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