Bill Wise, Voice of Knuckles in Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, Dies at 61

Actor and voice actor Bill Wise has died at the age of 61.

The news was reported by The Austin Chronicle on May 5, noting that Wise had died the previous week. His friend Jeff Smith also shared the news on May 3, while Collier Talent Agency confirmed his passing on May 4.

For Sonic fans, Wise is best remembered as the English voice of Knuckles the Echidna in Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie, the 1996 OVA that introduced many viewers to an animated version of Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, Dr. Robotnik, Metal Sonic, and the wider world of Planet Freedom.

Wise also had a long career across anime dubbing, film, television, music, comedy, and the Austin creative scene. His anime voice roles included Bunta Fujiwara in the Initial D: Legend movie trilogy, Richard Guyot in Guyver: The Bioboosted Armor, Hayato Jin in Getter Robo: Armageddon, Sakon Suzuki in Moeyo Ken, and Rail Claymore in Lost Universe.

Outside of anime, Wise appeared in numerous live-action film and television productions, including projects connected to Austin’s independent film community. His credits included work with Richard Linklater, including Waking Life, Boyhood, and Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood, as well as appearances in Krisha, The Leftovers, iZombie, Transparent, Prison Break, Walker, Texas Ranger, Red vs. Blue, and Lazer Team.

Collier Talent Agency remembered Wise as “a true Austin icon,” calling him a fearless performer, comic talent, and a deeply loved part of the local creative community.

The Austin Chronicle also highlighted Wise’s long-running place in the city’s film scene, describing him as one of those character actors whose presence could immediately make a scene more memorable. The outlet noted his work across Austin productions, commercials, theatre, music, and voice acting, showing how widely he contributed to the city’s creative life.

For Sonic fans, Wise’s performance as Knuckles remains part of the franchise’s early English-language media history. Sonic the Hedgehog: The Movie has continued to hold a cult following among fans for its distinct style, memorable dub, and its portrayal of Knuckles before the character became a mainstay across games, animation, comics, and film.

Our thoughts are with Bill Wise’s family, friends, collaborators, and fans.

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