When we think of our favourite cartoon characters, we often picture their vibrant personalities, quirky traits, and iconic voices. But did you know that many of these beloved characters are brought to life by some of the biggest names in Hollywood and beyond? From A-list actors to legendary musicians, celebrities often lend their voices to animated characters, adding a unique charm to the shows and movies we adore. Here are seven celebs who have voiced your favourite cartoon characters, proving that their talent transcends the screen.
1. Tom Hanks as Woody in Toy Story
Tom Hanks, the Oscar-winning actor, is the voice behind Woody, the loyal and compassionate cowboy in Pixar’s iconic Toy Story franchise. Hanks’ warm and relatable voice perfectly captures Woody’s leadership qualities and emotional depth, making him one of the most beloved animated characters of all time. Hanks’ dedication to the role is so profound that he reportedly cried during his final recording session for Toy Story 4.
2. Ellen DeGeneres as Dory in Finding Nemo and Finding Dory
Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres brought her signature wit and charm to the forgetful but endearing blue tang fish, Dory. Her portrayal of Dory in Finding Nemo and its sequel Finding Dory was so impactful that it even inspired a campaign for marine conservation. DeGeneres’ ability to balance humour and heart made Dory a fan favourite.
3. Beyoncé as Nala in The Lion King (2019)
Queen Bey herself, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, took on the role of Nala in the 2019 live-action adaptation of The Lion King. While the film used CGI animation, Beyoncé’s powerful voice brought strength and grace to the character. She also curated and contributed to the film’s soundtrack, making her involvement a true artistic triumph.
4. Robin Williams as Genie in Aladdin
Robin Williams’ performance as the Genie in Disney’s Aladdin is legendary. His improvisational genius and boundless energy made the character unforgettable. Williams’ ability to seamlessly switch between accents, impressions, and comedic styles set a new standard for voice acting in animation. His portrayal remains a benchmark for the genre.
5. Kristen Bell as Anna in Frozen
Kristen Bell, known for her roles in The Good Place and Veronica Mars, voiced Princess Anna in Disney’s Frozen. Her cheerful and determined portrayal of Anna resonated with audiences worldwide, contributing to the film’s massive success. Bell’s singing voice also added an extra layer of magic to the character, especially in the hit song “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?”
6. Mark Hamill as The Joker in Batman: The Animated Series
While Mark Hamill is best known for playing Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, his voice acting as The Joker in Batman: The Animated Series is equally iconic. Hamill’s maniacal laugh and chilling delivery have made his version of The Joker one of the most memorable portrayals of the character. His work in the animated series has influenced countless interpretations of the Clown Prince of Crime.
7. Maya Rudolph as Connie the Hormone Monstress in Big Mouth
Comedian and actress Maya Rudolph voices Connie the Hormone Monstress in Netflix’s Big Mouth, a show that hilariously tackles the awkwardness of puberty. Rudolph’s comedic timing and unique voice bring Connie’s sassy and supportive personality to life. Her performance adds depth and relatability to a character that represents the chaos of growing up.
Conclusion
These celebrities have proven that voice acting is an art form in itself, allowing them to connect with audiences in a different yet equally impactful way. Their contributions to animation have not only entertained us but also created timeless characters that continue to inspire and delight. So, the next time you watch your favourite cartoon, take a moment to appreciate the star behind the voice—it might just be one of your favourite celebs!
