The animation world is mourning the loss of Eric Bauza, the Canadian voice actor who brought Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and numerous other classic cartoon characters to life for a new generation. Following his sudden death at 46, MeTV Toons is planning a special programming tribute celebrating his contributions to the Looney Tunes legacy and the character he loved so much.
MeTV Toons will celebrate Bauza’s life and career on Saturday, October 31, with a special presentation of Hare’s to Bugs! A Bugs Bunny Celebration at 7 p.m. ET/PT. The one-hour program features Bauza discussing Bugs Bunny’s history, personality and enduring popularity, alongside archival footage and interviews with animation experts and fellow voice actors.
According to Cartoon Brew, the tribute will be followed at 8 p.m. by Bugs Bunny and Friends, featuring classic cartoons including One Froggy Evening, Birds Anonymous and Fast and Furry-ous.
MeTV Toons is available through local broadcast stations and streaming services including Philo, Frndly TV, Fubo and DirecTV Stream. The programming offers families an opportunity to revisit the classic characters Bauza helped keep alive.
Who Was Eric Bauza, The Voice of Bugs Bunny
Born in Scarborough, Ontario, on December 7, 1979, Bauza grew up loving cartoons and watching children’s television, including Mr. Dressup. His passion eventually led him from animation production into voice acting, where he became one of the industry’s most recognizable performers.
As reported by CP24, Bauza died suddenly on October 25, 2026, at age 46. He won three Children’s and Family Emmy Awards and accumulated more than 400 voice-acting credits.
“Looney Tunes will always have a special place in my heart,” Bauza once said, reflecting on the cartoons that inspired his career. His work also included The Fairly OddParents, Teen Titans Go! and Space Jam: A New Legacy.
Where Does Bauza Rank Among Bugs Bunny Voice Actors?
Bauza occupies an important place in Bugs Bunny history, following legendary original performer Mel Blanc, whose voice defined the character for generations. Other notable successors included Jeff Bergman, Greg Burson and Joe Alaskey.
According to the Behind the Voice Actors Bugs Bunny profile, Bauza is among the performers credited with bringing the iconic rabbit to life. He became particularly prominent through Looney Tunes Cartoons and other modern productions.
Bauza once described himself as lucky to become only the sixth person to voice Bugs Bunny. His ability to perform numerous Looney Tunes characters, rather than just Bugs, made him an especially significant part of the franchise’s modern history.
His performances will continue introducing new generations to Bugs Bunny, ensuring his contribution to animation is remembered long after his final recording.
