STEPHEN HILLENBURG 1961–2018

Stephen Hillenburg, the creative genius behind the hugely popular children’s animated series Spongebob Squarepants, passed away on Nov. 26. The creator and director of the series, who was only 57 years old, died of Lou Gehrig’s disease – a motor neuron disease also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). “He was a beloved friend and longtime creative partner at Nickelodeon and our hearts go out to his entire family,” the network stated. “Steve imbued Spongebob Squarepants with a unique sense of humour and innocence that has brought joy to generations of kids and families everywhere.” Hillenburg leaves behind his wife, Karen, son, Clay, mother, Nancy, and brother, Brian.