Don Messick

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voice actor

About Don Messick

Don Messick: Buffalo’s Master of a Thousand Voices

Born on September 7, 1926, in Buffalo, NY, Don Messick grew up to become one of the most prolific and beloved voice actors in animation history. Known as the signature voice behind iconic characters like Scooby-Doo, Bamm-Bamm Rubble, and Boo-Boo Bear, Messick’s work continues to entertain generations of fans. His story, rooted in the hardworking ethos of Buffalo, is a testament to his talent, determination, and creativity.

Early Life in Buffalo

Don Messick’s beginnings in Buffalo set the foundation for his extraordinary career. Born to parents Binford Earl and Lena Messick, Don spent his early years in a house on Plymouth Avenue. Growing up during the Great Depression, his family faced the kind of challenges many Buffalonians of the era experienced. Later, his family moved to Maryland, but these formative years in Buffalo stayed with Don, sparking the resourcefulness and drive that would define his career.

Don discovered an early knack for performing when his voice changed as a teenager. By experimenting with impressions and different tones, he realized his voice had incredible flexibility—a gift that would become his career’s hallmark. By the age of 13, he began performing a ventriloquist act and eventually earned his own radio program in Maryland, laying the groundwork for his future in entertainment.

Breaking into the World of Animation

Don’s big break came after a friend and legendary voice actor, Daws Butler, introduced him to Tex Avery at MGM. Avery needed a replacement for Bill Thompson, the original voice of “Droopy the Dog,” and Messick stepped in to deliver an outstanding performance. This role opened doors to an animation career, where art and comedy thrived.

When William Hanna and Joseph Barbera left MGM to form their own studio in 1957, they brought Don Messick along. It was here, at Hanna-Barbera, that Don’s career truly soared. He became a staple of Saturday morning cartoons, breathing life into some of the most unforgettable animated characters in TV history.

The Voice Behind Iconic Characters

While Daws Butler often landed starring roles, Don specialized in playing sidekicks, narrators, and secondary characters that balanced the shows with humor and heart. Some of his most memorable roles during this period include Boo-Boo Bear and Ranger Smith in The Yogi Bear Show, Dr. Benton Quest in Jonny Quest, and Astro the dog in The Jetsons.

The Hanna-Barbera era made Don Messick a household name, especially when he voiced Scooby-Doo—his favorite and most beloved character. Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! debuted in 1969, cementing Don’s place as a legendary voice actor. He continued voicing the iconic Great Dane for decades, appearing in multiple formats ranging from TV specials to movies.

Don’s versatility didn’t stop there—he provided voices for Snagglepuss, Ricochet Rabbit, Papa Smurf in The Smurfs, and Ratchet in The Transformers. His ability to switch between styles, from the grumpy tones of a robot to the naive charm of Boo-Boo Bear, made him one of the most talented performers in his field.

A Legacy of Laughter and Storytelling

Don Messick’s work went beyond voice acting—it was about creating unforgettable personalities and telling stories. His contributions shaped the golden age of animation, and his creations continue to resonate today on streaming platforms and nostalgic reruns.

Despite his success, Don remained grounded. His Buffalo upbringing instilled in him a sense of humility and hard work that never faded even as he became an industry legend. This spirit, along with his incredible work ethic, is why he remains admired by fans and peers alike.

Remembering a Legend

Don’s career came to a close in 1996 after a stroke forced him into retirement. Just a year later, on October 24, 1997, he passed away at age 71. However, his voice lives on—through Scooby-Doo’s antics, Boo-Boo’s gentle charm, and the countless other characters he brought to life.

Even long after his passing, Don Messick’s influence remains in the DNA of modern animation. His ability to voice complex, heartfelt, and timeless characters left a legacy of joy and storytelling that continues to inspire voice actors today.

Buffalo can proudly claim Don Messick as one of its own—a native son whose remarkable talent and innovation ensured that the voices of our favorite cartoons still echo through our imaginations.a powerful example of how small beginnings can lead to great achievements.