'SpongeBob SquarePants' creator Stephen Hillenburg dies after battle with ALS
Stephen Hillenburg, the genius who gifted many people one of their favorite childhood memories in the form of the iconic cartoon SpongeBob SquarePants, is no more. The creator of the Nickelodeon animated series passed away on Monday, November 26, at the age of 57. The cause of his death was revealed to be ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) which Hillenburg revealed he had been diagnosed with in March last year.
“We are incredibly saddened by the news that Steve Hillenburg has passed away following a battle with ALS,” Nickelodeon said in a statement. “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.”
