For nearly a century, Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck have been making audiences laugh, their timeless antics transcending generations. But behind those iconic voices lies a legacy of talented performers who've kept the characters vibrant long after their creators moved on. This week, one of the most beloved voices in Looney Tunes history takes his final bow.
Warner Bros. Picture Animation has unveiled Daffy Season, the first theatrical Looney Tunes short in over a decade, now playing in theaters ahead of The Cat in the Hat, starring Bill Hader, which opened November 6, 2026. The short is a bittersweet milestone: it marks the final Looney Tunes movie performance of the late, Emmy-winning voice actor Eric Bauza, who passed away on October 25. According to a Warner Bros. representative, this short represents Bauza's last film performance within the Looney Tunes franchise, though it's not his final screen credit across all productions.
A Voice That Defined a Generation
Bauza became one of the most recognizable voices in modern animation, lending his talents to a host of iconic characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Tweety, and Marvin the Martian. His work introduced these beloved characters to a new generation through projects like Looney Tunes Cartoons, Space Jam: A New Legacy, and The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie.
His sudden death last month at his home in Los Angeles County was attributed to hypertensive cardiovascular disease, as reported by the local medical examiner. His family announced the news via his official Instagram, confirming the loss was unexpected: "Eric Bauza, Emmy Award-winning voice actor and the modern voice of iconic Looney Tunes characters Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, along with dozens of other beloved cartoon characters, has passed away suddenly. More details to come."
For fans, Daffy Season is more than just a short—it's a heartfelt farewell to an artist who poured his soul into these characters. The theatrical release offers a chance to celebrate Bauza's legacy on the big screen, a fitting tribute for a performer who brought so much joy to audiences worldwide.
While no streaming release date has been announced yet, the short is currently screening exclusively in theaters. For those eager to see more of Bauza's work, his performances in the recent Looney Tunes movie remain a testament to his talent. Meanwhile, fans of classic animation might also enjoy revisiting other iconic franchises that have shaped pop culture.
As we bid farewell to Eric Bauza, his voice will continue to echo through the laughter of generations to come. Daffy Season stands as a poignant reminder of his immense contribution to the world of animation.
