LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES | TUNGARU PRESS | October 26, 2026
Emmy Award-winning voice actor Eric Bauza, best known for bringing iconic Looney Tunes characters Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety and Porky Pig to life, has died at the age of 46.
Bauza died suddenly at his residence in Los Angeles on Sunday, October 25, according to information released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office.
His death was attributed to hypertensive cardiovascular disease, a condition associated with damage to the heart and blood vessels caused by high blood pressure.
The news has saddened the entertainment industry, particularly the animation community, where Bauza was widely respected for his ability to recreate some of the most recognisable cartoon voices in history.
Family Confirms Sudden Death
Bauza's family announced his passing through a statement shared on his official Instagram account.
“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,” the statement said.
The family initially indicated that further details would be confirmed.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office subsequently identified hypertensive cardiovascular disease as the cause of death.
Bauza's passing came just one day after he shared a photograph of himself attending the LightBox Expo in Pasadena with animator and director David Silverman.
He had also recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of the original Space Jam movie by sharing footage from New York City.
His sudden death came while he remained active in the entertainment industry.
A Voice Behind Some of Animation's Most Famous Characters
Bauza became one of the leading modern performers of classic Looney Tunes characters.
He provided voices for Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety, Elmer Fudd, Foghorn Leghorn and Road Runner across various productions.
His work helped introduce the characters to new generations while preserving the distinctive humour and personalities that made them famous.
In 2021, Bauza voiced several characters in Space Jam: A New Legacy, including Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Elmer Fudd and Foghorn Leghorn.
He later reprised several of those roles in the 2026 film Coyote vs. Acme.
At the time of his death, he was also involved in pre-production for Bye Bye Bunny: A Looney Tunes Musical, in which he was expected to voice Daffy Duck.
From Toronto to Hollywood
Born in Toronto, Canada, on December 7, 1979, Bauza developed an interest in animation and cartoon voices during childhood.
Of Filipino descent, he grew up watching Looney Tunes and practising impressions of his favourite characters.
Before becoming a professional voice actor, he worked as a character designer at animation studios in Hollywood.
His experience in visual animation helped him develop a deeper understanding of the characters he would later portray.
Over the course of his career, Bauza accumulated more than 400 acting credits across television, film and other animated productions.
His versatility allowed him to work on both established franchises and original projects.
Bauza Believed Cartoons Could Connect People Across Cultures
In a 2021 interview with NBC News, Bauza spoke about the universal appeal of Looney Tunes.
“Looney Tunes transcends all languages and all cultures,” he said.
He explained that cartoon humour could reach audiences regardless of language.
“There are some cartoons that don't even have English-speaking parts in it. There are some Looney Tunes cartoons that are pantomimes,” Bauza said.
“It doesn't matter what part of the planet you're from. You get the comedy.”
His comments reflected his belief that animation could bring people together through humour and storytelling.
Producer Pays Tribute to Bauza's Dedication
Chris DeFaria, producer of Coyote vs. Acme, remembered Bauza for his commitment to animation and his enthusiasm for the craft.
Speaking to Variety, DeFaria praised the actor's “absolutely tireless dedication” to the industry.
“He embodied everything we wanted from this film, including the major theme of the movie that a little guy can make a difference in this world,” DeFaria said.
The producer also praised Bauza's ability to establish his own identity while performing characters with long histories.
“He's a voiceover artist for animated characters that have historic precedents and roles, and somehow out of that, he carved out a place in this business,” DeFaria said.
He added that Bauza had made a significant contribution to promoting animation during the final year of his life.
Warner Bros. Honours His Legacy
Channing Dungey, chairman of Warner Bros. Television Group and U.S. Networks, also paid tribute to Bauza.
“Eric Bauza was a unique voice talent who brought joy and laughter to millions around the world,” Dungey said in a statement reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
She highlighted his 15-year association with Warner Bros. Animation and his work voicing some of the studio's most recognisable characters.
“He was the voice of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck among countless other characters. He followed in the footsteps of giants like Mel Blanc,” Dungey said.
Mel Blanc, the legendary voice actor who originated many classic Looney Tunes performances, remains one of the most influential figures in animation history.
Dungey said Bauza considered continuing that legacy one of the greatest honours of his career.
“In addition to his incredible talent, Eric was a treasured part of our animation family. Our hearts go out to his loved ones,” she added.
A Career Beyond Looney Tunes
Although best known for his Looney Tunes performances, Bauza worked across numerous animated productions.
He voiced Toad General in the 2023 film The Super Mario Bros. Movie and its sequel, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.
His other credits included Rick and Morty, Forgotten Island and Minions & Monsters.
His extensive career demonstrated an ability to perform a wide range of characters, from familiar cartoon favourites to new creations.
Bauza's work earned him industry recognition, including an Emmy Award.
Animation Industry Loses a Celebrated Talent
Bauza's death at 46 has brought an unexpected end to a career that remained active and influential.
For many viewers, his performances were the voices of characters they had known since childhood.
For colleagues, he was a dedicated performer who helped preserve the traditions of classic animation while contributing to its future.
His work reached audiences around the world through films, television programmes and animated productions.
Eric Bauza leaves behind a legacy of laughter, creativity and memorable performances that helped keep some of the world's most beloved cartoon characters alive for a new generation.
Adapted and rewritten for Tungaru Press. Direct quotations are attributed to the individuals identified in the original reporting.
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