Skip to content

Why did Nickelodeon produce Squidward’s suicide?

Why did Nickelodeon produce Squidward's suicide

Why did Nickelodeon produce “Squidward’s suicide”?

Squidward is an octopus who lives in Bikini Bottom. He lives next door to Spongebob and Patrick. He works at the Krusty Krab as a cashier. “Squidward’s Suicide” is not a legitimate or official production of Nickelodeon. It’s an internet hoax and an urban legend that originated on the internet, particularly on creepypasta websites. Creepypasta refers to short horror stories or urban legends circulated online, often accompanied by images or videos to create a creepy or unsettling atmosphere.

The story surrounding “Squidward’s Suicide” falsely claims that an unaired and disturbing episode of the popular animated TV show “SpongeBob SquarePants” was produced by Nickelodeon. The story is entirely fictional, and no evidence supports its authenticity. Nickelodeon did not create or produce such an episode, and the character Squidward Tentacles was not involved in any suicide-related storyline on the show.

It’s important to note that internet hoaxes and urban legends can spread quickly, and verifying information before accepting it as accurate is crucial. “Squidward’s Suicide” is an example of a fictional and unsettling story that gained traction online but has no factual basis.

Who is Squidward?

Squidward Tentacles is a character in the popular children’s TV Series Spongebob Squarepants. He is a tall, skinny squid with a light blue skin tone and interestingly shaped head.

Squidwards are very sour and solitary. He has a passion for fine arts, shown through his house paintings and the clarinet he plays. In one episode, he went to a concert featuring the only Kelpy G.® Squidward, who has a down personality; he dislikes children and immature attitudes, such as Spongebob and Patrick’s.

In recent weeks, Nickelodeon has come under fire for releasing a “Squidward’s suicide” creepypasta. The pasta, which tells the story of Squidward Tentacles’ apparent suicide, was released on the network’s website shortly after the death of actor and voice actor Robin Williams.

While Nickelodeon has not confirmed that the pasta was released as a tribute to Williams, many viewers have accused the network of exploiting his death. Squidward’s Suicide is a creepypasta story centered around an unaired episode of the children’s animated TV series Spongebob Squarepants. The anthropomorphic octopus character supposedly kills himself with a shotgun.

Origin

On April 6th, 2010, an anonymous user posted a creepypasta story titled “Squidward’s Suicide” to 7chan’s/x/ (paranoid) board. Narrated by the author, who claims to have seen the lost episode during his internship at Nickelodeon’s Studios. 

The story opens with the show’s production team reviewing what was supposed to be the premiere episode for the fourth season. Still, as the footage progresses, the animators and editors become horrified by gory imagery and ghostly sound effects that weren’t authorized to be included.

Adele song Set Fire to the Rain

The Creepypasta

If you want an answer at the end, prepare to be disappointed. There just isn’t one. I interned at Nickelodeon Studios for a year in 2005 for my degree in animation. Of course, most internships aren’t paid, but they did have some perks beyond education. To adults, it might not seem like a big one, but most kids at the time would shit themselves over it.

Spread

On June 21st, 2011, YouTuber MrCreepyPasta uploaded a reading of “Squidward’s Suicide,” which gained over 900,000 views over the next three years (shown below, left). 

On November 21st, YouTuber Bolero5097 uploaded another reading of the story in a video titled “The Creepypasta Episodes – “Squidward’s Suicide,” which racked up over a million views by July 2014 (shown below, right)

On September 11th, 2012, YouTuber Cooler2000 uploaded an animated version of the creepypasta using various spliced footage from the TV series and some original illustrations, garnering over 1.3 million views in just over two years (shown below, left). 

On October 26th, YouTuber SomeOrdinaryGamers uploaded another animated version of the creepypasta using in-game footage from a video game adaptation of the TV show, gaining nearly 2 million views over the next two years (shown below, right).

Author’s Response

On February 8th, 2013, Redditor SuicideSquidward identified himself as the author of the creepypasta in a r/self[3] post titled “I wrote Squidward’s Suicide and am kinda happy with how much it spread.” In the post, the Redditor explained:

“I don’t know why, but it feels nice to see something you created spread and get brought up years later when people discuss things that scare them because it is something that has stuck with them after reading it despite it being a copypasta.

I had read Suicide Mouse and Dead Bart earlier that night, had nothing to do, and decided to try my hand at a “lost episode” show. What people read is the hasty final draft I wrote on a whim. I was surprised it would go beyond the 7chan /x/ board. I figured at best it would get a small amount of attention then never be spoken of again.”

On October 31st, 2013, Geek included the creepypasta story in a list titled “The 4 scariest, most believable stories on the internet.” As of October 31st, 2014, the story’s Facebook fan page has gained over 2,000 likes.

Who killed Squidward?

Characters in SpongeBob SquarePants never die (with the debatable exception of Scooter). The show could never afford to give up Squidward, one of the core characters that makes the show so unique. In saying this, I declare that Squidward never was “killed” in the series. I am struggling to understand your question as you provided no context.

