Emmy-winning animation director Charles Edward “Ted” Bastien has died.

Bastien died at age 60 on Tuesday (March 21) at Toronto General Hospital following a cancer diagnosis and treatment, according to an obituary published by Bernardo Funeral Homes.

Born in Sarnia, Ont., Bastien spent decades working in Canada’s animation industry, garnering several awards in his 31 years at Nelvana and an additional seven at Guru Studio. He was a graduate of the Classical Animation program at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ont.

Nelvana president Pam Westman said Bastien was “a leader in his field and passionate about creating great children’s entertainment,” in a statement to Playback Daily.

“During his time at Nelvana he created bonds with animators, directors, producers, and partners that enriched the entire animation production community. As an artist his creativity enhanced the shows he worked on, his mentorship made long lasting careers and his friendship was unbounded. We are all incredibly grateful to have known him,” said Westman.

Bastien won an International Emmy award in 2015 for his directing work on the HIT Entertainment and Nelvana series Mike the Knight, and was previously nominated for a Daytime Emmy for his work on the PBS animated children’s series The Magic School Bus. He directed several other animated series in his time at Nelvana, including Gargoyles, Little Bear, Braceface, Handy Manny, and Rescue Heroes.

He joined Guru Studio in 2015 to work as a director on PAW Patrol, for which he won a Canadian Screen Award in 2018.

“Ted will always be remembered for his sharp wit, charm, and bright sense of humour. His passion was infectious and his standards unwavering… Our hearts go out to his entire family and to everyone who had the pleasure of working alongside him. He will be greatly missed,” said Guru Studio in a statement.

Photo courtesy of Guru Studio