Paddington creator dies at 91
TRIBUTES poured in yesterday for Paddington Bear creator Michael Bond, who has died at the age of 91.
The children’s author passed away at home on Tuesday following a short illness, his publisher HarperCollins said.
His most-famous creation, Paddington, was a marmalade-loving bear from Peru who became one of the most popular characters in children’s literature.
Bond introduced him in 1958’s A Bear Called Paddington, and would go on to write more than 20 books featuring the character.
Actor Hugh Bonneville, who starred in the 2014 movie Paddington and its upcoming sequel, said: “It seems particularly poignant that we should learn of dear Michael Bond’s death on the last day of shooting our second film about his unique, lovable creation.
“Michael will be greatly missed by his legions of fans.”
Presenter Stephen Fry tweeted: “So sorry to hear that Michael Bond has departed. He was as kindly, dignified, charming and lovable as the immortal Paddington Bear he gave us.”
Children’s author and TV star David Walliams wrote: “I had the great pleasure of spending time with Michael Bond. A dazzling wit and perfect gentleman. On meeting him I realised he was Paddington.”
Ann-Janine Murtagh, executive publisher of HarperCollins children’s books, said: “He will be forever remembered for his creation of the iconic Paddington.
“My thoughts and love are with his wife, Sue, and his children Karen and Anthony.”
As well as the Paddington series, Bond also wrote a children’s TV show called The Herbs, a series of books about a guinea pig called Olga da Polga and a string of detective novels for adults.
MICHAEL BOND, the creator of Paddington Bear, has died at the age of 91. The famous bear with his duffel coat and marmalade sandwiches has been a childhood favourite for generations. Everybody from here to deepest, darkest Peru will be sad to learn of his creator’s passing.