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The entertainment industry’s most ubiquitous voiceover king has died. If you know the name, no doubt it’s from the Geico commercials he did recently. But you know the voice because he was a veteran of thousands upon thousands of television spots and movie trailers.
Editor-in-Chief Nikki Finke - tip her here.
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Great voice, great talent. Never took himself too seriously, and made it work on his own. RIP.
Trailers will never be the same again
RIP.
Where do I start?
The Key Art Awards a few years back. I brought my mom and she was not in great health at the time but I got her to come out with me. I introduced her to Don and his lovely wife. She was so thrilled to meet “that man with the voice” and he was just so wonderful to her. He made her laugh and put a smile on her face that I had not seen in a while.
Ya’ know Nicki. You have been writing recently about some of the people who have “made it” in this town and how they handle it…..For all of us who make movie trailers, this man was such a wonderful example. He never really abused the success he had attained. He was just a sweet, funny man and a class act. Our prayers all go out to his family. I’m gonna miss you big guy!
I’d posit that he laughed himself to death when he saw the recent ad campaigns spoofing movie trailers.
Don, a man that has inspired many getting into the voice field, an Icon has departed. You will be missed.
JML.
I wrote Don out of the blue for advice on transitioning from a 20 year tv news career to commercials and voiceovers. I was so shocked that he actually took the time to write back with suggestions and advice. What a classy guy!! I am so sorry to hear of his passing.
Many years ago, my comedy troupe created a trailer spoof in the vein of Don LaFontaine. Through an acquaintance of an acquaintance, we got it into Don’s hands.
A few days later, we received a tape from Don, with three takes of our script done in his own inimitable style. He thought it was a kick and just tacked it onto the end of one of his many recording sessions. Then he sent the recording to us with some kind words and best wishes — while graciously declining to accept even a nominal fee. He was just happy to help out some youngsters trying to break into comedy.
Not just an iconic talent, but a classy, kind, and generous man. My condolences to his family.
Marvelous guy. Fun, funny, loved his work, loved people, loved life. Don’s instantly recognizable voice and unique style created instant attention for his clients’ projects. Wonderful, wonderful person.
I was really shocked to hear of Don’s passing. He WAS the movies. Don’s voice made me want to see the movie he was promoting!!
There will never be another voice like Don’s and he will sorely be missed.
The voice of God is now in Heaven. Rest in peace, Mr. Lafontaine.
I think Don LaFontaine would be amused to learn that National Public Radio, in noting his passing, reminded its listeners of who Don was by playing a movie trailer read by Hal Douglas. Some sharp-eared listener called them on it — or maybe it was Hal Douglas.
.
Don was a really good friend of my grandpa and i am somehow related to him. it was really sad that he died. i only met him once when i was like 4 or 5 so i dont remember him. but the stories that i have heard from my grandpa and my dad make don seem like a really nice guy. i am really upset that i didnt get to know him. don rest in peace. and Anita i am terribly sorry for your loss.