There is no official or legitimate episode of “SpongeBob SquarePants” in which Squidward is killed. Squidward Tentacles is a fictional character in the animated television series created by Stephen Hillenburg. As of my last knowledge update in January 2024, there has been no storyline in which Squidward is killed off.

You might have encountered fan-made content, internet hoaxes, or rumors about Squidward’s death. However, it’s important to distinguish between fan-created content and the show’s official canon. Officially, Squidward remains a character in “SpongeBob SquarePants,” and any claims of his death in an official episode are inaccurate.

If developments or new episodes have been released since my last update in January 2024, I must be aware of them. Always check official sources or reliable news channels for the latest and most accurate information regarding television shows and their characters.

Why did Nickelodeon end Invader Zim?

Nickelodeon canceled Invader Zim because of low ratings and its high price. In 2002, before the 2nd season continued, it was reported that Nickelodeon had canceled Invader Zim due to poor ratings. It was also said that the show had a high budget and seemed too expensive to continue.

It was said that Jhonen Vasquez (the creator of this show) and Nickelodeon have been butting heads over creative differences and independence. And because the network wanted to appeal to a much older demographic, they seemed either unpleased or disturbed by the show’s content and atmosphere.

After the cancellation, not only was the show left unfinished, but some episodes and scripts were left unmade or unaired.

Then, four years later, in 2006, Nicktoons brought Invader Zim back to finish the season. And after that, Invader Zim was never seen again. It spent at least several years in reruns, but then it was gone.

Years later, Nickelodeon expressed interest in an Invader Zim TV movie. The movie was called Enter the Florpus. It was instead moved to Netflix for whatever reason. It would’ve been much easier if Jhonen had pitched that show to Cartoon Network. But poignantly, it didn’t happen. Oh well.

Why did Nickelodeon end Invader Zim?

Nickelodeon decided to end the animated series “Invader Zim” primarily due to viewership ratings, production costs, and creative differences. Here are some of the key reasons:

  1. Viewership Ratings: While “Invader Zim” had a dedicated and passionate fan base, it struggled with consistently high viewership ratings. The show’s dark and sometimes surreal humor may have yet to resonate with a broad enough audience to justify its production costs.
  2. Production Costs: Producing an animated series can be expensive, especially one with the level of detail and distinctive animation style seen in “Invader Zim.” Nickelodeon may have decided to allocate resources to other projects with a higher potential for commercial success.
  3. Creative Differences: The show’s creator, Jhonen Vasquez, has a unique and unconventional creative style that may have clashed with Nickelodeon’s more family-friendly and mainstream brand image. Creative differences between the network and the show’s creator could have contributed to the decision to end the series.
  4. Time Slot Changes: The show experienced several time slot changes during its run, which can disrupt viewership and make it challenging for a show to maintain a consistent and dedicated audience.

Ultimately, the combination of these factors led to Nickelodeon’s decision to cancel “Invader Zim” after only two seasons. However, the show has gained a cult following and remains popular among fans who appreciate its dark humor and unique style. 

This led to the release of an “Invader Zim” TV movie, “Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus,” on Netflix in 2019, which served as a continuation of the series and was well-received by both fans and critics.

What did Nickelodeon think about “The Ren & Stimpy Show” when it was airing?

After the second season, they fired John Kricfalusi (“John K”) because of the (never shown) episode “Man’s Best Friend,” in which Ren (after being psychologically abused by him) beats the shit out of right-wing stereotypical human George Liquor, with an oar. Conflict over whether to show it led to him being let go and the show lost some of its edginess after that.

Some people knew that Ren and Stimpy were a gay couple into (mild) BDSM, Stimpy’s “stupidity” being his masochism, but I think people were more accepting of double entendres than they are now (see: Rocko’s Modern Life, and the origin of the name “Gak”). 

At that time, it was more well-understood that it was better to have mild adult humor so parents got a payoff in watching the show than for it to be wholly braindead and have the kid watching TV alone.

Before 1997, I think the dominant parental preference was that it was better for a show to have certain mild adult humor (that kids wouldn’t pick up, such as Grandpa Pickles’ tastes in entertainment) than for it to be braindead (e.g., Barney and Friends). That changed in the late ’90s with all the helicopter parenting.

That said, Ren and Stimpy are odd at that age, making it more disturbing. It’s the opposite of Are You Afraid of the Dark? (which isn’t that scary, by adult standards) in that respect. When you watch R&S in your 30s and catch the themes of sadomasochism, animal cruelty, and domestic abuse, it’s… still funny, but it’s a dark and unsettling humor.

Is Squidward an antagonist?

Yes, he is the main antagonist in SpongeBob. He is schizophrenic and psychotic. He has a mental illness. He is lazy as f**k. He has rage episodes. If the show was not kid-friendly, he could probably become a killer of Spongebob and Patrick. He needs medical help.

He needs some Xanax or some Seroquel. He needs some Abilify or Latuda. He needs some Zyprexa or Ativan. I am a pharmacist, so I know all about these antipsychotic meds. And antianxiety meds. He has too much rage. I am surprised he has not had a stroke. If this show was not kid-friendly, Squidward might become a serial killer.

