By David Steven Cohen, Courage the Cowardly Dog Head Writer, Passes Away at 58
David Steven Cohen, a distinguished writer known for his work on the beloved animated series Courage the Cowardly Dog, has passed away at the age of 58 after battling cancer. Cohen, who served as the head writer for later seasons of the show, played a pivotal role in shaping its eerie yet captivating storytelling, leaving a lasting impression on audiences over the years.
The news of his passing was shared by American animation historian Jerry Beck, who paid a heartfelt tribute to Cohen on Facebook. Expressing his sorrow, Beck wrote, “R.I.P.😞 David Steven Cohen – I just heard that my friend has passed from cancer. He was an accomplished writer, composer, producer – animation lover and friend.”
Cohen’s career spanned both animated and live-action television, showcasing his diverse talents as a writer and storyteller. Beck highlighted Cohen’s significant contributions to live-action comedy series such as Pee-Wee’s Playhouse, Alf, and Parker Lewis Can’t Lose. Additionally, he played an instrumental role in the success of the animated series Alf Tales and Courage the Cowardly Dog, demonstrating his ability to craft gripping comedic narratives. Cohen was also credited for his work on the animated feature film Balto. Reflecting on Cohen’s legacy, Beck concluded with a poignant message: “What a great guy. A true friend to all. You did good, David. You won’t be forgotten.”
According to The Express Tribune, some of Cohen’s most notable episodes in Courage the Cowardly Dog include Klub Katz, 1000 Years of Courage, Forbidden Hat of Gold, and The Sand Whale Strikes. The animated series, created by John R. Dilworth, debuted in 1999 and quickly gained a cult following for its unique blend of horror, surrealism, and dark humor. Cohen joined the show’s writing team during its first season and, due to his exceptional storytelling skills, became the head writer for seasons two, three, and four.
Throughout its run, Courage the Cowardly Dog captivated audiences with its eerie and thought-provoking storylines, many of which Cohen helped shape. His ability to balance humor with unsettling narratives made the series a standout in early 2000s animation. Fans of the show took to social media to express their condolences and gratitude for Cohen’s work. “Thank you, David Steven Cohen, for creating my childhood show and getting me into horror films,” one fan wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. Many others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing how Cohen’s writing had influenced their childhoods and fostered their love for storytelling.
Beyond Courage the Cowardly Dog, Cohen made significant contributions to children’s television. He was deeply involved in writing for The Wubbulous World of Dr. Seuss, a Jim Henson Company production that brought the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life with puppetry and humor. He also lent his storytelling expertise to the popular Disney Channel series Phil of the Future, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented writer in the industry.
Cohen’s work across various television genres showcased his remarkable ability to engage audiences of all ages. His influence extended beyond animation, touching live-action comedy and children’s programming with equal impact. Whether through the imaginative world of Courage the Cowardly Dog or the comedic adventures in Phil of the Future, Cohen’s legacy remains deeply embedded in television history.
His passing marks a significant loss for the entertainment industry, particularly for those who grew up watching his work. As fans and colleagues reflect on his contributions, Cohen’s stories and characters will continue to resonate, ensuring his legacy endures for years to come.
David Steven Cohen’s ability to craft unforgettable narratives made him a cherished figure in animation and television. His work will live on, inspiring future generations of writers and animators. He may be gone, but his stories will never be forgotten.
