20 Celebrities Who Brought Animated Characters to Life
The world of animated films and video games is brilliantly vivid, not just because of its stunning visuals but also due to the charismatic voices that bring characters to life….
The world of animated films and video games is brilliantly vivid, not just because of its stunning visuals but also due to the charismatic voices that bring characters to life. A surprising number of these voices belong to widely recognized celebrities who, behind the scenes, lend their vocal talents to create some of the most memorable characters in entertainment. Here’s a look at ten celebrities and the roles they’ve immortalized with their voices.
Behind the Voices: Celebrities Collection
1. Tom Hanks as Woody – Toy Story Series
Tom Hanks provided the voice for Woody, the lovable cowboy doll who led the ensemble of toys in Pixar’s groundbreaking “Toy Story” series. Hanks’s warm and comforting voice became synonymous with Woody’s loyal and brave character.
2. Ellen DeGeneres as Dory – Finding Nemo & Finding Dory
Ellen DeGeneres’s unforgettable performance as Dory, the friendly but forgetful fish, stole the hearts of audiences in “Finding Nemo” and its sequel “Finding Dory.” Her voice added a unique blend of humor and warmth to the character.
3. Robin Williams as Genie – Aladdin
The late Robin Williams brought his unparalleled energy and improvisational genius to the role of Genie in Disney’s “Aladdin.” Williams’s voice work added a dynamic and unforgettable layer to the character.
4. Idris Elba as Chief Bogo – Zootopia
Idris Elba lent his commanding voice to Chief Bogo, the stern yet fair police chief in the animated hit “Zootopia.” His performance added gravitas and authority to the character, making Chief Bogo a standout in the film.
5. Scarlett Johansson as Kaa – The Jungle Book (2016)
Scarlett Johansson brought a mesmerizing and slightly sinister edge to Kaa, the python, in the live-action adaptation of “The Jungle Book.” Her voice performance was both captivating and chilling.
6. Ryan Reynolds as Pikachu – Detective Pikachu
Ryan Reynolds voiced the iconic Pokémon character Pikachu in “Detective Pikachu,” bringing his signature wit and charm to the role. Reynolds’s portrayal added a comedic yet heartfelt dimension to the beloved character.
7. Miley Cyrus as Penny – Bolt
Before she swung on wrecking balls, Miley Cyrus was Penny, the young starlet who owned the titular dog in “Bolt.” Cyrus’s voice work added depth to the emotional journey of her character throughout the film.
8. Johnny Depp as Rango – Rango
Johnny Depp voiced the quirky chameleon protagonist in the animated western “Rango.” Depp’s eccentric and charismatic performance brought the character of Rango to life, earning critical acclaim.
9. Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona – Shrek Series
Cameron Diaz provided the voice for Princess Fiona in the “Shrek” series, bringing a strong, independent, and loving character to the screen. Diaz’s performance added a crucial layer to the unconventional fairy tale.
10. James Earl Jones as Mufasa – The Lion King
James Earl Jones’s iconic voice as Mufasa in “The Lion King” resonated with authority and warmth, making his character’s wisdom and tragic demise all the more impactful.
Behind the Voices: The Celebrities Collection
11. Matthew McConaughey as Buster Moon – Sing
Matthew McConaughey’s charismatic portrayal of Buster Moon, the eternally optimistic koala, showcased his versatility and charm.
12. Reese Witherspoon as Rosita – Sing
Reese Witherspoon brought Rosita, the housewife and mother pig with a dream to sing, to life with warmth and relatability.
13. Benedict Cumberbatch as Smaug – The Hobbit Series
Benedict Cumberbatch’s menacing performance as the dragon Smaug was both terrifying and captivating, highlighted by his deep, resonant voice.
14. Jeremy Irons as Scar – The Lion King
Jeremy Irons’ portrayal of the villainous Scar remains one of Disney’s most memorable performances, thanks to his silky, malevolent voice.
15. Danny DeVito as Philoctetes – Hercules
Danny DeVito’s role as the gruff satyr Philoctetes (Phil) brought humor and heart to Disney’s “Hercules,” proving his voice acting chops.
16. Mike Myers as Shrek – Shrek Series
Mike Myers’ Scottish-accented Shrek became an animated icon, blending humor with a touch of vulnerability that resonated with audiences.
17. Eddie Murphy as Donkey – Shrek Series
Eddie Murphy’s unforgettable performance as Donkey provided the perfect comedic counterpart to Shrek, solidifying the duo as animated legends.
18. Angelina Jolie as Tigress – Kung Fu Panda Series
Angelina Jolie’s fierce and disciplined Tigress showed her ability to bring depth and strength to animated characters.
19. Jack Black as Po – Kung Fu Panda Series
Jack Black infused Po, the panda with dreams of martial arts greatness, with his energetic humor and likability.
20. Bill Murray as Baloo – The Jungle Book (2016)
Bill Murray brought his laid-back charm to Baloo, the bear, creating a memorable and beloved character in the live-action “Jungle Book” adaptation.
Final Verdict
These celebrities have not only made significant contributions to the world of live-action cinema but have also left an indelible mark on the realm of voice acting. Through their remarkable vocal performances, they’ve brought a range of animated characters to life, leaving a lasting legacy in both animation and pop culture.
