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. June's passing was announced 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 a remarkable partnership, with Bourassa describing June's baritone voice as having a "certain magnificence" that elevated the game's narrative. In a heartfelt tribute, Bourassa expressed his gratitude and admiration for June, 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. The duo was so impressed by June's ability to bring the eerie world of Lovecraft to life that they decided to approach him for Darkest Dungeon. Initially, they thought, "We should get somebody like Wayne June to narrate the trailer." Realizing June's profession, they reached out, and his exceptional work led to his voice becoming a central element of the game's identity, extending into the second installment.

Fans have expressed their deep condolences, thanking June for his significant contributions to their gaming experiences. Many have praised 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 performance. As the community remembers Wayne June, his voice continues to resonate in the hearts of all who played Darkest Dungeon.