Laurent de Brunhoff, the celebrated author and artist renowned for expanding the iconic Babar the Elephant book series, passed away at 98 in Key West, Florida. A Paris, France native who later settled in the United States, de Brunhoff died on Friday, March 22, 2024, after spending two weeks in hospice care, his widow, Phyllis Rose, confirmed.
Having inherited the legacy of the Babar series, de Brunhoff was only 12 when his father, Jean de Brunhoff, Babar’s creator, died of tuberculosis. In the early 1930s, his father first brought to life the adventures of Babar, an elephant who becomes the ruler of the fictional Celesteville.
Following in his footsteps, Laurent continued the Babar saga and significantly contributed to its evolution into a global multimedia franchise spanning books, television shows, and movies.
De Brunhoff’s storytelling was distinguished by a minimalist approach to text and a dedication to preserving his father’s gentle and nuanced illustration style. This harmonious collaboration between father and son crafted a world cherished by millions worldwide, drawing praise from notable individuals such as French general Charles de Gaulle and American writer Maurice Sendak.
The origins of the Babar series trace back to a story improvised by de Brunhoff’s mother, Cecile de Brunhoff, designed to entertain her young sons. This family story evolved into the first Babar book, “The Story of Babar,” published in 1931. Despite Jean de Brunhoff’s early death, the character of Babar lived on through Laurent’s commitment. His works, including “Babar at the Circus” and “Babar’s Yoga for Elephants,” have continued Babar’s adventures across generations.
Nonetheless, Babar’s legacy has not been without its controversies. Some critics have perceived elements of the series as promoting colonial and racist ideologies, especially in its depiction of Babar’s education in Paris and the subsequent influence on his kingdom. These critiques, notably articulated by Chilean author Ariel Dorfman in 1983, have sparked considerable debate. However, other commentators, such as writer Adam Gopnik, have defended the series, suggesting it offers a satirical take on colonial imagination.
De Brunhoff’s own reflections on his work unveiled a nuanced relationship with his creations. He expressed regret over specific portrayals in the series, notably in “Babar’s Picnic,” and took measures to address these issues.
Beyond Babar, de Brunhoff’s life was enriched with artistic and personal accomplishments. He married twice, and his second marriage to Phyllis Rose contributed significantly to the later Babar publications. Despite his wide readership, de Brunhoff often said he did not write with children specifically in mind but rather for himself, crafting stories about his friend Babar.
The passing of Laurent de Brunhoff signifies a closing chapter in the storied history of Babar, a character that has become a symbol of storytelling’s ability to captivate 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 lasting place in children’s literature and beyond.
Laurent de Brunhoff’s work, which spans more than seven decades, continues to inspire. It embodies the spirit of exploration and the significance of cultural comprehension.