NFB animator and film producer Robert Verrall dies at age 97
Robert Verrall, a pioneering animator and film producer who helped shape the National Film Board of Canada (NFB) and Canada’s animation industry, has died at the age of 97.
Verrall died peacefully on January 20, 2025, surrounded by his family at his home in Ottawa.
Born in 1927 in Winnipeg, Verrall joined the NFB in 1950 as an apprentice animator. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a producer and eventually head of the NFB’s animation department.
Under Verrall’s leadership, the NFB’s animation department produced some of Canada’s most iconic animated films, including Norman McLaren’s “Neighbours” (1952), John Weldon’s “The Sweater” (1980), and Caroline Leaf’s “The Street” (1976).
Verrall also played a key role in the development of Canada’s animation industry. He was a founding member of the Canadian Animation Producers Association (CAPA) and served as its president from 1976 to 1978.
In recognition of his contributions to the NFB and Canadian animation, Verrall was awarded the Order of Canada in 1986. He also received the Governor General’s Award in Visual and Media Arts in 2002.
Verrall’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of animators and filmmakers. He was a true visionary who helped to define the NFB’s unique style of animation and who played a vital role in the development of Canada’s animation industry.
He is survived by his wife, Lois, and his children, Robert Jr., David, and Mary.
NFB animator and film producer Robert Verrall dies at age 97
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