JUNE FORAY IS DEAD AT 99

Today is a sad day for fans of animation and talented voice actors: The prolific, legendary and iconic June Foray has passed away at the respectable, impressive age of 99. She was just weeks away from the big 100. You may not know her name, but I guarantee you're familiar with her voice. She gave life to the characters of Rocket J. Squirrel (from The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show), Nell Fenwick (from the Dudley Do-Right cartoons), Granny (From Sylvester and Tweety/Looney Tunes), Lena Hyena (The crazed toon that chases Eddie Valient through Toontown in Who Framed Roger Rabbit), Witch Hazel (from Looney Tunes), Cindy Lou Who (from the original How The Grinch Stole Christmas cartoon), Lucifer (the cat from Cinderella), Natasha Fatale (from The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show),  Talky Tina (from The Twilight Zone), Wheezy (The main weasel in Who Framed Roger Rabbit), and many more. When I heard the news, I felt like a part of my heart had died.

I remember when I was a kid, I often found myself up in the early morning hours for whatever odd reason. During these times, I would turn on Cartoon Network and idly watch re-runs of The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show to pass the time and keep myself occupied. Thus, in a weird way, I kind of grew up with that show (Naturally I also watched Looney Tunes quite a bit when I was younger as well). It's interesting that she voiced so many memorable, beloved characters but it's Rocket J. Squirrel that she is most fondly remembered for (Speaks volumes about the Rocky character and his wide-ranging, age-less appeal). June left a mark on the young and young-at heart, and was a huge part of many people's childhoods. I know I'll certainly miss her, as will millions the world over. RIP June, you brought joy and happiness to the world.