Tom and Jerry creator Gene Deitch passes away at age 95

Can you imagine a childhood without our most beloved cartoon, Tom and Jerry? I certainly cannot.

The gifted illustrator, cartoonist and film director passed away unexpectedly in his apartment on Thursday. He is most known for his world-famous franchise, Tom and Jerry that began in 1961 when MGM commissioned him to create 13 shorts of animation.

Gene was responsible for directing thirteen episodes of the cartoon Tom and Jerry, along with a few from Popeye as well. His film, Munro, won the Academy Award for Best Animated short film back in 1960; Gene went on the receive two nominations in the same category in 1964.

Fans from all over the world took to Twitter to share their condolences:

Thank you Sir Gene Deitch, for making ours childhood so fun I believe, future generations will be loving the show because there’s not a single person present who didn’t liked watching the iconic ‘Tom and Jerry’ and Popeye Cartoons
🙏🏻Rest in peace🙏🏻 #GeneDeitch #TomandJerry pic.twitter.com/IlIymdQ4ij

— Tushit Kamble (@kambletushit) April 21, 2020

I have never fet so heartbroken till heard the news that #williamhanna had passed away. His characters bought a lot of smiles not only to us but all of them may he rest in peace. #TomandJerry #RestInPeace pic.twitter.com/dmIIqTABrf

— The Owl (@tapu_ko) April 21, 2020

Thank you for giving us these amazing characters of our childhood that we can enjoy even today #TomandJerry ❤️🌹 https://t.co/BQbJz84pCu

— Leonie (@leonieramkaran) April 21, 2020

RIP. I feel like a part of my childhood has died. I loved #TomandJerry and continue to do so. pic.twitter.com/rH7twO7Jls

— MuniraBangee (@BangeeMunira) April 20, 2020

Gene is survived by his wife and three sons, all of whom are also cartoonists.