June foray did the voice for rocky the flying squirrel and the chatty cathy dolls

June Foray: The Voice Behind Rocky the Flying Squirrel and the Chatty Cathy Dolls

June Foray, a versatile voice actress, brought to life some of the most beloved animated characters in history. Notably, she voiced Rocky the Flying Squirrel from “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show” and lent her talents to the iconic Chatty Cathy dolls. Foray’s extensive career in voicing animated characters spanned over seven decades. Her incredible contributions and unique vocal talents have left an indelible mark on the world of animation.

Born on September 18, 1917, in Springfield, Massachusetts, June Foray discovered her passion for performing at a young age. Her career began with traditional acting roles in radio and film, but it was her uncanny ability to portray a variety of animated characters that set her apart.

Starting in the 1940s, Foray’s voice became synonymous with classic cartoons. In 1959, she began her collaboration with Jay Ward, providing voices for memorable characters in “Rocky and His Friends” later renamed “The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show.” Among these characters, her portrayal of the spunky Rocky the Flying Squirrel gained widespread acclaim. The show’s witty writing and Foray’s animated voice brought Rocky to life, captivating audiences for years to come.

Foray’s contributions to the world of toys were equally significant. She was the voice behind the beloved Chatty Cathy dolls that became a sensation during the 1960s. These dolls could speak fourteen different phrases, thanks to Foray’s voice recordings. As children interacted with Chatty Cathy, they could hear Foray’s voice as if the doll had come to life. This innovative toy became one of the most successful and iconic dolls of its time.

Throughout her career, June Foray’s voice talents extended beyond Rocky the Flying Squirrel and Chatty Cathy. She lent her voice to countless other animated characters, such as Granny from the “Looney Tunes” series, Cindy Lou Who from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and Jokey Smurf from “The Smurfs.” Her versatility allowed her to bring personality and charm to each and every character she voiced.

June Foray’s remarkable legacy lives on, inspiring generations of voice actors to follow in her footsteps. On July 26, 2017, she passed away at the age of 99, leaving behind a remarkable body of work. Her impact on the world of animation is immeasurable, and her talent will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

Source: The Washington Post