Based on the Chinese poem, “The Song of Fa Mu Lan,” Mulan was originally supposed to be a Tootsie-inspired romantic comedy, where the heroine’s a misfit tomboy and a daddy’s girl who’s engaged to Shang, a man whom she’s never met. On her betrothal day, her dad Fa Zhou carves her destiny on a stone tablet in the family temple, which she shatters in anger, running away to forge her own destiny. As Head of Story, Chris Sanders had misgivings and wanted the film to be more faithful to the original legend where Mulan leaves home out of love for her father. General Li wasn’t originally going to be Li Shang’s dad but the writers did so to mirror Shang and Mulan’s love for their fathers. While story artist Joe Grant and Roy E. Disney had Cri-Kee and Mushu added. The latter becoming Eddie Murphy’s Shrek audition. Visual design was based on watercolor paintings derived from the Ming and Qing Dynasties since they’re the ones we know most about. Although German Expressionist silents, British and American epics from the 1950s and 1960s, and Spaghetti Westerns. They also used crowd simulation software for the Hun Army soldiers during the Huns’ attack sequence. Upon its 1998 release, Mulan grossed over $304 million over a $90 million budget at the box office as well as received positive reviews (it also swept the Annie Awards). However, Chicago Tribune critic Gene Siskel wasn’t pleased writing the film, “a big disappointment when compared with the studio’s other recent films about a female hero searching for independence.” He was further critical of Mulan’s characterization in comparison to Ariel and Belle and claimed the “design of the film does not take advantage of the inspiration provided by classic Chinese artists, and the songs are not memorable.” As someone who grew up with Mulan, I have to disagree, especially in regards to “Make a Man Out of You.” Also, today it holds a 92% Rotten Tomatoes rating for its exploration of themes such as strength, feminism, and gender roles. Yet, it didn’t do well in China with overall negative audience reception who accused Disney of westernizing the tale. Box office income was low due to an unfavorable release date and piracy. In this post, we’ll meet the people behind 5 more Hercules characters as well as the voices behind Mulan, Li Shang, Yao, Ling, and Chi-Fu.

231. Amanda Plummer

Dates: 1957-present

Early Life and Career: Born Amanda Michael Plummer in New York City. Father was Canadian actor and screen legend Christopher Plummer and American actress Tammy Grimes. Attended the elite Trinity School and graduated from the United Nations International School. Attended Middlebury College for 2 ½ years before studying acting at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as Phineas and Ferb and the Hercules video game.

Characters: Clotho

Also Known For: Actress known for her work on stage and film including Joe Versus the Volcano, The Fisher King, Pulp Fiction, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, and the third season of Star Trek: Picard. Film appearances include Cattle Annie and Little Britches, The World According to Garp, Daniel, The Hotel New Hampshire, Static, Made in Heaven, Freejack, So I Married an Axe Murderer, Needful Things, Pax, Butterfly Kiss, Nostradamus, The Final Cut, The Prophecy, Hysteria, L. A. Without a Map, You Can Thank Me Later, October 22, The Million Dollar Hotel, My Life Without Me, Satan’s Little Helper, Inconceivable, Red, The Making of Plus One, Vampire, Small Apartments, Abigail Harm, Reversion, The Dancer, We Are Boats, Spiral Farm, Night Raiders, and Showing Up. TV appearances include The ABC Afterschool Special, The Dollmaker, Moonlighting, The Equalizer, Miami Vice, Tales from the Crypt, HBO Storybook Musicals, L. A. Law, Kojak, The Hidden Room, The Outer Limits, Duckman, The Right to Remain Silent, Don’t Look Back, Under the Piano, The Apartment Complex, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Battlestar Galactica, WordGirl, Hannibal, The Blacklist, and Ratched. Stage appearances include A Month in the Country, A Taste of Honey, Agnes of God, The Glass Menagerie, Lee Harvey Oswald, A Lie of the Mind, You Can Never Tell, Pygmalion, Killer Joe, Lark, Summer and Smoke, The Two-Character Play, and The Night of the Iguana.

Personal Life: Granddaughter of artist Isabella Mary Abbott and stepdaughter of actress Elaine Taylor. Dated screenwriter and director Paul Chart during the late 1990s and lived together in Los Angeles.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Won a Tony and a Drama Desk Award for her 1982 performance in Agnes of God. Has won 3 Emmys and an Independent Spirit Award.

232. Paul Shaffer

Dates:1949-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Toronto and raised in Fort William, Ontario, Canada. Was raised in a Jewish family. Mother volunteered in local charities, donated to Hadassah Women’s Zionist Organization of America, and loved show tunes. Father was a lawyer and jazz afficionado. At 12, his parents took him on a trip to Las Vegas where they took in Nat King Cole and other shows, an experience that Shaffer has described as “life changing” and led to his decision to become a performer. Took piano lessons as a child and played organ in a band called Fabulous Fugitives with his schoolmates during his teenage years in Thunder Bay. Later performed with the Flash Landing Band at different venues around Edmonton and the interior of British Columbia. While attending the University of Toronto, he began playing with jazz guitarist Tisziji Munoz, performing in bands around the bars there, where he found an interest in musicals and completed his studies. Graduated with a degree in sociology in 1971. Began his music career in 1972 when invited by Stephen Schwartz to be the musical director in  the Toronto production of Godspell starring Victor Garber, Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Dave Thomas, and Andrea Martin.  Went on to play piano in the Schwartz Broadway show The Magic Show in 1974 and became a member of the house band on Saturday Night Live from 1975 until 1980. Began serving as musical director for David Letterman’s late night talk shows in 1982.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997)

Characters: Hermes

Also Known For: Canadian singer, keyboardist, actor, author, comedian, and musician who served as David Letterman’s musical director, band director, and sidekick on the entire run of Late Night with David Letterman and The Late Show with David Letterman. Has also served as musical director and producer for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony since its inception in 1986. Hosts the Musicians Hall of Fame Museum induction concert and ceremonies. Recorded music with a wide range of artists such as  Donald Fagen, Ronnie Wood, Grand Funk Railroad, Diana Ross, B.B. King, Asleep at the Wheel, Cyndi Lauper, Carl Perkins, Yoko Ono, Blues Traveler, Jeff Healey, Cher, Barry Manilow, Chicago, Luba, Robert Burns, George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Nina Hagen, Robert Plant, Peter Criss, Scandal, Brian Wilson, Warren Zevon, Miles Davis, Lew Soloff, Lou Marini and Earl Scruggs. Film appearances include North in Superior, Blues Brothers 2000, This Is Spinal Tap, Scrooged, Look Who’s Talking Too, and Small Talk About Sly. TV appearances include Saturday Night Live, A Year at the Top, Fats Domino and Friends, Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Happy New Year America, Cover Wars, The Concert for New York City, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, How I Met Your Mother, A Very Murray Christmas, Schitt’s Creek, and The Masked Singer.

Personal Life: Married to former Good Morning America talent booker Cathy Vasapoli since 1990. Has 2 children with her.

Later Life: Published his memoir We’ll Be Here for the Rest of Our Lives: A Swingin’ Show-biz Saga (co-authored by David Ritz) in 2009. Began hosting a monthly radio talk show called Paul Shaffer Plus One on Sirius XM and AXS TV in 2019. 

Trivia: Was musical director and producer for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. Was once considered for the role of George Costanza in Seinfeld. Received a star on the Canadian Walk of Fame in 2006. Has been a spokesman for Epilepsy Canada since 2002. In 2005, he made a major contribution to Lakehead University to dedicate the 5^th floor ATAC boardroom to his father, inaugural member of the board of governors. Is a member of Artists Against Racism. Inducted into the National Black Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2002 for his part in opening doors in the entertainment industry for African Americans. Inducted into the Order of Canada in 2007. In 2015, the Ride of Fame honored him with a double-decker bus in New York City to commemorate his long run as leader of the CBS Orchestra for the Late Show with David Letterman. A street in Ontario’s Thunder Bay is named Paul Shaffer Drive.

233. Keith David

Dates: 1956-present

Early Life and Career: Born Keith David Williams in Harlem and raised in Corona, Queens in New York City. Mother was a manager at New York Telephone. Father was a director of payroll operations. Decided to become an actor after playing the Cowardly Lion in a school production of The Wizard of Oz and attended Manhattan’s High School of the Performing Arts. Later attended the Julliard’s Drama Division and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1979. Toured with John Houseman’s The Acting Company from 1980-1981. Went to star as Childs in The Thing less than 2 years later, kicking off his lengthy on-screen career.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997), The Princess and the Frog (2009), and the live action Mufasa (2024) as well as various cartoon series, The Princess and the Frog video game, and the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom theme park attraction.

Characters: Apollo, Dr. Facilier, and Musego as well as Goliath in the series Gargoyles.

Also Known For: Actor known for his deep voice and screen presence in over 300 roles in film, stage, television, and interactive media. Film appearances include The Thing, Platoon, Road House, Men at Work, Final Analysis, The Quick and the Dead, Larger Than Life, Armageddon, Where the Heart Is, Novocaine, Head of State, Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Gamer, American Fiction, Coraline, Bird, Disco Godfather, Hot Pursuit (1987), Off Limits, Nails, The Puppet Masters, Dead Presidents, Loose Women, Never Met Picasso, There’s Something About Mary, Princess Mononoke, Requiem for a Dream, The Replacements, Barbershop, Kaena: The Prophecy, Agent Cody Banks, Hollywood Homicide, The Chronicles of Riddick, Crash, If I Had Known I Was a Genius, Delta Farce, First Sunday, My Mom’s New Boyfriend, All About Steve, Death at a Funeral (2010), Pastor Brown, Lottery Ticket, Chasing 3000, Chain Letter, Meet Monica Velour, Cloud Atlas, The Last Fall, Christmas in Compton, Free Birds, The Frog Kingdom, Field of Lost Shoes, Secrets of the Magic City, Birds of Paradise, The Nice Guys, Night School, Savage Dog, American Dresser, Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror, The Wedding Year, In Search of Darkness, The Getaway, Pups Alone, Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story, A Snow Day in Oakland, and Shelby Oaks. TV appearances include Community, Greenleaf, Jazz, The War, Muhammad Ali, Todd McFarlane’s Spawn, Adventure Time, Amphibia, Transformers: EarthSpark, Rick and Morty, Pluto, Hazbin Hotel, Hit-Monkey, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, The Equalizer, Ladykillers, Christmas in Tattertown, The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, American Playhouse, Fantastic Four, New York Undercover, Vanishing Point, Murder, She Wrote: South by Southwest, Don King: Only in America, The Tiger Woods Story, The Outer Limits, Law & Order, Going to California, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Spider-Man: The New Animated Series, Kingdom of David: The Saga of the Israelites, Justice League, Inside Mecca, The Big House, Teen Titans, Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson, City Confidential, Grey’s Anatomy, Everwood, ER, 7^th Heaven, Canterbury’s Law, World War II: Behind Closed Doors, Numb3rs, Psych, Funny or Die Presents, Ken Burns’ Baseball: The Tenth Inning, The Cape, Hawaii Five-0, Robot Chicken, The Bible, Once Upon a Time in Wonderland, Scorpion, Archer, Mr. Robot, Person of Interest, Kulipari, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ben 10, BoJack Horseman, We Bare Bears, The Flash, SpongeBob SquarePants, Fresh Off the Boat, Family Guy, NCIS: New Orleans, MacGyver, Black-Ish, Summer Camp Island, Central Park, Love Life, From Scratch, American Dad!, Firebuds, My Dad the Bounty Hunter, Krapopolis, Abbott Elementary, and High Potential. Video game appearances include Halo, Saints Row, Mass Effect, Dissidia Final Fantasy, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Destiny 2: the Final Shape, Fallout, Planetscape: Torment, Lords of EverQuest, Coraline, Megamind, Marvel Heroes, Darksiders: Genesis, Mortal Kombat 11, and Pocket Mortys. Stage appearances include The Lady from Dubuque, Romeo and Juliet, As You Like It, Macbeth, Jelly’s Last Jam, Hedda Gabler, Seven Guitars, Hot Feet, and Joe Turner’s Come and Gone.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Margit Edwards from 1990 to their divorce in 1999. They have a son. Second and current wife is Dionne Lea since 2001. They have 2 daughters.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Played Keith the Southwood Carpenter during the Neighborhood of Make-Believe segments of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood during the 1980s. Was nominated for a Tony Award in 1992. Has won 3 Emmy Awards.

234. Wayne Knight

Dates: 1955-present

Early Life and Career: Born in New York City. Family moved to Cartersville, Georgia where his father worked in the textile industry. Attended local schools and was a lineman on his high school’s football team. Attended the University of Georgia as an honors student but left one credit shy of completing his degree to pursue acting. And actually didn’t graduate until 2008. Received an internship at the Barter Theatre in Abington, Virginia, which produces repertory works. After completion, he joined the company and gained standing as an Equity Actor. Moved back to New York City and landed his first role on Broadway two years later and worked as a private investigator for 5 years after that.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997), Tarzan (1999), and Toy Story 2 (1999) as well as several series, the direct-to-video Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: The Adventure Begins, and the Toy Story 2 video game.

Characters: Demetrius, Tantor, and Al McWhiggan as well as Baron Von Sheldgoose in The Legend of the Three Caballeros.

Also Known For: Actor whose best known as Newman in Seinfeld, Officer Don Orville in 3^rd Rock from the Sun, Igor in Toonsylvania, Mr. Blik in Catscratch, Dennis Nedry in Jurassic Park, and The Elf Elder in Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon. Film appearances include Dead Again, JFK, Basic Instinct, To Die For, Space Jam, For Richer or Poorer, Rat Race, Dirty Dancing, Born on the Fourth of July, My Favorite Martian, Cheaper by the Dozen, Kung Fu Panda, Kung Fu Panda 3, Hail, Caesar!, Blindspotting, The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee, 12 Mighty Orphans, Back to the Outback, and Darby and the Dead. TV appearances include The Burning Bed, Mathnet, Square One TV, The Day After, The Edge, Fallen Angels, The Second Half, Golden Gate, Dilbert, That ‘70s Show, Becker, Midnight Spy: The Robert Hanssen Story, The Twilight Zone, Xiaolin Showdown, Gary the Rat, The Grim Adventures of Bill & Mandy, The Drew Carey Show, Listen Up, Justice League Unlimited, CSI: NY, Brandy & Mr. Whiskers, How I Met Your Mother, Tak and the Power of Juju, The Penguins of Madagascar, WordGirl, Woke Up Dead, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Nip/Tuck, The Super Hero Squad Show, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Hot in Cleveland, Bones, Torchwood, Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness, The Exes, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee, Narcos, The Young and the Restless, Stretch Armstrong and the Flex Fighters, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair, Harley Quinn, Robot Chicken, Infinity Train, Monster High, Them, and That 90’s Show. Video game appearances include NickToons: Attack of the Toybots, Jurrassic Park: The Game, The Penguins of Madagascar: Dr. Blowhole Returns – Again!, and Jurassic Park (pinball). Stage appearances include Gemini, Mastergate, Art, Sweet Charity, Measure for Pleasure, The Front Page, The Odd Couple, and Elf.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was makeup artist Paula Sutor from 1996 to their divorce in 2003. They held their wedding in Michael Richards’ house. Second and current wife is Clare de Chenu from 2006. They have a son named Liam.

Later Life: Currently lives in Toluca Lake, Los Angeles, where he’s resided for many years. Ahead of the 2020 Election, Knight appeared in an advertisement that examined “ethical breaches” of mail workers in the United States and the lack of government support they received during the Covid – 19 Pandemic under that fucking piece of shit Donald Trump. The ad was in support of the Democratic Party and anti-Trump.

Trivia: Was the first actor cast in Jurassic Park, which earned him a Saturn Award nomination.

235. Kathleen Freeman

Dates: 1923-2001

Early Life and Career: Born in Chicago, Illinois. Mother was a soprano Jessica Dixon who was known as “The Overseas Girl” at the end of World War I. Because she entertained American troops in England, France, and post-war Germany. Father was Frank Freeman known as “The Minstrel Man” since he headed Freeman’s Forty Minstrels in 1918. Freeman began her career at 2 by dancing in her parents’ vaudeville act. According to her, she eventually “got caught” at 10 and began to attend school. Attended the University of California at Los Angeles where she majored in music to be a pianist. Until she “got in a play and got a laugh.” After college, Freeman joined the Circle Players on Santa Monica Boulevard: “I became part of a theater group that came from ULCA, the Circle Players, which got to be at one point fairly internationally famous. And then we split off from that and started our own, Player’s Ring and Gallery Theater.” In 1948, actress and writer Peggy Webber saw Freeman on stage at the Circle Theatre and hired her for Webber’s local live TV series Treasures of Literature. Appeared in more than 50 productions of the California Artists Radio Theatre which records live performances of classic books and plays for KPCC, KPFK, NPR Playhouse, and National Public Radio. Also taught acting classes as well.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as series such as Duck Tales, The Magical World of Disney, and Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.

