Legendary voice actor Mike McFarland has passed away at the age of 56. McFarland was a prolific talent, known for his extensive work on numerous iconic anime series, including his memorable portrayal of Master Roshi in Dragon Ball, Jean Kirstein in Attack on Titan, and Buggy the Clown in One Piece.
His career began in the late 1990s and grew to include a vast array of characters across prominent shows such as YuYu Hakusho and Fruits Basket. McFarland also lent his voice to Jean Havoc in Fullmetal Alchemist and many other beloved characters, solidifying his status as a highly respected figure in the voice acting community.
In August 2025, McFarland was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Fellow voice actors initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support his medical expenses, drawing attention from colleagues like J. Michael Tatum, who shared his grief on Twitter/X, remembering McFarland as a "dear friend and mentor of over twenty years."
Colleagues and fans alike have shared tributes following the news of his death. Alejandro Saab, voice of Deadpool in Marvel Rivals, described McFarland as "goofy, kind and smart," highlighting his talents as an actor and director, and his passion for life, including his enjoyment of food and music. Crunchyroll issued a statement calling him an "incredible talent" and a "good friend to so many," emphasizing the profound sense of loss.
Fans have also shared cherished memories, including a viral clip of McFarland's theatrical reveal of his casting as Ranka in Ouran High School Host Club at Anime Expo 2008. His contributions extended beyond acting to roles as a script writer, ADR director, and producer, significantly shaping the English voice acting industry. McFarland's extensive body of work leaves an enduring legacy that continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.