Renowned author and illustrator Laurent de Brunhoff, known for his substantial contributions to the beloved Babar the Elephant book series, died in Key West, Florida, at the age of 98. Born in Paris, France, de Brunhoff later moved to the United States where he passed away on Friday, March 22, 2024, after receiving hospice care for two weeks, as verified by his wife, Phyllis Rose.
De Brunhoff took up the mantle of the Babar series at the age of 12 following the death of his father, Jean de Brunhoff, the original creator of Babar, who succumbed to tuberculosis. In the 1930s, Jean introduced the world to Babar, an elephant who rises to rule the fictional city of Celesteville.
Laurent carried forward the tales of Babar, significantly shaping the series’ evolution into a worldwide multimedia franchise that included books, TV shows, and films.
Laurent’s storytelling technique was characterized by minimalist textual content and a commitment to maintaining his father’s tender and subtle illustration style. This joint effort started by Jean and continued by Laurent crafted a world that enamored millions globally, earning accolades from distinguished figures such as French general Charles de Gaulle and American writer Maurice Sendak.
The inception of the Babar series can be traced back to a tale concocted by Laurent’s mother, Cecile de Brunhoff, to amuse her young sons. This familial anecdote transformed into the inaugural Babar book, “The Story of Babar,” published in 1931. Despite the premature demise of Jean de Brunhoff, the character of Babar endured through Laurent’s dedication. His works, such as “Babar at the Circus” and “Babar’s Yoga for Elephants,” have perpetuated Babar’s adventures for successive generations.
However, the legacy of Babar has not been devoid of controversy. Certain critics have argued that the series promotes colonial and racist ideologies, particularly in its portrayal of Babar’s education in Paris and its subsequent influence on his kingdom. These critiques, notably expressed by Chilean author Ariel Dorfman in 1983, have ignited substantial debate. Yet, others such as writer Adam Gopnik, have defended the series, suggesting a satirical interpretation of colonial imagination.
De Brunhoff’s reflections on his work revealed a complex relationship with his creations. He expressed remorse over specific depictions in the series, particularly in “Babar’s Picnic,” and made efforts to rectify these concerns.
De Brunhoff’s life was not just about Babar; it was also filled with personal and artistic achievements. He married twice, with his second wife, Phyllis Rose, playing a significant role in the later Babar publications. Despite his vast readership, de Brunhoff frequently stated that he did not write specifically for children, but rather for himself, creating tales about his friend Babar.
The death of Laurent de Brunhoff marks the end of an era in the rich history of Babar, a character that symbolizes the power of storytelling to engage and educate. Through decades of books, television adaptations, and films, Babar’s narratives of adventure, leadership, and learning have endeared themselves to audiences globally. De Brunhoff’s artistic vision and talent have assured Babar’s enduring place in children’s literature and beyond.
Laurent de Brunhoff’s work, which spans over seven decades, continues to inspire. It encapsulates the spirit of exploration and the importance of cultural understanding.
