Don LaFontaine, "King of Voiceovers", Dies at 68
Filed under: Action, Comedy, Thrillers, Obits, Trailers and Clips
In a world where one man used his distinctive voice to lend gravitas and then some to trailer after feature after episode, it really is a shame to see Don LaFontaine pass away at the age of 68. According to ET Online, LaFontaine died due to complications from a collapsed lung.
This video above pretty much summarizes what an impact this man had on modern moviegoing, and it helps to be reminded that there was a genuine personality behind his very particular talent, a notion that his official website only reinforces in spades. Whether it was a Geico spot or the Big Momma's House 2 trailer, his booming delivery will remain imitated (as witnessed after the jump, in what is perhaps the only funny moment from "Frank TV"), but only because it was so iconic.
Reader Comments
(Page 1)2. RIP Lafontaine. I will miss you tremendously!
You were the reason I got into Voiceover acting. I will make you proud.
"The Voice"
Posted at 9:01PM on Sep 7th 2008 by Johnny Ventura
3. I am thoroughly bummed by Don Lafontaine's passing. He was so much a part of the movie going experience that I can't imagine film trailers being the same ever again. :(
Posted at 10:29AM on Sep 2nd 2008 by BondsBabe
4. In a world without the Voiceover Guy . . . things won't be the same. R.I.P.
Posted at 10:41AM on Sep 2nd 2008 by Gina
5. In a world... in a city... in a lifetime will we ever hear a trailer the same way. This guy could do it all. I particularly remember him in the trailer for THE COMEDIAN (no connection to Edward Blake). This is a sad, sad day. He will be missed.
Posted at 5:58PM on Sep 2nd 2008 by Juan Carlo
6. That was actually Hal Douglas, not LaFontaine.
Posted at 6:00PM on Sep 2nd 2008 by William Goss
7. I don't wish anyone ill, but I hated hearing that guys voice! It got to be so over-used as to completely grate my nerves each time I heard him.
I won't miss that.
Posted at 5:59PM on Sep 2nd 2008 by dan
8. i knew Don and his family personally. i was his family's photographer for over 23 years. He was the greatest guy....a very unusual talent.......one of the funniest people i ever met....he and his family were my favorite clients.......i am so saddened.............
Posted at 12:17PM on Sep 4th 2008 by helencherry
9. In a world without Don...it is very quiet.
Posted at 5:50PM on Sep 9th 2008 by Larry Farina
1. Damn. He'll be missed.
Posted at 10:22AM on Sep 2nd 2008 by John R