In the world of animation, many famous voices bring beloved characters to life, though not everyone recognizes the actors behind them. Some of the biggest names in Hollywood have lent their voices to iconic animated characters, offering performances that have captured the imaginations of millions. These hidden talents often go unnoticed but are an integral part of creating memorable animated classics. Here, we reveal the surprising celebrities behind some of your favorite animated characters.
Tom Hanks – Woody in Toy Story
Woody, the cowboy doll at the center of Toy Story, is one of the most iconic characters in animated history. Voiced by Tom Hanks, this character became the heart and soul of the film’s narrative. Hanks’ signature warm voice gave Woody a lovable and relatable persona, adding depth and emotion to the character. His performance has been so impactful that it has remained a constant throughout the Toy Story franchise, making Woody a favorite for generations.
Scarlett Johansson – Kaa in The Jungle Book (2016)
Scarlett Johansson is known for her sultry, captivating voice, which was put to full use in Disney’s live-action/CGI hybrid The Jungle Book (2016). She voiced Kaa, the hypnotic python who tries to lure Mowgli into a trance. This gender-swapped casting choice added a fresh dynamic to the story and showcased Johansson’s versatility in vocal acting.
Vin Diesel – Groot in Guardians of the Galaxy Series
Vin Diesel’s deep, gravelly voice might seem like a surprising choice for a character that says only three words: “I am Groot.” However, Diesel managed to infuse those simple words with a wide range of emotions, turning Groot into one of the most beloved characters in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise. His ability to bring warmth and depth to such a minimal script is a testament to his vocal talent.
Ellen DeGeneres – Dory in Finding Nemo and Finding Dory
Ellen DeGeneres’ portrayal of Dory, the forgetful blue tang fish, is one of the most memorable in animation history. Her upbeat and slightly scatterbrained delivery made Dory a fan favorite in Finding Nemo, and later in Finding Dory. DeGeneres brought humor and heart to the role, transforming Dory into an iconic character who embodies persistence and kindness despite her memory loss.
Mark Hamill – The Joker in Batman: The Animated Series
While Mark Hamill is widely known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, his voice work as The Joker in Batman: The Animated Series is equally legendary. Hamill’s cackling, maniacal Joker became the definitive version of the character for many fans, surpassing even live-action portrayals.
Mike Myers – Shrek in Shrek
Mike Myers brought the titular character Shrek to life in the animated franchise, creating a Scottish-accented ogre who became an unlikely hero. Myers’ comedic skills and ability to shift from grumpy to vulnerable helped shape Shrek into a multi-dimensional character.
Originally, Shrek was voiced with a more traditional American accent, but Myers opted for a Scottish brogue to give the character a unique edge. This decision added to the charm and humor of Shrek, making him an instantly recognizable and beloved character.
Hugh Jackman – The Easter Bunny in Rise of the Guardians
Hugh Jackman voiced the tough and heroic Easter Bunny in Rise of the Guardians, adding a bit of Aussie flair to the character. Known for his roles in action films, Jackman brought an unexpected toughness to the traditionally gentle Easter Bunny.
Antonio Banderas – Puss in Boots in Shrek Franchise
Antonio Banderas gave life to the smooth-talking, swashbuckling cat known as Puss in Boots in the Shrek franchise. His performance, starting from Shrek 2 through to the spin-off Puss in Boots, gave the character a distinct Latin charm and flair. With his deep voice, mixed with wit and heroic bravado, Banderas turned Puss in Boots into a standout favorite in the series.
Patrick Warburton – Kronk in The Emperor’s New Groove
Patrick Warburton’s deep, distinct voice has made him one of the most recognizable voice actors in animation, and his role as Kronk in The Emperor’s New Groove is a prime example. Kronk, the lovable but dim-witted henchman, became a fan favorite thanks to Warburton’s impeccable comic timing and unique delivery.
Robin Williams – Genie in Aladdin
No discussion of celebrity voice actors is complete without mentioning Robin Williams’ unforgettable performance as Genie in Disney’s Aladdin. Williams’ rapid-fire delivery, quick wit, and extraordinary improvisational skills made Genie one of the most iconic animated characters of all time. His performance redefined what celebrity voice acting could be, setting a new standard for future films.
