Wayne June, Darkest Dungeon's Famed Narrator, Has Passed Away
The gaming community mourns the loss of Wayne June, the iconic voice behind the narrator in the Darkest Dungeon series. The news of his passing was shared across various Darkest Dungeon social media channels and the game's official website. At the time of this writing, the cause of his death has not been disclosed to the public.
The Ancestor and the Academic Lives On
Wayne June's journey with Darkest Dungeon began when creative director Chris Bourassa and Red Hook co-founder Tyler Sigman approached him to narrate the trailer for the first game. This collaboration blossomed into something truly special, as Bourassa described it as "incredible and fulfilling." June's deep, resonant baritone voice added a layer of grandeur to the game, making every narration a memorable experience. Bourassa praised June's professionalism and passion, stating, "He was a consummate professional, and his love of his craft was an inspiration. His inimitable work is woven into the very fabric of our industry in a way that cannot be forgotten. It is one of my greatest honors to have written for him this past decade. Though I never got to shake his hand, I knew him to be a friend. Thank you, Wayne."
Bourassa first discovered June through his captivating readings of H.P. Lovecraft audiobooks, which he shared with Sigman. Both were captivated by June's ability to bring the eerie world of Lovecraft to life. This admiration led to the decision to have June narrate the Darkest Dungeon trailer, and eventually, the game itself. His voice became an integral part of the game's identity, continuing into the second installment.
Fans have expressed their heartfelt condolences, acknowledging June's significant contribution to their gaming experiences. Many have celebrated his distinctive voice, often quoting memorable lines from the game in their tributes. Some fans even shared how June's lines have become part of their everyday conversations, a testament to the lasting impact of his work. As the community remembers Wayne June, his voice will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who played Darkest Dungeon.