15 Cartoon Voice Actors You Never Knew You Loved
Behind every beloved animated character, there’s a group of renowned voice talents. These talents are the unsung heroes of iconic cartoon voices. Their performances touch hearts across all ages.
From funny voice-overs in animal sidekicks to heroes’ dramatic lines, animation voice actors give life to these characters. Let’s uncover the amazing people behind our favorite animated figures.
Tom Hanks – Woody in “Toy Story” movies
Tom Hanks has had a varied career but shines as the voice of Woody in Toy Story. His voice brings courage, kindness, and leadership to Woody, making him loved by many. Since the start, Hanks’ role, created by Pixar Animation Studios, has been iconic.
Hanks’ depiction of Woody is consistently remarkable. It makes the character very relatable and familiar in our culture. His genuine and friendly voice has turned Woody into a symbol of warmth for fans. This shows how vital a voice actor can be to a character’s identity.
In Woody’s story, we see how Tom Hanks makes voice acting an art form, bringing the sheriff doll to life. His work with Pixar Animation Studios has led to a memorable series. Hanks as Woody shows us the emotional power of animation and its effect on us over time.
Eddie Murphy – Donkey in “Shrek” movies
In the world of Dreamworks Animation, the fast-talking Donkey from the Shrek movies stands out. Voiced by the incredible Eddie Murphy, Donkey’s lively voice is unforgettable. It captures the heart of the series. His blend of humor and warmth brings depth to Donkey, making him a key figure in the Shrek saga.
Eddie Murphy brings a wide range of feelings to Donkey, making us love him even more. From showing his soft side to celebrating victories, Murphy’s performance is top-notch. He turns the character into an animation icon. This shows how great acting can bring animated figures to life.
Merging Eddie Murphy’s comedic brilliance with Donkey was a genius move by Dreamworks. It made moments in the Shrek films both funny and heartfelt. Murphy’s voice work greatly contributed to the movies’ success, making the fantasy world more real. Eddie Murphy as Donkey has left a lasting impact, giving us a character we’ll always remember.
Robin Williams – Genie in “Aladdin”
Robin Williams played the Genie in “Aladdin” and became a legend. His Genie voice was dynamic and full of humor. This redefined voice acting in animation. Williams brought an electric and tender energy to the Genie. He made us laugh and feel deeply at the same time.
Williams did more than just voice the Genie. He gave the character a spirit and personality that we’ll never forget. When the Genie came out of his lamp, the animation lit up with life. Williams’ performance captured hearts worldwide. His iconic lines and wit made the Genie unforgettable.
Robin Williams’ role in Aladdin was more than entertaining. It took the film to new heights and changed the industry. He showed how powerful a voice can be in animation. Williams’ Genie is a lasting symbol of talent and impact. His work touches the hearts and minds of viewers and artists even today.
Ellen DeGeneres – Dory in “Finding Nemo”
Pixar Animation Studios needed a special voice for Dory, the blue tang fish in Finding Nemo. Ellen DeGeneres was the perfect choice. Her voice brought warmth, humor, and quirkiness to Dory. This made Dory unforgettable and loved by everyone around the world. Ellen’s ability to embody Dory’s spirit was more than just acting. Her enthusiasm and timing made the journey through the Great Barrier Reef both funny and heartwarming.
Ellen DeGeneres and Dory were a perfect match. Ellen made Dory’s forgetfulness and spontaneity endearing, not just funny. Because of this, Dory became much more than a character. She led to Finding Dory in 2016, where we learned more about her. This made Ellen key to Pixar’s success.
Dory is famous for her funny lines and her inspiring message. Ellen’s performance added depth to Dory, making her more relatable. Her roles in Finding Nemo and its sequel still touch people today. They show the lasting power of Dory and Ellen’s talent.
Mike Myers – Shrek in “Shrek” movies
Canadian actor Mike Myers lent his distinctive voice to Shrek, making the character a legend. His voice was gruff yet had a touch of kindness. This mix brought depth to Shrek.
Myers’ performance made the Shrek series both funny and touching. His take on Shrek offered a new view of ogres, unlike the usual scary creatures. Under Myers’ influence, Shrek became a loved anti-hero.
