Joe created the classic characters alongside his creative partner, Ken Spears.
The co-creator of Scooby-Doo – Joe Ruby – has passed away at the age of 87.
Joe, who created the classic characters of Scooby, Shaggy, Daphne, Fred and Velma with his creative partner Ken Spears, died of natural causes in California on Wednesday, BBC News reported.
Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? was launched in 1969 and ran on CBS until 1976, spawning several reboots and films, plus a thriving consumer products programme.
Sam Register, Warner Bros. animation president, commented: “[Joe] 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.”
Joe also co-created brands including The Barkleys and The Houndcats, while he also served as an executive producer on animated versions of live-action shows including Rambo and Police Academy.
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