James Earl Jones – Mufasa in The Lion King
James Earl Jones’ deep, commanding voice gave Mufasa, the wise and noble king of the Pride Lands, an unforgettable presence in Disney’s The Lion King. His voice carried the weight and authority that Mufasa’s character demanded, adding a sense of gravitas to the animated film.
Cameron Diaz – Princess Fiona in Shrek
Cameron Diaz voiced Princess Fiona, a pivotal character in the Shrek series. Her portrayal of the strong-willed, independent princess challenged traditional fairy-tale tropes, bringing a modern twist to the character. Diaz’s voice brought a blend of charm, strength, and vulnerability to Princess Fiona, making her more than just the typical damsel in distress.
Will Arnett – Batman in The Lego Movie Series
Will Arnett brought a comedic, self-obsessed version of Batman to life in The Lego Movie series. His deep, gravelly voice parodied the dark and brooding nature of Batman, turning the character into a hilariously egocentric, but ultimately lovable, superhero.
Kristen Bell – Anna in Frozen
Kristen Bell voiced the optimistic and determined Princess Anna in Disney’s Frozen, delivering a performance that resonated with audiences worldwide. Bell’s bright, energetic voice gave Anna a relatable and endearing personality, making her one of Disney’s most beloved princesses.
Eddie Murphy – Donkey in Shrek
Eddie Murphy’s portrayal of Donkey in Shrek brought a level of humor and energy that perfectly contrasted with Shrek’s grumpy demeanor. Murphy’s rapid-fire delivery and hilarious improvisations made Donkey one of the standout characters in the series.
Benedict Cumberbatch – Smaug in The Hobbit Trilogy
Benedict Cumberbatch provided the voice and motion capture for Smaug, the fearsome dragon in The Hobbit trilogy. His deep, menacing voice, combined with his ability to deliver chilling dialogue, made Smaug a terrifying and commanding presence on screen. Cumberbatch’s vocal performance was instrumental in bringing this iconic fantasy villain to life.
Idina Menzel – Elsa in Frozen
Idina Menzel, already known for her Broadway career, made her mark on the world of animation with her role as Elsa in Disney’s Frozen. Menzel’s powerful voice added emotional depth to the character, especially in the hit song “Let It Go,” which became a global sensation. Her ability to convey Elsa’s inner struggles and eventual self-acceptance through both her speaking and singing made her performance unforgettable.
Liam Neeson – Aslan in The Chronicles of Narnia Series
Liam Neeson’s deep, authoritative voice brought Aslan, the noble lion in The Chronicles of Narnia series, to life. His performance as the wise and powerful leader of Narnia was filled with gravitas, making Aslan an inspiring and almost spiritual figure in the films. Neeson’s distinctive voice lent the character an air of wisdom, compassion, and strength.
Samuel L. Jackson – Frozone in The Incredibles Series
Samuel L. Jackson’s portrayal of Frozone in The Incredibles brought a charismatic and cool demeanor to the character. Known for his iconic voice and witty delivery, Jackson infused Frozone with charm and humor, making him one of the standout characters in Pixar’s superhero film.
Tress MacNeille – Multiple Characters in The Simpsons
Tress MacNeille has been a prolific voice actor for decades, known for voicing numerous characters in The Simpsons, including Agnes Skinner, Dolph, and Lunchlady Doris. Her versatility and ability to embody a wide range of personalities made her an invaluable member of the show’s voice cast.
Bradley Cooper – Rocket Raccoon in Guardians of the Galaxy
Bradley Cooper surprised many with his transformation into Rocket Raccoon, the sharp-tongued, battle-hardened member of the Guardians of the Galaxy. Cooper’s vocal performance captured Rocket’s sarcastic humor, rough exterior, and underlying vulnerability, making the character an essential part of the franchise’s heart.
Reese Witherspoon – Rosita in Sing
Reese Witherspoon lent her voice to Rosita, a shy pig and mother of 25 piglets in Sing. Witherspoon’s warm and relatable voice helped Rosita find her inner strength as a singer, and her performance showcased her vocal range, particularly in the film’s musical numbers.
