Millard Kaufman, who created the classic cartoon character Mr. Magoo for a 1949 UPA short, died March 14 at the age of 92, Variety reports.
A screenwriter and novelist, Kaufman worked with animator John Hubley on the character, who was based on Kaufman’s grumpy uncle, for the cartoon short Ragtime Bear.
Kaufman was nominated for a Best Writing Oscar for 1953’s Take the High Ground! and for Best Screenplay for the 1955 Western film Bad Day at Black Rock. In addition to screenplays, he wrote for the TV series Police Story, a screenwriting text and a novel, Bowl of Cherries, with a second due out later this year.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Lorraine; two daughters, a son and seven grandchildren. Donations may be made to The Motion Picture and Television Fund.
