Canadian voice actor Doc Harris, renowned for being the English narrator of Dragon Ball Z, has passed away at the age of 76. Born Gilbert Auchinleck, Harris voiced over 200 episodes of the popular anime series between 1996 and 2003.
His death was reported on 5 October in Vancouver. Throughout his career, Harris became a beloved figure in the world of anime, and news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike.
Harris’s narration became an iconic element of Dragon Ball Z, with his deep, resonant voice shaping the show’s distinctive tone. He narrated episode recaps, introductions, and conclusions, and his voice is still associated with the nostalgia many fans have for the series.
As a result, his work has left a lasting impact on the anime community, further cementing his status as a crucial figure in the English adaptation of the show.
In addition to his work on Dragon Ball Z, Harris had a long and successful career in Canadian radio. He reportedly started his radio career in 1971 and adopted the moniker “Doc Harris” in 1976, a name that became synonymous with his charismatic and authoritative voice.
Over the years, his versatility allowed him to transition from radio to television, expanding his influence across multiple mediums.
Fellow voice actor Ian James Corlett, who voiced Goku in Dragon Ball Z from 1996-1997, paid tribute to Harris on social media, describing him as a “HUGE force” in his early career. Corlett shared fond memories of his colleague, emphasizing Harris’s passion for music and film.
He recalled how Harris’s energy and expertise had an indelible impact on his own journey in the entertainment industry, and how Harris was a mentor and friend to many.
Beyond his work on Dragon Ball Z, Harris lent his voice to various other projects, including the animated series My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic and video games like Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit 2.
His ability to bring characters and stories to life across different formats showcased his range and further solidified his legacy in voice acting.
The death of Harris comes not long after that of Dragon Ball Z creator Akira Toriyama, who passed away in March 2024 at the age of 68. Toriyama’s death was the result of an acute subdural hematoma.
The loss of both these key figures within the Dragon Ball Z universe has been deeply felt by fans, marking the end of an era for one of the most influential anime series of all time.
