You don't know his face, but you know his voice. Hal Douglas, the man behind some of the most memorable movie trailers out there, has died.
"Pam is the one Greg wants to marry. But before he does, he'll have to meet the parents." (Via Universal Pictures / "Meet the Parents")
Hal Douglas voiced movie trailers for "Meet the Parents," "Lethal Weapon"...
"A cop who enjoys the danger."
"No guns, no jiujitsu, just bring 'em down." (Via Warner Bros. / "Lethal Weapon")
And Thursday, news broke that he'd passed away March 7 at age 89. The voice-over artist's daughter said he died at his home in Virginia due to complications from pancreatic cancer. (Via The New York Times)
Douglas was known as one of the top three go-to guys for movie trailers. He also did work for A&E, The History Channel and commercials for companies like Mercedes-Benz.
The Washington Post writes, "His precision timing was critical in a job in which he might be asked to shave half a second without sacrificing rhythm or mood."
The outlet also quotes a top voice consultant. "[Douglas] was able to step into that emotional world and convey to the audience what we call the Promise — the promise of the experience you're going to have."
"This summer, check your weapons, take your seat and say your prayers." (ViaBuena Vista / "Con Air")
Douglas was a fairly private person and lived in New York for most of his life, staying out of Hollywood. But he did appear in one trailer — for Jerry Seinfeld's "Comedian" in 2002. And he had a little fun.
"In a world where laughter was king ... "
"No 'in a world,' Jack."
"What do you mean no 'in a world'?" (Via Miramax / "Comedian")
Douglas continued working until about two years ago and will forever be known as an icon of his craft. He also served in the Navy during World War II. He is survived by his wife of 43 years and his three children.
