SCIFI.radio is saddened to report the passing of Diane Delano, a cherished actress and voice talent, on December 13, 2024, at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness. She was 67 years old.
Born on January 29, 1957, in Los Angeles, California, Diane Delano’s career spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on television, film, and voice acting. While fans may recognize her from her live-action roles, it was her distinctive voice work that cemented her legacy in the science fiction, fantasy, and gaming communities.
A Voice That Brought Worlds to Life
Delano’s contributions to animated series and video games were vast and varied, making her a beloved figure among genre enthusiasts. Her commanding and versatile voice brought to life iconic characters such as:
- Big Barda in Batman: The Brave and the Bold and the Lego DC Super-Villains video game.
- Pantha in Teen Titans.
- Granny Goodness and Stompa, alongside Big Barda, in Lego DC Super-Villains.
- Tuba, the gentle but determined mother-figure character in Infinity Train.
- Shmi Skywalker, Ratts Tyerell, and Aayla Secura in Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga.
- Devastation in Young Justice.
- Multiple roles in Stage 2, including Treasure Hunter, Deadwood Civilian, and Gunbarrel Civilian.
She was also the memorable voice of Alma Rumblebuns in Scooby-Doo! Abracadabra-Doo, Miss Berkeley in The Zeta Project, and Dr. Sinkenclogger in Aaahh!!! Real Monsters. Delano even served as the announcer for Nickelodeon’s The Angry Beavers, further showcasing her ability to shift seamlessly between tones and styles.
A Stellar Career Across Media
Delano was perhaps best known to general audiences for her recurring role as Sergeant Barbara Semanski on CBS’s Northern Exposure and her dual role as Roberta “Bobbi” Glass and Nurse Jessi Glass on Popular. In addition to her television appearances, she made her mark in films such as The Wicker Man (2006), Jeepers Creepers 2 (2003), and Sleepwalkers (1992).
Her final live-action role was in the 2024 musical comedy Paradise: A Town of Sinners and Saints, where she delivered a standout performance as Cindyl Johnson.
Remembering a Remarkable Talent
Throughout her career, Diane Delano’s powerful performances resonated deeply with audiences. Her voice acting not only entertained but also brought depth and authenticity to a wide array of beloved characters in animation and gaming.
Her agent, Dennis Sevier, remarked, “When Diane entered any room, you knew she was there! She was full of life and loved being an actor. She will be missed.”
Diane Delano is survived by her family, friends, and countless fans. Her legacy lives on in the voices of the characters she brought to life and the joy she spread throughout the world of entertainment. Rest in peace, Diane Delano.
Susan Macdonald is the author of the children's book "R is for Renaissance Faire", as well as 26 short stories, mostly fantasy in "Alternative Truths", "Swords and Sorceress #30", Swords &Sorceries Vols. 1, 2, & 5, "Cat Tails" "Under Western Stars", and "Knee-High Drummond and the Durango Kid". Her articles have appeared on SCIFI.radio's web site, in The Inquisitr, and in The Millington Star. She enjoys Renaissance Faires (see book above), science fiction conventions, Highland Games, and Native American pow-wows.
It’s again one of those things that a voice actor can be famous and unknown at the same time.
But I was a frequent watcher of *Northern Exposure* back in the day where we saw her. Her character as the sergeant stood out on what was a stand out series.