'The Backyardigans’ creator Janice Burgess dies at 72

The Backyardigans’ creator Janice Burgess died on March 4 at the age of 72 for reasons unknown. 

The creator’s passing was confirmed by animation writer Fracaswell Hyman via social media post, paying tribute to the late Nickelodeon star.

In a lengthy message about his "dear friend," Hyman revealed that he met Janice early in his career when he served as a head writer. 

Meanwhile, Burgess was assigned to be their Executive in Charge of Production at the time.

He regarded her as a "person the network sends to the set to make sure the money is not going to waste."

Hyman went on to praise the deceased, complimenting her exceptional skills. 

He noted: "Acid-tongued wit, flowing Hermes scarves and omnipresent cigarettes".

"Instead of an overseer, she became a friend. She recognized my magic before I did and made sure I was in the room and under consideration for many of the shows that came my way including LITTLE BILL and TAINA," Fracaswell added.

The animation writer credited Janice for creating THE BACKYARDIGANS as well as guiding other shows for Nickelodeon, Sesame Workshop, Disney, and Apple TV.