Stephen Hillenburg Net Worth

Marine biology educational comic

Creates The Intertidal Zone, an educational comic about tide pool animals for the Orange County Marine Institute, planting the seeds for SpongeBob.

Rocko's Modern Life writer

Joins Nickelodeon's Rocko's Modern Life as a writer and director, gaining valuable animation experience and industry connections.

SpongeBob SquarePants premieres

SpongeBob SquarePants debuts on Nickelodeon on May 1, 1999. The show quickly gains traction with children and develops a devoted fanbase.

The SpongeBob Movie theatrical

The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie grosses $141 million worldwide. SpongeBob becomes a global cultural phenomenon, generating billions in merchandise sales.

SpongeBob becomes longest-running Nickelodeon

SpongeBob becomes the longest-running Nickelodeon series, surpassing Rugrats. The show's cultural impact is undeniable, spanning generations of fans.

Death from ALS complications

Hillenburg dies on November 26, 2018, from ALS at age 57. His death sparks worldwide tributes celebrating his creativity and the joy he brought millions.

SpongeBob cultural phenomenon endures

SpongeBob SquarePants remains one of the most successful animated franchises in history. Hillenburg is remembered as an A-tier animation legend whose creation continues to entertain worldwide.