Steve Carell – Gru in Despicable Me
Steve Carell’s portrayal of Gru, the anti-hero turned father in Despicable Me, has become one of the most recognizable voices in modern animation. Carell’s exaggerated Eastern European accent, combined with his comedic timing, made Gru a lovable and entertaining character despite his initial villainous tendencies.
Angelina Jolie – Tigress in Kung Fu Panda Series
Angelina Jolie voiced Tigress, the fierce and disciplined member of the Furious Five in the Kung Fu Panda franchise. Jolie’s voice added a commanding presence to Tigress, a character who is both a mentor and a protector. Her calm, controlled vocal delivery mirrored the character’s strength and resolve, making Tigress a standout in the series.
Bill Murray – Baloo in The Jungle Book (2016)
Bill Murray took on the role of Baloo in the 2016 live-action/CGI adaptation of The Jungle Book, bringing his trademark laid-back charm to the beloved bear. His humorous and easygoing delivery added a fresh take on Baloo, making the character even more endearing to modern audiences.
Alan Rickman – Absolem in Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Alan Rickman’s rich, distinct voice brought Absolem, the wise and philosophical caterpillar, to life in Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. Rickman’s deep, velvety voice, filled with wit and sarcasm, perfectly embodied the enigmatic and slightly mysterious nature of Absolem.
Justin Timberlake – Branch in Trolls
Justin Timberlake voiced Branch, the pessimistic but secretly caring troll in Trolls. Known for his musical talents, Timberlake also brought his vocal range and emotional depth to the character, transforming Branch from a grumpy loner into a hero.
Zoe Saldana – Maria in The Book of Life
Zoe Saldana lent her voice to Maria, the strong-willed and independent heroine in The Book of Life. Saldana’s warm and expressive voice helped shape Maria’s character, giving her a strong sense of identity and determination. Maria’s blend of courage and compassion was brought to life through Saldana’s emotive performance.
Craig T. Nelson – Mr. Incredible in The Incredibles Series
Craig T. Nelson voiced Bob Parr, also known as Mr. Incredible, the superhero struggling to balance family life with his desire to return to heroism. Nelson’s voice captured the complexity of a character torn between his responsibilities as a father and his yearning for the glory days of saving the world.
Mila Kunis – Meg Griffin in Family Guy
Mila Kunis has been the voice of Meg Griffin, the often-overlooked daughter in Family Guy, for over two decades. Kunis’ voice work has added depth to the character, helping Meg evolve from a typical teenager to a more complex figure dealing with family dysfunction and social isolation.
Danny DeVito – Phil in Hercules
Danny DeVito’s portrayal of Phil, the gruff but lovable satyr in Disney’s Hercules, is a classic example of perfect casting in animation. DeVito’s raspy voice, filled with humor and heart, gave Phil a personality that blended toughness with a soft spot for his protégé, Hercules.
Chris Pratt – Emmet in The Lego Movie Series
Chris Pratt brought his energetic and goofy charm to the role of Emmet, the ever-optimistic and unsuspecting hero in The Lego Movie series. Emmet’s innocent, can-do attitude, paired with Pratt’s humorous delivery, made the character instantly likable and relatable to audiences of all ages. His vocal performance helped Emmet stand out as a memorable protagonist in a world filled with iconic characters.
Seth Rogen – Pumbaa in The Lion King (2019)
Seth Rogen brought his distinctive voice and comedic flair to the role of Pumbaa in the 2019 live-action/CGI remake of The Lion King. Known for his comedic roles, Rogen’s natural humor and playful tone were perfect for the bumbling but kind-hearted warthog, making Pumbaa as funny and endearing as ever.
J.K. Simmons – Tenzin in The Legend of Korra
J.K. Simmons voiced Tenzin, the wise and stoic airbending master in The Legend of Korra. Simmons’ deep and authoritative voice gave Tenzin the gravitas needed to portray a mentor and guide for the new Avatar, Korra. His ability to convey both calm wisdom and occasional frustration made Tenzin a well-rounded and relatable character.
