Peter Renaday, Original Voice of Master Splinter in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dies at 89
Peter Renaday, the original voice of Master Splinter in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, has passed away at 89. He was found deceased in his Burbank home during a welfare check. Authorities indicated that his death appears to be natural and is not subject to a medical examination. Renaday’s work spanned many iconic roles, contributing to major projects at Disney and beyond.
Peter Renaday, renowned for his iconic portrayal as the original voice of Master Splinter in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series, has passed away at the age of 89. Authorities discovered him deceased at his Burbank, California residence during a recent welfare check.
Circumstances Surrounding His Passing
On Sunday, law enforcement conducted a welfare check at Peter Renaday's home, leading to the discovery of his body. TMZ confirmed the news on Tuesday, stating that the circumstances appear to be natural and not currently being treated as a medical examiner case.
Iconic Role in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Renaday gained fame as the voice of Hamato Yoshi/Splinter, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles' mentor from 1987 until the series concluded in 1996. He later reprised this role for a live action concert event, TMNT: Coming Out of Their Shells, recorded at Radio City Music Hall and released on VHS in 1990.
Extensive Voice Acting Career
Beyond TMNT, he voiced historical figures like Abraham Lincoln in The Hall of Presidents and characters in Country Bear Jamboree at Walt Disney World. Renaday's talents included contributions to popular animated shows such as Transformers and Batman, as well as various Disney movies, where he voiced characters like the Milkman and Le Petit Café Chef in The Aristocats.
Legacy in Disney Parks
His work extended to Disney attractions, where he lent his voice to Captain Nemo in 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and narrated The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh at Disneyland. Additionally, he appeared in various Disney films including The Love Bug and The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes.
Personal Life and Background
Born Pierre Laurent Renoudet on June 9, 1935, in New Iberia, Louisiana, Renaday transitioned into voice acting by the mid-1980s, leaving a significant mark in cartoons and theme park attractions. He was previously married to Florence 'Flo' Daniel, who passed away on February 18, 2011, after more than three decades working in the music department of Walt Disney Studios.
