Canadian voice actor Doc Harris, renowned for his iconic role as the English narrator of the anime series Dragon Ball Z, has passed away at the age of 76. Harris, born Gilbert Auchinleck, lent his deep, distinctive voice to over 200 episodes of the beloved anime series from 1996 to 2003, leaving an indelible mark on fans worldwide. He passed away on October 5, 2024, in Vancouver, according to reports.
Harris’s narration in Dragon Ball Z, which accompanied episode recaps, intros, and outros, became instantly recognizable and contributed to the show’s popularity in English-speaking countries. His voice work added a dramatic and engaging element to the series, which was adapted from the manga created by Akira Toriyama.
In addition to his work on Dragon Ball Z, Harris had a successful career in Canadian radio. He reportedly debuted in 1971 and adopted the name “Doc Harris” in 1976, becoming a prominent figure in the industry. Harris also provided voice work for other projects, including My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic and the popular video game Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit 2. His versatility and talent made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry, and he gained a devoted fan following over the years.
Tributes poured in following the news of Harris’s death, with fans and colleagues expressing their admiration for his work. Ian James Corlett, the English voice of Goku in Dragon Ball Z from 1996 to 1997, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, calling Harris “one of a kind” and a “HUGE force” in his early career. Corlett added that Harris “lived and breathed music” and had a sharp eye for films, qualities that shaped his unique personality.
Doc Harris leaves behind a lasting legacy in both anime and voice acting, remembered fondly by generations of Dragon Ball Z fans.