“Goodbye, Space Ghost: The Legendary Voice of George Lowe Has Left the Cosmos
George Lowe, the unmistakable voice behind the legendary Space Ghost from Space Ghost Coast to Coast, has passed away at the age of 67. The beloved actor, comedian, and artist died on Sunday, March 2, after battling a long illness. His representative confirmed the sad news, marking the end of an era for Adult Swim fans and animation lovers worldwide.
A Voice That Defined a Generation
Born on November 10, 1957, in Florida’s Gulf Coast, Lowe discovered his passion for broadcasting early. By the age of 15, he had already landed his first radio job, setting the stage for a lifelong career in entertainment. He pursued further studies at the Radio Engineering Institute of Sarasota and Pasco-Hernando Community College before diving into the world of voice acting.
His breakthrough came in the late ’80s and early ’90s with voice-over work for TBS and Cartoon Network. However, it was his role as Space Ghost that cemented his place in pop culture history. Originally voiced by Gary Owens in the pilot, the role ultimately went to Lowe when Space Ghost Coast to Coast officially premiered on April 15, 1994.
Revolutionizing Late-Night Animation
Before Adult Swim was even a thing, Space Ghost Coast to Coast was already redefining animated television. The brainchild of Mike Lazzo, the show was a satirical talk show hosted by a resurrected Space Ghost, featuring awkwardly hilarious interviews with real-life celebrities. With his deadpan delivery and impeccable comedic timing, Lowe turned Space Ghost into an icon of surreal humor. The series ran for 93 episodes until 2004, spinning off Cartoon Planet and inspiring future Adult Swim classics like Sealab 2021 and Aqua Teen Hunger Force.
Lowe continued voicing Space Ghost in cameo roles across multiple Adult Swim shows and even reprised the role in a 2024 episode of Jellystone! His unmistakable voice also graced The Brak Show, Robot Chicken, Squidbillies, American Dad!, and more, making him a staple in animated comedy.
A Collector, An Artist, A True Creative
Beyond voice acting, Lowe was an avid art collector with a deep appreciation for modern and folk art. His passion for collecting began in college when he chose to buy a Picasso print instead of a car—talk about priorities! Over the years, he built an impressive collection featuring works by Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg, and Tom Wesselmann.
Lowe wasn’t just a collector; he was an accomplished artist in his own right. His intricate, abstract landscapes have been showcased in prestigious institutions like the High Museum of Art, the Georgia Museum of Art, and the American Visionary Art Museum. His work reflected his deep love for creativity and storytelling, extending beyond the realm of animation.
In an artist profile for the AVAM, Lowe shared his hope that his work would inspire young artists: “Perhaps, one youngster staring at something in my collection, or at a work of mine, will be touched like I was staring at that De Heem work as a kid at The Ringling, and they, too, will become inspired to pick up a pencil and discover their own true voice.”
Remembering a Legend
George Lowe’s passing is a tremendous loss to the world of animation, comedy, and art. His distinctive voice, quick wit, and creative spirit made an indelible mark on pop culture. Thankfully, his legacy lives on—whether through reruns of Space Ghost Coast to Coast, his cameos in Adult Swim classics, or the art he poured his heart into.
Fans can still watch Space Ghost Coast to Coast for free on AdultSwim.com, though it may not be available for long. The series is also streaming on Spectrum and Apple TV for those who want to relive Lowe’s genius.
Rest in peace, George Lowe. Your voice will echo through the cosmos forever.
