RIP: Scooby-Doo Co-Creator Joe Ruby Dead at 87

An icon of children’s entertainment has died. Joe Ruby, the co-creator of Scooby-Doo, has died at the age of 87.

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

Ruby created Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? with Ken Spears in 1969. The animated series spawned countless remakes and spinoffs on the small and silver screen.

In a statement Warner Bros. Animation president Sam Register spoke highly of Ruby, “Joe 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. Scooby-Doo has been a beloved companion on screens for more than 50 years, leaving an enduring legacy that has inspired and entertained generations.  We at Warner Bros. Animation have the privilege and honor of carrying on that legacy and send our warmest thoughts to his loved ones.”

Our thoughts go out to the Ruby family.