Legendary animator Janice Burgess has died at the age of 72.
Most credited for developing Nickelodeon’s The Backyardigans, the writer has received plenty of praise.
Fracaswell Hyman, writer and producer, praised Burgess’s sharp humor.
“I met Janice Burgess early in my career when I was head writer on Gullah Gullah Island and she was hired as our Executive Director of Production,” he said on Instagram.
“This is the person the network sends to the facility to protect the cash from being wasted.
“Janice came with her endless supply of cigarettes, long Hermes scarves, and sharp tongue.
She became more than just a supervisor.
“She recognized my magic before I did and made sure I was in the room and that I was considered for many shows that came my way, including Little Bill and Taina.
Hyman thought Burgess’s commentary on the stories was insightful, insightful, and helpful.
He said he would be sad to lose his good friend.
It has not yet been formally ruled out that Burgess has died.
She died just a few days after turning 72.
A native of Tennessee, Burgess began working in production for Nickelodeon in 1995. In 2004, she was also employed as a story editor for the Winx Club adventure series.
In an interview with Nickelodeon, she claimed that Backyardigans was inspired by her early backyard memories.
She laughed at how she and her friends were playing hide and seek and acting like they were chasing wild animals.
A large number of people were quick to share their utes with Burgess.
“Did she invent the Backyardigans?” That was when I was a kid. As one fan said, “I loved her so much.”
“Backyardigans was – and still is – one of my most memorable childhood memories… a huge loss,” the mourner commented.
“She had a huge impact on [sic] my life.
We are grateful to Janice for creating The Backyardigans, Gullah Gullah Island, and sharing our beginnings with us. We will all sincerely miss you! “Fly high!” was the advice of a third enthusiast.
The passing of Janice Burgess is a profound loss to the animation community and to the generations of children who grew up watching her beloved creations. As the mastermind behind The Backyardigans, her unique vision and creativity shaped the childhoods of countless viewers and left an indelible mark on the landscape of children’s television. Her work not only entertained but also sparked the imagination and curiosity of young minds, teaching important lessons about friendship and adventure through engaging stories and vivid characters.
Heartfelt tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans serve as a testament to Burgess’ legacy. Fracaswell Hyman’s memoir highlights not only her professional brilliance but also her role as a mentor and friend, illustrating how she nurtured talent and recognized potential in others. The impact she’s had on shows like Gullah Gullah Island, Little Bill, and Taina further strengthens her influence in the industry, making her a true pioneer in children’s programming.
When considering the contribution of Janice Burgess, it is essential to acknowledge the joy and creativity she brought to the world. Her early memories that inspired The Backyardigans remind us of the simple joys of childhood – playing outside, exploring the imagination,, and going on adventures with friends. Although she is no longer with us, her spirit and creativity will live on through her work and will continue to impact the lives of children and families for years to come. When fans say goodbye, they will be left with cherished memories and a deep gratitude for the stories she brought to life. Thank you, Janice, for sharing your incredible talent with us. I will miss you, but your legacy will live on.
Legendary animator Janice Burgess has died at the age of 72.
Most credited for developing Nickelodeon’s The Backyardigans, the writer has received plenty of praise.
Fracaswell Hyman, writer and producer, praised Burgess’s sharp humor.
“I met Janice Burgess early in my career when I was head writer on Gullah Gullah Island and she was hired as our Executive Director of Production,” he said on Instagram.
“This is the person the network sends to the facility to protect the cash from being wasted.
“Janice came with her endless supply of cigarettes, long Hermes scarves, and sharp tongue.
She became more than just a supervisor.
“She recognized my magic before I did and made sure I was in the room and that I was considered for many shows that came my way, including Little Bill and Taina.
Hyman thought Burgess’s commentary on the stories was insightful, insightful,, and helpful.
He said he would be sad to lose his good friend.
It has not yet been formally ruled out that Burgess has died.
She died just a few days after turning 72.
A native of Tennessee, Burgess began working in production for Nickelodeon in 1995. In 2004, she was also employed as a story editor for the Winx Club adventure series.
In an interview with Nickelodeon, she claimed that Backyardigans was inspired by her early backyard memories.
She laughed at how she and her friends were playing hide and seek and acting like they were chasing wild animals.
A large number of people were quick to share their tributes to Burgess.
“Did she invent the Backyardigans?” That was when I was a kid. As one fan said, “I loved her so much.”
“Backyardigans was – and still is – one of my most memorable childhood memories… a huge loss,” the mourner commented.
“She had a huge impact on [sic] my life.
We are grateful to Janice for creating The Backyardigans, Gullah Gullah Island, and sharing our beginnings with us. We will all sincerely miss you! “Fly high!” was the advice of a third enthusiast.
The passing of Janice Burgess is a profound loss to the animation community and to the generations of children who grew up watching her beloved creations. As the mastermind behind The Backyardigans, her unique vision and creativity shaped the childhoods of countless viewers and left an indelible mark on the landscape of children’s television. Her work not only entertained but also sparked the imagination and curiosity of young minds, teaching important lessons about friendship and adventure through engaging stories and vivid characters.
Heartfelt tributes from friends, colleagues, and fans serve as a testament to Burgess’ legacy. Fracaswell Hyman’s memoir highlights not only her professional brilliance but also her role as a mentor and friend, illustrating how she nurtured talent and recognized potential in others. The impact she’s had on shows like Gullah Gullah Island, Little Bill, and Taina further strengthens her influence in the industry, making her a true pioneer in children’s programming.
When considering the contribution of Janice Burgess, it is essential to acknowledge the joy and creativity she brought to the world. Her early memories that inspired The Backyardigans remind us of the simple joys of childhood – playing outside, exploring the imagination, and going on adventures with friends. Although she is no longer with us, her spirit and creativity will live on through her work and will continue to impact the lives of children and families for years to come.
When fans say goodbye, they will be left with cherished memories and a deep gratitude for the stories she brought to life. Thank you, Janice, for sharing your incredible talent with us. I will miss you, but your legacy will live on.