Figueira Júnior, the Brazilian voice actor renowned for dubbing characters in The Shawshank Redemption, Futurama, and The Karate Kid, died on June 27 at age 60 following an acute myocardial heart attack. His family confirmed the news in a statement on his Instagram page, requesting privacy.
Family Statement and Tributes
The family's statement read: 'It is with deep sorrow that the family informs the passing of Figueira Junior, which occurred yesterday, as a result of an acute myocardial heart attack. Throughout his life, Figueira built a trajectory marked by talent, generosity and joy. As an actor, voice actor, director and friend, he left his voice and his heart imprinted in the memory of countless people... His legacy will live on in his art, in his history and in all the hearts that had the privilege of knowing him.'
Friend's Account of Final Days
Fellow voice actor Tania Gaidarji shared that Figueira had recently changed medication for his heart condition and was 'happy and hopeful.' She posted on Instagram: 'He came to visit me several times at the Heart Institute and we took these photos on Thursday last week, a day before my surgery. He was giving me strength and calming me down. And he was happy and hopeful because he was taking a new medication, also for the heart.'
Career Highlights
Figueira Júnior was a giant in Brazilian voice acting. He dubbed Paul McCrane's character Guard Trout in The Shawshank Redemption, voiced roles in The Karate Kid (1984) and Léon: The Professional (1994), and was the Brazilian voice of Fry in Futurama and Robin in Batman animations. He also contributed to children's shows like Thomas & Friends.
Fan Reactions
Fans flooded social media with tributes. One wrote: 'May our dear Figueira follow in the light. May God comfort you all. He was a good person. We will miss you.' Another said: 'Dear Figueira always cheerful and generous. My condolences to the family, lots of strength at this moment.' A third added: 'I grew up watching Futurama and Dragon Ball and his voice, the passion he gave to the characters he created was remarkable. The world loses another amazing voice... Condolences to family & friends. May you rest in peace!'
