Influence

After moving to Los Angeles in 1954, Johnson became a prolific session musician, working with icons such as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Marvin Gaye Source: LA Times. He also appeared in the 2008 documentary The Wrecking Crew, which highlighted the era's studio musicians. Johnson noted, "My solos always seemed to bring the record up another notch" Source: The Guardian. He died six days before his 95th birthday.