Janice Burgess, the creative mind behind Nickelodeon’s beloved series “The Backyardigans,” passed away at the age of 72. She left behind a legacy that brought joy and laughter to children around the world.
A Remarkable Talent
Janice Burgess was a remarkable talent in the animation industry. She began her career working on “Gullah Gullah Island,” where she met animation writer Fracaswell Hyman, who reminisced about her vibrant personality and infectious humor.
A Friend and Mentor
Burgess was not just a mentor to her colleagues; she became their friend. She recognized the magic in others and ensured they were given opportunities in the industry. Her encouragement led to shows like “Little Bill” and “Taina,” showcasing her ability to spot talent in others.
A Journey of Creativity
Born in Pittsburgh, Burgess initially pursued art history, graduating from Brandeis University in 1973. However, her path led her to the world of television, starting at Pittsburgh’s WQED TV station. She later joined Nickelodeon, overseeing shows such as “Blue’s Clues,” “Allegra’s Window,” and “Gullah Gullah Island.”
The Birth of “The Backyardigans”
Burgess’s creative genius bloomed when she developed a pilot for a live-action full-body puppet show called “Me and My Friends” in 1998. Although the series did not move forward, she reimagined it as an animated concept and thus gave birth to “The Backyardigans.”
A Journey of Adventures and Songs
“The Backyardigans” enchanted children for nearly a decade, from 2004 to 2013. With 80 episodes filled with catchy songs and dance routines, the series followed the exciting adventures of five animal best friends: Uniqua, Tyrone, Austin, Pablo, and Tasha, as they explored their backyard.
A Legacy of Creativity
Apart from her work on “The Backyardigans,” Janice Burgess contributed to other notable projects in the animation industry. She served as a story editor for “Winx Club” and was instrumental in the development of “Bubble Guppies.”
Janice Burgess will be dearly missed, but her creativity and talent will continue to inspire generations to come. Thank you, Janice, for bringing so much joy to the lives of children everywhere.
Source: F5mag.com