Voice acting rarely gets the recognition it deserves from the public. Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about reciting lines while reading a script. In reality, it requires intentional intonation, pitch change, and an investment in embodying the character’s nature.
Some actors have seamlessly transitioned from the spotlight to the sound booth, surprising audiences with their extraordinary voice-acting talents. These 12 celebrities show the ability to translate their animated characters’ emotional depth and personality into the vocal booth.
1. BRADLEY COOPER AS ROCKET RACCOON – GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY
In a surprising departure from his usual on-screen roles, Bradley Cooper lent his voice to Rocket Raccoon in Marvel’sGuardians of the Galaxy. Cooper’s portrayal of the wisecracking, genetically modified raccoon captured audiences’ hearts, proving that his versatility extends beyond live-action performances. It’s easy to forget that Rocket, beloved as a favorite character, is voiced by Cooper. It’s evident that Cooper gave his all to the role, completely transforming his voice into an unrecognizable pitch.
2. LARRY THE CABLE GUY AS MATER – CARS
Larry the Cable Guy, known for his Southern comedic persona, took on the endearing role of Mater in Disney-Pixar’sCars. The unexpected brilliance of Larry’s performance brought a lovable charm to the tow truck character, transforming Mater into an animated icon.
Larry’s dip into the voice acting pond showcased his multifaceted talent as someone who used to be perceived as a one-trick pony. In interviews, Larry has gotten emotional speaking about how theCarscreators made the role bigger for him because of his love for the part, which shows how much it meant to pour his passion and expression into the voice acting artform.
3. NICOLAS CAGE AS SPIDER-NOIR – SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE FRANCHISE
Nicolas Cage brought his distinctive voice to the animated character Spider-Noir inSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseand its sequel, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. As an actor known for his intense on-screen presence, Cage’s unexpected brilliance shone through in the animated universe.
He delivered a captivating performance that added depth to this alternate Spider-Man. His apprehensive approach to vulnerability and deeply empathetic character make him one of the most lovable Spider-Men. Lines like “I love you … all” are delivered with such perfect comedic and emotional timing that Spider-Man fans who were quick to criticize his questionable casting were deeply humbled once it came together.
4. MARK HAMILL AS JOKER – BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES
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Mark Hamill, famous for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker, silenced doubters with his unforgettable voice acting as the Joker inBatman: The Animated Series. Hamill’s masterful interpretation of the iconic supervillain is widely regarded as one of the best. Excelling as an icon in both live-action and animated roles is an impressive feat, especially after overcoming fan reservations about your ability to fill those large shoes.
5. WILL FERRELL AS MEGAMIND – MEGAMIND
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Will Ferrell surprised audiences with his comedic prowess in the animated filmMegamind,where he voiced the titular character. Ferrell’s brilliance was unexpected after reserving himself to a slew of low-effort comedies where the actor repeatedly played the same character.
Beneath the comedic façade, Ferrell skillfully portrayed Megamind’s vulnerability and desire for acceptance, adding a touch of sincerity to the character’s journey. His vocal range and ability to convey a broad spectrum of emotions allowed Megamind to evolve beyond the stereotypical supervillain archetype. The character’s moments of self-reflection, growth, and, at times, poignant sincerity were brought to life by Ferrell’s nuanced performance, surprising critics and fans.
6. WILL ARNETT AS LEGO BATMAN, BOJACK HORSEMAN, TWISTED METAL
Will Arnett’s voice acting journey spans diverse characters, including the blocky superhero Lego Batman, the complex and melancholic BoJack Horseman, and the iconic Sweet Tooth in the video game seriesTwisted Metal. Arnett’s first big break into the mainstream was as the character Gob Bluth in the hit television comedyArrested Development, but his career transition into voice acting has been nothing short of remarkable, marked by his ability to breathe life into a diverse array of animated characters.
Arnett’s portrayal of Lego Batman introduced audiences to a hilariously exaggerated version of the iconic superhero, replete with egotism and self-aware satire. His deep, gravelly voice became synonymous with the brick-built Dark Knight, and Arnett’s comedic timing turned Lego Batman into a beloved character for both children and adults. In adult animation, Arnett’s role as BoJack Horseman showcased his versatility as a voice actor.
BoJack, a washed-up Hollywood star grappling with existential crises, provided a platform for Arnett to showcase his dramatic range. Arnett’s delivery of BoJack’s witty yet often melancholic dialogue contributed to the show’s critical acclaim and solidified his formidable presence in animated television.
Arnett has also left his mark in the video game world as the voice of Sweet Tooth, the infamous ice cream truck-driving clown in theTwisted Metalseries. His ability to embody the character’s menacing yet darkly humorous nature added depth to the gaming experience, proving that Arnett’s talent transcends traditional mediums.
