Donnie Dunagan, the former child actor who voiced young Bambi in Disney’s 1942 animated classic, has died at 92. Reports published November 9 say he died on November 4, 2026.
For generations of viewers, his voice belonged to a little deer discovering the world. Dunagan also appeared in Son of Frankenstein and Tower of London. Bambi became his final film.
From Hollywood to the Marines
Dunagan joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1952, served in Vietnam, and retired as a major in 1977. He kept his Disney role largely private during his military career, later explaining that he wanted to avoid the nickname “Major Bambi.”
The contrast remains a remarkable part of his story: the child behind a gentle animated character went on to spend decades in military service.
An enduring legacy
In later life, he attended events celebrating Bambi and shared memories with Disney fans. He is survived by his wife, Dana, according to published reports.
His childhood performance continues to connect generations of viewers with one of animation’s most enduring stories.