Joe Ruby, ‘Scooby-Doo’ co-creator, dies at 87

Joe Ruby, an American animator and co-creator of ‘Scooby-Doo’, a popular cartoon series, has passed away at 87.

According to BBC, Benjamin Ruby, the deceased’s grandson, said he died of natural causes in California on Wednesday.

“He never stopped writing and creating, even as he aged,” Benjamin said.

Sam Register, president of Warner Bros, an animation company, said Ruby “made Saturday mornings special for so many children, including myself”.

“He was one of the most prolific creators in our industry who gifted us some of animation’s most treasured characters and it was a thrill to host him at our studio,” he said.

“Scooby-Doo has been a beloved companion on screens for more than 50 years, leaving an enduring legacy that has inspired and entertained generations.”

Ruby’s foray into the animation industry started after completing his stint in the US navy.

He had consequently kick-started his television career at Walt Disney Productions, and would later meet Ken Spears while working at Hanna-Barbera Productions.

In 1969, he initiated ‘Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!’ series alongside Spears and the two went on to form their own rival animation production company, Ruby-Spears Productions.

‘Scooby-Doo’ became an instant hit after its introduction and ran on CBS until 1976.

He is survived by Corole, his wife, their four children and grandchildren.

His death further stretches the list of celebrities who have breathed their last since the dawn of the year.