Laurent de Brunhoff, Creator of 'Babar' Legacy, Passes Away at 98

The artist and author, known for continuing his father's celebrated 'Babar' series, died in his Florida home after a brief period in hospice care.

Laurent de Brunhoff, who expanded the 'Babar' children's book series into a global franchise, has died at age 98.
De Brunhoff's work on 'Babar' began after his father, Jean de Brunhoff, the original creator, passed away, continuing the series with his own artistic and narrative style.
The 'Babar' series, criticized by some for its colonialist themes, has sold millions worldwide and was adapted into TV shows and movies.
De Brunhoff, a Paris native who later moved to the U.S., expressed that 'Babar' was a significant part of his life, often saying, 'Babar, c'est moi' ('Babar, that's me').
Despite controversies, 'Babar' remains a beloved character, with de Brunhoff's contributions celebrated for enriching children's literature.