It’s a sad day for animation fans across the world. Prominent voice actor Tom Kane, best known for voicing Professor Utonium in “The Powerpuff Girls” and Yoda in the “Star Wars” animated series and games, has passed away. He was 64.
Tom’s talent agency, Galactic Productions, conveyed the devastating news, revealing that the voice actor breathed his last on 18th May 2026 (Monday). The statement reads, “From his unforgettable performances in Star Wars to countless animated series, documentaries, and games, Tom brought wisdom, strength, humour, and heart to every role he touched. His voice became part of our lives, our memories, and the stories we carry with us.”
Galactic Productions also gave a nod to the late voice actor’s reputation as a family man, writing, “Tom was a devoted husband and father who, alongside his wife, built a loving family of nine children — three biological and six welcomed through adoption and fostering.” The agency added, “That compassion and generosity defined who he was just as much as his remarkable talent did.” Tom was married to his wife, Cindy Roberts, from 1982 until his death.
According to reports, Tom’s cause of death was complications of a stroke. The voice actor suffered a stroke in 2020, which damaged the speech centre of his brain. His daughter Sam explained in a Facebook post, noting that the condition left him unable to communicate verbally, read or spell. The stroke also forced Tom to retire from voice acting. However, he continued to make public appearances at events up until early this year.
Following the announcement of Tom’s death, numerous tributes started pouring in from various fandoms. Cartoon Network paid tribute, writing in its post, “Thank you, Tom Kane, for lending your voice to the father of three perfect little girls and bringing The Force to millions of fans. You’ll live on in our childhood memories forever.” Tara Strong, who voiced Bubbles in “The Powerpuff Girls”, shared a lengthy tribute, remembering Tom for his talent and kindness.
“The Powerpuff Girls” creator Craig McCracken also paid tribute to Tom, sharing about his first interaction with the voice actor during his audition for the animated series. Craig and Tom also worked together on “Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends”, with the latter voicing Mr Herriman. Craig ends his tribute to Tom, saying, “I am eternally grateful to be able to have had his voice and heart speak for my characters, and through them his spirit endures.”
Having voiced so many iconic characters, Tom’s passing is a huge loss to the voice acting and animation community. We extend our condolences to his family, loved ones and colleagues. May they find solace during this difficult time.
Sources: Variety, Facebook (1)(2), Instagram (1)(2)(3)
