In the US, died the creator of the animated series "Sponge Bob Square Pants" Stephen Hillenberg. He was 57 years old.

A year ago, Hillenberg was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, but despite the illness he continued to work on the animated series.

Nickelodeon, which broadcasts the animated series about Sponge Bob, expressed condolences over the death of Hillenberg. Representatives of the channel noted that his original characters and the Bikini Bottom universe will always be reminded of "the values ??of optimism, friendship and the unlimited power of imagination".

“Steve filled the Sponge Bob Square Pants series with a unique sense of humor and naivety that brought joy to whole generations of children and families around the world,” the company said.