top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

French voice of Astérix and Mickey Mouse dies age 93

Actor Roger Carel, who was best known for his dubbing work and who lent his voice to many iconic characters, died on September 11, 2020. 

The actor voiced characters such as Star Wars’ C-3PO, Winnie the Pooh, Kermit the frog, Kaa from the Jungle Book, as well as French comic-book character Astérix and Disney icon Mickey Mouse. 

He also played the French voice of Benny Hill, David Suchet’s interpretation of Hercule Poirot, and Charlie Chaplin in the film the Great Dictator. 

He started out in theatre and in radio dramas, where his unique voice with its mischievous tone - which he was able to transform at will - quickly made him famous. It also led him into the business of dubbing, the work he is best known for. 

In 2012, the actor received the prestigious Henri-Langlois Award in the dubbing category. He retired the following year at the age of 85. 

"My magic potion recipe [for staying young] is this marvellous job that has kept me going...marvellously. I had the chance to play a lot: theatre, TV, dubbing... When you're happy, you don't age so quickly," he said at the time. 

Many people took to social media to pay their respects to the actor, including Cannes Film Festival president Pierre Lescure. 

“Roger Carel...93 years for eternity. His voice, his voices, of course! His many supporting roles in film and theatre...And then his intelligence, his humour, his deep humanity...A gentle and friendly man ...A friend for three and almost four generations. Thank you, Mr Carel,” he tweeted. 

Mr Carel was buried in privacy in the village Aigre in Nouvelle-Aquitaine on September 17. 

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France