Dreamworks’ amazing visuals and Myers’ voice won fans of all ages. Mike Myers and Shrek are now inseparable in people’s minds. His work proves how vital voice acting is in animation.
Seth MacFarlane – Peter, Stewie, and Brian in “Family Guy”
Seth MacFarlane makes voicing many characters look easy. He voices Peter Griffin, Stewie, and Brian on “Family Guy.” This shows his huge talent. Each character feels real thanks to him. This has helped make “Family Guy” very popular.
MacFarlane’s voices add so much to the show. Peter makes us laugh with his silly mistakes. Stewie uses big words, and Brian is very witty. Together, they make the show a hit. MacFarlane’s voices are key to making fans love the show.
Seth MacFarlane does more than voice acting. He also makes sure “Family Guy” stays funny and new. His work in writing and acting keeps the show loved by many. Through characters like Peter, he’s shaped the world of animated TV.
Billy Crystal – Mike Wazowski in “Monsters, Inc.”
Billy Crystal added lots of personality to his animated characters with his dynamic voice. One of his most loved roles is Mike Wazowski from “Monsters, Inc.” He made Mike a character everyone remembers. His energy and humor won over people of all ages.
Billy Crystal voiced Mike Wazowski perfectly, mixing sass with a soft side. He and John Goodman, the voice of Sulley, became a memorable duo. Their teamwork shone through their characters, making the film a gem in Pixar’s collection.
Billy Crystal’s performance was about more than just laughs. He showed a range of feelings that made Mike seem real and relatable. Despite being a monster, Mike felt very human thanks to Crystal. His skillful acting made the film a classic for both kids and adults.
Billy’s voice acting made Mike Wazowski unforgettable. It proved how important great voice work is to an animated film’s success. “Monsters, Inc.” stands out thanks to Billy Crystal. His voice talent is a big reason Pixar keeps making movies families love.
Tim Allen – Buzz Lightyear in “Toy Story” movies
To infinity and beyond! This is Toy Story’s famous line, spoken by Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear. He brings energy and heart to the role. His work made Buzz more than just a voice; it made him real in our hearts.
Tim Allen’s Buzz is a true hero to Andy’s toys and us. In the Toy Story series, Buzz learns about friendship and loyalty. Allen brings every step of Buzz’s journey to life in a touching way.
Tim Allen’s Buzz Lightyear means a lot outside the movies too. His voice has touched toys, games, and even a special movie. Allen’s Buzz is about bravery and fun, showing how great Allen and Pixar work together.
James Earl Jones – Mufasa in “The Lion King”
When people hear James Earl Jones as Mufasa in “The Lion King,” they feel like they’re in Africa’s vast lands. His voice carries the majesty of a king, elevating the film’s status. His role was more than acting; it shaped how we see Disney characters.
James Earl Jones made Mufasa’s voice strong and full of wisdom. His take on the role adds depth to the story, showcasing the themes of leadership and duty. This made Mufasa’s advice not just lines in a movie, but lessons for life. His voice has become iconic in the world of Disney animations.
His work as Mufasa remains unforgettable, showing the impact of voice acting. This role highlights how a voice can bring a character to life. His impact ensures Mufasa’s place in movie history. It’s a clear sign of his lasting effect on the hearts of those who watch “The Lion King”.
Mark Hamill – Joker in “Batman: The Animated Series”
In the world of superhero cartoons, Batman: The Animated Series is a standout. It’s known for its cool noir look and deep stories. What makes it really memorable is its voice work. The voice of the Joker by Mark Hamill is famous among fans and critics. Hamill’s voice was different from any Joker before, capturing the character’s wild nature perfectly.
Hamill was already loved as Luke Skywalker, the hero. Then he amazed everyone by becoming one of the most complex villains. His Joker was both scary and funny, showing a range of emotions. This role became a big part of what Hamill is known for.
Hamill’s work as the Joker had a big impact on Batman Animated Series. His way of bringing the Joker to life added a lot to the show. Many fans think Hamill’s Joker is the best version of the character. He made the Joker an iconic part of superhero shows.
