Joe Ruby

Joe Ruby, born on March 30, 1933, was a prominent American animator and writer, celebrated for his significant contributions to the world of animated television. He is best known as the co-creator of the beloved Scooby-Doo franchise, a collaboration that began with his partner Ken Spears. Together, they laid the foundation for a series that would become a cultural phenomenon.

In 1977, Ruby and Spears established Ruby-Spears Productions, a television animation production company that would produce a variety of popular shows. Among their creations were Fangface, Dynomutt, Dog Wonder, and Jabberjaw, showcasing their innovative storytelling and animation skills. Their partnership began in 1959 at Hanna-Barbera, where they first met during an interview with Life Magazine.

Before founding Ruby-Spears, Ruby honed his craft at several prestigious studios, including Walt Disney Animation Studios, Hanna-Barbera, DePatie–Freleng Enterprises, and with Sid and Marty Krofft. His diverse experiences in the animation industry equipped him with the skills necessary to create engaging content that resonated with audiences.

After decades of successful collaboration, Ruby-Spears Productions closed its doors in 1996. However, Ruby continued to work alongside Spears until his retirement in 2002. Joe Ruby passed away on August 26, 2020, at the age of eighty-seven, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the animation industry.