Hugh Jackman – Roddy in Flushed Away
Hugh Jackman lent his voice to Roddy, a pampered rat who finds himself in an adventurous underworld in the animated film Flushed Away. Jackman’s charismatic and energetic voice brought humor and sophistication to Roddy’s character, making his transition from a life of luxury to survival in the sewers both comedic and endearing.
Cate Blanchett – Valka in How to Train Your Dragon 2
Cate Blanchett voiced Valka, the strong-willed and mysterious mother of Hiccup, in How to Train Your Dragon 2. Blanchett’s voice, with its commanding yet compassionate tone, brought a regal quality to Valka, a warrior dedicated to protecting dragons. Her performance added depth to the How to Train Your Dragon series, portraying a powerful maternal figure with wisdom and strength.
Idris Elba – Shere Khan in The Jungle Book (2016)
Idris Elba voiced the fearsome tiger Shere Khan in the 2016 live-action/CGI adaptation of The Jungle Book. Elba’s deep, menacing voice brought a new level of intensity and intimidation to the character, transforming Shere Khan into a truly terrifying villain.
Mandy Moore – Rapunzel in Tangled
Mandy Moore brought her cheerful and lively voice to the role of Rapunzel in Disney’s Tangled. Her performance, filled with energy and warmth, perfectly matched Rapunzel’s adventurous spirit and optimism as she embarked on a journey to discover the world outside her tower.
Anika Noni Rose – Tiana in The Princess and the Frog
Anika Noni Rose voiced Princess Tiana, the hardworking and determined heroine of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog. Rose’s vibrant voice gave Tiana a strong, confident presence, making her a trailblazing figure as Disney’s first African-American princess. Rose’s portrayal of Tiana’s ambition and drive resonated with audiences, as she pursued her dreams while staying true to herself.
Patton Oswalt – Remy in Ratatouille
Patton Oswalt voiced Remy, the culinary-inclined rat in Pixar’s Ratatouille. Oswalt’s comedic yet earnest delivery brought charm and likability to the character, who dreams of becoming a chef in a world where rats are not exactly welcome in kitchens. His vocal performance made Remy’s passion for cooking believable and relatable, endearing him to audiences.
Billy Crystal – Mike Wazowski in Monsters, Inc. Series
Billy Crystal voiced Mike Wazowski, the one-eyed green monster with a big personality, in the Monsters, Inc. series. Mike’s excitable, fast-talking nature, combined with his loyalty to his best friend Sulley, made him an endearing character. Crystal’s energetic and humorous delivery brought Mike to life, making him one of Pixar’s most beloved characters.
John Goodman – Sulley in Monsters, Inc. Series
John Goodman voiced Sulley, the large, blue-furred monster who is both a top scarer and a gentle giant in the Monsters, Inc. series. Goodman’s deep, warm voice made Sulley a lovable character, despite his intimidating appearance. His portrayal captured Sulley’s inner kindness, loyalty, and growth throughout the series.
Jack Black – Po in Kung Fu Panda Series
Jack Black voiced Po, the clumsy yet determined panda who becomes the Dragon Warrior, in the Kung Fu Panda series. Black’s unique blend of humor, enthusiasm, and heart made Po an instantly lovable character. His comedic voice performance added an extra layer of charm to Po’s underdog story, making it relatable and inspirational for audiences.
Zachary Levi – Flynn Rider in Tangled
Zachary Levi voiced Flynn Rider, the charming and roguish love interest in Disney’s Tangled. Levi’s smooth, playful delivery made Flynn a likable and charismatic character, balancing his witty, confident exterior with a deeper, more vulnerable side. His performance brought both humor and heart to the role, helping make Flynn one of Disney’s most popular male leads.
Conclusion
The voice actors behind some of the most iconic animated characters have made an indelible impact on the world of entertainment. Voice actors like Eddie Murphy, Angelina Jolie, Billy Crystal, and John Goodman have made animated characters leap off the screen with unforgettable performances. Their ability to convey complex emotions, humor, and heart through their voices brings animated characters to life in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Voice acting is a unique art form that requires both technical skill and emotional insight, and the actors highlighted in this article have mastered it. Their contributions have helped elevate the animated medium, making these characters as memorable and beloved as any live-action performance.