Even now, Mark Hamill’s Joker is seen as a top example of voice acting in animation. His version of the Joker continues to impress and scare new fans. His work shows how much talent and the right character can achieve. It’s a standard others aim to reach.
Kristen Bell – Anna in “Frozen”
Kristen Bell brought Princess Anna to life in the Frozen movie, making the character unforgettable. Her voice made Anna’s optimism and spirit shine, making her a modern Disney icon. Kristen’s talent and portrayal of Anna’s adventurous heart wowed audiences everywhere.
Frozen became a hit thanks to characters people could feel connected to. Kristen Bell’s voice as Anna showed courage and faith in her sister, Elsa. This made Anna’s character feel real and close to fans’ hearts.
Kristen Bell’s role in Frozen helped make the movie series a cultural milestone. It reminded kids to value their uniqueness and the importance of family. The stories and characters proved that classic tales still win hearts in today’s digital age.
Kelsey Grammer – Sideshow Bob in “The Simpsons”
Kelsey Grammer, an Emmy Award-winning actor, has won viewers’ hearts as Sideshow Bob on The Simpsons. His performances are a treat, showcasing his vocal talent and adding sophistication to the character. Sideshow Bob is a standout character, evolving from Krusty’s sidekick to Bart Simpson’s nemesis.
Sideshow Bob is fascinating because of his complex nature, brought to life by Kelsey Grammer. His voice is elegant yet contrasts with Bob’s evil plans. This makes Bob both cultured and cunning, thanks to Grammer’s talent.
The Simpsons is known for its colorful characters, and Sideshow Bob is a great example. Every plot he hatches is memorable, with Grammer’s touch making them special. Fans look forward to Bob’s episodes because of this.
J.K. Simmons – J. Jonah Jameson in “Spider-Man”
J.K. Simmons is known for his unique energy in roles, winning over Marvel fans as J. Jonah Jameson in the Spider-Man cartoons. His portrayal is marked by sharp, commanding dialogue. This mirrors his intense live-action role in the Spider-Man films.
Simmons’s voice work leaves a big impression, and his Jameson role is unforgettable. His voice brings Jameson to life, making him a standout in the Spider-Man world. His skill shows in balancing the character’s loud nature with a touch of vulnerability.
Fans see Simmons and J. Jonah Jameson as one. His talent shines in voice acting, making the Spider-Man cartoons memorable. J.K. Simmons’s contribution is key, showing his voice roles are as powerful as his acting on screen.
Will Arnett – BoJack Horseman in “BoJack Horseman”
Will Arnett’s unique voice brought BoJack Horseman to life, making the character a stand-out in adult animated series. Being a key part of the Netflix original series, his performance played a big role in its hit status. He blended cynicism, wit, and vulnerability perfectly, winning critics over and resonating with viewers.
Playing BoJack gave Arnett a chance to show a wide range of feelings, rare for animated roles. In BoJack Horseman, Will Arnett shone as both funny and serious, making BoJack more than a cartoon. He turned BoJack into a reflection on fame and being human in a world of talking animals.
The show tackled heavy topics like depression and addiction, making waves in adult animation. Will Arnett’s real and complex portrayal of BoJack connected deeply with grown-up viewers. BoJack Horseman became a standout show, blending humor and deep themes. This was largely due to Arnett’s work on the show’s intriguing main character.
Jack Black – Po in “Kung Fu Panda” movies
Jack Black voicing Po in the Kung Fu Panda movies is a perfect match. Since the first film in 2008, Black’s energy and humor have made Po a well-loved character. His portrayal adds heart to Po, touching fans across the globe.
The success of the Kung Fu Panda series owes a lot to Jack Black. He brings Po to life, making him someone fans cheer for. Black’s voice captures the ups and downs of Po’s journey, creating unforgettable moments.
Jack Black’s role as Po shows how impactful voice acting can be. He brings out Po’s growth and strength throughout the series. Black’s vibrant voice makes Po memorable, showcasing the lasting influence of Jack Black and the Kung Fu Panda movies.
