By Zoe Papadakis | Tuesday, 19 May 2026 12:05 PM EDT
Voice actor Tom Kane, whose work spanned the “Star Wars” universe, children’s animated series, and major Hollywood broadcasts, died Monday at the age of 64.
His talent agency, Galactic Productions, announced his death in a statement posted on Facebook.
Tom Kane’s career was severely affected in late 2020 by a stroke. In December 2020, his daughter, Sami Kane, announced that Tom Kane had suffered a stroke two months earlier and could not “efficiently communicate verbally, nor read or spell.”
At the time, Sami Kane noted that the family’s neurologist warned Tom Kane “may not” do voiceover work again.
“My dad still remains in good spirits and his extreme stubbornness has helped him already show improvements in speech,” she added.
His daughter confirmed his retirement in September 2021.
Before retiring, Tom Kane had built an extensive portfolio within the “Star Wars” franchise. He was widely recognized for voicing Jedi Master Yoda across multiple projects, including the 2003 television series “Star Wars: Clone Wars,” the 2008 series “Star Wars: The Clone Wars,” and the 2008 film of the same name.
Additionally, Tom Kane worked as a narrator for “Star Wars: The Bad Batch” and contributed voice work to theatrical releases such as “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” “Rogue One,” “The Last Jedi,” “Solo,” and 2019’s “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.”
Beyond the “Star Wars” universe, Tom Kane was a dominant presence in kids’ television during the 1990s and 2000s. He was a regular performer on Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network, which included voicing Darwin, the chatty chimpanzee companion in “The Wild Thornberrys,” from 1998 to 2004. Tom Kane also held roles in “The Angry Beavers,” “Cow and Chicken,” and “Johnny Bravo.”
His prominent cartoon roles included Professor Utonium and the villain HIM in “The Powerpuff Girls” between 1998 and 2005, Lord Monkey Fist in “Kim Possible,” Mr. Herriman in “Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends,” and Simon in “Codename: Kids Next Door.”
Tom Kane’s industry presence extended to high-profile announcing duties outside of character animation. He served as the official announcer for the Academy Awards during the 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2013 broadcasts, and held the announcer title for Adult Swim’s “The Eric Andre Show.”
Galactic Productions paid tribute to his impact on the entertainment industry in its announcement.
“Today we say goodbye to Tom Kane — a legendary voice actor whose work shaped the childhoods and imaginations of millions around the world,” Galactic Productions stated.
“From his unforgettable performances in ‘Star Wars’ to countless animated series, documentaries and games, Tom brought wisdom, strength, humor and heart to every role he touched. His voice became part of our lives, our memories, and the stories we carry with us.”
“Though his voice may now be silent, the characters, stories, and love he gave to the world will live on forever,” the agency’s statement read. “Rest in peace, Tom Kane. Thank you for everything. May the Force be with you, always.”
