Early Life and Beginnings
Don LaFontaine, often hailed as “The Voice of God,” was born on August 26, 1940, in Duluth, Minnesota. His journey into becoming one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment industry began with humble beginnings. LaFontaine’s father was a factory worker, and his mother was a homemaker. His early interest in sound and technology set the stage for his future career. As a child, he was fascinated by radio and recording equipment, often experimenting with different sounds and voices.
Military Service and Entry into Voice Work
After high school, LaFontaine enlisted in the United States Army. During his service, he worked as a recording engineer, which further honed his skills and deepened his interest in voice work. Following his military service, LaFontaine moved to New York City, where he landed a job as a recording engineer at the National Recording Studios.
The Breakthrough: MGM and “Gunfighters of Casa Grande”
LaFontaine’s career took a pivotal turn in 1962 when he was asked to fill in for a missing voice actor for the movie trailer of “Gunfighters of Casa Grande.” His deep, resonant voice immediately caught the attention of industry professionals, marking the beginning of his journey as a voice-over artist. This opportunity opened doors for him, and he soon became the go-to voice for MGM.
The Birth of the Modern Movie Trailer
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, LaFontaine’s collaboration with MGM’s promotion executive, Floyd Peterson, led to a revolution in movie trailer production. Together, they crafted a style of trailers that combined dramatic voice-overs with fast-paced editing and powerful music. This new approach became the standard for Hollywood trailers, and LaFontaine’s voice became synonymous with blockbuster promotions.
“In a World…” – Iconic Phrases and Style
One of LaFontaine’s most famous contributions to the industry is the phrase “In a world…,” which became a staple in many movie trailers. His ability to convey drama, suspense, and excitement in just a few words made him an unparalleled talent in the field. LaFontaine’s deep baritone voice could evoke a wide range of emotions, from thrilling anticipation to heart-wrenching sorrow.
Prolific Career and Impact
Over the course of his career, Don LaFontaine voiced more than 5,000 movie trailers, 350,000 television commercials, and thousands of network promotions. His versatility allowed him to work across various genres, from action-packed thrillers to romantic comedies. Some of his most notable trailer voice-overs include “Terminator 2: Judgment Day,” “The Godfather Part III,” “Batman Returns,” “The Elephant Man,” and “Fatal Attraction.”
LaFontaine’s influence extended beyond movie trailers. He voiced countless commercials for major brands, including Coca-Cola, Ford, and McDonald’s. His work in television included promos for major networks like NBC, CBS, and ABC. His distinctive voice became a trusted and familiar sound in American households.
Personal Life and Legacy
Don LaFontaine married singer and actress Nita Whitaker in 1989. The couple had three daughters, Christine, Skye, and Elyse. Despite his larger-than-life persona in the industry, LaFontaine was known for his humility and generosity. He often mentored aspiring voice actors and was a beloved figure among his peers.
LaFontaine’s impact on the voice-over industry cannot be overstated. He set a standard for excellence and professionalism that continues to inspire voice actors today. His ability to captivate audiences with just a few words made him a legend in the field.
Final Years and Death
In the final years of his life, LaFontaine continued to work tirelessly, despite health challenges. He battled a pneumothorax, a condition that led to complications in his lungs. On September 1, 2008, Don LaFontaine passed away at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 68.
His death marked the end of an era in the voice-over industry, but his legacy lives on. LaFontaine’s work continues to be a benchmark for aspiring voice actors, and his contributions to the art of movie trailers and commercials remain unparalleled.
Posthumous Recognition and Tribute
After his death, the industry paid numerous tributes to LaFontaine. His unique style and memorable voice were celebrated in documentaries, interviews, and special segments. The “Don LaFontaine Voice-Over Lab” was established at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation in his honor, providing a space for voice actors to train and perfect their craft.
The Journey
Don LaFontaine’s journey from a small-town boy in Minnesota to the most recognizable voice in Hollywood is a testament to his talent, hard work, and passion. His innovative contributions to movie trailers and commercials have left an indelible mark on the industry. Known for his iconic phrases, deep baritone voice, and unparalleled ability to evoke emotion, LaFontaine will always be remembered as “The Voice of God” in the world of voice-over. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the industry, ensuring that his voice will never be forgotten.