Eric Bauza, whose voice brought some of animation’s most iconic characters to life, has died at 46. The Emmy-winning voice actor voiced several Looney Tunes characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig.
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Bauza’s family broke the news with a short statement posted on his Instagram account on October 25. The statement read, “Eric Bauza, Emmy Award-winning voice actor and the modern voice of iconic Looney Tunes characters Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, along with dozens of other beloved cartoon characters, has passed away suddenly. More details to come.” The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that Bauza died at his residence due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease.
Bauza had more than 400 acting credits throughout his career. His first credit came in 2001 with The Ripping Friends. He later lent his voice to characters in several well-known animated productions. These included Avatar: The Last Airbender, Chowder, Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel, and Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated.
Over the years, Bauza received several Emmy nominations and wins. He earned five Daytime Emmy Award nominations for his work on Looney Tunes Cartoons, Muppet Babies, and The Adventures of Puss in Boots. He also took home three Children’s & Family Emmy Awards. The wins honored his contributions to Teen Titans Go!, Bugs Bunny Builders, and Looney Tunes Cartoons. He was also nominated for Daffy in Wackyland.
His more recent work included voicing Looney Tunes characters in Coyote vs. Acme. The film was released in August this year. Chris DeFaria, the producer of Coyote vs. Acme, told Variety that Bauza was someone who showed an “absolutely tireless dedication” to animation. He also highlighted his “pure expression of dedication, talent, enthusiasm, love and fun.”
Warner Bros. Television Group and US Networks Chairman Channing Dungey said, “Eric Bauza was a unique voice talent who brought joy and laughter to millions around the world.” Adding, “He followed in the footsteps of giants like Mel Blanc. Eric said that carrying on the legendary legacy of the Looney Tunes was among the greatest honors of his life. In addition to his incredible talent, Eric was a treasured part of our animation family. Our hearts go out to his loved ones.”
