Tom Kane, a voice actor known especially for his memorable roles in animated series and video games, has passed away at the age of 64.
TMZ was the first to report on the star's death, with a statement from his rep revealing that he died due to complications from a stroke that he'd suffered in 2020.
© Getty ImagesThe actor's stroke caused significant damage to his abilities to write and speak, forcing him into an early retirement from voice acting. His daughter then shared regular updates on his condition on social media.
His rep told the publication that Tom died on May 18 at a hospital in Kansas City, surrounded by family. "Though his voice may now be silent, the characters, stories, and love he gave to the world will live on forever."
He added: "But beyond the incredible career was an extraordinary man. 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." In 1982, Tom tied the knot with Cindy Roberts, with whom he shares all nine of his kids.
Tom has been performing since 1992, making his debut as an announcer on an episode of Who's the Boss?. He found his name as a voice actor for several Cartoon Network shows throughout his career, most notably Cow and Chicken, Johnny Bravo, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Teen Titans, and many more.
He was probably best known for playing Professor Utonium (and other characters like Talking Dog and HIM) in the Powerpuff Girls franchise, as well as roles in beloved shows like Kim Possible, Totally Spies, Archer and The Wild Thornberrys.
© Getty ImagesTom was also deeply involved with two major franchises: Marvel and Star Wars. He voiced characters in TV adaptations for Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk and Spider-Man (as well as various video game installments).
He also voiced several characters in the Star Wars franchise like Yoda, Admiral Ackbar, Boba Fett and more in various games and TV adaptations, most notably throughout the long-running Star Wars: The Clone Wars.
And his work has extended beyond just voice acting. Tom has also been an announcer for the Academy Awards, doing it first back in 2006 for the 78th Academy Awards and last in 2013 for the 84th Academy Awards.
Back in March, at the Lexington Comic & Toy Convention, Tom made headlines when he reunited with his Powerpuff Girls co-stars Tara Strong, E.G. Daily and Cathy Cavadini, aka Bubbles, Buttercup and Blossom, six years after his stroke (which you can watch above).
"An amazing reunion with the OG #powerpuffgirls and the professor!" E.G. wrote with a clip from the meeting, adding separately: "In December 2020, our Powerpuff Girls father, Professor Utonium – Tom Kane – suffered a stroke that left him unable to speak. We're so grateful to see him again and to witness his recovery. We love you, Tom."
© InstagramTom also shared a photo with the three, on which Tara commented back: "We were SO happy… so emotional to be back with our professor. It's been way too long, beautiful friend. Our hearts are filled with joy to be back together with you & to hear your beautiful voice slowly coming back brought tears to our eyes. @tkanevo you are an angel on earth, always have been."
