Fyodor Khitruk, one of Russia's most renowned animators and the creator of the Russian version of the "Winnie the Pooh" cartoon, died Monday morning at his home in Moscow at age 95.
Khitruk was born on April 18, 1917, in Tver, approximately 200 kilometers northwest of Moscow. He started working as an animator in the newly created Soyuzmultfilm studio in 1937 and returned there after serving in the Soviet army in World War II.
Altogether, Khitruk took part in creating over 200 cartoons for the studio, Animator.ru reported.
He went on to make his debut as a director in 1962 at the age of 43. He directed many cartoon classics, such as "Istoriya Odnogo Priklucheniya" (The Story of One Adventure), "Kanikuly Bonifitsiya" (Boniface's Vacation) and, perhaps the most famous and beloved of all, the Russian adaptation of "Winnie the Pooh."
Altogether, Khitruk took part in creating over 200 cartoons for the studio, Animator.ru reported.
Khitruk has been awarded many titles and prizes throughout his career, including the title of People's Artist of the Soviet Union.
Along with several other prominent animators, Khitruk established an animation studio Shar (Sphere), where he taught until the age of 90.
Related articles:
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
