A cloud has eclipsed the world of animation since the passing of beloved
voice-over actress, Mary Kay Bergman. A prolific artist, she has recently
provided the voice for Daphne Blake in the two most recent SCOOBY-DOO
direct-to-video flicks; Batgirl/Barbara Gordon in BATMAN: SUBZERO; and all
but one of the female voices on Comedy Central's SOUTH PARK. She is also
been the "official" voice of Disney's Snow White since 1989. Mrs. Bergman
had recently received an Annie Award nomination for her work in the SOUTH
PARK feature. Many questions surrounding the details of her passing have
surfaced since fans logged onto her Web site which only reads, "In
Memoriam. Mary Kay Bergman. (1961-1999)." After speaking with Mrs.
Bergman's attorney, Robert Harrison, Animation World Network is sad to
report that Mrs. Bergman's official cause of death has been ruled a
suicide. Mrs. Bergman took her own life on Thursday, November 11, 1999 in
her West Los Angeles home. She is survived by her mother, Patricia McGowen
and husband Dino Andrade. "She was a 'larger-than-life' character, funny,
outgoing, loving, friendly to a fault, beloved, admired and respected by
all, and with a talent that will remain unparalleled," reflects her
husband. "[Her work for South Park] led to this gentle creature getting to
live out her life's dream of stepping out of a limo and walking the
'premiere night' red carpet of Mann's Chinese Theatre dressed as a princess
-- unfortunately, she was also a victim of mental illness," Andrade
explains. Her illness was a secret which Mrs. Bergman hid from everyone
including her family and friends. "She was haunted by demons, irrational
fears, and unfathomable pain," says Andrade and he adds -- "If you are in
pain, fear, depression or despair, you must seek help. If this plea can
reach just one person, and help them to see the light in the darkness then
I will know that Mary Kay's death was not a waste but a sacrifice so that
another might live." If you wish to honor Mrs. Bergman's memory please send
donations to -- The Mary Kay Bergman Memorial Fund c/o The Suicide
Prevention Center, 4760 Sepulveda Blvd., Culver City, CA 90230. Please make
check payable to Suicide Prevention Center -- In memory of Mary Kay Bergman.