Baywatch and Knight Rider star David Hasselhoff, who played a lifeguard in 2004’s SpongeBob SquarePants motion picture, said it was a “stunning misfortune”.
“Wow what a novel and awesome character Steve made!” he tweeted.
Proficient skater Tony Hawk additionally paid tribute on Twitter, expressing gratitude toward Hillenburg “for the common giggles” he’d had with his youngsters as the years progressed.
I first discovered SPONGEBOB through my sons, who were loudly singing along with the dopey & memorable theme song downstairs. I came down to see what the ruckus was about and ended up watching my first episode. Many laughs.
Many thanks, Steve Hillenburg. May you Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/3VNsxYJVXq— Brad Bird (@BradBirdA113) November 27, 2018
Lori Alan, who voiced the character Pearl Krabs, called Hillenburg a “strangely skilled, unassuming, generous and colossal hearted man” in a tribute on Instagram.
“You cleared out this world – the whole world – more joyful, kinder and brimming with euphoria,” she included.
No words. Steve Hillenburg was a friend and immensely talented creator. We grew up together at Nickelodeon. Prayers for his family and legions of fans. You will be sorely missed, Steve. pic.twitter.com/iwaAggGb31
— Butch Hartman (@realhartman) November 27, 2018
Brad Bird, executive of the Incredibles films, said he originally had found SpongeBob however his children when they were uproariously chiming in to its subject tune.
“I came down to perceive what the hubbub was about and wound up viewing my first scene. Numerous snickers.” he composed.
Butch Hartman, maker of enlivened arrangement The Fairly OddParents, called Hillenburg a “colossally gifted maker” who might be “distressfully missed”.