pure:

Stephen Hillenburg was iconic not only because he created Spongebob but because he was responsible for overseeing the characterization, comedy, wit and tone of the show while he was still the showrunner. He’s the reason why the first three seasons have all the moments in the show worth remembering. His genius laid at the heart and foundation of the show while the writing team around him enabled him to execute it with perfection. When he stepped down from his showrunner position after the first Spongebob movie, the loss in the charm of the show was felt with his absence. Spongebob was always one of my favorite franchises, and if you know me you know I always uphold the first three seasons as the definitive best creation in the history of Western animation. Its art, consistency, and humor is unmatched. I will miss Hillenburg every day. He was a genius and the impact of his work will reverberate for generations.