John Erwin, the reclusive voice actor known for his roles as He-Man in He-Man and the Masters of the Universe and Reggie Mantle in The Archie Show , has passed away at the age of 88. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Erwin died of natural causes around Dec. 20 at his home in Camarillo, California, as confirmed by his public relations firm, Celebworx.
Erwin’s career spanned several decades, with notable contributions across film, television, and commercials. He voiced Morris the Cat in a long-running 1970s TV campaign for 9Lives and recurred as Teddy the cattle driver on Rawhide, which starred Clint Eastwood. “ Erwin was a series actor, writer, performer of commercials, musician, painter, and an all-around lovely gentleman,” said Alan Oppenheimer (He-Man, Murder, She Wrote) according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Beyond his work in He-Man, Erwin’s voice graced several other animated projects, including She-Ra: Princess of Power , where he also voiced the villain Beast Man. Erwin first voiced Reggie Mantle in 1968 on The Archie Show and continued in the role across various Archie cartoons throughout the 1970s. “For 40 years, Erwin was not only my brother onscreen, he was my friend,” said Melendy Britt, who voiced She-Ra, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
Though Erwin’s work left a lasting impact, he was known for his avoidance of public appearances. Despite fans’ requests, he never participated in the convention circuit. “He just wouldn’t do it; he really likes his solitude,” Oppenheimer said in a 2014 interview, as noted by The Hollywood Reporter.
Erwin is survived by his children and grandchildren. Though he avoided the spotlight, his voice work continues to resonate with fans, ensuring his legacy as a pivotal figure in animation and television will endure.