Dragon Ball narrator Brice Armstrong has passed away at the age of 84, in news that was confirmed by the talent management group Mary Collins Agency.
According to the company, Armstrong passed away on 10 January from natural causes.
In a post on Facebook Mary Collins Agency wrote: "In the anime and game community, Brice is perhaps best known as the narrator for the original Dragon Ball series, characters Captain Ginyu and Lord Slug in Dragon Ball Z, as well as providing voices on Yu Yu Hakusho, Lupin III, Case Closed and many other titles.
"Christopher Sabat, a Mary Collins Agency voice actor and founder of Okratron 5000, worked with and directed Brice often. 'Brice was the kindest, funniest person I've ever known. He was always humble, never in a bad mood-not the attitude you'd expect from such an industry legend'."
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According to the agency, iconic Star Wars actor James Earl Jones once told Armstrong: "I wish I had your vocal control." The post praised the 'camera shy' actor, who had 'an ear for celebrity impressions', but he will likely be best known for his narration of Dragon Ball.
On social media fans of the cartoon have been paying tribute, with one writing: "I've heard his voice when I was growing up as a kid back when I played the old Budokai games, his voice as Lord Slug, Ginyu, and of course the narrator for Dragon Ball. So sad he passed away, but I always thought he was great."
While a second posted: "So sad to hear this. From Lord Slug to Captain Ginyu to the Dragon Ball narrator, he was talented beyond words and his voice made a huge impact on me as a kid. He will be dearly missed. Condolences to his family, friends, and fellow voice actors."
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A third fan wrote: Thank you, Mr. Brice Armstrong. I am still to this day fascinated by your voice. You gave Captain Ginyu such a great characterisation and always seemed to make Dragon Ball so nostalgic as the narrator, even when the dub was brand new."
The voice actor leaves behind six children and nine grandchildren.
A memorial page raising funds for charities close to Armstrong has been set up by pals, who are asking for donations instead of flowers. You can donate here.
Topics: TV and Film