Characters: Heavyset Woman

Also Known For: Actress whose career spanned over 50 years of portraying acerbic maids, secretaries, teachers, busybodies, nurses, and battle-axe neighbors and relatives, almost invariably to comic effect. Best remembered for appearing in 12 Jerry Lewis comedies during the 1950s and 1960s and The Blues Brothers. Was Madame Xima in The Curse of Monkey Island video game. Film appearances include The Naked City, Mr. Belvedere Goes to College, No Man of Her Own (1950), The Secret Fury, House by the River, The Reformer and the Redhead, Once a Thief, Lonely Hearts Bandits, The Second Face, The Company She Keeps, A Place in the Sun, Appointment with Danger, Strictly Dishonorable, Come Fill the Cup, Let’s Make It Legal, The Wild Blue Yonder, The Greatest Show on Earth, Singin’ in the Rain, Talk About a Stranger, Love Is Better Than Ever, Skirts Ahoy!, O. Henry’s Full House, Monkey Business, The Prisoner of Zenda (1952), The Bad and the Beautiful, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, The Far Country, The Seven Year Itch, Artists and Models, Pawnee, Kiss Them for Me, The Missouri Traveller, The Fly (1958), Houseboat, The Buccaneer (1958), North to Alaska, Madison Avenue, The Ladies Man, The Errand Boy, The Nutty Professor (1963), Who’s Minding the Store?, Mail Order Bride, The Patsy, The Disorderly Orderly, The Rounders, That Funny Feeling, Marriage on the Rocks, Three on a Couch, Point Blank, Support Your Local Sheriff!, Death of a Gunfighter, Myra Breckinridge, The Norseman, Inside Out (1986), Dragnet (1987), Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland, FernGully: The Last Rainforest, Hocus Pocus, Blues Brothers 2000, Baby Geniuses, Joe Dirt, and Shrek. TV appearances include Fireside Theatre, Dragnet, Our Miss Brooks, Schlitz Playhouse, Cavalcade of America, Lux Video Theatre, The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, Matinee Theatre, Father Knows Best, Warner Bros. Presents, December Bride, Lassie, Wagon Train, Lux Playhouse, General Electric Theatre, 77 Sunset Strip, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Rawhide, Laramie, The Beverly Hillbillies, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Hogan’s Heroes, The Dick Van Dyke Show, Bonanza, Gomer Pyle U. S. M. C., The Mod Squad, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, Kojak, ABC Weekend Special, Police Woman, CHiPs, AfterMASH, Mama’s Family, The Facts of Life, Simon & Simon, Murphy Brown, ALF, Growing Pains, The Hogan Family, Mr. Belvedere, The Golden Girls, Tales from the Crypt, Beverly Hills 91210, Matlock, MacGyver, Doogie Houser M. D., Herman’s Head, Party of Five, Married…with Children, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, Roseanne, ER, Duckman, Coach, Home Improvement, Providence, Rugrats, Detention, Becker, Batman Beyond, and As Told by Ginger.

Personal Life: Never married. But when she died, newspapers did mention that she lived with a long-time companion Helen Ramsey whom she met in college. They referred to her as a “best friend.” However, I’m fairly sure that they were more than “best friends.”

Later Life: Died of lung cancer in 2001 at Lenox Hill Hospital at 78. Cremated and had her ashes interred at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

Trivia: Was nominated for a Theater World Award.

236. Ming-Na Wen

Dates: 1963-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Coloane, Macau, then a possession of the Portuguese. Mother moved there from Suzhou, China to escape Communism during the 1950s. Father is of Malaysian Chinese descent. Parents divorced during her infancy leading her to move with her mother and brother to Hong Kong. Attended Catholic school while her mother worked 3 jobs to support the family. That is, until her mother remarried a Chinese American which resulted in the family moving to New York City when she was 4 years old. 5 years later, they moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where her mother and stepfather operated the Chinatown Inn which is still in business. They resided in Mt. Lebanon where Wen attended Mt. Lebanon High School. Later went to Carnegie Mellon University as a theatre major where she graduated in 1986. First role on TV was as a royal trumpeter in a 1985 episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Movies and Cartoons: Mulan (1998) and Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) as well as a direct-to-video sequel, various series, and various video games.

Characters: Fa Mulan

Also Known For: Actress and model who’s best known as June Woo in The Joy Luck Club, Dr. Jing-Mei “Deb” Chen in ER, Agent Melinda May in Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D., Fennec Shand in The Mandalorian, Star Wars: The Bad Batch, and The Book of Boba Fett, Chun-Li in Street Fighter, Detective Ellen Yin in The Batman, and Camile Wray in Stargate Universe. Film appearances include Rain Without Thunder, Hong Kong 97, Terminal Voyage, One Night Stand, Final Fantasy: Spirits Within, Teddy Bears’ Picnic, Prom Night, Push, BoyBand, The Darkness, and Karate Kid: Legends.  TV appearances include Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, Another World, As the World Turns, All-American Girl, Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child, Todd McFarlane’s Spawn, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, Hollywood Squares, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Inconceivable, Robot Chicken, George Lopez, American Masters, Two and a Half Men, Private Practice, Boston Legal, Eureka, Adventure Time, Nashville, We Bare Bears, Fresh Off the Boat, Iron Chef America, Celebrity Family Feud, Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel Rising, Mao Mao: Heroes of Pure Heart, Awkwafina Is Norah from Queens, Yasuke, Young Sheldon, Hacks, Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai, Mech Cadets, Velma, Blue Eye Samurai, and Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft. Video game appearances include Street Fighter: The Movie and Lego Marvel’s Avengers.

Personal Life: Married twice. First to screenwriter Kirk Aanes from 1990 to their divorce in 1993. Second and currently to Eric Michael Zee since 1995. They have a daughter and a son. Daughter Michaela Zee voices Princess Jun in Sofia the First.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Named Disney Legend in 2019. Made cameo appearance in the live-action Mulan (2020). Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2023. Has won an Annie Award and a Saturn Award. Fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin.

237. B.D. Wong

Dates: 1960-present

Early Life and Career: Born Bradley Darryl Wong in San Francisco, California. Mother was a telephone company supervisor. Father was a postal worker. Attended Lincoln High School where he discovered his love of acting and starred as lead in numerous school plays. Later attended San Francisco State University during the 1970s where he was the only Asian American in the theater department and there were no roles for him. Gained widespread attention as a result of his Broadway debut in M. Butterfly opposite John Lithgow, which led him to win several awards including a Tony Award, a Drama Desk Award, an Outer Critics Circle Award, a Clarence Derwent Award, and Theatre World Award. And has gone down as the only Broadway actor in history to win all those awards for the same role.

Movies and Cartoons: Mulan (1998) as well as a direct-to-video sequel, series Kim Possible and Duck Tales, The Duck Tales World Showcase Adventure, and a few video games.

Characters: Captain Li Shang

Also Known For: Actor best known for his role as Song Liling in M. Butterfly, Whiterose in Robot Chicken, Howard Weinstein in Father of the Bride (1991), Dr. George Huang in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Father Ray Mukada in Oz, Dr. John Lee in Awake, Dr. Henry Wu in the Jurassic Park franchise, Hugo Strange in Gotham, and Ngapoi Ngawang Jigme in Seven Years in Tibet. Film appearances include The Karate Kid Part II, Family Business, The Freshman, Mystery Date, And the Band Played On, The Ref, Men of War, Executive Decision, The Salton Sea, Stay, Ira & Abby, White Fog, Focus, The Space Between Us, Bird Box, Blue’s Big City Adventure, Heart of Stone, and The Monkey King. TV appearances include Simon & Simon, Sesame Street, And the Band Played On, All-American Girl, ABC Afternoon Specials, Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child, The X-Files, Chicago Hope, Welcome to New York, Marco Polo, NCIS: New Orleans, Madam Secretary, Nurse Jackie, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, American Horror Story: Apocalypse, The Flash, Awkwafina Is Norah from Queens, and Gremlins. Video game appearances include Lego Jurassic World and Jurassic World Evolution.

Personal Life: Was in a long-term relationship with Richie Jackson from 1988 until 2004. They had twin sons via surrogacy in 2000 named Boaz Dov who died shortly after birth and Jackson Foo. Wrote a memoir about his experiences with surrogacy called Following Foo: The Electronic Adventures of the Chestnut Man. Co-parented Jackson with his ex-partner and his husband theater producer Jordan Roth. Has been with his current husband Richert John Frederickson since 2010 and whom he’s been married to since 2018.

Later Life: Donates his time and resources to a number of LGBT and arts-related charities such as Ali Forney Center, Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Materials for the Arts, and Rosie’s Theater Kids, of which he’s also a board member.

Trivia: Has been nominated for an Emmy and a Crtic’s Choice Award. Also received a GLAAD Media Award.

238. Harvey Fierstein

Dates: 1952-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn in New York City. Mother was a school librarian. Father was a handkerchief manufacturer. Family belonged to a Conservative Jewish temple. Was a soprano in a professional boy’s choir before hitting puberty. Graduated from the High School of Art and Design and received a BFA from the Pratt Institute from 1973. Began working in theater as a founding member of The Gallery Players of Park Slope before being cast in Andy Warhol’s only play Pork. Other early roles include a transvestite in his own Flatbush Tosca…a 300-year-old woman, Lillian Russell, and 26 other parts in Ronald Tavel’s My Fetus Lived on Amboy Street.” Also performed his own drag routine in Greenwich Village, including an impersonation of Ethel Merman singing, “You Can’t Get a Man with a Gun.” As one of  the first openly gay celebrities in the United States, Fierstein helped turn gay and lesbian life into a viable subject for contemporary drama “with no apologies and no climactic suicides.”

Movies and Cartoons: Mulan (1998) as well as a direct-to-video sequel, the series Hercules, and a few video games.

Characters: Yao

Also Known For: Actor, playwright and screenwriter known for his distinctly gravelly voice.  Film appearances include Independence Day, Mrs. Doubtfire, Garbo Talks, The Times of Harvey Milk, Torch Song Trilogy, Bullets Over Broadway, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1995), The Celluloid Closet, Elmo Saves Christmas, White Lies, Kull the Conqueror, Safe Men, Jump, Playing Mona Lisa, Death to Smoochy, Duplex, Animal Crackers, and Bros. TV appearances include Miami Vice, The Simpsons, ABC Afterschool Specials, Cheers, Murder, She Wrote, Daddy’s Girl, The Larry Sanders Show, Fame L.A., Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child, Ellen, Double Platinum, Common Ground, Behind the Music, Biography, Sesame Street, The Year Without a Santa Claus, Family Guy, How I Met Your Mother, The Good Wife, Nurse Jackie, Submissions Only, Smash, Watch What Happens with Andy Cohen, Saturday Night Live, Family Guy, The Wiz Live!, Hairspray Live!, BoJack Horseman, Big Mouth, and The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance. Stage appearances include Torch Song Trilogy, Hairspray, Fiddler on the Roof, A Catered Affair, La Cage aux Folles, The Little Mermaid: An Immersive Live-to-Film Concert Experience, and Guys and Dolls. Wrote the book for Torch Song Trilogy, La Cage aux Folles, Legs Diamond, A Catered Affair, Newsies, Kinky Boots, Casa Valentina, and Funny Girl.

Personal Life: Reportedly dated journalist Ted Casablanca from 1987 to 1992. Said his distinct gravelly voice is a result of an overdeveloped vestibular fold in his vocal chords, essentially giving him a “double voice” when he speaks.

Later Life: Has a history of alcohol abuse but stopped drinking after a suicide attempt in 1996. His book, I Was Better Last Night: A Memoir was released in 2022 and became an instant New York Times bestseller.

Trivia: Is Jewish but claims to pray 3-4 times a day despite not believing in God. Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016. Inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2007. Has won 4 Tony Awards, an Emmy Award, and 3 Drama Desk Awards.

239. Gedde Watanabe

Dates: 1955-present

Early Life and Career: Born Gary Watanabe in Ogden, Utah within a Japanese American family. Mother was a seamstress for the Utah Tailoring Company. Performed in several dramatic productions in high school, both acting and singing. After graduation, he moved to San Francisco where he worked as a street musician while honing his acting skills. First role was an original Broadway cast member of Pacific Overtures in 1976 where he originated the roles of the Priest, Girl, and Boy. Has played many roles with caricatured East Asians with heavy accents. Although he himself doesn’t speak Japanese.

Movies and Cartoons: Mulan (1998) as well as in a direct-to-video sequel, the series Kim Possible, and several video games.

Characters: Ling

Also Known For: Actor best known as Long Duk Dong in Sixteen Candles, Takahara “Kaz” Kazihiro in Gung Ho, Nurse Yosh Takata in ER. Film appearances include UHF, Volunteers, Gremlins 2: The New Batch, Boys on the Side, That Thing You Do!, Nick and Jane, Perfect Alibi, Armageddon, Guinevere, EDtv, Slackers, Alfie (2004), The Onion Movie, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Not Forgotten, Parental Guidance, 47 Ronin, The Last Word, Kung Fu Panda 4, and Ultraman: Rising. TV appearances include The New Adventures of Beans Baxter, Sesame Street, Grand, Murphy Brown, Newhart, Down Home, Pacific Station, Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child, Duckman, Mad About You, Seinfeld, The Simpsons, Rugrats, Home Improvement, Batman Beyond, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Jackie Chan Adventures, The Proud Family, What’s New, Scooby-Doo?, Whatever Happened to…Robot Jones?, Everwood, All Grown Up!, Family Guy, American Dad!, Bravest Warriors, Pickle and Peanut, Puppy Dog Pals, Perfect Harmony, Call Me Kat, and The Sex Lives of College Girls. Stage appearances include Pacific Overtures, Poor Little Lambs, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Pippin, La Cage aux Folles, and The Fantastiks.

Personal Life: I can’t find anything about his personal life.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

240. James Hong

Dates: 1929-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Chinese immigrant parents. Father was a restaurant owner from Hong Kong and leader of the Hip Sing Tong. Moved to Hong Kong for his education, residing in Kowloon before returning to the United States at 10. During his childhood, Hong was the only Asian student in a class of 500 kids as well as experienced racism and bullying as a result. Especially since his looks and limited English proficiency made him stand out as a foreigner. Graduated from Minneapolis Central High School. First developed his interest in acting after watching Peking opera performers at his father’s shop. Studied civil engineering at the University of Minnesota, where he concentrated most of his free time moving plates and fixing templates for the drill squad. He also joined the Minnesota National Guard with his studies interrupted when his unit was mobilized during the Korean War and sent to Camp Rucker, Alabama for training. Spent 18 months training there and Fort McClellan. Yet, after training time was over each day, Hong would entertain his fellow soldiers. After witnessing the young man’s performing prowess, the camp general asked Hong to stay and be in charge of the camp’s live shows than deploy overseas. Hong reflected on this experience stating how it may have saved his life: “I do not know if I would have liked to go to war in Korea but let’s admit it that with a G.I. cap and this face charging at the Korean army, the Koreans would try to kill me. But then if we were to retreat and I turned around and ran back the Americans would try to kill me too because they would think I am an enemy in disguise. I definitely think I would have been shot from one side and the other.” After the Korean War, Hong moved to Los Angeles with a friend, where he’d finish completing his degree at the University of California. He soon began working full time as a road engineer for Los Angeles County during the day, while acting during the evenings, weekends, as well as his vacation and sick days. After 5 ½ years, he eventually quit engineering for good, devoting himself to acting and voice work full time. Career in show business began in the last days of the Golden Age of Hollywood when he redubbed soundtracks to several Asian films. In 1954, he appeared on the radio and game show You Bet Your Life with Groucho Marx where he did a number of impressions, including one of Groucho himself. Hong and his partner won $140 in the quiz. Although they contested the $2000 prize, they didn’t win.

Movies and Cartoons: Mulan (1998) and Turning Red (2022) as well as the Disney Animated Storybook video game.

