Eric Bauza, a celebrated Emmy Award-winning voice actor known for bringing iconic Looney Tunes characters to life, has passed away suddenly at the age of 46. His family announced the news on Instagram, highlighting his role as the modern voice behind Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety, Elmer Fudd, and Porky Pig, especially in the recent film "Coyote vs. Acme." Throughout a prolific 25-year career, Bauza contributed to more than 400 projects across film, television, and video games, including major titles like "The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie," "Space Jam: A New Legacy," and "Woody Woodpecker."

Bauza’s portrayal of these beloved characters carried on the legacy of Mel Blanc, the original voice behind many Looney Tunes stars. His work on "Coyote vs. Acme" gained attention not only for his vocal performances but also because the film had an unusual journey; initially shelved by Warner Bros. in 2023, it was rescued by independent distributor Ketchup Entertainment before its 2026 release. Warner Bros. Television Group Chair Channing Dungey paid tribute to Bauza, recognizing his 15 years with the studio and his dedication to preserving the Looney Tunes tradition.

Beyond Looney Tunes, Bauza’s versatility was evident in a diverse array of roles spanning genres and formats. In 2026 alone, he voiced characters in projects like the horror comedy "Buddy," animated films "Forgotten Island," "Minions & Monsters," and "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie," and popular television series such as "Rick and Morty," "Dora," "Bob’s Burgers," and "Invincible." His extensive credits reflect a broad influence in animation, contributing to the success of numerous franchises and beloved shows.

Born in Scarborough, Ontario in 1979, Bauza began his career with the Canadian series "The Ripping Friends" in the early 2000s. Over his career, he earned three Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, including one for his work on "Looney Tunes Cartoons" in 2022. His final recorded voice work was on the Paramount+ animated series "Avatar: Seven Havens." Bauza’s sudden death marks a significant loss in the animation community, as he was not only a talented performer but also a cherished member of the Warner Bros. animation family.