Eric Bauza, Emmy-winning voice actor for Looney Tunes, dies at 46

Eric Bauza, the celebrated voice actor who gave life to iconic characters including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and dozens of other beloved cartoon characters, has died. The Emmy-winning performer passed away suddenly at his home on Sunday, October 25, 2026, at the age of 46. Los Angeles County Medical Examiner records confirmed that his death resulted from hypertensive cardiovascular disease, a condition involving heart and blood vessel damage caused by long-term high blood pressure.

News of his passing was shared by his family in a statement posted to his official Instagram account, which 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." Tributes swiftly flooded social media from peers across the entertainment industry, including fellow voice actors Grey DeLisle, Jim Cummings, Josh Keaton, and Vincent Martella, alongside writer and producer Aaron J. Waltke.

Warner Bros. Leadership and Colleagues Pay Tribute

Industry leaders and collaborators remembered Bauza not only for his versatility behind the microphone, but also for his warmth and dedication. Channing Dungey, chairman of Warner Bros. Television Group and U.S. Networks, issued a statement highlighting Bauza's place in animation history, noting that he followed in the footsteps of legends like Mel Blanc and brought joy and laughter to millions around the world.

Christopher DeFaria, producer of the animated feature Coyote vs. Acme, spoke with Variety about Bauza's work ethic, stating: "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 added: "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." Fellow voice actor Josh Keaton remembered him online as one of the humblest, kindest, and most supportive souls in the profession.

From Scarborough Roots to Animation Career

Born in Scarborough, a suburb of Toronto, in 1979, Bauza grew up in a Filipino-Canadian family. His parents immigrated to Canada from the Philippines in the late 1960s, and his father and grandfather helped spark his love of classic cartoons, particularly Looney Tunes. After studying radio, television, and film production at Centennial College in Toronto, he began building a career behind the scenes.

Over his career, Bauza amassed hundreds of acting credits. He officially took on the role of Bugs Bunny in Looney Tunes Cartoons in 2020. Between 2022 and 2025, Bauza earned Emmy Awards for his work. Channing Dungey noted in a statement that "Eric said that carrying on the legendary legacy of the Looney Tunes was among the greatest honors of his life."

As grieving family members, fans, and colleagues process the loss, further details regarding his passing are expected to be released by his loved ones.