In brief
Eric Bauza, the voice behind iconic Looney Tunes characters, died suddenly at 46, causing shock across the animation community. His death was attributed to hypertensive cardiovascular disease, as reported by Variety. Bauza's career spanned blockbuster films such as Space Jam: A New Legacy and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, earning him three Emmy Awards between 2022 and 2025. Industry leaders praised his talent for uniting audiences worldwide, a testament to the universal appeal of Looney Tunes.
Eric Bauza, the voice actor behind Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig and several other Looney Tunes staples, died at the age of 46 on Sunday.
An Instagram post from his family announced the death as sudden; Variety reported hypertensive cardiovascular disease as the cause, and he had passed away at home.
Born in Ontario and of Filipino descent, Bauza grew up as a dedicated fan of Looney Tunes, often mimicking the characters’ voices during childhood.
He lent his talent to several high‑profile projects—including the 2021 film Space Jam: A New Legacy, the animated hit Coyote vs. Acme, and the 2023 film The Super Mario Bros. Movie—appearing alongside stars such as Toad General, a role that featured in the series’ sequel.
Between 2022 and 2025 Bauza collected three Emmy Awards for outstanding voice performance, a testament to his range and skill across television and film.
Warner Bros. Television Group chairman Channing Dungey praised Bauza for bringing joy and laughter worldwide, noting his continuation of Mel Blanc’s legendary legacy.
Bauza emphasized in a 2021 NBC News interview that Looney Tunes “transcend all languages and all cultures,” highlighting the timeless appeal of the series to audiences across the globe.
His passing represents a significant loss for the animation world, marking the end of a career that bridged generations and cultures while leaving an indelible legacy in the art of voice acting.
