Stan Freberg was an American actor and comedian, best known for his work in voice acting for animated films, his satirical records, and his innovative commercials. He made significant contributions to the entertainment industry through his unique brand of humor and creativity.
Personal and Family Life
Stan Freberg was born on August 7, 1926, in Pasadena, California. He had a passion for sound and radio from a young age, which would shape his future career. Freberg was married twice; his first wife was Donna Freberg, with whom he had two children, and after her passing, he married Betty Hunter in 2001. He was known as the “Father of the Funny Commercial” and enjoyed a long and productive career in entertainment.
Career Highlights
Freberg began his career in the early 1940s, doing voice work for Warner Brothers cartoons and radio shows. He created popular characters and was known for his satirical comedic style. In the 1950s, he transitioned to advertising, where he wrote and produced memorable radio spots. His keen ability to mimic voices and his sharp wit made him an influential figure in the comedy world, inspiring many artists, including ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic.
Death and Legacy
Stan Freberg passed away on April 7, 2015, in Santa Monica, California, due to pneumonia. He left behind a legacy of creativity and humor that has had a lasting impact on both advertising and animation. Freberg’s work continues to be celebrated and recognized for its innovation, earning him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Lady and the Tramp | 1955-06-22 | Beaver (voice) |
| It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World | 1963-11-07 | Deputy Sheriff |
| Green Chri$tma$ | 1958 | Himself |
| Three Little Bops | 1957-01-04 | Narrator / Three Little Pigs / Big Bad Wolf |
| I Go Pogo | 1980-08-01 | Albert the Alligator (voice) |
| Looney Tunes: Back in Action | 2003-11-14 | Baby Bear (voice) |
| Freakazoid! | 1995-09-09 | Various |
| Garfield and Friends | 1988-09-17 | Various |