Mike McFarland, a prominent voice actor renowned for his contributions to the anime world, has passed away at the age of 56 following a battle with brain cancer. His death, which occurred on Wednesday, September 9, has been confirmed by various media sources, including TMZ and Deadline. McFarland was best known for his portrayal of Master Roshi in the English dubs of the beloved anime series, Dragon Ball Z.
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McFarland’s journey with cancer began in January 2025, when he underwent emergency surgery to remove a brain tumour. This information was shared through a GoFundMe campaign established by his family, who provided regular updates on his health. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed that he had glioblastoma, an aggressive form of cancer. Since the onset of his illness, McFarland’s loved ones have kept fans apprised of his condition, detailing both successes and setbacks along the way.
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans alike. Voice actress Brina Palencia, a close friend, stated that McFarland was surrounded by those he cherished during his final moments. The popular streaming service Crunchyroll expressed their condolences in a statement released on September 10, praising his extraordinary talent and impact in the world of anime.
Throughout his career, Mike McFarland made indelible marks on several major anime franchises. He not only voiced the beloved Master Roshi but also brought to life characters such as Yajirobe in Dragon Ball Z, Buggy the Star Clown in One Piece, and Jean Kirstein in Attack on Titan. McFarland’s career in voice acting began in the early 1990s, when he first lent his voice to Roshi in various Dragon Ball specials and movies, establishing himself as a fixture in the anime community.
In addition to his roles in series, McFarland featured in various video games, contributing his voice to popular titles such as World of Warcraft and Fire Emblem Heroes, alongside significant roles in the Borderlands and Street Fighter franchises. His versatility in voice acting allowed him to pop up in numerous other television shows, including Fullmetal Alchemist, Dragon Ball GT, and Tokyo Ghoul.
In early 2025, following his surgery, McFarland’s family announced a positive update on his recovery journey. However, by February, they revealed that he was receiving supplemental care at a nursing facility, highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by his illness. Despite the difficulties, his family reported that the overwhelming support from fans was deeply moving for McFarland.
The GoFundMe campaign created to assist with McFarland’s medical expenses raised over £300,000, with more than 3,700 individual donations made. This outpouring of financial support serves as a testament to the strong community ties McFarland fostered throughout his career and the affection held for him by fans.
As tributes continue to emerge on social media, it is evident that McFarland’s legacy will endure among the anime community. He has left behind a remarkable body of work that continues to resonate with audiences, and many will remember him not only for his distinctive voice but also for his contributions to the cultural phenomenon of anime.
The news of McFarland’s passing marks a significant loss for both the entertainment industry and his multitude of fans worldwide. His artistry and spirit will surely be missed, but the joy he brought to countless individuals through his work will not be forgotten.