His Voice Will Live On…
If you’ve watched cartoons any time in the past 30 years, you’ve likely heard the voice of Tom Kane.
The voice actor, who memorably gave life to animated characters like Professor Utonium in the 1998 Cartoon Network series The Powerpuff Girls, as well as Yoda in a variety of animated Star Wars series and video games, died on Monday, May 18, at the age of 64.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Kane died from complications following a stroke, noting that it was back in 2020 that the voice actor suffered a stroke that rendered him unable to speak or write.
Kane’s talent agency, Galactic Productions, announced his passing on social media, writing:
“Today we say goodbye to Tom Kane — a legendary voice actor whose work shaped the childhoods and imaginations of millions around the world. 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.”
In addition to voice parts in The Powerpuff Girls and as Yoda in Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Kane was also known for recurring parts in Nickelodeon’s The Wild Thornberrys, Cartoon Network’s Johnny Bravo, Disney Channel’s Kim Possible, and as the narrator in Lucasfilm’s Cartoon Network series Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
While Yoda’s voice was originally performed by Frank Oz — who also performed the puppetry for the Jedi master in the original trilogy of Star Wars — it was Tom Kane’s voice that allowed for fans to continue engaging with the character in a multitude of ways.
Dave Filoni, producer of Star Wars: The Clone Wars and current president of Lucasfilm, said of Kane’s passing, “He loved the fans, and showed up for them whenever he could. I am so grateful for all that he did for me and for Lucasfilm. I’m also glad that his characters and voice will live on in many ways. Wherever you go there’s always a chance that Tom is the voice you hear guiding you through Disneyland or a galaxy far, far away. Farewell Tom, may the Force be with you… always.”
Rest in peace, Professor ❤️ 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. pic.twitter.com/g8l5lCfchi
— Cartoon Network (@cartoonnetwork) May 18, 2026
Kane’s video game credits include Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, voicing Jim Gordon in Batman: Arkham Asylum, and voicing Yoda and Admiral Akbar in Star Wars: Battlefront.
Known for his Metropolis-worthy turn-of-the-century voice, he also frequently voiced announcers.
His talent agency goes on to note that he is survived by his wife, Cindy, whom he married in 1982, and their nine children — three being biological, with the other six being through adoption and fostering.
Concluding its tribute to Kane, Galactic Productions wrote, “Though his voice may now be silent, the characters, stories, and love he gave to the world will live on forever.”
Revisit some of his funniest moments from The Powerpuff Girls, here:
Watch a clip of his take on Yoda’s voice, here:
