This morning we bring reports of some sad news for all cartoon lovers: Stephen Hillenburg, the creator of one of the most iconic cartoon series on Nickelodeon, 'Spongebob Squarepants', has died at the age of only 57 years old.
According to reports from Variety, the cause of death was motor neuron disease (also known as ALS), an illness for which Hillenburg himself announced a diagnosis in March of 2017.
The mastermind behind the beloved cartoon TV series, which underpinned the childhood of millions, had an impressive career and graduated with a degree in Natural Resource Planning and Interpretation in 1984, later becoming a Marine Biology teacher in the Centre of California. His love for the ocean combined with his great artistic talent lead him to write and illustrate several fun didactic stories for his students, starring the characters who would later become the inhabitants of Bikini Bottom, the underwater home to Spongebob and his friends.
Later on he began a career in animation, achieving a masters in Fine Arts in 1992. Not long afterwards he began working as a scriptwriter and director for a Nickelodeon animation series named 'Rocko's Modern Life'. From this time onwards he began to dedicate himself entirely to writing and producing 'Spongebob', whose first episode premiered on Nickelodeon on 1st May 1999. The series now has over 200 episodes, and not only has been dubbed and subtitled into more than 60 different languages, but also has been awarded on various occasions. After the success of the series, over the years it has even brought stories starring Spongebob to the big screen several times, which have achieved an impressive box office rating.
Hillenburg's legendary series has been a highlight in the childhood of anyone growing up in the early 2000s, it has been converted into many a noteworthy meme in recent years, and the characters will stay with the fans forever.
Nickelodeon and Cast say Goodbye to Hillenburg
Nickelodeon chose to say a few words to honour Hillenburg in a press release: "We are incredibly saddened by the news that Steve Hillenburg has passed away following a battle with ALS. He was a beloved friend and long-time creative partner to everyone at Nickelodeon, and our hearts go out to his entire family. Steve imbued 'SpongeBob SquarePants' with a unique sense of humor and innocence that has brought joy to generations of kids and families everywhere. His utterly original characters and the world of Bikini Bottom will long stand as a reminder of the value of optimism, friendship and the limitless power of imagination."
Via Twitter they also shared the news with their followers, saying:
? We are sad to share the news of the passing of Stephen Hillenburg, the creator of SpongeBob SquarePants. Today, we are observing a moment of silence to honor his life and work. ?
? Nickelodeon (@Nickelodeon) 27 de noviembre de 2018
Other actors and colleagues of the writer have also taken to social media in order to express their sorrow upon hearing the sad news, many also choosing to share memories of the episodes which have impacted directly on their own lives.
Wow what a unique and fantastic character Steve created! It was my pleasure and honor to be in SpongeBob The Movie and to share some great laughs with this gentleman, Shocking Loss! To this day I am stopped and flattered by people and kids who have seen me in the film.#SpongeBob pic.twitter.com/gNF1CkJk69
? David Hasselhoff (@DavidHasselhoff) 27 de noviembre de 2018
Spongebob was a huge part of my life. I'm not kidding when I say I honestly wouldn't b who I am today w/ out that show & the memories & cherished moments I have over it. All just want 2 say thank you Stephen Hillenburg 4 creating such an impactful wonderful work of art. Rest Well
? Paul Butcher (@ThePaulButcher) 27 de noviembre de 2018
A giant of cartoons has left us. A kind, brilliant and hilarious genius who will forever be remembered for his creations. Animation was changed for the better thanks to him. And millions of kids grew up with a character that championed innocence. Gracias for everything, Steve. https://t.co/Nn0DCnabJS
? Jorge R. Gutierrez (@mexopolis) 27 de noviembre de 2018
the episode where spongebob and patrick raise a clam and patrick turns to spongebob and says "let's have another" was my first memory of queer representation
? jaboukie (@jaboukie) 27 de noviembre de 2018
The quality of the first three seasons of Spongebob are to blame for it's decades-long cultural relevance. Stephen Hillenburg created a broad, optimistic universe without sacrificing any of his absurd sensibility, giving us art that could be loved and understood commonly. Tragic.
? Gabriel Gundacker (@gabegundacker) 27 de noviembre de 2018
I can't put into words how grateful I am to you for changing my life with your creative brilliance & huge heart. It has been such an honor to bring Pearl Krabs to life??? Our SpongeBob family is devastated but we know you're in Bikini Bottom in the sky #RIPSteveHillenburg https://t.co/ERGGrV4wDf
? Lori Alan (@LoriAlan1) 27 de noviembre de 2018
