A voice that resonated with anime fans for decades has fallen silent.
Suggest reported that Doc Harris, the renowned voice actor and radio personality best known for narrating the English dub of Dragon Ball Z, died on Saturday, October 5.
Harris, who was 76 years old, passed away following complications from a minor surgery he underwent last month. Born Gilbert Auchinleck, Harris had a prolific career that spanned radio broadcasting and voice acting. He began his journey in Canadian radio in 1966, adopting various stage names throughout his career.
Harris worked at several radio stations across Canada, including CFTR in Toronto and CKLG in Vancouver, where he eventually settled on the moniker "Doc Harris."
While Harris was a celebrated figure in Canadian broadcasting, he gained international recognition for his work in anime dubbing. His deep, smooth voice became synonymous with the English versions of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z produced by Ocean Productions. Harris also lent his voice to several Dragon Ball Z movies, cementing his status as a legend in the anime community.
Harris's voice acting portfolio extended beyond the Dragon Ball franchise. He contributed his talents to other popular animated series such as Barbie and the Rockers: Out of This World, Camp Candy, and My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. His versatility and distinctive voice made him a sought-after talent in the animation industry.
The news of Harris's passing sent shockwaves through both the broadcasting and anime communities. Fans and colleagues alike took to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the beloved voice actor.
Ian James Corlett, who voiced Goku in Ocean's Dragon Ball dub and was a longtime friend and colleague of Harris, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram.
Corlett's post highlighted Harris's passion for music and movies, as well as his significant influence on Corlett's own career. Corlett wrote:
He was one of a kind. This summer, when we were back in vancouver, I must've said 'I MUST see Doc on this trip, I owe him so much … well, at least a lunch!' 😈 And now it's too late. Sorry Doc. I owe you one. Actually I owe you a hundred lunches. RIP DOC 💔🤘🏽.
Harris's career in broadcasting began in 1966 when he started working at CKDA and CFMS-FM in Victoria under the name "Gil Harris." His journey took him across Canada, with stints at various radio stations, including CFTR in Toronto, where he adopted the name "Doc Holiday."
After returning to the West Coast, Harris worked at CKLG in Vancouver for 11 years before moving to CFMI-FM Vancouver in 1984. His radio career continued with positions at CKKS-FM, CFUN, and CKNW. Harris's last on-air role was at CISL Vancouver, where he worked until 2007.
Throughout his career, Harris demonstrated an ability to adapt and evolve, taking on various roles and personas. This versatility served him well in both his radio work and his voice-acting career, allowing him to leave an indelible mark on multiple entertainment mediums.
Doc Harris's passing marks the end of an era for both Canadian broadcasting and anime dubbing. His distinctive voice brought life to countless characters and narrations, entertaining and inspiring audiences for decades. Harris's contributions to radio and animation will continue to be remembered and celebrated by fans and colleagues alike, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched through his work.
