“Gone But Never Forgotten: ASIFA-Hollywood’s Heartfelt Tribute to Animation Legends We Lost”
Every industry has its legends—those brilliant minds and talented souls who leave behind an indelible mark. The animation world is no different. On March 8, ASIFA-Hollywood will host its 31st Afternoon of Remembrance, a heartfelt tribute to the cherished members of the animation community who passed away in 2024.
This annual event is more than just a ceremony; it’s a warm, welcoming space where industry professionals, fans, and loved ones gather to celebrate lives well lived. Hosted at The Animation Guild Local 839 hall in Burbank, the event will begin at 12 p.m. PT, with doors opening at 11 a.m. for light refreshments. The best part? Admission is free, making it accessible for all who wish to honor these creative souls.
A Celebration of Creativity and Legacy
In true animation spirit, the Afternoon of Remembrance is a non-denominational affair that invites guests to remember, laugh, cry, and share stories about those who made the industry brighter. Tom Sito, co-founder of the event and President-Emeritus of The Animation Guild, describes it as an opportunity to bid farewell to old friends while keeping their contributions alive in our hearts and memories.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be recorded and uploaded to YouTube, ensuring a global audience can take part in the tribute. A free souvenir program, available in both print and digital formats, will also serve as a keepsake for attendees.
Honoring the Masters of Animation
The 2024 honorees list is a testament to the incredible talent the industry has lost this past year. From legendary voice actors and animators to producers and composers, their collective work has shaped the way audiences experience animated storytelling.
Among the luminaries being remembered are Akira Toriyama, the visionary creator behind Dragon Ball, Richard Sherman, the musical genius who brought us unforgettable tunes from Mary Poppins, and Carl Weathers, whose voice breathed life into beloved animated characters. Other names include Britt Allcroft, the driving force behind Thomas & Friends, Mark Gustafson, an influential stop-motion animator, and animation producer Robert Watts, known for his contributions to Lucasfilm projects.
Voice acting legends such as James Earl Jones (The Lion King), Bob Newhart (The Rescuers), and Maggie Smith (Gnomeo & Juliet) also take their place on this year’s honor roll. Their voices have graced the ears of millions, bringing animated characters to life in ways that resonate across generations.
A Tradition That Keeps the Spirit Alive
The Afternoon of Remembrance is not just a somber occasion but a powerful tradition that ensures these artists’ legacies remain a vital part of animation history. Each year, the event serves as both a eulogy and a celebration—offering moments of reflection and appreciation for the magic these individuals infused into the world.
For those in the industry, it’s a reminder that animation is not just about characters on a screen; it’s about the people behind them—the storytellers, the visionaries, the dreamers who inspire us all.
If you wish to attend, make sure to RSVP with The Animation Guild. Here’s the address:
Hulett Hall, The Animation Guild
1105 N Hollywood Way
Burbank, CA, 91505
For those unable to be there in person, keep an eye out for the YouTube recording—because remembering and celebrating these legends is something we can all take part in, no matter where we are.
A Final Salute
As the animation community gathers to share memories, laughter, and maybe a few tears, the Afternoon of Remembrance will once again prove that the best way to honor those we’ve lost is to keep telling stories, pushing creative boundaries, and inspiring the next generation of artists.
Because in animation, no one is truly gone as long as their work continues to inspire.
