Eric Bauza: The Voice Behind Beloved Cartoon Characters
Eric Bauza, a 45-year-old Canadian voice actor, has become a household name for bringing to life some of the most iconic cartoon characters, including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. With a career spanning over two decades, Bauza has not only won two Children’s & Family Emmy Awards but has also become the go-to voice actor for numerous animated series and films. His journey into the world of voice acting is a story of passion, talent, and a deep love for animation.
From Animation Artist to Voice Acting Sensation
Bauza’s career in the entertainment industry began not as a voice actor but as an animation artist. After completing an internship at Spumco, the studio behind The Ren & Stimpy Show, he worked for the Los Angeles-based animation outfit Six Point Harness. However, he soon realized that his true calling was in voice acting. His break came when he was cast in the Nickelodeon show El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera, which not only secured him a visa to stay in the United States but also introduced him to the world of voice acting.
A Love for Looney Tunes and the Legacy of Mel Blanc
Bauza’s love for Looney Tunes began when he was a child, watching the cartoons on Saturday mornings. The wacky humor and over-the-top violence of these classic cartoons shaped his sense of humor and inspired him to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. As he grew older, his admiration for Looney Tunes only deepened, and he became particularly fascinated by the work of Mel Blanc, the legendary voice actor who brought Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and other iconic characters to life. “Mel Blanc is like the voice of God for me,” Bauza said. “He’s the blueprint. If you’re replicating any of these classic characters, you have to refer back to him because he created not just their voices but their personalities.”
Bringing Looney Tunes to Life in the Modern Era
Bauza’s big break in the world of Looney Tunes came when he was cast in the Cartoon Network show The Looney Tunes Show, where he voiced Marvin the Martian. His performance caught the attention of director Peter Browngardt, who later asked him to audition for the series Looney Tunes Cartoons for HBO Max. Bauza’s audition stood out because he didn’t just impersonate the characters; he brought a fresh energy to them, making them both funny and entertaining. His ability to act within the voices, much like Mel Blanc did, impressed Browngardt and earned him the role of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck.
A Versatile Voice Actor with a Chameleon-like Talent
Bauza’s talent extends far beyond Looney Tunes. He has voiced a wide range of characters in various animated series and films, including Space Jam: A New Legacy and The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie. In this zany, hand-drawn sci-fi film, Bauza voices both Daffy Duck and Porky Pig, bringing his signature energy and humor to the roles. He has also become known for his ability to voice-match famous actors, stepping in for stars like Antonio Banderas (as Puss in Boots) and Bill Hader when they are unavailable. This versatility has made him a sought-after voice actor in the industry.
A Career Built on Passion and Gratitude
Throughout his career, Bauza has remained humble and grateful for the opportunities he has received. He attributes his success to the support of the people in his life, including his late uncle who helped him get his start in Los Angeles. Despite his success, Bauza hopes to one day be best known for creating an iconic voice of his own, one that becomes a household name. “In this business, the dream is to create an iconic voice that every kid in the schoolyard does,” he said. With his talent, dedication, and love for animation, Eric Bauza is well on his way to achieving that dream.
