Éric Legrand, the French voice actor known for portraying Vegeta and Yamcha in Dragon Ball Z and Seiya in Saint Seiya, has passed away. The news was shared today by Patrick Borg, the French voice of Goku.
Legrand was a familiar presence in French-language anime dubbing, starting with the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to several series that defined a childhood for a generation of viewers. His work on Dragon Ball Z and Saint Seiya remains particularly well-known among fans in France.
Patrick Borg’s full statement reads:
“Farewell to my friend,
ÉRIC LEGRAND
You used to call me ‘my big turkey’ 🦃.
I liked that—it made me laugh. I called you my Queen! It made you giggle like a big turkey.
For months, we messaged every day on WhatsApp, right up until Monday morning, May 19, when you were transferred to palliative care…
You stopped replying.
More than 45 years of friendship and 40 years together on Dragon Ball Z.
Your fans will miss you…
But I will miss you deeply.
I’m tired of losing my friends.
You showed exemplary courage—you are a true Saiyan, Vegeta!
ÉRIC LEGRAND, you were the real Saiyan!
On Sunday night, you wrote me the following message (in parentheses):
(I’m being transferred Monday to a palliative care unit. I hope it will go quickly after that… 🖐)
I won’t forget you!
I’m heartbroken, truly heartbroken…
Farewell, my friend. ❤️”
Further details about Legrand’s passing have not been made public.
Legrand also contributed to a variety of dubbing projects outside anime, including work in television, film, and animation. His performances, particularly as Vegeta, remain recognizable to longtime fans and continue to be associated with the early French broadcasts of Dragon Ball Z and Saint Seiya.
Source: Patrick Borg via Facebook
Featured image: ©BIRD STUDIO/SHUEISHA, TOEI ANIMATION
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