EInsiders reports that Peter Fernandez, the voice behind the titular character, and Racer X, in the English dub of the original Speed Racer, has passed away. He was 83 years old. His cause of death was lung cancer.

Peter Fernandez (1927-2010)

"He was ‘Speed’s voice in the 1960s animated "Speed Racer" TV series, also voicing brother Racer X and writing the lyrics to the signature theme song "Go Speed Racer, Go!”

Peter Fernandez’s long career also included writing children’s books along with writing and directing as well as voice acting in numerous anime works. He adapted, directed and voiced English tracks for hundreds of foreign films from all over world including: "Fistful of Dollars", "The Nest", "Mothra, "That Man From Rio", "Cinema Paradiso", a handful of the Godzilla movies, "Flight of the Eagle" and "La Famiglia."

Other credits include fan favorites such as “Courage the Cowardly Dog” (recording director/ voice actor) and the comedy film “The Gods Must Be Crazy V” in which he was the voice director.

Peter Fernandez’s voice can also be heard in such dubbed anime titles as "Astro Boy," "Gigantor," "Marine Boy," "Star Blazers: The Bolar Wars," and "Superbook.""

--EInsiders

He is survived by his wife, Noel Smith Fernandez, three children and grandchildren.