Characters: Chi-Fu and Mr. Gao

Also Known For: Actor, producer, and director who’s one of the most prolific character actors of all time and has worked in numerous productions since the Golden Age of Hollywood in the 1950s. Has played in over 600 film and television roles. Early in his career, he founded East West Players, the first Asian American theatre organization and the longest continuously running minority theatre in the US, to increase Asian representation in the industry. Roles include Daolon Wong in Jackie Chan Adventures, Professor Chang in Teen Titans, Mr. Ping in the Kung Fu Panda franchise, Zong Shi in Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans, Father Level Bests in Wendell & Wild, Bruce in the Seinfeld episode “The Chinese Restaurant,” and Gong Gong in Everything Everywhere All at Once. Film appearances include Soldier of Fortune, Flower Drum Song, The Sand Pebbles, Chinatown, The Two Jakes, The In-Laws, Airplane!, True Confessions, Blade Runner, Big Trouble in Little China, Wayne’s World 2, Balls of Fury, Safe, R. I. P. D., Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, Blood Alley, Godzilla, King of the Monsters!, Battle Hymn, The Seventh Sin, Blood and Steel, Never So Few, China Gate, The Human Vapor, One Spy Too Many, Destination Inner Space, The Bamboo Saucer, Colossus: The Forbin Project, The Hawaiians, Fearless Fighters, Dynamite Brothers, The Carey Treatment, Bound for Glory, The World’s Greatest Lover, Breathless (1983), Missing in Action, The Golden Child, China Girl, Black Widow (1987), Vice Versa, Hot to Trot, Tango & Cash, The Vineyard, Caged Fury, Bethune: The Making of a Hero, Talons of the Eagle, The Shadow, Bad Company, Tank Girl, Operation Dumbo Drop, Infinity, McHale’s Navy, The Art of War, The Biggest Fan, Forbidden Warrior, Adventures of Johnny Tao, The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008), Monkey King: Hero Is Back, Sherlock Gnomes, Abominable, and The Thundermans Return. TV appearances include The New Adventures of Charlie Chan, Hawaii Five-O, Bonanza, Perry Mason, The Man from U. N. C. L. E., I Spy, Kung Fu, TV Reader’s Digest, Fireside Theatre, Cavalcade of America, Crossroads, Sky King, NBC Matinee Theater, Four Star Playhouse, Tombstone Territory, General Electric Theater, Playhouse 90, Dragnet, The Californians, The Adventures of Rin-Tin-Tin, Cimarron City, Peter Gunn, Zorro, Bat Masterson, Death Valley Days, Johnny Ringo, Alcoa Presents One Step Beyond, Cheyenne, Have Gun – Will Travel, Checkmate, Wagon Train, The Outer Limits, The Fugitive, The Wackiest Ship in the Army, I Dream of Jeannie, The Donna Reed Show, Gomer Pyle U. S. M. C., CBS Playhouse, Family Affair, Mission: Impossible, All in the Family, The Bob Newhart Show, McMillan & Wife, S. W. A. T., Baretta, The Rockford Files, The Streets of San Francisco, Starsky & Hutch, Days of Our Lives, Wonder Woman, Maude, Charlie’s Angels, Taxi, Hart to Hart, Diff ‘rent Strokes, Fantasy Island, Soap, Dalls, The Dukes of Hazzard, St. Elsewhere, Dynasty, General Hospital, Falcon Crest, The A-Team, American Playhouse, Cagney & Lacey, Airwolf, Who’s the Boss?, McGyver, Magnum P. I., Miami Vice, The Equalizer, Doogie Houser M. D., Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Chicago Hope, Diagnosis: Murder, The X-Files, Home Improvement, Murphy Brown, Ellen, Friends, Dexter’s Laboratory, The Drew Carey Show, The Practice, The West Wing, Charmed, Alias, Malcolm in the Middle, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The King of Queens, Bones, Chuck, The Big Bang Theory, Archer, 2 Broke Girls, Key & Peele, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D., Star Wars Rebels, The Blacklist, Elementary, Star Wars: Visions, Cake, The Muppets Mayhem, American Born Chinese, Family Guy, and Gremlins. Video game appearances include Bruce Lee: Quest of the Dragon, True Crime: Streets of LA, Mercenaries: Playground of Destruction, Project Snowblind, True Crime: New York City, Def Jam: Icon, Alpha Protocol, Call of Duty: Black Ops, Diablo III, Sleeping Dogs, World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria, Marlow Briggs and the Mask of Death, Prey, and Judgement.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Pearl Huang from 1967 to their divorce in 1973. Second and current wife is Susan Tong since 1977. They have 3 daughters and 8 grandchildren.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2022 for his work in film and television and became the oldest person honored at 93. All thanks to actor Daniel Dae Kim’s GoFundme campaign. Has also won a Screen Actors Guild Award. Has possibly been in more movies than anyone in history. Established the Association of Asian Pacific American Actors and has served as its president.

Had the Disney followed the traditional mythology of Hercules, this next film would’ve been a very different movie. But definitely not one suitable for children since it’s a very messed up mythology. In the original mythology, Hercules is the son of Zeus and Alcmene while Hera’s basically his antagonist mainly because he’s her husband’s illegitimate son who just happens to exist. While he undertakes his 12 Labors to a jerkass king not because he wants to be a true hero. But as penance for Hera driving him homicidal against Megara and their children. As to Hades, well, he only appears when Hercules asks him to borrow Cerberus for his 12^th Labor to which Hades says, “As long as you don’t do anything to hurt him and bring him back when you’re done.” Of course, I don’t need to explain why Disney decided to go in the direction they did. With the result being a delightful romantic comedy with the Muses singing in Gospel and not a single unlikeable character in sight. Aside from maybe Nessus and Cyclops but they’re monsters. However, I have to attest that although Hercules may be the hero in this film, this movie belongs to Hades thanks to James Woods’ comedic performance. Although Hades was originally planned to be a much more conventional villain, Woods’ interpretation as “a Hollywood agent, car salesman type,” makes this Disney baddie truly unforgettable and impossible to hate. Still, while Hercules received positive reviews and even has a higher rating than its predecessor on Rotten Tomatoes, takes over its animation style and music were mixed. While it ultimately earned $252.7 million at the box office at its 1997 release as well as a legion of fans, which is good. But for a Disney movie during the 1990s, a little underwhelming. Also, the Greeks weren’t too thrilled with this movie. In this post, you’ll meet the voices behind Zeus, Hera, Amphytrion, Alcmene, 4 of the Muses, along with Pain and Panic.

221. Rip Torn

Dates: 1931-2019

Early Life and Career: Born Elmore Rual Torn Jr. in Temple, Texas. Father was an agriculturalist and economist who worked to promote the consumption of black-eyed peas, particularly as a custom on New Year’s Day. Nickname “Rip” came from a family tradition among the Torn men, having been used by his father, uncle, and a cousin. Graduated from Taylor High School in Taylor, Texas in 1948. Was a member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets. Although he graduated from the University of Texas, where he studied under Shakespearean professor B. Iden Payne and was a member of the Alpha Nu chapter of the Sigma Chi fraternity. After graduation, Torn served in the Korean War with the 2^nd Infantry Division with the US Army military police. After moving to Hollywood, he starred in the 1956 film Baby Doll. Studied at the Actors Studio in New York under Lee Strasberg, becoming a prolific stage actor.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as a few video games.

Characters: Zeus

Also Known For: Actor whose career spanned roughly 60 years. Best known roles are Marsh Turner in Cross Creek, Artie in The Larry Sanders Show, Judas Iscariot in King of Kings, Thomas J. Finley Jr. in Sweet Bird of Youth, Dr. Nathan Bryce in The Man Who Fell to Earth, Bob Diamond in Defending Your Life, Zed in the Men in Black franchise, Jim Brody in Freddy Got Fingered, Patches O’Houlihan in Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, Don Geiss in 30 Rock, and King Louis XV in Marie Antoinette. Film appearances include Baby Doll, A Face in the Crowd, Pork Chop Hill, The Cincinnati Kid, Tropic of Cancer, Maidstone, Slaughter, Payday, Birch Interval, Nasty Habits, Coma, One Trick Pony, The Private Files of J. Edgar Hoover, First Family, The Beastmaster, Airplane II: The Sequel, Flashpoint, City Heat, Summer Rental, Beer, Beautiful Dreamers, For Better or Worse, Dolly Dearest, Beyond the Law, Canadian Bacon, How to Make an American Quilt, Down Periscope, Trial and Error, Wonder Boys, Forty Shades of Blue, Love Object, Welcome to Mooseport, The Sisters, Zoom, Bee Movie, The Golden Boys, Happy Tears, The Afterlight, and The Legend of Awesomest Maximus. TV appearances include Alfred Hitchcock Presents, The Untouchables, Dr. Kildare, The Man from U. N. C. L. E., Rawhide, Bonanza, Mannix, The Naked City, The Blue and the Gray, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, The Atlanta Child Murders, Dream West, Laguna Heat, Sweet Bird of Youth, Columbo, Dead Ahead: The Exxon Valdez Disaster, Heaven and Hell: North and South Book III, Ghost Stories, Passing Glory, Balloon Farm, Will & Grace, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

Personal Life: First cousin of Sissy Spacek. Married 3 times. First wife was actress Anne Wedgeworth from 1956 to their divorce in 1961. They had a daughter Danae. Second wife was Geraldine Page from 1963 to her death in 1987. Had 3 children including actors Angelica Page and Tony Torn as well as Jon Torn who became an associate professor of electronic media and film at Northern Arizona University. Third wife was actress Amy Wright from 1989 until his death. They had 2 children, at least one of whom was born before they married and while Page was still alive. Which I think is very Zeus of him. Had 4 grandchildren by the time of his death. He also wasn’t a great guy to work with. While filming Maidenstone during the 1960s, he struck Norman Mailer in the head with a hammer. Mailer bit Torn’s ear and they wrestled to the ground until other cast and crew broke up the fight. It’s possible that Torn may have planned the scene since it was featured in the film. In 1994, he filed a defamation lawsuit against Dennis Hopper over a story Hopper told on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno where Torn pulled a knife on him during the pre-production of Easy Rider. According to Hopper, Torn was originally cast in the film but was replaced by Jack Nicholson because of the incident. But Torn claimed that Hopper pulled the knife on him. A trial court judge ruled in Torn’s favor and ordered Hopper to pay $475,000 in damages. But denied Torn’s request for punitive damages ruling that Hopper hadn’t acted with malice. Hopper appealed. In 1998, a California judged upheld the compensatory damages ruling as well as allowed Torn’s request for punitive damages, leading Hopper to pay $475,000 more.

Later Life: In 2010, Torn was arrested after breaking into a Litchfield Bancorp branch in Lakeville, Connecticut. He was charged with carrying a weapon without a permit, carrying a firearm while intoxicated, first-degree burglary, second-degree criminal trespassing, and third-degree criminal mischief. Connecticut State Police said Torn, who lived in Lakeville, broke into the bank thinking it was his home. In court, his attorney argued that Torn needed help with alcohol abuse and that he could start treatment in New York. Torn was released on $100,000 bail. As a condition for release, Torn was evaluated for substance abuse. That August, he was denied special probation, which would’ve cleared his name of all charges. The judge cited Torn’s history of alcohol abuse and the possession of a weapon while intoxicated, which carries a minimum of a one-year sentence. At the end of the year, Torn pleaded guilty to reckless endangerment, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, and possession of a firearm, and received a 2 ½ – year suspended jail sentence and 3 years’ probation. Died in 2019 from complications from Alzheimer’s Disease at his home in Lakeville, Connecticut at 88. He was buried in Poughkeepsie Rural Cemetery in Poughkeepsie, New York.

Trivia: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Cross Creek in 1983. Received 6 Emmy nominations for The Larry Sanders Show.

222. Samantha Eggar

Dates: 1939-2025

Early Life and Career: Born Victoria Louise Samantha Marie Elizabeth Therese Eggar in Hampstead, London, England. Father was a brigadier general in the British Army. Soon after her birth, her family moved to rural Bledlow, Buckinghampshire due to World War II, where she spent her childhood. Raised Roman Catholic and was educated at St. Mary’s Providence Convent in Working, Surrey. Eggar once said of her schooling, “The nuns didn’t have too much success with me – I’ve always had a violent temper. In fact, once I almost killed one of the nuns.” Began to go by Samantha at 16. Although she wanted to be an actress from a very young age, her parents urged her against a theater career. Was offered a scholarship at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts but studied fashion at the Thanet School of Art instead. After completing her studies, Eggar enrolled in the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her career began in several Shakespearean companies, notably playing Titania in a 1962 production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream directed by Tony Richardson. Also appeared on stage in a production of Douglas Seale’s Landscape with Figures where a talent scout noticed her. Made her first film that same year with Dr. Crippen. Moved to the United States in 1973.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as the Hercules TV series.

Characters: Hera

Also Known For: British-American actress best known as Emma Fairfax in Doctor Doolittle (1967) and Charlotte Devane in All My Children. Film appearances include Dr. Crippen, The Wild and the Willing, Return from the Ashes, The Collector, Walk, Don’t Run, The Molly Maguires, The Lady in the Car with the Glasses and the Gun, The Light at the Edge of the World, The Dead Are Alive, The Seven-Per-Cent Solution, The Uncanny, Welcome to Blood City, Why Shoot the Teacher?, The Brood, The Exterminator, The Hot Touch, Curtains, Love Among Thieves, Dark Horse, The Phantom, Everything to Gain, and The Astronaut’s Wife. TV appearances include The Saint, Anna and the King, Love Story, Columbo, Starsky and Hutch, Fantasy Island, Hawaii Five-O, The Love Boat, Hart to Hart, Murder, She Wrote, Magnum P. I., Tales of the Unexpected, Star Trek: The Next Generation, The Legend of Prince Valiant, L. A. Law, and Commander in Chief. Stage appearances include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, The Seagull, and Auntie Mame.

Personal Life: Married to actor Tom Stern from 1964 to their divorce in 1971. They had 2 children: a son named Tom who became a producer and a daughter named Jenna who became an actress.

Later Life: Held dual UK and US citizenship. Retired from acting in 2012 and resided in Los Angeles until her death at 86 in 2025.

Trivia: Has won a prize at the Cannes Film Festival, Golden Globe, and a Sant Jordi Award as well as received an Academy Award nomination.

223. Lillias White

Dates: 1951-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Brooklyn, New York City. Made her Broadway debut in Barnum in 1981. That same year, she understudied for the role of Effie White in the original production of Dreamgirls and later played her in the 1987 revival.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as the direct-to-video Hercules: Zero to Hero and the series Hercules and Mickey Mouse Funhouse.

Characters: Calliope

Also Known For: Actress and singer best known for her performances in Broadway musicals. Best known roles include Sonja in The Life, Funmilalyo in Fela!, Evette in Pieces of April, Fat Annie in The Get Down, and Bloody Mary in South Pacific. Is also an active cabaret singer who’s appeared in concert with the Boston Pops Orchestra, the Boston Philharmonic, and at Carnegie Hall. Film appearances include Me and Him, North, Bleeding Hearts, Anastasia (1997), Gloria, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Interview with the Assassin, Game 6, Then She Found Me, Nasty Baby, The Chaperone, and The Drummer. TV appearances include Sesame Street, The Jury, Gotham, Person of Interest, Russian Doll, Search Party, and Grotesquerie.

Personal Life: Has a son named Mwambu and a daughter named Jamilah.

Later Life: During a 2022 production of Hadestown, White twice reprimanded an audience member from the stage for recording. Yet, she was unaware that the person was disabled and was in fact using a captioning device to understand the musical’s dialogue. Theater and production issued official apologies, affirming their commitments to accessibility, and offered a complimentary ticket to the audience member in question in order to make up for the incident. White didn’t comment on the incident herself. While the audience member has taken to social media to urge users not to harass her, as White’s social media profiles had been flooded with ageist and racist insults in response to the matter.

Trivia: Has won a Tony, an Obie, and a Drama Desk Award.

224. LaChanze

Dates: 1961-present

Early Life and Career: Born Rhonda LaChanze Sapp in St. Augustine, Florida. Got her stage name from her grandmother which is Creole for “charmed one.” Family later moved to Connecticut where her childhood love of singing and dancing cause her mother to enroll her in the Bowen Peters Cultural Arts Center in New Haven. There she discovered her art of performing. At Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport, LaChanze made her debut as Lola in a school production of Damn Yankees. After graduating high school, La Chanze studied drama at Baltimore’s Morgan State University before transferring to Philadelphia’s University of the Arts where she studied theater and dance. First summer job was as a tap dancer in the ensemble of Uptown…It’s Hot! at the Tropicana Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Show later opened on Broadway in 1986 where LaChanze began her professional career in theater.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as 2 direct-to-video installments, the series Hercules, and a video game. Was also a featured artist on the album Disney’s Princess Favorites.

Characters: Terpsichore

Also Known For: Actress, singer, and dancer who won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2006 as Celia Harris Johnson in The Color Purple. Film appearances include My New Gun, Leap of Faith, For Love or Money, Heartbreak Hospital, Breaking Upwards, The Help, Side Effects, Diane, Birth/Rebirth, and Genie. TV appearances include The Cosby Show, Sex and the City, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, One Life to Live, Person of Interest, The Village, The Good Fight, The Underground Railroad, East New York, and Gossip Girl. Stage appearances include Uptown…It’s Hot!, Dreamgirls, Once on This Island, Company, Ragtime, Out of This World, The Vagina Monologues, Funny Girl, Dessa Rose, The Wiz, If/Then, Cabin in the Sky, Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, The Secret Life of Bees, A Christmas Carol, and Trouble in Mind.

Personal Life: Married twice. First husband was securities trader Calvin Gooding from 1998 until Gooding’s untimely death during the 9/11 attacks where he was working at Cantor Fitzgerald in Tower One of the World Trade Center. Had 2 daughters including actress and singer Celia Rose and Zaya born a month after her father’s death. Second husband was artist and educator Derek Fordjour from 2005 until their divorce in 2014.

Later Life: Became a Broadway producer in 2022, launching Tima Productions with fellow actress Marylee Fairbanks. In 2024, she launched a multimedia company called LC Productions.

Trivia: Has won 4 Tony Awards. In 2002, she sang the National Anthem at a joint meeting of Congress in Federal Hall Memorial, the first congressional meeting in New York since 1790. Also sang “Amazing Grace” at the dedication of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in 2014, dedicating her performance to her late husband. Also she and her daughter appeared simultaneously on Broadway in 2019.

225. Roz Ryan

Dates: 1951-present

Early Life and Career: Born Rosalyn Bowen in Detroit, Michigan. Father worked for the local Board of Education. Graduated from Mackenzie High School in 1969. Worked as a nightclub singer for 13 years before a friend suggested that she audition for the Fats Waller revue Ain’t Misbehavin.’ Her audition was successful and she was on stage 10 days later. Continued to star in numerous Broadway musicals, including the Tony Award-winning Chicago, for which she holds the longest tenure for the character of Matron “Mama” Morton.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as the direct-to-video Hercules: Zero to Hero, various series, and a couple of video games.

