Tom Kane, ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ and ‘Powerpuff Girls’ voice actor, dies at 64

by

Tom Kane, the voice behind beloved characters like Master Yoda in several “Star Wars” animated series and Professor Utonium from “The Powerpuff Girls,” has passed away at the age of 64.

Voice actor Kane passed away on Monday due to complications from a stroke he experienced in 2020, according to his representative, Zachery McGinnis. The news was also shared on social media by his agency, Galactic Productions.

Tom Kane, known for his memorable work in Star Wars and numerous animated shows, documentaries, and video games, brought a unique blend of wisdom, strength, humor, and warmth to all his characters. A statement from Galactic Productions shared on Monday noted that his voice became a cherished part of many people’s lives and memories. While he is no longer with us, his characters, stories, and the joy he brought to the world will be remembered forever.

Kane began his work with “Star Wars” in the 1990s by providing voices for video game characters. He initially played roles like droids, Imperial officers, and Rebel pilots in games such as “Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire” and “Star Wars: X-Wing vs. TIE Fighter.” Over time, he went on to voice many other famous characters, including the well-known C-3PO, Yoda, and Boba Fett, in a variety of different games.

Hollywood Inc.

Roger Sweet, a designer for Mattel and the creator of He-Man, passed away on Tuesday. He-Man became a hugely popular toy and a symbol of fun for kids in the 1980s.

He kept playing Yoda in animated “Star Wars” series, starting with “Star Wars: Clone Wars.” This show, created by Genndy Tartakovsky, took place after the 2002 movie “Episode II — Attack of the Clones,” and Kane also provided the voice for C-3PO in it.

However, Kane is best known for narrating the 2008 film Star Wars: The Clone Wars and the TV series that followed. He famously began each story by voicing the iconic Star Wars opening crawl, setting the scene for what was about to happen.

Dave Filoni, head of Lucasfilm, shared that Tom loved ‘Star Wars.’ While many fans will recognize him as the voice of Yoda in the animated series, Filoni explained that Tom’s voice truly defined ‘The Clone Wars.’ His narration at the beginning of each episode introduced a whole generation to the ‘Star Wars’ universe and prepared them for a new adventure in a galaxy far, far away.

Filoni shared that when he began directing, he was lucky to have the guidance of a veteran like Tom, who helped him understand what actors require. He jokingly compared Tom’s mentorship to the wise character Yoda.

Beyond his work in “Star Wars,” Kane has voiced many memorable characters, including the loyal valet Woodhouse in “Archer,” the Marvel villain Magneto in video games, the strict but polite Mr. Herriman from “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends,” and the over-the-top villain Him in “The Powerpuff Girls.”

In a 2014 Reddit interview, Kane revealed he felt the most connected to Professor Utonium from “The Powerpuff Girls.” Professor Utonium famously created the super-powered children by mixing sugar, spice, everything nice, and the mysterious Chemical X.

“He’s a dorky dad who loves his kids,” Kane wrote in a comment. “That’s pretty much me.”

Entertainment & Arts

For Subscribers

Voice clones pose an ‘existential crisis’ for actors: ‘It’s a violation of our humanity’

Around ten voice actors told The Times that new technology allowing voice cloning is leading to fewer paid jobs and taking away their control over their own work. Many discovered copies of their voices had been created without their permission, and they weren’t paid or even informed it was happening.

In a heartfelt tribute, Tara Strong, the voice of Blossom from The Powerpuff Girls, remembered Kevin Michael Kane as brilliant, generous, humorous, encouraging, and kind.

According to a post on X, actor Blake Strong described Tom Kane as a truly exceptional person, saying, ‘There’s no such thing as a perfect man… those people never met [Tom Kane].’ Strong shared his deep gratitude for their time working together and expressed how much he cherished a recent visit with Kane, urging others to hug their loved ones and tell them how much they mean to them.

She told the professor she loved him, describing him as a wonderful father figure and a truly great person. She felt lucky to have known him and considered him a friend.

Born on April 15, 1962, in Overland Park, Kansas, Nolan North started his voice acting career at 15, doing commercials in Kansas City. Beyond video games, he’s appeared in films and on television, and has also been the voice of several major events, including the Academy Awards (in 2006, 2008, 2011, 2012, and 2018) and attractions at Disney theme parks.

Filoni also expressed his happiness that Tom’s characters and unique voice will continue to be enjoyed by many. He noted that Tom’s voice could be heard guiding guests at Disneyland or in the Star Wars universe, reminding everyone of his lasting impact.

Kane is remembered by his wife, Cindy, and their nine children, including six who joined the family through adoption and fostering.

Read More

2026-05-19 23:01