Canadian’s voice used in movies, ads and politics

TORONTO — Canadian voiceover artist Alan Bleviss, who lent his dulcet tones to everything from presidential campaigns to blockbuster film trailers and TV commercials, has died.

An obituary on Bleviss’s website said he died on Dec. 30 at his home in New York City after a two-year battle with lung cancer. He was 76.

Bleviss was born in Edmonton and studied at the University of Alberta and National Theatre School of Canada.

His booming and warm voice was used in countless commercials as well as trailers for films including Scarface, Dirty Dancing and Ragtime.

He was also the signature voice of the Democratic Party for campaigns including those of Bill Clinton and Joe Biden.

“He was strong and brave and loving through his last moments,” Bleviss’s daughter Sarah Jenny wrote on her Facebook page. “I am forever blessed by the gift he gave me — of life, of guidance, or spending these last 16 months as his caregiver, our relationship blossoming even well into his decline.”

Bleviss won six Clio awards, which honour creativity in advertising, as well as a trophy from the Cannes International Film Festival in 1985.

“Alan was known internationally for his sonorous, honeyed tenor,” said a statement on his website. “He was also known among family and friends for his jovial sense of humour, love of Dobermans, early passion for fencing and dedication to mentoring younger artists.”

Bleviss spent his later years in Arizona, then New York. He is survived by his children, Sarah Jenny, Joshua Eli and Lisa Aviva.