Characters: Thalia

Also Known For: Actress, singer, and comedian who’s worked for productions in film, television, and Broadway theatre for over 40 years. Film appearances include Went to Coney Island on a Mission from God…Be Back by Five, I Think I Love My Wife, Divine Intervention, Whatever Lola Wants, Steppin: The Movie, The Invention of Lying, Waiting for Forever, and Hello, My Name Is Doris. TV appearances include Amen, Sparks, Good News, Beyond Belief: Fact or Fiction, The Journey of Allen Strange, Danny, All About the Andersons, Half & Half, JAG, Barbershop, The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack, The Looney Tunes Show, Adventure Time, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, General Hospital, Bee and PuppyCat, Teen Titans Go!, Mighty Magiswords, Summer Camp Island, and That Girl Lay Lay. Video Game appearances include Tonic Trouble and Multiversus. Stage appearances include Ain’t Misbehavin,’ Dreamgirls, Chicago, One Mo’ Time, The Pajama Game, Scandalous: The Life and Trials of Aimee Semple McPherson.

Personal Life: Married and divorced to a guy named Lance. Said to have a son named Dante with him.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

226. Vaneese Thomas

Dates: 1952-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Memphis. Attended Swarthmore College where she was part of the gospel choir. Enjoyed some success during the late 1980s, with her solo releases made on the Geffen label. Her self-titled debut album spawned a couple of top 20 R&B hit singles in “Let’s Talk It Over,” featuring a saxophone solo by Najee and “(I Wanna Get) Close to You.” However, follow up release didn’t sustain her earlier success levels. So she switched to working as a backup singer appearing on many recordings made by other musicians.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997)

Characters: Clio

Also Known For: Jazz, R&B, and soul singer best known for her 1987 hit single, “Let’s Talk It Over.”  Yet, in more recent times, she supplied backing vocals on a long list of other musicians’ work. Her session duties include working alongside artists like Lenny White, Bob James, Carl Anderson, Freddie Jackson, Beau Williams, Melba Moore, Joe Cocker, Sarah Dash, Luciano Pavarotti, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Eric Clapton, Carly Simon, and Dr. John. Work has also included record producing, supervising vocal arrangements, and songwriting duties. Material has been recorded by Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson, Larry Coryell, and Diana Ross with “One Shining Moment” that was a Top 10 UK single. Film appearances include Anastasia, The Mighty Aphrodite, and The First Wives Club. Also appeared in Shining Time Station.

Personal Life: Younger sister of musician Marvell and singer Carla Thomas. Lives in Westchester County, New York with her husband Wayne Warnecke.

Later Life: Once taught school in France when she lived there for a time. Also most recently taught at the City College of New York.

Trivia: None.

227. Bobcat Goldthwait

Dates: 1962-present

Early Life and Career: Born Robert Francis Goldthwait in Syracuse, New York. Mother worked in a department store. Father was a sheet metal worker. Decided on a career as a comedian from a very young age, inspired by enjoying making his friends laugh. During his time at St. Matthew’s Grammar School, he’d regularly host performances for his friends. He’d also experiment with new content and develop a strong liking for props. Graduated from Bishop Grimes Junior/Senior High School. Golthwait and Tom Kenny then formed a comedy troupe called The Generic Comics and adopting the monikers “Bobcat” and “Tomcat” after seeing an ad for an open-mic night at the Snakeateles that featured comedian Barry Crimmins under the name “Bear Cat.” He also co-wrote with Martin Olson, who’s listed as a writer in his first 2 comedy specials. When he embarked on a solo stand-up career, Goldthwait became known for combining elements of political satire with often bizarre or unsettling black humor. All delivered through an energetic stage persona with an unusual raspy and high-pitched voice.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as a couple direct-to-video installments and several series.

Characters: Pain

Also Known For: Comedian, actor, director, and screenwriter who’s known for his black comedy stand-up act and who came to prominence with his stand up specials: An Evening with Bobcat Goldthwait, Share the Warmth and Bob Goldthwait, and Is He Like That All the Time?. Best known roles are Zed in the Police Academy franchise, Eliot Loudermilk in Scrooged, and Pop Fizz in the Skylanders video game franchise. Film appearances include Massive Retaliation, Twisted Sister: Come Out and Play, One Crazy Summer, Burglar, Hot to Trot, Tapeheads, Cranium Command, Meet the Hollowheads, Little Vegas, Shakes the Clown, Freaked, Radioland Murders, Destiny Turns on the Radio, Back to Back, Sweethearts, Dog’s Best Friend, Rusty: A Dog’s Tale, Lion of Oz, G-Men from Hell, Blow, Hansel and Gretel, Grind, A Halfway House Christmas, Sleeping Dogs Lie, World’s Greatest Dad, and Henchmen. TV appearances include Tales from the Crypt, Married…with Children, The Golden Palace, Capitol Critters, Are You Afraid of the Dark?, Herman’s Head, Eek! The Cat, The Moxy Show, Duckman, Space Ghost Coast to Coast, ER, Beavis and Butt-Head, Unhappily Ever After, Living Single, The Tick, Mad TV, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Hollywood Squares, The Simpsons, The Army Show, Penn & Teller’s Sin City Spectacular, Strip Mall, The Man Show, Crank Yankers, That ‘70s Show, Chapelle’s Show, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Windy City Heat, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Random! Cartoons, Back at the Barnyard, Important Things with Demetri Martin, Fish Hooks, Randy Cunningham: 9^th Grade Ninja, Adventure Time, Regular Show, Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Maron, Bob’s Burgers, Patton Oswalt: Tragedy Plus Comedy Equals Time, Community, Those Who Can’t, Summer Camp Island, AJ and the Queen, DC Super Hero Girls, and The Patrick Star Show.  

Personal Life: Married 3 times. First wife was Amy Luly from 1986 to their divorce in 1998. Was engaged to actress Nikki Cox from 1997 until 2005. Second wife was Sara Sa Rego from 2009 to their divorce in 2014. Third and current wife is actress and director Pollyanna McIntosh since 2024. Has 2 children. Also hasn’t drank alcohol or used drugs since he was 19.

Later Life: Has been a regular panelist on the radio quiz show Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me! Since 2012.

Trivia: Childhood friends with Tom Kenny. Was best man at Robin Williams’ 3^rd wedding.

228. Matt Frewer

Dates: 1958-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Washington D.C. to Canadian parents. Father was a Royal Canadian Navy officer. Raised in Peterborough, Ontario where he graduated from Lakefield College School. Went on to train at the British Old Vic Theatre School, graduating from its 3-year acting course in 1980.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as the direct-to-video Hercules: Zero to Hero, various series, and a few video games.

Characters: Panic as well as Jackal in Gargoyles.

Also Known For: Canadian-American actor and comedian best known for portraying Max Headroom in the 1985 TV film and the 1987 TV series. Other roles include Russell Thompson Sr. in Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, Jobe Smith in Lawnmower Man 2: Beyond Cyberspace, Sherlock Holmes in The Sign of Four (2001), Frank in Dawn of the Dead, Moloch in Watchmen, Mitch in 50/50, Archibald Stanley in Night at the Museum: Secrets of the Tomb, Dr. Mike Stratford in Doctor Doctor, Bob in Shaky Ground, Trashcan in The Stand, Matt Prager in Psi Factor: Chronicles of the Paranormal, Dr. Jim Taggart in Eureka, Dr. Leekie in Orphan Black, General #2 in The BFG, Carnage in Altered Carbon, Logan in Fear the Walking Dead, Binder in The Magicians, Peter Morton in The Order, Inspector 47 in The Magic School Bus, The Pink Panther in The Pink Panther animated series, Lloyd Christmas in the Dumb and Dumber animated series, and Dedgar Deadman in Toonsylvania. Film appearances include The Lords of Discipline, The Crimson Permanent Assurance, Spies Like Us, The Fourth Protocol, Supergirl, Ishtar, Speed Zone, Far from Home, Short Time, Return to Moon Junction, National Lampoon’s Senior Trip, Cyberworld, A Home at the End of the World, Going the Distance, Geraldine’s Bullet, Weirdsville, Rampage, Darfur, Frankie and Alice, Foreverland, and Pixels. TV appearances include The First Olympics: Athens 1896, Robin of Sherwood, St. Elsewhere, Miami Vice, Sesame Street, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Tiny Toon Adventures, Batman: The Animated Series, Bonkers, In Search of Dr. Seuss, American Playhouse, The Incredible Hulk, Iron Man, Bruno the Kid, The Outer Limits, Apollo 11, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Quicksilver Highway, Dead Man’s Gun, DaVinci’s Inquest, The Hound of the Baskervilles, The Royal Scandal, The Case of the Whitechapel Vampire, Masters of Horror, How I Met Your Mother, The Librarians, Olympus, Castlevania, The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair, and Perry Mason.

Personal Life: Married to British actress Amanda Hillwood since 1984 and has a daughter.

Later Life: He and his wife bought a house in Marina del Ray, California in 1989.

Trivia: None.

229. Hal Holbrook

Dates: 1925-2021

Early Life and Career: Born Harold Rowe Holbrook Jr. in Cleveland, Ohio. Mother was a vaudeville dancer. When he was 2, his parents abandoned him and his 2 older sisters. They were raised by their paternal grandparents in Weymouth, Massachusetts and later the Cleveland suburb of Lakewood, Ohio. Graduated from the Culver Military Academy and then from Denison University, where an honors project of Mark Twain led him to develop the one-man show that he’s best known for, a series of performances called Mark Twain Tonight!. Also studied acting at HB Studio in New York City. Served in the US Army during World War II from 1942 until 1946, achieving the rank of staff sergeant while stationed in Newfoundland. There, he performed in theater productions such as the play Lady Precious Stream. First solo performance as Mark Twain was at what is now Lock Haven University in Pennsylvania in 1954. Ed Sullivan saw Holbrook and gave him his first national exposure on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1956. Was also a member of the Valley Players from 1941-1962, a summer stock theater company based in Holyoke, Massachusetts which performed at Mountain Park Casino Playhouse at Mountain Park. Joined the Lambs Club in 1955 where he began developing his one-man show. Was a cast member for several years and performed Mark Twain Tonight! as the 1957 season opener. The State Department even sent him on a European tour, which included pioneering appearances behind the Iron Curtain. Continued to play Twain for over 60 years, only retiring the show in 2017 due to failing health.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) and Planes: Fire and Rescue (2014) as well as Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color.

Characters: Amphitryon and Mayday

Also Known For: Actor who first received critical acclaim in 1954 for a one-man stage show that he developed called Mark Twain Tonight! while at Denison University, which won him a Tony for Best Actor in a Play in 1966. Gained international fame for his portrayal of Deep Throat in All the President’s Men. Also played President Abraham Lincoln in the 1974 miniseries Lincoln and the 1985 miniseries North and South. Other roles include Ron Franz in Into the Wild, Abner Meecham in The Evening Sun, and Francis Preston Blair in Stephen Spielberg’s Lincoln. Film appearances include The Group, Magnum Force, Julia, Capricorn One, The Fog, Creepshow, Wall Street, The Firm, Men of Honor, Wild in the Streets, Jonathan Livingston Seagull, The Brotherhood, The Girl from Petrovka, Midway, The Kidnapping of the President, Girls Nite Out, The Star Chamber, The Unholy, Fletch Lives, Carried Away, Cats Don’t Dance, Eye of God, Hush, Judas Kiss, Rusty: A Dog’s Tale, Waking the Dead, The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus, The Majestic, Purpose, Country Music: The Spirit of America, Flying Lessons, Promised Land, Holbrook/Twain: An American Odyssey, Water for Elephants, Savannah, and Blackway. TV appearances include The Brighter Day, Mr. Citizen, The Glass Menagerie, Coronet Blue, The F.B.I., The Name of the Game, That Certain Summer, Pueblo, Great Performances, 33 Hours in the Life of God, Our Town, The Awakening Land, Murder by Natural Causes, The Legend of the Golden Gun, George Washington, The Three Wishes of Billy Grier, Designing Women, Plaza Suite, The Fortunate Pilgrim, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Emma: Queen of the South Seas, A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Lethal Lifestyle, A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Grimacing Governor, A Perry Mason Mystery: The Case of the Jealous Jokester, Operation Delta Force, The Outer Limits, The West Wing, Becker, Hope & Faith, The Sopranos, NCIS, ER, Sons of Anarchy, Monday Mornings, Rectify, Bones, Grey’s Anatomy, and Hawaii Five-O.

Personal Life: Married 3 times. First wife was Newfoundlander Ruby Elaine Johnston from 1945 until their divorce in 1965. They had 2 children. Second wife was Carol Eve Rossen from 1966 until their divorce in 1983. They had one child. Third wife was actress and singer Dixie Carter from 1984 until her death from endometrial cancer in 2010. Had a home in McLemoresville, Tennessee that he said had the feel of Mark Twain’s Hartford, Connecticut home and there was no other place to which he felt so ideally suited. Also had a residence in Beverly Hills.

Later Life: Memoir Harold: The Boy Who Became Mark Twain was published in 2011 by Farrar, Straus, and Giroux. In 2016, Holbrook wrote a letter to The New York Times defending director Nate Parker over his alleged 1999 rape of a woman and Parker’s controversial film The Birth of a Nation (2016). He urged readers to “move on” from Parker’s past and see the movie, which was “an exceptional piece of artistry and a vital portrait of our American experience.” Retired from acting in 2017 due to failing health. Died in 2021 in his Beverly Hills home at 95. No cause was made public. Buried in McLemoresville Cemetery next to his wife, Dixie Carter.

Trivia: Was honored with a National Humanities Medal by George W. Bush in 2003. Has won a Tony and 5 Primetime Emmy Awards as well as been nominated for an Academy Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award. Carter’s hometown of McLemoresville, Tennessee built the Dixie Theatre for Performing Arts in nearby Huntington, which features the Mark Twain Auditorium.

230. Barbara Barrie

Dates: 1931-present

Early Life and Career: Born Barbara Ann Berman in Chicago, Illinois but raised in Corpus Christi, Texas. Graduated from Corpus Christi High School in 1948. Briefly attended Del Mar College as a journalism major before transferring to The University of Texas at Austin where she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Drama in 1952. During her time at UT-Austin, she received 2 scholarships, including the Kappa Kappa Gamma Donna Dellinger annual scholarship for Most Outstanding Junior in the Drama Department as well as awards for specific performances, such as the Atlas Award from the Globe Theatre in San Diego for “Best Female Performance for 1950–51” based on her role in the California Theatre’s summer production of Much Ado About Nothing as Beatrice. Made her Broadway debut in 1955.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as the Hercules TV series.

Characters: Alcmene

Also Known For: Actress and author. Breakthrough role was Julie in the 1964 film One Potato, Two Potato for which she won the Best Actress Award at the Cannes Film Festival. Best known roles include Evelyn Stohler in Breaking Away, Elizabeth Miller in Barney Miller, and Sarah in Company. Film appearances include Giant, The Caretaker, Summer of My German Soldier, The Bell Jar, Private Benjamin, End of the Line, Real Men, Judy Berlin, 30 Days, Second Best, The Six Wives of Henry LeFay, and Twelve Thirty. TV appearances include Pond’s Theater, Kraft Television Theatre, Playwrights ’56, Robert Montgomery Presents, Play of the Week, Armstrong Circle Theatre, The United States Steel Hour, Route 66, The Untouchables, Dr. Kildare, The Virginian, The Twilight Zone, Alcoa Premiere, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, The Defenders, The Fugitive, Ben Casey, Rawhide, Bob Hope Presents the Chrysler Theatre, Play for Today, The ABC Afternoon Playbreak, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, McMillan & Wife, 79 Park Avenue, Lou Grant, Roots: The Next Generations, American Playhouse, Trapper John M. D., Double Trouble, Family Ties, Law & Order, ABC Afterschool Special, CBS Schoolbreak Special, Suddenly Susan, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Dead Like Me, Pushing Daisies, Surviving Suburbia, Army Wives, and Enlightened. Has written 4 books including Lone Star, Adam ZigZag, Second Act, and Don’t Die of Embarrassment.

Personal Life: Married to actor, director, and producer Jay Malcolm Harnick from 1964 until his death in 2007. Had 2 children including a daughter named Jane Caroline in 1965 and a son named Aaron Louis in 1969. Harnick founded Theatreworks USA and was brother of Tony Award-winning musical lyricist Sheldon Harnick.

Later Life: Was successfully treated for colorectal cancer in 1994. In 2014, Barrie announced that she had been diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, which is incurable. She lives in New York City.

Trivia: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1979 and an Emmy Award in 1981. Also nominated for a Tony in 1971.

              Based on the novel by Victor Hugo, Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame is far from a faithful adaptation. But it’s an excellent one whose 80% rating on Rotten Tomatoes doesn’t quite do it justice and a reflection that it doesn’t receive the kind of attention that it richly deserves as Disney’s most underrated masterpiece. Unlike other Disney movies, The Hunchback of Notre Dame tackles mature themes such as infanticide, lust, racism, genocide, damnation, sin, religion, as well as that of a loving and forgiving God and does it so masterfully in ways that both seem relatable and that surpass many adult films. While its music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz is nothing short of breathtaking that it’s hard to believe Disney has never made a Broadway musical based on this film. When the movie came out in France in 1997, French critics and audience found resonance in the film which recounted a real-life incident from August 1995 when French police raided a Parisian church and seized over 200 undocumented immigrants seeking refuge from deportation under France’s strict expulsion laws. With one reviewer stating, “It is difficult not to think of the undocumented immigrants of St. Bernard when Frollo tries to sweep out the rabble.” In the United States with the prominence of Trumpism and all the evils having Donald Trump president has unleashed amongst the American populace, The Hunchback of Notre Dame’s relevance has never diminished since its 1996 release. In fact, watch it today and doesn’t feel like it has aged a bit. Judge Claude Frollo’s perhaps one of Disney’s greatest villains whose religious conviction and arrogance make him uniquely terrifying and very real. Especially in how he treats Quasimodo like absolute shit that you have to wonder how he could grow up to become such a sweetheart who can release a baby bird from the palm of his hands. And even though Quasimodo is essentially a saint, he still felt very upset when he finds out that Esmeralda prefers Phoebus over him as a romantic prospect. But he still did right by her anyway and still respected her choice after he sees that Phoebus is a good guy. And let’s just say, we can always use a guy like him. For what makes a monster and what makes a man? In this post, we’ll meet voice actors Rodger Bumpass, Jess Harnell, Jeff Bennett, Paul Eiding, the voices behind Victor and the Oafish Guard, and 4 characters from Hercules, which I’ll discuss in the next post.

