Voice Actor Eric Bauza Dies at 46, Ending Era for Looney Tunes Icons

Eric Bauza has died at the age of 46. The voice actor was best known for bringing iconic Looney Tunes characters to life, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig. His family confirmed the death in an Instagram post, noting that the Emmy-winning performer passed away suddenly.

Variety reported that Bauza died at his home on Sunday. The publication identified the cause of death as hypertensive cardiovascular disease. Bauza had been active in the industry until recently, voicing multiple characters in the animated film Coyote vs. Acme, which was released earlier this summer. He also appeared in the recent release Forgotten Island.

Born in Ontario to a family of Filipino descent, Bauza grew up as a dedicated fan of the cartoons. He began imitating the characters' voices as a child. In a 2021 interview with NBC News, he described the universal appeal of the franchise. "Looney Tunes transcends all languages and all cultures," he said. "It doesn't matter what part of the planet you're from. You get the comedy."

His work reached a massive audience in 2021 with Space Jam: A New Legacy. In that film, he provided the voices for Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd, and Foghorn Leghorn. He returned to those roles in Coyote vs. Acme, where he also voiced the Road Runner.

Bauza’s career extended beyond the Looney Tunes universe. He played Toad General in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which released in 2023. He reprised the role in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, a sequel that stands as the fifth highest-grossing film internationally this year. His performance work earned him three Emmy awards for outstanding voice performance between 2022 and 2025.

Channing Dungey, chairman of Warner Bros. Television Group and US Networks, offered a tribute to the actor. Speaking in a statement reported by the Hollywood Reporter, she called him a unique voice talent. "Eric Bauza was a unique voice talent who brought joy and laughter to millions around the world," Dungey said. "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."