Tom Kane, ‘Star Wars’ Yoda and ‘The Powerpuff Girls’ Voice Actor, Dies at 64

Longtime voice actor Tom Kane, who brought animated characters to life in the “Star Wars” franchise and “The Powerpuff Girls,” has died at the age of 64.

Kane died in Kansas on May 18, following complications related to a stroke he suffered in 2020. Lucasfilm, the production company behind the creation of “Star Wars,” confirmed news of his passing in a public tribute.

“Tom loved Star Wars,” Lucasfilm President and Chief Creative Officer Dave Filoni said in a statement. “Fans may best remember him as the voice of the animated Yoda, but truly his voice was the spirit of the Clone Wars.”

“His opening narration introduced an entire generation to the Star Wars galaxy getting viewers ready for another adventure far, far, away.”

For decades, Kane is remembered as one of the entertainment industry’s most recognized voice performers. He rose to acclaim in 1996 voicing the video game “Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire,” and “Star Wars: X-Wing vs. TIE fighter” the same year.

He notably acted as the voices of Yoda, Admiral Yularen, and C-3PO throughout various “Star Wars” animation projects and video games. In 2008, Kane cemented his most prominent role for Lucasfilm as narrator for “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” where he showcased his talents for 132 episodes.

“When I was first starting out as a director, I was fortunate to have someone as legendary as Tom there to help me learn and guide me towards what the actors needed,” Filoni continued. “Very Yoda like indeed.”

“Tom was selfless, giving so much of his time and energy to the Star Wars fan community. He loved the fans, and showed up for them whenever he could.”

Kane also voiced characters in other animated series such as, “Kim Possible,” “Avatar: The Last Airbender,” “The Wild Thornberrys,” as well as video game franchises “Call of Duty” and “Halo.”

“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 talent agency, Galactic Productions shared in an Instagram post. “His voice became part of our lives, our memories, and the stories we carry with us.”

“Beyond the incredible career was an extraordinary man. Tom was a devoted husband and father. … Though his voice may now be silent, the characters, stories, and love he gave to the world will live on forever.”

Kane is survived by his wife of 44 years, Cindy Roberts, and their nine children, three of whom are biological and six welcomed through adoption and fostering.