211. Charles Kimbrough

Dates: 1936-2023

Early Life and Career: Born in St. Paul, Minnesota. Studied theater and drama at Indiana University Bloomington in 1958 and earned a Masters of Fine Arts degree at Yale University School of Drama. During the 1960s and the 1970s, Kimbrough and his first wife Mary Jane Wilson were part of the resident Repertory Theatre. Made his first film in 1976.

Movies and Cartoons: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996) and Recess: School’s Out as well as a direct-to-video sequel, the series Buzz Lightyear of Star Command: The Adventure Begins and Hercules, and several video games.

Characters: Victor and Mort Chalk

Also Known For: Actor best known as the straight-faced anchor Jim Dial in Murphy Brown. Film appearances include The Front, The Sentinel, The Seduction of Joe Tynan, Starting Over, It’s My Turn, Switching Channels, Whisper of the Heart, The Wedding Planner, and Marci X. TV appearances include Kojak, Great Performances, Tales of the Unexpected, Spenser: For Hire, Another World, Hothouse, Dinosaurs, Mighty Max, Pinky and the Brain, The Love Boat: The Next Wave, Family Guy, The Angry Beavers, Batman Beyond, Ally McBeal, and The Zeta Project.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was actress Mary Jane Wilson from 1961 to their divorce in 1991. Had a son named John who founded, sang, and played guitar for the St. Paul-based alternative rock band Walt Mink. Second wife was actress and onetime Company castmate Beth Howland who’s best known as Very Louise Gorman-Novak from Alice. They were married from 2002 until her death from lung cancer in 2015. Her death wasn’t announced until 2016.

Later Life: Retired from acting in 2018. Died in Culver City, California in 2023 at 86.

Trivia: Has been nominated for a Tony and a Primetime Emmy. Appeared in a Chef Boyardee spaghetti and meatballs commercial in 1976 and 1977.

212. Bill Fagerbakke

Dates: 1957-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Fontana, California. Moved to Rupert, Idaho in his youth where he graduated from Minico High School in 1975 where he was a 3-sport athlete for the Spartans in football, basketball, and track. Although he had multiple scholarship offers for college football, he decided to stay in state and attended The University of Idaho in Moscow where he was a defensive lineman for the Vandals and was ticketed to redshirt in 1976. But was called to action during his sophomore season. Although they had a winning season and coach Ed Troxel considered moving him to offensive line, a knee injury in 1977 but a spring drill knee injury ended his athletic career. First theatrical role was in Godspell. Was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1981. Later attended graduate school at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. Made his screen debut in Coach in 1984.

Movies and Cartoons: The Hunchback of Notre Dame as well as its Disney Storybook video game, a couple of direct-to-video installments, and several series.

Characters: Oafish Guard

Also Known For: Actor best known as Patrick Star in SpongeBob SquarePants, Michael “Dauber” Dybinski in Coach, and Marvin in How I Met Your Mother. Film appearances include Perfect Strangers, Porco Rosso, The Secret of My Success, Funny Farm, Under Wraps, Ken Park, Quigley, Finding Amanda, Space Buddies, Halloween II, Jennifer’s Body, The Artist, Rosewood Lane, and The Babymakers. TV appearances include The Stand, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Oz, Weeds, Growing Up Fisher, Black-ish, Mom, I’m Dying Up Here, Unbelievable, Young Sheldon, Dynasty, Beethoven, Aaah!!! The Real Monsters, Dumb and Dumber, Jumanji, The Wild Thornberrys, Roughnecks: The Starship Troopers Chronicles, Batman Beyond, Lloyd in Space, Jackie Chan Adventures, The Grim Adventures of Bill & Mandy, A.T.O.M., Family Guy, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Transformers Animated, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Sym-Bionic Titan, Young Justice, Handy Manny, Robot and Monster, Wander Over Yonder, All Hail King Julien, American Dad!, and Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz.

Personal Life: Has been married to actress Catherine McClenahan since 1989 until their legal separation in 2012. They have 2 daughters.

Later Life:

Trivia: Has been nominated for a Screen Actors Guild Award for The Artist (as ensemble).

213. Rodger Bumpass

Dates: 1951-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Little Rock, Arkansas. Parents owned a dry cleaning business. As a child, he idolized Mel Blanc and would do impressions of Looney Tunes and other cartoon characters. Also memorized comedy albums by Jonathan Winters and Bill Cosby and was inspired by Tim Conway’s physical comedy. Attended Little Rock Central High School where he received his initial theater training. Majored in radio-TV and minored in theater at Arkansas State University. Worked at the campus radio station and at Jonesboro’s ABC affiliated station KAIT-TV, where he had multiple duties as announcer, film processor, cameraman, audio technician, and technical director. While at KAIT, wrote, produced, and performed in a late-night comedy show called Mid-Century Nonsense Festival Featuring Kumquat Theater. Graduated from Arkansas State in 1976 and when encouraged by a professor to enter professional theater, he moved to New York in 1977. Has been voicing and acting in films since the 1960s as well as appeared on stage from the mid-1970s to the late 1980s. Was involved in National Lampoon during the 1970s.

Movies and Cartoons: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), A Bug’s Life (1998), Doug’s 1^st Movie (1999), Toy Story 2 (1999), Tarzan (1999), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Treasure Planet (2002), Lilo & Stitch (2002), Brother Bear (2003), The Incredibles (2004), Cars (2006), and Monsters University (2013) as well as various direct-to-video installments and series.

Characters: Frollo’s Soldiers, Man Pointing at Young Hercules, Harry Mosquito, Clerk, Elephant #2, David, Male Villager #8, Male Villager #1, Chief of Watch Mr. Hickenbottom, CDA, News Anchor, Turnbuckle, Police Robot #1, Man, Male Bear #2, Mr. Incredible’s Lawyer, Claude Scruggs, and Jerry Jablonski

Also Known For: Actor best known as Squidward Tentacles in SpongeBob SquarePants. Has also voiced other characters on the show as well including a purple doctor fish and various anchovies. Also voiced The Chief in Where on Earth Is Carmen Sandiego?, Professor Membrane in Invader Zim, and Mr. Besser in The Kids from Room 402. Film appearances include Escape from New York, The Running Man, Bio-Dome, Heavy Metal, Porco Rosso, Theodore Rex, Quest for Camelot, The Iron Giant, Titan A.E., Spirited Away, Osmosis Jones, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, Ice Age: The Meltdown, Kung-Fu Magoo, and Seal Team. TV appearances include Disco Beaver from Outer Space, Wizards and Warriors, Silk Stalkings, Just Desserts, Santa Jr., Alvin and the Chipmunks, The Jetsons, Mighty Mouse: The New Adventures, Ring Raiders, The Real Ghostbusters, Tiny Toon Adventures, Toxic Crusaders, Raw Toonage, Batman: The Animated Series, Bonkers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Angry Beavers, CatDog, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, Monster Farm, Rugrats, Batman Beyond, Time Squad, The Zeta Project, Teen Titans, ChalkZone, Random! Cartoons, We Bare Bears, and Mixels. Video game appearances include Sacrifice, Blood Omen 2, Command & Conquer: Renegade, Ratchet & Clank: Going Commando, X-Men Legends, Teen Titans, Buzz!: The Mega Quiz, and Lego DC Super-Villains.

Personal Life: Married to Angel VanZandt since 2019 whom he met in high school 50 years prior. Not sure what their story is.

Later Life: In 2016, Bumpass was arrested for an alleged DUI in Burbank, California. Police report of the incident alleged that Burbank Police Department officers found Bumpass in a car within the middle of the road, allegedly leaning against the vehicle. When officers approached him for questioning, Bumpass attempted to walk away and lost his balance (nearly falling to the ground). Bumpass later admitted to drinking and driving after leaving a Burbank bar before the police spotted him and he was soon handcuffed after failing a sobriety test. His blood alcohol levels were said to be twice the legal limit and he was later released on a $15,000 bail the next morning. TMZ first reported this incident several days after it occurred. Bumpass later told the website that the Burbank police had lied about the DUI report. He claimed that he wasn’t leaning against the car when officers spotted him and that officers had pulled him over before arresting him. Though he again confessed to the DUI charges. Anyway, Nickelodeon knew about the incident, but said that Bumpass would remain on SpongeBob SquarePants for the foreseeable future.

Trivia: Received a Daytime Emmy nomination for his role as Squidward Tentacles.

214.  Jess Harnell

Dates: 1963-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Englewood, New Jersey. Raised in Teaneck. Father was jazz composer Joe Harnell.

Movies and Cartoons:  The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), A Bug’s Life (1998), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000), Lilo & Stitch (2002), Finding Nemo (2003), WALL-E (2008), Up (2009), Toy Story 3 (2010), Wreck-It-Ralph (2012), Monsters University (2013) as well as various the live action The Country Bears, direct-to-video installments, series, video games, and theme park attractions.

Characters: Frollo’s Soldiers, Bus Beetle, Guard, Hawaiian Man, Seagulls, Axiom Passenger #9, Nurse AJ, Army Man, Don, Fraternity Brother, and MU Security Monster

Also Known For: Voice actor best known as Wakko Warner in Animaniacs, Captain Hero in Drawn Together, Jerry in Totally Spies!, Ironside in the Transfomers film franchise, Crash Bandicoot in the Crash Bandicoot franchise, Tosh Gopher in The Looney Tunes Show, and Wooton Basset in Adventures in Odyssey. Announcer for America’s Funniest Home Videos since 1989. Has also been the lead vocalist in the pop/metal mashup rock bands Rock Sugar and Loud & Clear. Film appearances include Pom Poko, Casper, Quest for Camelot, Lion of Oz, Max Keeble’s Big Move, Little Nicky, Tom and Jerry: The Magic Ring, Scooby-Doo, Clifford’s Really Big Movie, Racing Stripes, Ice Age: The Meltdown, The Wild, Tales from Earthsea, Underdog, Horton Hears a Who!, Dragon Hunters, Igor, Mr. Peabody & Sherman, Norm of the North, The Secret Life of Pets, Deep, and History of Swear Words. TV appearances include Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Bonkers, 2 Stupid Dogs, Tiny Toon Spring Break Special, Empty Nest, What a Cartoon, Freakazoid!, Cow and Chicken, Fantastic Four, Road Rovers, The Spootacular New Adventures of Casper, I Am Weasel, The Weird Al Show, Rugrats, The Wild Thornberrys, The Secret Files of the Spy Dogs, The Simpsons, The Drew Carey Show, Horrible Histories, ChalkZone, Clifford: The Big Red Dog, The Powderpuff Girls, Dexter’s Laboratory, Duck Dodgers, Clifford’s Puppy Days, The Fairly OddParents, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Higglytown Heroes, Pet Alien, The Replacements, The Land Before Time, Ben 10, Chowder, Foster’s House of Imaginary Friends, The Super Hero Squad Show, The Cleveland Show,  Rick and Morty, TripTank, The Loud House, Blaze and the Monster Machines, Big Mouth, Dorothy and the Wizard of Oz, Pickle and Peanut, Life in Pieces, DC’s Legends of Tomorrow, Scooby-Doo and Guess Who?, and Megamind Rules!. Video game appearances include Quest for Glory IV: Shadows of Darkness, Clay Fighter 63 1/3, Bugs Bunny: Lost in Time, NASCAR Rumble, Star Wars Episode  I:  Jedi Power Battles, Escape from  Monkey Island, Star Wars: Obi-Wan, Evil Dead: A Fistful of Boomstick, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, Spyro: A Hero’s Tail, The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie’s Revenge, Crash Team Tag Racing, Over the Hedge, Shrek the Third, Surf’s Up, Biker Mice from Mars, Ratchet & Clank Future: A Crack in Time, The Secret Saturdays: Beasts of the 5^th Sun, Skylanders: Swap Force, Heroes of the Storm, and Sea of Thieves.

Personal Life: Proposed to his longtime girlfriend Cara Leanne in 2019 and have been married since later that year.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

215. Jeff Bennett

Dates: 1962-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Houston, Texas. Got his acting training on stage at its Alley Theatre before moving to California with his family in 1990.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Return to Neverland (2002), Enchanted (2007), Bolt (2008), Planes (2013), and Chip n’ Dale: Rescue Rangers (2020) as well as several direct-to-video installments, series, and video games.

Characters: Zazu (singing), Frollo’s Soldiers, Smee, Pirate Crew, Pip, Lloyd, and Lumiere

Also Known For: Prominent voice actor best known as Johnny Bravo, Dexter and DeeDee’s Dad in Dexter’s Laboratory, Ace, Grubber, and Big Billy in The Powderpuff Girls, Brooklyn in Gargoyles, Peter Puppy in Earthworm Jim, Dr. Jacques von Hämsterviel in Lilo & Stitch: The Series, Clay Bailey in Xiaolin Showdown, Petrie in The Land Before Time franchise, The Man with the Yellow Hat in Curious George, and Kowalski in the Penguins of Madagascar series. Is listed among the top names in the voice-over field. Film appearances include Batman: The Mask of Phantasm, Mortal Kombat: The Journey Begins, Siegfried & Roy: Masters of the Impossible, James and the Giant Peach, Mighty Ducks the Movie: The First Face-Off, Tweety’s High-Flying Adventure, The Powderpuff Girls Movie, Looney Tunes: Back in Action, Asterix and the Vikings, Queer Duck: The Movie, TMNT, Dead Space: Downfall, Dr. Dolittle Million Dollar Mutts, Gaturro, Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore, Kung Fu Magoo, Foodfight!, Khumba, Kiki’s Delivery Service, My Neighbors the Yamadas, Porco Rosso, Nausicaa and the Valley of the Wind, Whisper of the Heart, Tales from Earthsea, Afro Samurai, and Turbo. TV appearances include Where’s Waldo?, James Bond Jr., The Legend of Prince Valiant, Raw Toonage, Tiny Toon Adventures, The Plucky Duck Show, Batman: The Animated Series, Wild West C.O.W. Boys of Moo Mesa, 2 Stupid Dogs, Animaniacs, Rugrats, The Schnookums and Meat Funny Cartoon Show, The Tick, The Ren & Stimpy Show, The Savage Dragon, Freakazoid!, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, Pinky and the Brain, The Sylvester & Tweet Mysteries, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, Superman: The Animated Series, Mighty Ducks, The New Batman Adventures, Nightmare Ned, The Wild Thornberrys, Histeria!, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, Batman Beyond, Detention, Static Shock, The Zeta Project, Samurai Jack, Teamo Supremo, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, The Mummy, Time Squad, ChalkZone, Duck Dodgers, Xiaolin Showdown, The Grim Adventures of Bill & Mandy, Dave the Barbarian, The Batman, Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, American Dad!, Teen Titans, The Life and Times of Juniper Lee, Camp Lazlo, Justice League Unlimited, Loonatics Unleashed, The Replacements, El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera, Higglytown Heroes, Tak and the Power of Juju, Transformers: Animated, Chowder, Back at the Barnyard, Random Cartoons, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Ben 10: Alien Force, The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack, The Secret Saturdays, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, Fanboy & Chum Chum, Generator Rex, Hero Factory, Kick Buttowski: Suburban Daredevil, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, Pound Puppies, Regular Show, Adventure Time, Young Justice, The Looney Tunes Show, Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness, Robot and Monster, Motorcity, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Transformers: Rescue Bots, The Fairly OddParents, Teen Titans Go!, Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H., Wander Over Yonder, All Hail King Julien, SpongeBob SquarePants, The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show, Guardians of the Galaxy, Lego Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures, The Loud House, Bunsen Is a Beast, Puppy Dog Pals, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie, Kung Fu Panda: The Paws of Destiny, Voltron: Legendary Defender, The Stinky & Dirty Show, Scooby Doo and Guess Who?, Dreamworks Dragons: Rescue Riders, Green Eggs and Ham, Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts, The Ghost and Molly McGee, Pretzel and the Puppies, X-Men ’97, and Jellystone!. Video game appearances include Leisure Suit Larry 6: Shape Up or Ship Out!, Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers, Quest for Glory IV: Shadoes of Darkness, Stonekeep, Goosebumps: Escape from Horrorland, Toonstruck, Fallout, The Lost Vikings 2, Animaniacs Game Pack, Baldur’s Gate, The Powderpuff Girls: Chemical X-Traction, X-Squad, Star Wars: Force Commander, Escape from Monkey Island, Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader, Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds, Star Wars: Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast, Stupid Invaders, The Powderpuff Girls: Relish Rampage, Star Wars: Jedi Starfighter, Star Wars: Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Mayhem, Samurai Jack: The Shadow of Aku, The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning, Cartoon Network Racing, Cartoon Network Universe: FusionFall, Ghostbusters: The Video Game, Ben 10 Ultimate Alien Force: Vilgax Attacks, Crash Bandicoot Nitro Kart 2, Star Wars: The Old Republic, The Penguins of Madagascar: Dr. Blowhole Returns – Again!, Young Justice: Legacy, and SpongeBob HeroPants.

