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Plas Johnson, Saxophonist for ‘Pink Panther Theme,’ Dies at 94

He also recorded with Barbra Streisand, Frank Sinatra and Elton John, and his family said no cause of death was disclosed.

  • Jazz saxophonist Plas Johnson, famous for the Pink Panther theme solo, died at 94 on July 15. His children Eric and Stephanie confirmed he passed away at his home in Los Angeles, Calif.
  • Known for a nimble style, Johnson became a top Los Angeles-based session musician as a member of The Wrecking Crew. Composer Henry Mancini specifically penned the Pink Panther solo for him to perform.
  • Beyond his film work, Johnson spent 15 years in The Merv Griffin Show house band. He also backed legendary artists including Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Barbra Streisand throughout his career.
  • Born in Donaldsonville, La., on July 21, 1931, Johnson is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol, and three children from his first marriage. He remained active, performing at his retirement community recently.
  • In a 2008 documentary about The Wrecking Crew, Johnson noted that session musicians often went uncredited and unpaid. His legacy persists through a 2006 recording of the theme for the remake starring Steve Martin.
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Plas Johnson was the saxophonist who played the iconic saxophone solo theme of The Pink Panther, composed by Henry Mancini, making the world famous song, so we give you details of who it was like:Who was Plas Johnson, a saxophonist who composed the theme of The Pink Panther?How old was Plas Johnson, a saxophonist who composed the theme of The Pink Panther?Plas Johnson, a saxophonist who composed the theme of The Pink Panther had a wife?What zodi…

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He performed cult music from Pink Panther.

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This Tuesday the American saxophonist and legend of jazz Plas Johnson died at 94 years old, known in much of the world for performing the well-known song of the 1963 series and film “The Pink Panther”. The news was confirmed by his sons to the American media New York Times, which highlights the trajectory of ... Continue reading "Death of the saxophonist of "The Pink Panther" and jazz icon, Plas Johnson, at 94 years of age" The post Dies the sax…

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The American legend, Plas Johnson, passed away at the age of 94. It will always be remembered for its unforgettable interpretation of the main theme of The Pink Panther.

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Le Journal de Quebec broke the news in Quebec City, Canada on Tuesday, July 21, 2026.
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