Jeff Garcia, a voice actor and comedian best known for playing Sheen in the Jimmy Neutron franchise, has died aged 50.
The actor died on Wednesday December 10, according to an Instagram post by his son, Jojo. No official cause of death was given, although TMZ reported that he had been battling numerous health issues, including pneumonia and a stroke.
He found fame voicing Ramón Juarrea “Sheen” Estévez, the best friend of the lead character in the 2001 animated movie Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius. The success of the film led to a series, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron, Boy Genius, which ran from 2002-06. A spin-off for Garcia’s character, Planet Sheen, ran for one season from 2010-11.
Outside of the franchise, Garcia performed as a standup comic throughout his career. He also had voice roles in animated movies such as Barnyard, Happy Feet, and the Rio films. His live action roles included the ‘90s TV drama Dangerous Minds, as well as 2010s sitcom Mr Box Office.
“With a very heavy heart, I would like to inform everybody that my father, Jeff Garcia, has passed away,” Jojo Garcia wrote on Instagram in his tribute. “My father was a unique soul. He was unapologetically himself and I will always admire the love, compassion, and drive that he had. He taught me so much and gave me advice that I live by every single day. He was a Father, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Brother, but most of all, he was my best friend.
“I would call him every day,” he continued. “I would tell him about the plans I had in comedy and my life. He believed in me, in a way that nobody else did. The talent my father possessed was truly one of a kind. From voice acting to stand up comedy, he shined with his quick wit, brash humour, and charm. He has made such an impact on people’s lives internationally, whether you grew up watching Jimmy Neutron, or shared a laugh with him at one of his shows. He was my hero… I idolised him.”
Jojo concluded: “He may be gone, but he will NEVER be forgotten. He lives on through our family and friends he loved so dearly, along with the legacy he has created. I know you’re in heaven smiling down and you’re in a better place now. No more pain. I’m going to make you proud pops. Fly high, Rocket Man.”
Debi Derryberry, who was the voice of title character Jimmy Neutron, also paid tribute on Instagram. .
“RIP @jeffgarciala i’m devastated to find out that my dear friend Jeff Garcia, who also played Sheen on Jimmy Neutron has passed away,” she wrote. “We were all together just a few months ago at a convention. He was always the funniest man in the room. We’re gonna miss you Sheen.” Her tribute was reposted by fellow co-star Rob Paulson.
As well as his son Jojo, Jeff Garcia is survived by his daughter, Savannah.
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