Another Loss for the World of Animation

Iwao Takamoto, a legendary animator and character designer, passed away one week ago today.

He worked at WB Animation, and I saw him almost everyday. Unfortunately, our direct paths never crossed in work because of our specific duties, but I always took notice of him when he was around because he was a living legend.


He created many beloved characters such as Scooby-Doo, Astro ("The Jetsons"), and Muttley ("Wacky Races"). He also was an animator for Disney in the golden era, having worked on "Cinderella", "Peter Pan", and "Lady and the Tramp". His credits include many more classics.

Here is a more thorough perspective of Iwao's work thanks to Jerry Beck's animation blog. It's a really interesting read.

A Legend Dies, But His Work Lives On

Joseph Barbera died today of natural causes at 12:15pm at his home in Studio City. He was 95.

I have had the privelege of working at the same building as he did for about 5 years. (yes, he did still come into work!) I didn't have a lot of contact with him, but the handful of times I did speak with him, I'll always remember.

We are still producing spin-off shows based on the characters he created many decades ago. This year's variety is called "Shaggy and Scooby-Doo Get A Clue".

GO HERE to view a post I wrote about him in April.

Hanging with Mr. Barbera

I've been working in the same building with an animation legend for four years, but just finally got a chance to talk to him and get a picture. Joe Barbera (or Mr. B, as we call him at the studio) turned 95 last week. He is 1/2 responsible (being 1/2 of the 'Hanna-Barbera' partnership) for classics such as: Tom and Jerry, The Flintstones, The Jetsons, and Scooby-Doo, among many others. He still comes in to work a few times a week these days. That's pretty inspiring!
(photo courtesy of Chris L.)