Animator Michael John Roberts of ‘BoJack Horseman’ dies at 48

Michael John Roberts, an animator, producer, and director who worked on animated series including Netflix’s ‘BoJack Horseman’ and Comedy Central’s ‘TripTank,’ died at age 48, Variety reported. He passed away in Los Angeles on November 11 after a brief battle with glioblastoma, according to Hollywood Reporter.

Roberts was recognized for directing the title sequence and multiple episodes of ‘BoJack Horseman,’ as well as directing all 28 episodes of ‘TripTank,’ which ran for two seasons. He also directed episodes of ‘F Is for Family,’ ‘Final Space,’ and the 2023 Apple TV series ‘Strange Planet,’ Hollywood Reporter noted.

In addition to his directing credits, Roberts co-created the YouTube Red buddy comedy series ‘Dallas & Robo,’ which starred John Cena and Kat Dennings and premiered in 2018. He was known for his focus on animated comedy for adults and had a background with the animation studio ShadowMachine, which produced many of his projects, according to Variety and Hollywood Reporter.

Raised in Toronto, Roberts graduated from Sheridan College in Canada. His family described him as a gifted artist with a unique perspective who found depth and character in his work. They highlighted his quiet curiosity and creative approach to storytelling, Variety reported.