In brief
The veteran voice artist who lit up Looney Tunes cartoons has died at 46 after an unexpected heart attack. Family announced his sudden death in a private Instagram statement. Variety cites hypertensive cardiovascular disease, and a Hollywood Reporter tribute recalls Bauza’s role as a modern-day Mel Blanc. He earned three Emmy Awards for voice work and lent his talents to popular films such as Space Jam, Coyote vs. Acme and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Eric Bauza, celebrated voice artist behind iconic Looney Tunes characters such as Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and Porky Pig, died Sunday at the age of 46.
A short Instagram statement from the actor’s family confirmed that he “died suddenly” at his home, a declaration echoed in Variety’s reports identifying the cause as hypertensive cardiovascular disease.
Bauza’s career spanned more than a decade of animated hits – from voicing classic characters in the 2021 film Space Jam: A New Legacy to recurring roles in the Disney‑Pixar releases The Super Mario Bros. Movie and its sequel, and the recent animated film Coyote vs. Acme.
An NBC News interview in 2021 highlighted his Filipino heritage and his lifelong passion for Looney Tunes, noting that the classic cartoons “transcend all languages and all cultures.”
During his career Bauza earned three Emmy Awards for outstanding voice performance across television series between 2022 and 2025.
An official statement from Warner Bros., quoted by The Hollywood Reporter, called him a “unique voice talent who brought joy and laughter to millions around the world.” The chairman of Warner Bros. Television Group, Channing Dungey, thanked Bauza for carrying the legacy of Mel Blanc and perpetuating the spirit of the Looney Tunes franchise.
