For two seasons, Mako Iwamatsu was the voice of Uncle Iroh in Avatar: The Last Airbender, but things changed when he was recast in season 3. Iroh is a fan favorite and one of the most likable characters in the show. His relationship with Zuko humanized the former Fire Nation prince, and his presence and guidance helped Zuko find his redemption and see the error of his father’s aggressive and violent ways. Voice actor Mako injected Iroh with wisdom and warmth, but unfortunately, by 2006, the role had to be given to Greg Baldwin.
Mako Iwamatsu was an Oscar-nominated actor and one of the founders of the East West Players company, a theatre group dedicated to giving Asian-American actors roles and nurturing their talents. He was nominated for an Oscar and a Golden Globe for his 1966’s role in the film The Sand Pebbles. He was also the voice of the villain Aku in the cartoon Samurai Jack and Master Splinter in the 2007’s TMNT animated movie. Then, in July 2006, he passed away due to cancer at age 72.
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Mako’s death happened before he finished his work for the final season of Avatar: The Last Airbender, which sadly meant the role of Uncle Iroh had to be recast. Greg Baldwin was chosen as his replacement; he already had experience as Mako’s voice double for years, re-recording lines and additional dialogue when Mako was unavailable. His experience imitating Mako’s voice ensured the change didn’t sound jarring for the audience. Baldwin took on the role of Iroh for all of season 3 and has continued to play Aku and Master Splinter as well. Later, in 2012, he reprised the role in Avatar: The Legend of Korra, when Iroh returned to help a young Korra from the Spirit World.
One of the segments of the episode “The Tales of Ba Sing Se” was dedicated to Mako. “The Tale of Iroh” follows the character as he walks by the streets of Ba Sing Se helping people. Iroh extends his hand and offers advice to those who need no matter if they are a crying toddler or a would-be criminal. Finally, he kneels in front of a portrait of his deceased son, Lu Ten, and sings “Leaves From the Vine” to him. The segment ends with a dedication to Mako. It’s an emotional moment in the series, not only because it shows Iroh’s love and grief for Lu Ten but also because it reminds the audience of the man behind the voice.
Another way the creators of Avatar: The Last Airbender honored the late voice actor was by naming a character in The Legend of Korra; one of Korra’s friends and her love interest for season 1 was named after the real Mako. This shows the respect and regard the crew had for him; like Iroh, Mako Iwamatsu seems to have been well-loved by those involved with the creation of the show.