Personal Life: Married to Susan E. Welby since 1988. Has a daughter born in 1998.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Has won an Annie and a Daytime Emmy.

216. Paul Eiding

Dates: 1957-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Cleveland, Ohio. Was inspired to become an actor while serving in the US Army’s 3^rd Infantry Division in Wurzburg, Germany. During this time, he joined a performing group called the Marne Glee Club. Despite being among the group’s youngest G.I.s, Eiding was soon promoted to a directing position due to his musical background. The group performed across Germany, Belgium, Denmark, and France for soldier and civilian audiences. During the 1970s, he was a prolific commercial actor, appearing in advertisements for snowmobiles, granola bars, department stores, and clothing. He also worked for theater groups across the Midwest including Dudley Riggs’ Brave New Workshop in Minneapolis. Later moved to Wausau, Wisconsin where he led a number of workshops and was a guest director for its community theater production of the comedy-mystery What the Butler Saw in 1980. Was an actor and director for the Chanhausen Dinner Theater in Minneapolis. In 1981, Eiding hosted the Twin Cities’ first award ceremony for distinguished achievement in local theater, which was held at the Children’s Theatre Company. Made his screen debut in 1978.

Movies and Cartoons: The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Mulan (1998), A Bug’s Life (1998), Tarzan (1999), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Treasure Planet (2002), Finding Nemo (2003), Brother Bear (2003), Home on the Range (2004), The Incredibles (2004), Chicken Little (2005), Cars (2006), WALL-E (2008), Up (2009), Monsters University (2013), and Incredibles 2 (2018) as well as a couple of direct-to-video installments.

Characters: Frollo’s Soldiers, Ping Soldier #2, Male Ants, Larry, Loop Group, Sergeant, Frank, Interviewee #2, Verne, Grey Fish, Inuit Tribe Member #1, Buck, Metroville Man, Bear #1, Haul Inngas, Sage Vanderspin, Axiom Passenger #12, Horrified Dog, Clive Carver, and Gus Burns/Reflux

Also Known For: Actor best known as Colonel Roy Campbell in the Metal Gear series, Perceptor in The Transformers, and Max Tennyson in the Ben 10 franchise. Film appearances include F.I.S.T., The Personals, Madhouse, American Zombie, The Submarine Kid, Adventures in Dinosaur City, Once Upon a Forest, Porco Rosso, Cats Don’t Dance, Quest for Camelot, Antz, Prince of Egypt, The Iron Giant, Chicken Run, Spirited Away, Shrek, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, The Polar Express, Madagascar, Curious George, Flushed Away, and Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs. TV appearances include Cheers, Empty Nest, Star Trek: The Next Generation, ER, The West Wing, CSI: Miami, My Name Is Earl, Sky Commanders, Fantastic Max, Toxic Crusaders, Batman: The Animated Series, Animaniacs,  Daisy-Head Mayzie, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, The Tick, Cow and Chicken, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Amphibia, and The Loud House. Video game appearances include Math Blaster Episode I: In Search of Spot, Diablo, StarCraft, Evil Zone, Battle Zone II: Combat Commander, Sword of the Berserk: Guts’ Rage, Sacrifice, Orphen: Scion of Sorcery, Tenchu 2: Birth of Stealth Assassins, Escape from Monkey Island, Grandia II, Eternal Darkness: Sanity’s Requiem, EOE: Eve of Extinction, Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne, Syphon Filter: The Omega Strain, Onimusha 3, God of War, Jade Empire, Samurai Western, Total Overdose, Dirge of Cerberus: Final Fantasy VII, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, Chili Con Carnage, Ratchet & Clank Future: Tools of Destruction, Guild Wars: Eye of the North, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Ninja Gaiden II, Condemned 2: Bloodshot, Fallout 3, Lost: Via Domus, Too Human, Rise of the Argonauts, Fusion Fall, Avatar: The Game, Dead to Rights: Retribution, No More Heroes 2: Desperate Struggle, Resistance 3, Spec Ops: The Line, Doom 3: BFG Edition, Call of Juarez: Gunslinger, Code Name: S.T.E.A.M., and Shin Megami Tensei V.

Personal Life: Married to Colleen Kelly. They have 2 children.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

217. Tate Donovan

Dates: 1963-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Tenafly, New Jersey as the youngest of 6 kids. Father was a surgeon. Attended Dwight-Englewood High School in Englewood, New Jersey before transferring to Tenafly High School. Attended the University of Southern California. Has appeared on television since his teenage years.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as some TV series, a few direct-to-video installments, and several video games.

Characters: Hercules

Also Known For: Actor, comedian, and television director best known as Tom Shayles in Damages, Jimmy Cooper in The O.C., Brian Sanders in Hostages, White House Chief of Staff Mark Bourdeau in 24: Live Another Day, and Joshua Burgin in Friends. Film appearances include Love Potion No. 9, Goodnight, and Good Luck, Argo, SpaceCamp, Clean and Sober, Memphis Belle, Inside Monkey Zetterland, Ethan Frome, Holy Matrimony, Murder at 1600, Waiting for Woody, October 22, G-Men from Hell, Swordfish, The Pacifier, Nancy Drew, Wild About Harry, Sunbelt Express, Manchester by the Sea, Elvis & Nixon, The Only Living Boy in New York, 3 Generations, Rocketman, Worth, Respect, Ghosted, and The Holdovers. TV appearances include Family Ties, Hill Street Blues, Magnum P.I., Tales from the Crypt, Homicide: Life on the Street, Ally McBeal, Trinity, Godzilla: The Series, The Outer Limits, Max Steel, The Guardian, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, The Cleaner, Deception, No Ordinary Family, Masters of Sex, Elementary, Limitless, The Man in the High Castle, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, MacGyver, and FBI. Directed episodes of The O.C., Medium, Nip/Tuck, Damages, Weeds, The Good Guys, Gossip Girl, Glee, Weeds, Madam Secretary, and The Fosters.

Personal Life: Had relationships with Sandra Bullock and Jenifer Aniston during the 1990s. Married twice. First wife was Corinne Kingsbury from 2005 to their divorce in 2008. Second and current wife is Corry Scheuerman since 2015.

Later Life: As of 2011, he voices radio and radio advertising for PNC Bank and volunteers with the Young Storytellers Program.

Trivia: Has been nominated for an Emmy and an Independent Spirit Award. Had a regular gig with traditional Irish band the MacGuffins, with whom he released an album Wake Amusements where he plays the fiddle and the bodhran. Worked as producer for 30 for 30 Shorts.

218. Josh Keaton

Dates: 1979-present

Early Life and Career: Born Joshua Luis Wiener in Hacienda Heights, Los Angeles. Dad is from New York City and Jewish. Mom is from Lima, Peru and Catholic. Fluent in Spanish and English as well as knows some Quecha from his maternal grandparents. As a baby, he appeared in an OshKosh B’gosh commercial and was in a 1990s boy band called No Authority.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as a some video games and the series Elena of Avalor.

Characters: Young Hercules

Also Known For: Actor known for his many voice roles such as Takashi “Shiro” Shirogane in Voltron: Legendary Defender, Spider-Man in various media in addition to Electro in the video game Marvel’s Spider-Man, Jack Darby in Transformers: Prime, Ryu Hyabusa in the console versions of Ninja Gaiden, Revolver Ocelot in Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, King Anduin in the MMORPG World of Warcraft, and Tyler in Pokemon Concierge. Film appearances include The Wild, Winx Club: The Secret of the Lost Kingdom, Winx Club 3D: Magical Adventure, The Laws of the Universe, Birds of a Feather, All I Want for Christmas, Newsies, Judge and Jury, Infinity, Just Write, The Souler Opposite, Chimera House, and Suzume. TV appearances include New Kids on the Block, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, Snoopy’s Reunion, Peter Pan and the Pirates, Batman: The Animated Series, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, Bratz, Ben 10, The Spectacular Spider-Man, The Super Hero Squad Show, Winx Club, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Scooby-Doo! Spooky Games, Young Justice, Hero Factory, Doc McStuffins, The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show, DC Super Hero Girls, Kulipari, Justice League Action, Ant-Man, Guardians of the Galaxy, The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants, What If…?, Arcane, Tales of the Jedi, Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, Invincible, X-Men ’97, Boy Meets World, Sister, Sister, Saved by the Bell: The New Class, The Secret World of Alex Mack, Chicago Hope, Baywatch, General Hospital, Touched by an Angel, The Young and the Restless, ER, Will & Grace, Bones, Scorpion, and Ranma ½. Video game appearances include Onimusha 3: Demon Siege, Area 51, Psychonauts, X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse, Naruto: Clash of Ninja 2, Age of Empires III: War Chiefs, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, Lost Planet: Extreme Condition, God of War II, Spider-Man 3, Spider-Man: Friend or Foe, No More Heroes, Cloudy with the Chance of Meatballs, Leisure Suit Larry: Box Office Bust, Marvel Super Hero Squad, Jak and Dexter: The Lost Frontier, Star Craft II: Wings of Liberty, Splatterhouse, Spider-Man: Edge of Time, Skylanders: Spyro’s Adventure, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Knack, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, Lego Batman 3: Beyond Gotham, Battlefield Hardline, Infinite Crisis, Lego Jurassic World, Mad Max, Lego Dimensions, King’s Quest, World of Final Fantasy, Star Ocean: Integrity and Faithlessness, Horizon Zero Dawn, Prey, Death Standing, Horizon Forbidden West, Apex Legends Mobile, Star Trek: Resurgence, Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth, Batman: Arkham Shadow, and Marvel Rivals.

Personal Life: Married to Elizabeth Melendez since 2009. They have 2 children.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

219. James Woods

Dates: 1947-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Vernal, Utah. Father was a US Army intelligence officer who died in 1960 after a routine surgery. His mother ran a pre-school after his father’s death and later remarried. Grew up in Warwick, Rhode Island where he graduated from Pilgrim High School in 1965. Attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology with aspirations to become an eye surgeon but dropped out after one semester before graduating to pursue an acting career. Although he was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity and the student theater group Dramashop where he acted and directed a number of plays. Appeared in 36 plays before debuting on Broadway in 1969. Made his first film during the 1970s.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) and Recess: School’s Out (2001) as well as the direct-to-video Mickey’s House of Villains, the TV series Hercules and House of Mouse along with several video games.

Characters: Hades and Dr. Phillium Benedict

Also Known For: Prominent character actor who’s appeared in over 130 films and television series within a career that’s spanned over 50 years. Did voice work for a few video games in the Grand Theft Auto franchise. Film appearances include The Visitors, The Way We Were, Night Moves, The Onion Field, Ghosts of Mississippi, Videodrome, Once Upon a Time in America, The Hard Way, Chaplin, Nixon, Casino, Contact, Vampires, Another Day in Paradise, Any Given Sunday, The Virgin Suicides, Stuart Little 2, Surf’s Up, The Black Marble, Cat’s Eye, Salvador, Straight Talk, Diggstown, Citizen Cohn, John Q., White House Down, Jobs, Riding in Cars with Boys, Northfork, Straw Dogs, and Bling. TV appearances include Promise, My Name Is Bill W., Citizen Cohn, Too Big to Fail, Shark, Ray Donovan, Family Guy, The Simpsons, Kojak, The Rockford Files, Welcome Back, Kotter, The Streets of San Francisco, Police Story, Family, Holocaust, The Disappearance of Aimee, The Incredible Journey of Doctor Meg Laurel, Young Maverick, In Love and War, Saturday Night Live, Fallen Angels, Indictment: The McMartin Trial, The Summer of Ben Tyler, Rudy: The Rudy Giuliani Story, ER, Entourage, Coma, and Justice League Action. Stage appearances include The Borstal Boy, The Trial of the Catonsville Nine, and Moonchildren.

Personal Life: Married 3 times. First wife was costume designer Kathryn Pahoa from 1980 to their divorce in 1983. Second wife was then 26-year-old equestrian and boutique owner Sarah Owen in 1989 but they divorced 4 months later. Third and current wife is Sara Miller whom I’m reasonably sure is probably much younger than him. He also dated actress Heather Graham in 1992.

Later Life: Was involved in a car accident in 2015 while driving through Glenwood Canyon, a speeding driver lost control and crashed into 5 other cars. He swerved his Jeep Grand Cherokee to avoid an accident and collided with a retaining wall. But slid backwards into a guardrail 100 feet above the Colorado River. Got away with a concussion. Has frequently been notorious for expressing his conservative political views on Twitter and has been locked out several times for violating its terms of service. At one point, he did turn his Twitter to a bulletin board for missing California wildfire evacuees that saved lives as well as reunited missing loved ones with their pets and families. However, he claimed that the Gersh Agency dropped him for his political views. Yet, in 2022, the University of Washington’s Center for Informed Public and the Krebs Stamos Group found Woods was the top purveyor of election misinformation on Twitter during the late months of 2020. Journalist Matt Taibbi reported that the Democratic National Committee requested a tweet made by Woods related to Hunter Biden, be removed from his account. While critics of Woods defended Twitter’s decision by pointing out that he posted images of Hunter Biden’s private family jewels to his account. Now his posts strongly criticizing Hamas are reasonable during the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel as well as his criticism of President Biden for failing to do more to secure the release of the 12 American hostages that Hamas abducted to the Gaza Strip during the Israel-Hamas War hostage crisis. However, in November 2023, he advocated against a ceasefire and further called for the killing of all Palestinian activists with the hashtag “#KillThemAll.” He’s also condemned the 2024 pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses for fomenting anti-Semitism and showing support for Hamas, which is just complete and hateful bullshit on his part. Because those protests are more about supporting a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas War and pressuring the Israeli government to stop committing war crimes and enacting oppressive policies against the Palestinian people, which can amount to systemic apartheid at best or genocide at worst. Criticizing the Israeli government’s inexcusable treatment of the Palestinian people within its borders doesn’t make one any more anti-Semite or supporting Hamas any more than criticizing Utah’s state government makes one anti-Mormon. He’s also faced allegations of sexual misconduct from onetime co-star Sean Young for stalking her and overreacting after she spurned his advances after they appeared together in The Boost, which resulted in a lawsuit which led to Woods having to pay Young $227,000. Another allegation came in 2017 when actress Amber Tamblyn accused Woods of inviting her to Las Vegas when she was underage which Woods has dismissed as a lie.

Trivia: Has won 3 Emmys and a Golden Globe. Nominated for 2 Academy Awards and 3 Screen Actors Guild Awards. Is an avid video game and poker player.

220. Susan Egan

Dates: 1970-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Seal Beach, California. Attended Los Alamitos High School and co-located Orange County High School of the Arts and UCLA. Spent much of her childhood taking dance, concentrating on ballet, as well as trained as a figure skater from 5 to 10. During her high school and college years, Egan started her career in community theaters and civic light operas. While attending UCLA, she took time when Tommy Tune cast her in his touring production of Bye Bye Birdie. After that, she was cast in State Fair and won the coveted role of Belle in the original Broadway cast of Beauty and the Beast.

Movies and Cartoons: Hercules (1997) as well as some direct-to-video installments, the series Hercules, and a few video games.

Characters: Megara “Meg”

Also Known For: Actress, singer, and dancer best known for her work on the Broadway stage. Best known roles are Rose Quartz in Steven Universe, Madame Gina in Porco Rosso, and Lina in Spirited Away. Film appearances include Man of the Century, XCU: Extreme Closeup, Revolution OS, 13 Going on 30, and Achmed Saves America. TV appearances include The Drew Carey Show, Nikki, NYPD Blue, Numb3rs, Haunted, House, Modern Family, Amphibia, and The Simpsons. Stage appearances include Bye Bye Birdie, State Fair, Triumph of Love, South Pacific, Cabaret, Putting It Together, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Chess. Has also performed in one-woman, cabaret-style concerts at venues across the United States, has headlined with more than 60 symphonies, and has appeared at the Hollywood Bowl 5 times.

Personal Life: Married to Robert Hartman since 2005. Has 2 daughters with him.

Later Life: Currently produces live stage productions with 2 companies she manages: roadway Princess Party, LLC and 10th & Main Productions. Many shows that she produces are in partnership with Disney Concerts and include such titles as Disney Princess – The Concert and Walt Disney Animation Studios – The Concert. Currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee.

Trivia: Originated the role of Belle in the Broadway version of Beauty and the Beast for which she was nominated for a Tony and a Drama Desk Award.

