For millions of anime fans, Mike McFarland’s voice was unforgettable.
He voiced beloved characters including Master Roshi in Dragon Ball Z, Buggy the Clown in One Piece, and Jean Kirstein in Attack on Titan.
Now, fans are mourning his loss.
McFarland died on September 9 at age 56 after battling glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He had been diagnosed in 2025 after doctors discovered a brain tumor.
His career spanned more than three decades. Beyond voice acting, he was also a writer, director, and producer who helped shape English-language anime during the Funimation and Crunchyroll eras.
Fellow voice actors remembered him as a talented friend who gave others opportunities and helped shape their careers.
Crunchyroll paid tribute, calling him “an incredible talent” who would be deeply missed.
Mike McFarland may be gone, but his voice—and the characters he brought to life—will remain part of anime history.
Rest in peace, Mike McFarland. 🕊️