LOS ANGELES, California — Eric Bauza, the award-winning Canadian voice actor best known for bringing iconic animated characters Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck to life, has died at the age of 46.
Bauza’s family announced his sudden death in a statement shared on his official Instagram account on Sunday, October 25, 2026. Records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner identified hypertensive cardiovascular disease as the cause of death.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, animation professionals and fans who grew up watching the characters he helped bring to life.
Eric Bauza Helped Preserve the Legacy of Looney Tunes
Bauza became one of the most recognizable voices in modern animation through his work with Warner Bros. Animation. During a career spanning more than two decades, he voiced numerous characters from the beloved Looney Tunes franchise, continuing a tradition established by legendary voice actor Mel Blanc.
In addition to Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, Bauza performed the voices of Porky Pig, Tweety, Elmer Fudd, Foghorn Leghorn and Road Runner.
His performances helped introduce generations of viewers to classic cartoon characters while maintaining the distinctive personalities and comedic styles that made the franchise popular worldwide.
Warner Bros. Television Group chairman Channing Dungey paid tribute to Bauza, describing him as a unique voice talent who brought joy and laughter to millions.
Dungey also highlighted his dedication to the legacy of Looney Tunes, noting that Bauza had followed in the footsteps of performers such as Mel Blanc. She extended condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
From Animation Artist to Award-Winning Voice Actor
Born in Scarborough, Toronto, on December 7, 1979, Bauza developed an interest in animation at an early age. He initially worked as a character designer before moving into voice acting, eventually building a career that included hundreds of credits across television and film.
His voice performances appeared in productions such as Looney Tunes Cartoons, Space Jam: A New Legacy and Coyote vs. Acme.
Beyond the Looney Tunes universe, Bauza contributed to several other popular animated productions, including Avatar: The Last Airbender, Teen Titans Go!, Rick and Morty and The Adventures of Puss in Boots.
He also voiced Toad General in The Super Mario Bros. Movie and worked on projects associated with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise.
His versatility allowed him to portray a wide range of characters, from energetic cartoon personalities to supporting roles in major animated films.
Emmy Awards Recognized His Contributions
Bauza’s work received significant recognition within the entertainment industry.
He won three Children’s and Family Emmy Awards between 2022 and 2025 for his voice performances in animated productions, including Looney Tunes Cartoons, Bugs Bunny Builders and Teen Titans Go!.
The awards reflected his contribution to children’s television and his ability to bring familiar animated characters to life for contemporary audiences.
His colleagues also remembered him for his personality and generosity. Fellow voice actor Jim Cummings, known for characters including Winnie the Pooh and Tigger, expressed sorrow following the announcement of Bauza’s death.
Animation professionals also shared tributes celebrating his talent, friendship and enthusiasm for the industry.
Upcoming Projects and Lasting Legacy
At the time of his death, Bauza was associated with upcoming animation projects, including Bye Bye Bunny: A Looney Tunes Musical, in which he was expected to voice Daffy Duck, and The Dragon Masters.
His work on Coyote vs. Acme also represented part of his continuing contribution to the Looney Tunes universe.
Bauza’s career demonstrated the important role voice actors play in keeping animated characters relevant across generations. Although audiences may recognize the characters more readily than the performers behind them, their voices are central to the humor, emotion and personality that make animation memorable.
His death at 46 marks a significant loss for the animation industry. Through his performances, Bauza helped preserve the appeal of some of the world’s most enduring cartoon characters while establishing his own place in their history.
Swifteradio.com