1995 would prove to be a monumental year for Disney since it saw the theatrical release of 3 films: A Goofy Movie, Pocahontas, and Toy Story. Now I’ll be talking about Toy Story in my next post since it’s a highly important film. Here I will focus more on A Goofy Movie and Pocahontas. Based on the show Goof Troop, A Goofy Movie also lent inspiration to Jeffrey Katzenberg’s road trip with his then estranged daughter where they bonded and their relationship considerably improved. Since it was considered far less essential than the studio’s mainstream works, it was given a much smaller budget. Animation duties were distributed throughout the world such as in Disney studios in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia. A planned release was delayed due to a single dead pixel forcing the studio to reshoot ¾ of the movie again with a non-defective monitor. Add to that Katzenberg being fired during the final days of production. Upon its release, A Goofy Movie opened to mixed reviews and grossed $37.6 million at the box office which was twice of its $18 million production cost. But not stellar numbers. Yet, over the years with home video releases and TV airings, A Goofy Movie has gained a cult following and has become a prominent property within Disney. Especially given the film’s catchy soundtrack as well as its storyline pertaining to cross-generational connections between parents and children. A theme that doesn’t always receive center stage in Disney movies, but it’s also one that’s present in everyday life and one that gives A Goofy Movie its relevance with each passing year.

              Although I don’t really expect Disney or animated films in general to be historically accurate, and Pocahontas is no exception. Yet, although I loved the movie since watching it in theaters as a child and still do to some extent, I now realized that Disney’s Pocahontas bears precious little resemblance to the settlement of Jamestown. The historical Pocahontas was about 10 or 11 years old when she would’ve met John Smith and she may have “saved” his life as part of a ritual of her tribe. While her later life where she married John Rolfe, had a son and lived the life of a planter’s wife before moving to England was a very tragic one where she experienced widowhood, abandonment by Chief Powhatan, captivity and gang rape by white settlers, possibly forced marriage to John Rolfe, forced conversion to Christianity, and death by smallpox at the age of 21. As for the setting for Jamestown itself, well, I’ve been to that place and it’s unlikely that tidewater Virginia would ever look like that. While Susan Constant was a caravel ship not a floating castle. Also, Captain John Smith wasn’t a handsome blonde, wasn’t the most likeable guy, may have been sent back to England over a gunpowder accident, and also had a tendency to exaggerate. In addition, according to Adam Ruins Everything, it’s likely that the Pocahontas romance story was Smith’s invention, which later gave rise to the legend that formed the basis of the Disney movie. Still, I have to applaud the Disney crew for doing the research and for trying to depict Native Americans as human beings. Which is more than I can say about the research work that John Smith’s voice actor did for Braveheart or any of his other historical movies that take place before World War II (he’s played by Mel Gibson, which makes things even more problematic). Still, Pocahontas was never meant to be an educational film, but an epic romance that’s based on the legend. Songs were done by Alan Menken and Steven Schwartz. Although Pocahontas ultimately grossed $346.1 worldwide on its initial run, it received mixed reviews, particularly from Native Americans. While it holds a 58% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which is not great. But its depiction of Pocahontas as an empowered heroine would later influence later Disney films like Mulan. In this post, you’ll meet actors Rob Paulsen and Wallace Shawn as well as the voices behind Powerline, Bobby Zimuruski, Stacey, Pocahontas, Meeko, Chief Powhatan, Grandmother Willow, and Ketaka.

191. Rob Paulsen

Dates: 1956-present

Early Life and Career: Born Robert Frederick Paulsen III in Detroit, Michigan. Raised in Grand Blanc, Michigan where he graduated from Grand Blanc High School in 1974. Sang in choirs throughout his childhood and adolescence as well as performed plays in school. Yet, his childhood idol was hockey player Gordie Howe and considered the arts to be a secondary career choice due to his primary interest to play in the National Hockey League. After briefly attending the University of Michigan – Flint, he dropped out and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a show business career, much to his father’s disapproval. Worked his first job as a musician before pursuing acting full time. First acting role was in 1983.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Return to Never Land (2002) as well as direct-to-video installments, series, video games, and theme park attractions.

Characters: P.J. Pete, Frollo’s Soldiers, and Pirates Rusty

Also Known For: Voice actor and voice director known for his roles in numerous animated television series and films. Best known roles include Yakko and Pinky from Animaniacs, Hadji from The New Adventures of Johnny Quest and The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, Raphael in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Mac in The Looney Toons Show and Looney Tunes: Rabbits Run. Did commercials for Jack in the Box, Tamagotchi, Got Milk?, Taco Bell, American Honda Motor Company, and Haribo. Film appearances include The Ant Bully, Alvin and the Chipmunks Meet the Wolfman, Barnyard, Batman: Gotham Knight, Batman and Harley Quinn, Dragon Hunters, Elvira’s Haunted Hills, Green Lantern: First Flight, Hamburger: The Motion Picture, Happily N’Ever After, The Haunted World of El Superbeasto, Jetsons: The Movie, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Lone Wolf McQuade, Mannequin, The Perfect Match, Porco Rosso, The Powderpuff Girls Movie, Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie, Spaceballs, The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water, Teacher’s Pet, Tweety’s High Flying Adventure, Eyes of Fire, Body Double, and Wakko’s Wish. TV appearances include ABC Weekend Special, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, All Hail King Julien, American Dragon: Jake Long, The Angry Beavers, Angelica and Susie’s Pre-School Daze, The Batman, Batman: The Animated Series, Back at the Barnyard, Ben 10, Biker Mice from Mars, Bonkers, The Boondocks, Brandy & Mr. Whiskers, Bravoman, Busby: What Could Possibly Go Wrong?, Bump in the Night, Butt-Ugly Monsters, Capitol Critters, The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper, CatDog, Cathy, Catscratch, Challenge of the GoBots, ChalkZone, Chowder, Codename: Kids Next Door, Coconut Fred’s Fruit Salad Island, The Crow: Stairway to Heaven, Curious George, Dan Dare: Pilot of the Future, Danny Phantom, Dave the Barbarian, Detention, Dexter’s Laboratory, Dino-Riders, Doc McStuffins, Duck Dodgers, El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera, The Fairly OddParents, Fish Police, The Flintstone Kids, Freakazoid!, Gary the Rat, Generator Rex, G. I. Joe: A Real American Hero, The Greatest Adventure: Stories from the Bible, Green Eggs and Ham, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Handy Manny, Henry Hugglemonster, Higglytown Heroes, Histeria!, I Am Weasel, Jackie Chan Adventures, The Jetsons, Johnny Bravo, Justice League, Kung Fu Panda: Lessons of Awesomeness, The Land Before Time, The Legend of Prince Valiant, The Life and Times of Juniper Lee, Loonatics Unleashed, Mad, The Magician, Megas XLR, Midnight Patrol: Adventures in the Dream Zone, Mighty Ducks, Mighty Max, Mighty Magiswords, Mrs. Munger’s Class, My Life as a Teenage Robot, New Kids on the Block, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, The New Yogi Bear Show, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, The Penguins of Madagascar, Pinky and the Brain, The Plucky Duck Show, Poochini’s Yard, Pound Puppies, The Powderpuff Girls, Randy Cunningham: 9^th Grade Ninja, Rick and Morty, Robot Chicken, Road Rovers, Rocko’s Modern Life, Sabrina: The Animated Series, Samurai Jack, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, The Smurfs, Snorks, Sonic the Hedgehog, Spider-Man, Squirrel Boy, Stripperella, SpongeBob Squarepants, The Super Hero Squad Show, SWAT Kats: The Radical Squadron, The Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries, Tak and the Power of Juju, Taz-Mania, Teacher’s Pet, Teen Titans, ThunderCats, The Tick, Time Squad, Timeless Tales from Hallmark, Tiny Toon Adventures, Tom & Jerry Kids, The Transformers, TUGS, Ultimate Spider-Man, What a Cartoon!, The Upside Down Show, Where’s Wally?: The Animated Series, Wild West C. O. W.-Boys of Moo Mesa, Veggie Tales, Wildfire, St. Elsewhere, and Yo Yogi!. Video game appearances  include Animaniacs Game Pack, Armed and Dangerous, Baldur’s Gate, Barnyard, Ben 10 Alien Force: Vilgax Attacks, Blazing Dragons, Bubsy in Fractured Fairy Tales, Doom 3, The Fairly OddParents: Breakin’ Da Rules, Final Fantasy X-2, FusionFall, Ghosthunter, God of War, Giants: Citizen Kabuto, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Lost Odyssey, Metal Gear Solid: The Twin  Snakes, Multiversus, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2, Orion Burger, Planetscape: Torment, Return to Monkey Island, Sacrifice, Samurai Jack: Battle Through Time, Sea of Thieves, Skylanders: Imaginators, The Sopranos: Road to Respect, SpongeBob Squarepants featuring Nicktoons: Globs of Doom, Star Wars Rogue Squadron II: Rogue Leader, Stupid Invaders, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Tak and the Great Juju Challenge, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time, and Toonstruck.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Carol Anne Schnarr from 1979 to their divorce in 1982. Second and current wife is photographer Parrish Todd since 1983. They have a son together.

Later Life: Currently lives with his family in Angoura Hills, California. Was diagnosed with Stage III throat cancer in 2016. He has since undergone treatment and his cancer went into remission. Following his cancer battle, Paulson wrote a memoir titled Voice Lessons: How a Couple of Ninja Turtles, Pinky, and an Animaniac Saved My Life.

Trivia: Has received a Daytime Emmy for Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program and 3 Annie Awards. Has long supported various charities and raised donations for cancer research. Paulsen worked a lot for GOALmodels, a program for adolescents, and is a sponsor for Camp Will-A-Way, a camp for kids with developmental disabilities. Also donates funds from autographs to The Wounded Warrior Project.

192. Wallace Shawn

Dates: 1943-present

Early Life and Career: Born in New York City to a Jewish family. Father was longtime New Yorker editor William Shawn. Mother was a journalist. Grew up in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Attended a private liberal arts high school called The Putney School in Putney, Vermont. Graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history from Harvard College. Originally intending to become a diplomat, he studied philosophy, politics, economics, and Latin at Magdalen College within Oxford University. Later, Shawn traveled to India as an English teacher on a Fullbright program. Involvement in theater began in 1970 when he met director Andre Gregory who’s since directed several of his plays. During his stage career, Shawn has appeared in mostly his own plays and other projects with Gregory. Made his film debut in 1979 playing Diane Keaton’s ex-husband in Manhattan. In his playwriting career, Shawn’s early plays portrayed emotional and sexual conflicts in an absurdist style, with language both lyrical and violent. His 1977 play A Thought in Three Parts caused controversy in London when a vice squad investigated the production and became susceptible to attacks in Parliament after allegations of pornographic content. While Shawn’s later plays are overtly political, drawing parallels between his characters’ psychology and conduct of governments and social classes. His monologue, The Fever depicts a person sick while struggling to find a morally consistent way to live while faced with injustice, and harshly criticizes the United States’ record in supporting oppressive anti-communist regimes. Many of these plays echo his socialist views as much of his work examines the “connective tissue between private psychology and the politics of inequality.”

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995), Toy Story (1995), Toy Story 2 (1999), Monsters, Inc. (2001), The Incredibles (2004), Toy Story 3 (2010), Chicken Little (2005), and Toy Story 4 (2019) as well as shorts, direct-to-video installments, series, specials, video games, live  stage show Toy Story: The Musical, and theme park attractions.

Characters: Principal Mazur, Rex, Gilbert Huph, and Principal Fetchit

Also Known For: Actor, essayist, playwright and screenwriter who’s best known for playing Vizzini in The Princess Bride, Mr. Hall in Clueless, and Dr. John Sturgis in Young Sheldon. Other roles include Jeff Engels in The Cosby Show, Grand Nagus Zek in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Cyrus Rose in Gossip Girl, and Father Frank Ignatius in Evil. Film appearances include The Bostonians, Prick Your Ears, Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills, Vanya on 42^nd Street, My Favorite Martian, The Double, Maggie’s Plan, Marriage Story, Manhattan, Radio Days, Rifkin’s Festival, My Dinner with Andre, A Master Builder, All That Jazz, Atlantic City, A Little Sex, Lovesick, Deal of the Century, Shadows and Fog, Mom and Dad Save the World, Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle, The Wife, Napoleon, Canadian Bacon, All Dogs Go to Heaven 2, Vegas Vacation, Just Write, Critical Care, Duplex, The Haunted Mansion, Melinda and Melinda, Southland Tales, Happily N’Ever After, Kit Kitterage: An American Girl, Mia and the Migoo, Jack and the Beanstalk, Capitalism: A Love Story, The Speed of Thought, A Late Quartet, Admission, Don Peyote, The Only Living Boy in New York, Animal Crackers, and Book Club. TV appearances include Taxi, Civil Wars, One Life to Live, The Pink Panther, Matrix, The Nanny, Murphy Brown, Kalamazoo, King of the Hill, Noah, The Lionhearts, Homicide: Life on the Street, Ally McBeal, Crossing Jordan, Family Guy, Sex and the City,  Stargate SG-1, Desperate Housewives, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Life on Mars, ER, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, Damages, Eureka, King Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomness, The Good Wife, Adventure Time, BoJack Horseman, Mozart in the Jungle, The Night Shift, Life in Pieces, Mr. Robot, Graves, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Skylanders Academy, The Simpsons, Bubble Guppies, and Krapopolis. Video game appearances include Family Guy Video Game!, The Princess Bride Game, Family Guy: Back to the Multiverse, and King’s Quest. Stage appearances include The Mandrake, Marie and Bruce, Aunt Dan and Lemon, The Designated Mourner, The Fever, and The Threepenny Opera.

Personal Life: Older brother of composer Allen Shawn. Has been with writer Debbie Eisenberg since 1972.

Later Life: As of 2012, he lives in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood.

Trivia: Was honored in 2005 with the PEN/Laura Pels International Foundation for Theater Award as a Master American Dramatist. Received an Obie Award for playwriting in 1975 for Our Late Night. Has written political commentary for The Nation and in 2004, he published the one-issue-only progressive political magazine Final Edition, which featured interviews with articles by Jonathan Schnell, Noam Chomsky, Mark Strand, and his girlfriend Debbie Eisenberg. Credited as translator of Bertolt Brecht’s The Threepenny Opera, which opened at Studio 54 in Manhattan in 2006. Published his first nonfiction book, Essays in 2009. It’s a collection of essays that expresses his political perceptions and other aspects of his life. A longtime advocate for the Palestinian people, Shawn serves on the advisory board for Jewish Voice of Peace. Has won a Boston Society of Film Critics Award and a Chlotrudis Award.

193. Tevin Campbell

Dates: 1976-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Waxahachie, Texas. Mother was a postal worker who later became his manager. Father left the family shortly after the birth of his younger brother. Wouldn’t see his dad again until he was 15. With his mom being part of a choir at Joshua Chapel A.M.E., Campbell began singing gospel music at an early age, first in the choir and then as a soloist. At 12, a family friend had him singing to jazz singer Bobbi Humphrey who arranged him to perform at a videotaped showcase in Manhattan. When the tape found its way into the hands of manager Benny Medina, he flew to Texas and signed Campbell to Warner Brothers Records shortly thereafter. The family later moved to Encino, Los Angeles where Campbell attended private school in the Sherman Oaks neighborhood. Medina consulted Quincy Jones to work with Campbell and the latter made his music debut in 1989 with Jones’ single “Tomorrow (A Better You, Better Me)” which reached #1 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip Hop Singles Chart in June 1990. This was part of an ensemble album called Back on the Block which one the Grammy Award for Album of the Year in 1991. Made his first solo hit “Round and Round” which charted #3 on the R&B chart in November 1990. Released his debut album T.E.V.I.N. in 1991.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995)

Characters: Powerline

Also Known For: Singer, songwriter, and actor who was most active during the 1990s. Best known as Seaweed in the original Broadway rendition of Hairspray. Albums include T.E.V.I.N., I’m Ready, Back to the World, and Tevin Campbell. Hit songs include “Tomorrow
(A Better You, Better Me),” “Just Ask Me To,” “Tell Me What You Want Me to Do,” “Goodbye,” “Strawberry Letter 23,” “Alone with You,” “Confused,” “Can We Talk,” “I’m Ready,” “Always in My Heart,” “Don’t Say Goodbye Girl,” “Knocks Me Off My Feet,” “Back to the World,” “Could You Learn to Love,” and “Another Way.” TV appearances include The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, New York Undercover, The Parent ‘Hood, Moesha, and Queen Sugar.

Personal Life: Came out as gay in 2018 in an interview with People in 2022. Although he had come out to his family at 19, he claimed that he didn’t understand his sexuality until after leaving the music business, which had left him without “time to process any of that.”

Later Life: Was arrested in 1999 for soliciting a lewd act from an undercover police officer during a sting operation in Van Nuys, California. Was also in possession of a small amount of marijuana. While he was still recording music in the 2000s, he mostly kept a low profile until 2014.

Trivia: Album I’m Ready went double platinum. Has an almost 4-octave vocal range. Has been nominated for 5 Grammy’s and has certified sales of 5 million albums.

194. Pauly Shore

Dates: 1968-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Los Angeles. Father was actor and stand-up comedian Sammy Shore. Mother was comedy club owner Mitzi Shore. Parents co-founded The Comedy Store with Rudy DeLuca. After his parents divorced, his mom kept the club from 1974 until her death. Graduated from Beverly Hills High School in 1986. Made his stand-up debut at the Alley Cat Bistro in Culver City at 17. Was mentored by Sam Kinison and opened several sets. While touring the comedy club circuit, Shore cultivated his alter-ego persona called “The Weasel” where he spoke in surfer parlance, heavily peppered with dudespeak. Big break came as an on-air MTV VJ from 1989 to 1994. Also had his own show called Totally Pauly, serving as a host on MTV’s Spring Break parties. Made his screen debut in 1987.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995) as well as the direct-to-video sequel An Extremely Goofy Movie.

