SpongeBob SquarePants fans were left heartbroken this week at the news that creator Stephen Hillenburg had passed away.

The cartoonist and writer died at the age of 57 a year after being diagnosed with ALS, and fans now want to a pay tribute to him in a very Spongebob-esque way.

They've launched a Change.org petition to have the song 'Sweet Victory' performed at the Super Bowl Halftime Show.

Stephen Hillenburg (creator of 'Spongebob')pinterest
Bruce Glikas/Bruce Glikas/FilmMagic

The song, by singer-songwriter David Glen Eisley, is significant as it appeared in episode of the show where SpongeBob performed it at the Bubble Bowl.

"As some of you may or may not know, Stephen Hillenburg - the creator of Spongebob Sqaurepants - has passed away recently," the petition says.

"As a tribute to his legacy, his contributions to a generation of children, and to truly showcase the greatness of this song, we call for Sweet Victory to be performed at the Halftime Show."

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At the time of writing, the petition has amassed over 195,000 signatures, nearly at its 200,000 target.

Hillenburg originally created SpongeBob back in 1999.

Broadcaster Nickelodeon have led tributes, saying: "He was a beloved friend and long-time creative partner to everyone at Nickelodeon, and our hearts go out to his entire family.

"Steve imbued SpongeBob SquarePants with a unique sense of humor and innocence that has brought joy to generations of kids and families everywhere.

"His utterly original characters and the world of Bikini Bottom will long stand as a reminder of the value of optimism, friendship and the limitless power of imagination."


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Sam Warner

Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International.  Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.