Squidward Tentacles is a character from the animated television series “SpongeBob SquarePants,” created by Stephen Hillenburg. While Squidward may often exhibit grumpy and irritable behavior, he is not typically considered a traditional antagonist in the show. 

Instead, he is more accurately described as a foil or a character who contrasts with the main protagonists, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star.

Squidward is SpongeBob’s co-worker and neighbor, and his personality is characterized by a dislike for his job at the Krusty Krab, annoyance with SpongeBob and Patrick’s antics, and a desire for a more sophisticated and quiet life. While Squidward may be portrayed as grumpy or cynical, he is not inherently malicious or criminal.

The primary antagonist in “SpongeBob SquarePants” is often considered to be Plankton, the owner of the Chum Bucket, who frequently tries to steal the Krabby Patty secret formula and undermine the success of the Krusty Krab.

It’s worth noting that the characters in “SpongeBob SquarePants” are multi-dimensional, and their roles may vary depending on the specific episode or storyline. Squidward’s character, in particular, can be sympathetic in certain situations, and the show often explores different facets of his personality beyond his grumpy exterior.

Who is Red Mist Squidward?

Red Mist Squidward is a minor character in SpongeBob SquarePants. He is an alternate-universe version of Squidward Tentacles who lives behind one of the many mysterious doors in RandomLand. He appears in the uncut version of the episode “SpongeBob in RandomLand.”

“Red Mist Squidward” is not an official or legitimate character from “SpongeBob SquarePants.” The concept of Red Mist Squidward is related to a creepypasta, an internet horror story or urban legend. 

The creepypasta describes a mysterious and disturbing episode of “SpongeBob SquarePants” titled “Red Mist,” where Squidward experiences surreal and horrifying visions.

The story claims that the episode was never intended for broadcast and that it led to adverse effects on those who watched it, including alleged reports of self-harm and psychological distress. However, it’s important to emphasize that the Red Mist Squidward creepypasta is entirely fictional and not part of the official “SpongeBob SquarePants” canon.

The urban legend likely originated as a form of online storytelling to create a creepy and unsettling atmosphere around a beloved children’s show. It’s crucial to distinguish between fan-created stories, creepypastas, and the official content produced by the creators of the television series. 

“SpongeBob SquarePants” is a lighthearted animated series, and there is no evidence to support the existence of the Red Mist Squidward episode as described in the creepypasta.

Why is Nickelodeon obsessed with goo and slime?

It all started with “You Can’t Do That On Television” back in the day when cast members or guests would get slimed for saying, “I don’t know,” it became such a hit or memorable thing that it became associated with the network from the get-go. Has been a part of Nickelodeon for 40 years.

Nickelodeon’s association with goo and slime is rooted in the network’s history and desire to create engaging and entertaining content for its audience. 

Slime became a trademark for Nickelodeon, particularly in its popular game show “Double Dare,” which premiered in 1986. In “Double Dare,” contestants would compete in messy and often slime-filled physical challenges and trivia games. The success and popularity of slime on “Double Dare” led Nickelodeon to incorporate it into various other shows and events. 

The network recognized that slime’s tactile and messy nature appealed to their target audience of children and adolescents. The element of surprise and the fun associated with getting slimed became a distinctive feature of Nickelodeon’s brand identity.

The tradition of sliming has been a part of Nickelodeon’s annual Kids’ Choice Awards, where celebrities and hosts often find themselves covered in the green substance. 

The network’s use of slime has become an iconic and recognizable element of its brand, and it’s seen as a playful and lighthearted symbol of the network’s commitment to entertaining and engaging its young audience.

In summary, Nickelodeon’s “obsession” with goo and slime can be attributed to the success and popularity of these elements in the network’s early shows, their appeal to the target demographic, and the desire to create a unique and memorable brand identity.

Conclusion

“Squidward’s Suicide” is not a production by Nickelodeon. It is an urban legend and creepypasta that originated on the internet. The story revolves around an alleged lost episode of the popular animated TV show “SpongeBob SquarePants” featuring Squidward Tentacles, one of the main characters.

The urban legend suggests that this lost episode contains disturbing and graphic content, including scenes of self-harm and suicide involving Squidward. However, it is essential to note that this story is entirely fictional and has no factual basis. Nickelodeon has never produced or aired such an episode.

Urban legends and creepypastas like “Squidward’s Suicide” often gain traction online due to their shocking or disturbing nature. Fans of internet users typically create them as a form of horror storytelling or to generate attention and discussion. These stories can spread rapidly through social media platforms, forums, and online communities.

It is crucial to approach such stories with skepticism and critical thinking. Like any responsible television network, Nickelodeon adheres to strict content guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of its viewers, particularly children. Producing or airing content that promotes self-harm or suicide would be highly unethical and against industry standards.

In conclusion, “Squidward’s Suicide” is not a production by Nickelodeon but rather an internet urban legend that gained popularity through online storytelling. It is essential to differentiate between fact and fiction when encountering such stories online.

Why did Nickelodeon produce “Squidward’s suicide”?