7. STEVE CARRELL AS GRU – DESPICABLE ME
Steve Carell, best known for his comedic roles inThe OfficeandThe 40-Year-Old Virgin, surprised audiences with his portrayal of the supervillain Gru inDespicable Me. Carell’s unexpected brilliance in bringing Gru to life, complete with a distinct accent, added a layer of charm to the character and contributed to the film’s global success.
Gru, initially introduced as a dastardly villain with dreams of stealing the moon, undergoes a remarkable transformation throughout the film, evolving into a character that is not only endearing but also relatable. Carell’s voice acting is central to this transformation, as he masterfully captures Gru’s journey from a scheming antagonist to a lovable father figure.
Even if you’re all burnt out on Minions as I am, you have to hand it to Carrell. Gru’s Eastern European accent and Carell’s impeccable comedic timing created a memorable and instantly recognizable character that’s a big hit with kids.
8. CHRISTIAN BALE AS HOWL – HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE
Christian Bale, renowned for his intense Oscar-winning on-screen performances, showcased a different facet of his talent by voicing Howl in the English dub of Studio Ghibli’sHowl’s Moving Castle. Bale’s unexpected brilliance in capturing Howl’s complexity and charm demonstrated his ability to convey emotion into the animated character through voice acting.
Many are shocked to learn that the soothing voice behind Howl belongs to none other than acting legend Christian Bale, which is an achievement in itself. In the scene where he starts crying and throwing a tantrum over his hair getting ruined, he delivers deadpan lines like, “I give up. I see no point in living if I can’t be beautiful.” with excellent comedic timing. Who would have thought Christian Bale could be funny?
9. DWAYNE “THE ROCK” JOHNSON AS MAUI – MOANA
The Rock brought his charismatic energy to the demigod Maui in Disney’sMoana. Johnson’s unexpected brilliance in voicing the larger-than-life character added a dynamic and humorous dimension to the animated adventure. Despite being an iconic force in the entertainment industry, he’s mostly known for action flicks, children’s movies, or bargain bin B movies involving playing the same character as always (himself).
The Rock’s deep and resonant voice is instantly recognizable, and he leverages this to great effect in giving Maui a charismatic and powerful presence. The character undergoes various emotional arcs throughout the film, from arrogance to vulnerability, and his ability to modulate his voice accordingly adds depth to Maui’s characterization.
The Rock not only delivers spoken lines with conviction but also showcases his musical talents in the song “You’re Welcome.” His performance of this catchy and boastful number further highlights his ability to infuse personality into Maui, making the character one of the film’s highlights.
10. TIM CURRY AS NIGEL THORNBERRY – THE WILD THORNBERRYS
Tim Curry’s distinctive voice lent itself perfectly to the adventurous Nigel Thornberry in the animated seriesThe Wild Thornberrys. Curry’s unexpected brilliance in portraying the enthusiastic and eccentric nature of the documentarian showcased his ability to create memorable characters in the animated world.
Curry brought Nigel an innocent, silly energy that was funny and entertaining to watch because you never knew what quirky line deliveries he would drop next. It’s clear Curry had a lot of fun in the vocal booth portraying this character, and it wouldn’t be the same voiced by anyone else.
11. HAILEE STEINFELD AS GWEN STACY – SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE, VI IN ARCANE
Singer and actress Hailee Steinfeld’s foray into voice acting as Gwen Stacy inSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseshowcased her versatility as an artist. As a key character in a visually innovative and critically acclaimed animated film, Steinfeld’s voice brings life to Gwen’s cool and confident demeanor.
Her performance captures the essence of a superhero who is both relatable and empowering, contributing to the film’s success. InArcane, the animated series set in the world of the video gameLeague of Legends, Steinfeld voices Vi, a complex character with a troubled past.
Steinfeld’s voice acting captures Vi’s grit, determination, and vulnerability, bringing nuance to the character’s emotional journey. Her ability to convey Vi’s internal conflicts, fierce determination, and moments of vulnerability makes Vi a standout figure in the series.
12. ANGELINA JOLIE AS TIGRESS – KUNG FU PANDA
Angelina Jolie’s powerful presence translated seamlessly into the animated realm as she voiced Tigress in DreamWorks’Kung Fu Panda. Jolie’s rich and commanding voice lends itself perfectly to Tigress’s character. Her deep, resonant tones convey strength and determination, establishing Tigress as a formidable and authoritative presence within the group.
While Tigress is often portrayed as stoic and focused, Jolie brings a nuanced emotional depth to the character. In moments of vulnerability or when delving into Tigress’s backstory, Jolie infuses the character with a range of emotions. Jolie’s chemistry with the ensemble cast, including Jack Black as Po and the rest of the Furious Five, contributes to the overall cohesion of the films. The interactions between Tigress and the other characters feel genuine, establishing a dynamic that enhances the storytelling.
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Jake Valentine
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