Movie Trailer Voice-Over Artist Dies at 89

They are some of the most recognizable voices in the world, but unlike film actors, movie trailer voicers can walk down the street unrecognized for their entire careers. The industry has lost one of the legendary voices behind hits like Forrest Gump, Lethal Weapon and Philadelphia. Hal Douglas died at the age of 89 on Thursday. The actor passed away at his home in Lovettsville, Va. According to his daughter, Douglas died due to complications from pancreatic cancer. He is survived by his daughter, his wife Ruth and two songs from a previous marriage.

Douglas voiced a variety of trailers, and lent his baritone vocals to a plethora of serious and goofy films. Along with along with Don LaFontaine, another voice over actor who died in 2008, Douglas was among the most prolific in his field.

“When you go past superstar status, you reach icon status in this business, where people know you by one name only,” said Marice Tobias, a consultant and voice coach. “That was Hal.”

To celebrate the life of a man who offered his unique skill set and filled theatres and living rooms across the country for years, here are a few of his most memorable trailers.

Philadelphia

Meet the Parents

Men in Black

Comedian

Images: Paramount Pictures