Satirist Stan Freberg, who influenced generations with his witty comedy albums and cartoon voices and memorable advertising campaigns, died Tuesday in Santa Monica. He was 88 and had been suffering from respiratory problems and pneumonia.
His son Donavan posted the news on his Facebook page, saying “He was, and will always be my hero and I will carry his brilliant legacy forward as best I am able.”
Freberg was a puppeteer and voice for Emmy-winning Bob Clampett TV series “Time for Beany.” Among the many characters he voiced were Junyer Bear in “What’s Brewin’, Bruin” and the voice of Beaky Buzzard. For Disney, he voiced Beaver in “Lady and the Tramp” and Wile E. Coyote’s father Cage in the short “Little Go Beep.” He auditioned to play C-3PO in “Star Wars,” but actor Anthony Daniels ended up doing his own voice.
Freberg turned out a string of hit comedy records including a “Dragnet” parody, and his “John!” “Marsha?” routine remains part of the lexicon. His live action acting included roles in “The Monkees,” “The Girl from U.N.C.L.E., the role of Mr. Parkin on “Roseanne” and on “The Weird Al Show.”
Freberg also worked in advertising, creating memorable commercials such as “Today the pits; tomorrow the wrinkles. Sunsweet marches on!,” and Contadina’s “Who put eight great tomatoes in that little bitty can?” His “Stan Freberg Show” was controversial for several reasons, including the fact that he refused to accept tobacco companies as sponsors.
Born in Pasadena, Calif., he started voicing Warner Bros. cartoons such as “Roughly Squeaking” and “It’s A Grand Old Nag” as soon as he graduated high school.
He is survived by his wife Hunter, son Donavan and daughter Donna Jean.
Variety
