Stephen Hillenburg, the creator of the animated series SpongeBob SquarePants, has announced that he has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) but has vowed to continue working on the hit show and spin-off movies "for as long as I am able".
In a statement released on Monday, the 55-year-old said he wanted people to hear the news that he has the neurodegenerative disease directly from him. Motor Neurone Disease affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
"Anyone who knows me knows that I will continue to work on SpongeBob SquarePants and my other passions for as long as I am able," said the marine biologist-turned-animator.
"My family and I are grateful for the outpouring of love and support. We ask that our sincere request for privacy be honoured during this time."
Following the announcement, SpongeBob fans took to social media and animation boards to show their support for Hillenburg.
stephen hillenburg has brought many smiles to millions of faces and created one of my childhood heroes. best wishes his way 🙏🏼
— bri 🌱 (@doweloveit_) March 14, 2017
Sending my best wishes to Stephen Hillenburg regarding his ALS disease. SpongeBob was such a big part of my childhood.
— Jordan M. (@MovieMan995) March 14, 2017
crying hard over Stephen Hillenburg getting ALS. Hard news to take in.
— Quinn Schuster (@quinn_schuster) March 14, 2017
Heartbroken by the news about #StephenHillenburg. SpongeBob was and continues to be one of my favourite cartoons. My Wumbo is with him.
— Kyle Milner (@kyle_milner) March 14, 2017
Stephen Hillenburg has done so much for children everywhere. Hope there is a way through this for him + family. https://t.co/wL3zxfYYWB
— Rémy Numa (@remynuma) March 14, 2017
Since its premiere on children's channel Nickelodeon in July 1999, SpongeBob SquarePants has become a multi-billion-dollar global phenomenon through the series, big screen adventures and associated merchandise. A third movie is due to be released in 2019.
In a statement, Nickelodeon said: "Steve Hillenburg is a brilliant creator who brings joy to millions of fans. Our thoughts and support are with Steve and his family during this difficult time. Out of respect for their wishes for privacy, we will have no further comment."
