Beloved Canadian voice actor Dale Wilson, known for his iconic role as Dragon Ball Z’s Cell, dies at 74 after battling cancer and Parkinson’s.

SUMMARY

Dale Wilson who was the voice of Cell in Dragon Ball Z (English Dub), dies at 74.
Dale Wilson was known for many anime and Western animation roles spanning decades.
Tributes highlight his voice-acting legacy and contributions to the performer industry.

Dale Wilson, who was a renowned Canadian voice actor best known for his role as the voice of Cell in the Ocean dub of Dragon Ball Z, has sadly passed away at the age of 74. The tragic announcement had come through a heartfelt social media post on Facebook by his wife, Gail Wilson.

Cell in Dragon Ball Z | Credits: Toei Animation

Wilson’s career spanned many decades, during which he succeeded in leaving an indelible mark on both the anime world and the realm of Western animation (the cartoons). The Ocean dub of the series introduced countless fans of the Dragon Ball franchise to his voice, giving Cell an unforgettable gravitas.

In addition to Cell which Wilson is renowned for, he voiced other pivotal characters in the Dragon Ball series’ English dub, characters which include Kami, King Yemma, Goz, and Android 8.

Dale Wilson’s enduring legacy in anime and cartoons

Wilson’s contributions were not confined to Dragon Ball Z and went well beyond it. The Canadian actor had built up an impressive portfolio that included Clow Reed in Cardcaptor Sakura, Bunmei Muroto in Jin-Roh, and Watsap in Black Lagoon.

Cell in a battle with Goku and Vegeta | Credits: Toei Animation

She has expressed the deep loss of her long-time companion and loving husband with moving words, stating-

It is with an aching heart that I must tell you. Last evening Dale moved on from this Earthly existence. Having lived with metastasized prostate cancer and Parkinson’s disease for many years, he was ready. He was my heart, my soul, my North Star. In the words of Bonnie Raitt, ‘He taught me how to live….how to be myself……and how to give.’ I know he has for many of you as well. And I know he treasured each one of you; his relatives, friends and fans.

Gail Wilson

Each role that Wilson played showcased his incredible range and tonal shifts, along with his dedication to his craft.

It has succeeded in earning him a place among the most respected figures in the voice-acting industry and also an inspiration to Canadian performers. Wilson will be missed by a wide range of audiences since he lent his voice to some of North America’s most beloved animated series.

A voice actor whose impact knows no bounds

Wilson played impressive and long-time roles in television cartoons like G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, where he played and voiced characters like Capt. Grid-Iron, Mutt, Overkill, and Skydive still continue to remain as fan favorites.

Gohan punching Cell in the gut | Credits: Toei Animation

He also portrayed Akuma and Mike Haggar in Street Fighter, Principal Kelly in X-Men Evolution, and Senator Robert Kelly in Iron Man: Armored Adventures, other than his role as Cell.

Ian James Corlett, who voiced Goku in the English dub of Dragon Ball Z, also referred to Wilson as a “North Star” and highlighted his role in furthering many Canadian agreements with the Union of British Columbia Performers. Gail’s message resonates with fans across the world.