Peter Renaday, Voice of Master Splinter in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Dies at 89

Peter Renaday, the acclaimed voice actor best known for bringing Master Splinter to life in the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles TV series, has passed away at the age of 89. Renaday’s death occurred at his home in Burbank, California, on Sunday, with initial reports suggesting natural causes.

Renaday’s passing was confirmed by Townsend Coleman, who voiced Michelangelo in the beloved animated series. Coleman took to social media to express his sorrow, writing, “I will miss him dearly.” Renaday’s contribution to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise, which aired from 1987 to 1996, remains a significant part of his legacy, captivating audiences with his portrayal of the wise and honorable rat sensei.

Born in Louisiana in 1935, Renaday’s career spanned over six decades, during which he voiced characters in nearly 200 films and television shows. His work in animation began in the 1970s, where he lent his voice to several Disney films, including The Aristocats, The Rescuers, and The Black Cauldron. Renaday’s distinctive voice also appeared in various other popular TV shows such as Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo, Alvin & The Chipmunks, The Transformers, The Real Ghostbusters, and Batman: The Animated Series.

In addition to his extensive work in animation, Renaday was known for voicing the animatronic Abraham Lincoln at Walt Disney World’s Hall of Presidents, further showcasing his versatility and talent. His role as Master Splinter in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles remains one of his most celebrated achievements, endearing him to a generation of fans who grew up with the show.

Coleman, reflecting on Renaday’s impact, described him as a “Disney Legend” and praised his character in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter). Coleman remembered Renaday as “one of the most genuine, salt-of-the-earth people I have ever known,” and shared that he had the privilege of visiting Renaday a month prior, finding him to be “as vibrant as ever.”

Fans of Renaday have also taken to social media to pay their respects. One tribute read, “I will always remember you for bringing Splinter to life,” highlighting the lasting impact Renaday had on his audience.

According to reports from TMZ, Renaday was found unresponsive after a welfare check was conducted by police at his residence. His death marks the end of a remarkable career and the loss of a beloved figure in the world of animation.

Peter Renaday was married to Florence “Flo” Daniel, who worked as a music department secretary at Walt Disney Studios for 35 years. They were married from 1979 until her passing in 2011. Renaday’s contributions to both Disney and television animation have left an indelible mark, and his performances will continue to be cherished by fans of all ages.

The recent film reboot of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles released last summer serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the franchise, and Renaday’s iconic role as Master Splinter will be remembered fondly by those who grew up with the series.