Characters: Bobby Zimuruski

Also Known For: Comedian and actor best known for his roles in 1990s comedy films. Film appearances include Encino Man, Son in Law, In the Army Now, Bio-Dome, For Keeps, 18 Again!, Lost Angels, Phantom of the Mall: Eric’s Revenge, Class Act, Jury Duty, Junket Whore, The Bogus Witch Project, The Wash, Pauly Shore Is Dead, My Big Fat Independent Movie, Opposite Day, Adopted, Stonerville, Pauly Shore Stands Alone, and Guest House. TV appearances include 21 Jump Street, Married…with Children, St. Elsewhere, Totally Pauly, Pauly, King of the Hill, Fantasy Island, Futurama, Minding the Store, Whiskey Business, Workaholics, Hell’s Kitchen, Funny You Should Ask, Alone Together, and The Comedy Store.

Personal Life: Can’t find anything about his personal life.

Later Life: Directed a semi-autobiographical mockumentary Pauly Shore Is Dead in 2003. Has also played Trump adviser Stephen Miller in Funny or Die videos.

Trivia: None.

195. Jenna von Oy

Dates: 1977-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Danbury, Connecticut. Attended Newtown High School and began her acting career as a child in regional stage productions and commercials. Made her television debut in 1986 in an episode of ABC Weekend Special, which was followed by a series of guest roles. Landed her best known role as Six LeMeure in Blossom in 1990.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995) as well as the direct-to-video sequel An Extremely Goofy Movie and the series Pepper Ann.

Characters: Stacey

Also Known For: Actress best known as Six LeMeure in Blossom and Stevie Van Lowe in The Parkers. Appeared in the film Born on the Fourth of July. TV appearances include Tales from the Darkside, Lenny, Saved by the Bell: The College Years, She Cried No, Dying to Belong, Chicago Hope, Martin, 7^th Heaven, Moesha, What’s with Andy?, Cold Case, Family Guy, Battle of the Network Stars, and Call Me Kat.

Personal Life: Married to computer-data consultant Brad Bratcher from 2010 until their divorce in 2020. They have 2 daughters born in 2012 and 2014. Publicly came out as a lesbian in 2023.

Later Life: After her time on Blossom ended, she attended film school at the University of Southern California and was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority for 2 years before dropping out to return to acting.

Trivia: Once attempted to launch a country music career during the 2000s.

196. Irene Bedrad

Dates: 1967-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Anchorage, Alaska. Mother was an Inupiaq and father was French Canadian and Cree. She’s enrolled as a citizen of the native village Koyuk in Alaska. Graduated from Diamond High School in 1985. Attended the University of the Arts in Philadelphia where she studied musical theater. First role was as Mary Crow Dog in the 1994 TV production Lakota Woman: Siege at Wounded Knee, which depicted the 1970s stand-off between the US government and several Native nations, including many of the Pine Ridge Reservation at Wounded Knee, South Dakota.

Movies and Cartoons: Pocahontas (1995) and Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) as well as direct-to-video installments, series, and video games.

Characters: Pocahontas

Also Known For: Alaskan Native actress who’s mostly played Native American lead roles in a variety of films. Best known as Suzy Song in Smoke Signals, an adaptation of a Sherman Alexie short story collection. Film appearances include Squanto: A Warrior’s Tale, Navajo Blues, Wildflowers, Love’s Long Journey, The New World, Turok: Son of Stone, The Tree of Life, Songs My Brother Taught Me, How to Blow Up a Pipeline, and On Sacred Ground. TV appearances include Lakota Woman: Siege at Wounded Knee, The Marshal, Grand Avenue, Crazy Horse, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, Profiler, True Women, Two for Texas, Roughnecks: Starship Troopers Chronicles, The Outer Limits, The Agency, Higglytown Heroes, Into the West, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Young Justice Invasion, Longmire, The Mist, Scalped, Westworld, FBI: Most Wanted, The Stand, Alaska Daily, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and American Primeval.

Personal Life: Married to musician Denny Wilson from 1993 to their divorce in 2012 following Bedrad’s allegations that Wilson had abused her. Allegations which Wilson has denied. They also have a son named Quinn. Anyway, when Bedrad was between projects, the pair toured for several years with other musicians in a band called “ID” which came from their first name initials.

Later Life: In 2020, Bedrad was arrested twice in 3 days. The first was for alleged domestic violence, assault, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and criminal damage. The second was just for disorderly conduct. In 2022, she was again arrested for disorderly conduct in Xenia, Ohio.

Trivia: Has been nominated for a Golden Globe as well as won 2 Western Heritage Awards and 2 First Americans in the Arts Awards. Was the first Native woman to receive a Golden Globe nomination in 1994.

197. John Kassir

Dates: 1957-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Baltimore, Maryland to an Iraqi father from Mosul and a Syrian mother from Mardin in present-day Turkey. During his childhood, Kassir often did impressions in school and was often seen as a “class clown.” His mother often bought props for him and he’d often entertain customers shopping outside Eudowood Plaza. Graduated from Lock Raven High School and attended Towson State University where he studied theatre and formed a comedy troupe with several other students called Animal Crackers. Began his career in stand-up comedy where he first became known in 1985 after defeating Sinbad for best stand-up comic on Star Search.

Movies and Cartoons: Pocahontas (1995), The Princess and the Frog (2009), and Monsters University (2013) as well as direct-to-video installments and series.

Characters: Meeko and Scrooge McDuck

Also Known For: Actor and comedian best known for voicing the Cryptkeeper in HBO’s Tales from the Crypt franchise as well as Ralph in the off-Broadway show Reefer Madness and the subsequent film adaptation. Film appearances include And Then There Was Eve, Casper, Flora & Ulysses, Hellblazers, Jack the Giant Slayer, Monster Mash, Monster Mutt, Pete’s Dragon, Smothered, Spy Hard, An American Tail: Treasure of Manhattan Island, Bayonetta: Bloody Fate, Despicable Me 3, Ghost Cat Anzu, Minions, Minions: The Rise of Gru, Mockingbird Lane, Nothing Special, The Grinch, Sing, Sing 2, The Prophet, The Secret Life of Pets, The Secret Life of Pets 2, The Smurfs, The Smurfs 2, The Tale of Tillie’s Dragon, The Wild Thornberrys Movie, and The Wild. TV appearances include Bones, Castle, Charmed, Cold Case, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Friends, Grounded for Life, Hot in Cleveland, In Living Color, Joan of Arcadia, Moonlighting, NCIS, Sliders, Star Trek: Voyager, The Facts of Life, The Three Stooges, Tour of Duty, Adventure Time, Afro Samurai, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Back at the Barnyard, Ben 10, Bunnicula, Danger Rangers, DC Super Friends, Dexter’s Laboratory, Duckman, Earthworm Jim, Johnny Bravo, Kung Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness, My Life as a Teenage Robot, New Looney Tunes, Oh Yea! Cartoons, Problem Child, Random! Cartoons, Rick & Morty, Samurai Jack, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, The Grim Adventures of Bill & Mandy, The Looney Tunes Show, The Plucky Duck Show, The Simpsons, The Wild Thornberrys, Time Squad, and Tiny Toon Adventures. Video game appearances include Afro Samurai, Arknights, Batman: Arkham Origins, Bayonetta 2, Dead Rising, Diablo III, EverQuest II, Final Fantasy XV, Freelancer, Halo 2, Icewind Dale, Lego Jurassic World, Madagascar, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, Master of Orion: Conquer the Stars, Metal Gear Rising, Revengeance, MySims Kingdom, Ninety-Nine Nights II, PlayStation Movie Heroes, Republique, Sacrifice, Shadows of the Damned, Skylanders: Imaginators, Spider-Man 3, Syphon Filter: The Omega Strain, T’ai Fu: Wrath of the Tiger, Tak and the Power of Juju, The Punisher, Tiny Toon Aventures: Buster and the Beanstalk, Ultimate Spider-Man, Universe at War: Earth Assault, and X-Men Legends II: Rise of Apocalypse. Stage appearances include Room Service, The Glorious Ones, Man of La Mancha, Silence! The Musical, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was actress Julie Benz from 1998 to their divorce in  2007. Second and current wife is Vanessa Waters.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: As a stand-up comic, Kassir has opened for Lou Rawls, Tom Jones, The Temptations, Four Tops, Bobby Vinton, Richard Belzer, U2, and Harry Blackstone Jr. Has also appeared on stage performing improv with Robin Williams.

198. Russell Means

Dates: 1939-2012

Early Life and Career: Born in Porcupine on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Tribal name was Waŋblí Ohítika, which is Lakota for “Brave Eagle.” Mother was Yankton Dakota from Greenwood, South Dakota. Father was Ogala Lakota. Family moved to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1942 seeking to escape from poverty and problems on the reservation. Father worked in a shipyard in Vallejo. Means grew up in the Bay Area, graduating in 1958 from San Leandro High School in San Leandro, California. Attended 4 colleges but didn’t graduate from any of them. During his twenties, Means lived in several Indian reservations throughout the United States while searching for work. While at the Rosebud Reservation in south-central South Dakota, he developed severe vertigo. Reservation clinic physicians initially believed that he had been brought in drunk and refused to examine him for several days. Was finally diagnosed with a concussion due to a presumed fight in a saloon. However, a visiting specialist later discovered that reservation doctors had overlooked a common ear infection, costing Means the hearing of one ear. After recovering from his ear infection, Means spent a year working in the Office of Economic Opportunity where he came to know several legal activists who were managing legal action on the Lakota people’s behalf. After a dispute with his supervisor, Means left Rosebud for Cleveland, Ohio where he worked with Native American community leaders against the backdrop of the American Civil Rights Movement. Joined the American Indian Movement (AIM) in 1968 where he rose to become a prominent leader and was later appointed its president. While the organization began a period of increasing protests and activism.

Movies and Cartoons: Pocahontas (1995) as well as the direct-to-video sequel Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World.

Characters: Chief Powhatan

Also Known For: Ogala Lakota activist for the rights of Native Americans, Libertarian political activist, actor, musician, and writer. Became a prominent member of the American Indian Movement (AIM) after joining the organization in 1968 and helped organize notable events that attracted national and international media coverage. Was active in international issues for indigenous peoples, including working with groups in Central and South America as well as the United Nations for recognition of their rights. Was active in politics at his native Pine Ridge Reservation as well as at the state and national level. Appeared as an actor in numerous films and TV movies from 1992 until 2004. Best known roles are Chingachgook in The Last of the Mohicans, Jim Thorpe in Windrunner, Sitting Bull in Buffalo Girls, Billy Twofeathers in Thomas and the Magic Railroad, and Wandering Bear in Curb Your Enthusiasm. Film appearances include Wagons East, Natural Born Killers, Cowboy Up, Black Cloud, Pathfinder, Unearthed, Rez Bomb, Tiger Eyes, and Days and Nights. TV appearances include The West, Touched by an Angel, Remember WENN, Duckman, Liberty’s Kids, Nash Bridges, Into the West, American Experience, and Banshee.

Personal Life: Married 5 times and divorced 4. Last wife was a woman named Pearl from 1999 until his death. Had a total of 10 children: 7 biological and 3 “adopted in the Lakota way.” His son Tatanka became an actor and comedian. Had 22 grandchildren and often divided his time Porcupine, South Dakota and Chinle Navajo Nation in Arizona. In 1995, he published his autobiography Where White Men Fear to Tread that he wrote with Marvin J. Wolf. He recounted his own family’s problems: his alcoholic father and his own “fall into truancy, crime and drugs” before discovering the American Indian Movement.

Later Life: In 1997, Means was arrested for assault and battery of his father-in-law Leon Grant, a member of the Omaha Nation married to a Dine (Navajo) Nation. AIM Grand Governing Council issued a statement to reiterate its separation from him. In 2011, Means was diagnosed with esophageal cancer that the doctors said was inoperable. Told the Associated Press that he’d reject “mainstream medical treatments in favor of traditional American Indian remedies and alternative treatments away from his home on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.” Although he reported that he beat the cancer by the end of that year, his health continued  to decline and he died in 2012 at 72. A family statement read, “Our dad and husband now walks among our ancestors.” Was cremated and his ashes were sprinkled throughout the Black Hills.

Trivia: Once served as Larry Flynt’s running mate in his unsuccessful presidential run in 1983. Ran for the US presidential nomination for the Libertarian Party in 1987 but lost out to Ron Paul. Ran for governor of New Mexico as an independent in 2001. Ran for president of the Ogala Sioux in 1974 and 2004. Recorded albums entitled Electric Warrior with Sound of America Records in 1993 and The Radical in 2007. Was recognized by the Native American Music Awards in 2013 with a Hall of Fame Award. Was an avid painter with showings in various galleries around the country and the world. Andy Warhol painted 18 portraits of him in his 1976 American Indian series. The Dayton Art Institute holds one of these in its collection. Appears as a character in the 1994 adventure game Under a Killing Moon. Was the focus of a 2014 documentary titled Conspiracy to Be Free. In 2016, artist Magneto Dayo and The Lakota Medicine Men recorded a tribute song dedicated to Means and Richard Oakes called “The Journey” on the album Royalty of the UnderWorld. In 1999, Means taped 6 community TV half-hour programs in Santa Monica called “The Russell Means Show” produced by Helene E. Hagan. As host, Means interviewed guests Sacheen Littlefeather, Greg Sarris, Kateri Walker and Redbone. While the series was archived at the Ogala Lakota College Library. Hagan has also authored 2 books on Means: Russell Means: The European Ancestry of a Militant Indian in 2018 and Wakinyan Zi Tiosppaye: The Case of Yellow Thunder Camp in 2022.

199. Linda Hunt

Dates: 1945-present

Early Life and Career: Born Lydia Susanna Hunt in Morristown, New Jersey. Father was president of Harper Fuel Oil. Mother was a piano teacher who taught at the Westport School of Music and performed with the Saugatuck Congregational Church Choir. Was raised in Westport, Connecticut. Was diagnosed with hypopituitary dwarfism as a teenager and would only grow to 4’9.” Attended the Interlochen Arts Academy and graduated from the Goodman School of Drama at what is now DePaul University in Chicago. Made her Broadway debut in 1975 and her film debut in 1980.

Movies and Cartoons: Pocahontas (1995) as well as the direct-to-video sequel Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World, the video game Disney’s Animated Storybook: Pocahontas and the Fantasmic! theme park attraction.

Characters: Grandmother Willow

Also Known For: Actress whose portrayal of Billy Kwan in The Year of Living Dangerously won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and made her the first person in Oscar history to win the coveted statuette for portraying a character of the opposite sex. Other roles include Mrs. Oxheart in Popeye, Judge Zoey Hiller in The Practice, Commander Chennault in Space Rangers, and Henrietta “Hetty” Lange in NCIS: Los Angeles. Narrator in the God of War video game series. Film appearances include Dune (1984), Silverado, Kindergarten Cop, Stranger Than Fiction, The Bostonians, Eleni, Waiting for the Moon, She-Devil, Carmilla, If Looks Could Kill, Rain Without Thunder, Younger and Younger, Twenty Bucks, Pret-a-Porter, Paul Monette: The Brink of Summer’s End, The Relic, Amazon, Eat Your Heart Out, Dragonfly, Auschwitz: The Nazis and the ‘Final Solution,’ The Singing Revolution, and Solo: A Star Wars Story. TV appearances include Great Performances, American Playhouse, The Room Upstairs, The American Experience, Before We Ruled Earth, Carnivale, Nature, The Unit, Without a Trace, and Scorpion. Stage appearances include Hamlet, Ah, Wilderness!, Top Girls, Aunt Dan and Lemon, and The Cherry Orchard.

Personal Life: Has been in a relationship with psychotherapist Karen Kline since 1978. They’ve been married since 2008.

Later Life: In 2018, People magazine reported that Hunt was involved in a multi-car accident in Los Angeles, which resulted in her taking almost a year off from NCIS: Los Angeles.

Trivia: Received 2 Teen Choice Awards for her performance as Henrietta “Hetty” Lange in NCIS: Los Angeles. Is an ambassador of Best Friends Animal Society.

200. Gordon Tootoosis

Dates: 1941-2011

Early Life and Career: Born in Saskatchewan, Canada. Was raised in a family of 13 siblings in the Plains Cree tradition until he was forced from his home thanks to Canada’s oppressive residential school system that was government policy at the time. Placed in a Catholic residential school, Tootoosis was treated harshly and forbidden to speaking his own language. His father, John Tootosis, was an activist for indigenous rights as well as founder of the National Indian Brotherhood and onetime head of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, which often got him in trouble at school. After his traumatic schooling thanks to a horrendous policy, Tootoosis went into social work, specializing in children and juvenile delinquents. While his interest in his own cultural traditions led him to become an accomplished native dancer and rodeo roper, later touring with the Plains InterTribal Dance Troupe during the 1960s and the 1970s throughout Canada, Europe, and South America. He soon became one of North America’s most popular powwow announcers. First acting role was in 1974.

Movies and Cartoons: Pocahontas (1995)

Characters: Kekata

Also Known For: First Nations actor of Cree and Stoney descent who’s been acclaimed for his commitment preserving his culture and telling his people’s stories. Was a founding member of the board of directors of the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company. Offered encouragement, support, and training to Aboriginal actors. Served as a leading Cree activist both as a social worker and as a band chief. Film appearances include Alien Thunder, Marie-Anne, Black Robe, Leaving Normal, Legends of the Fall, Pocahontas: The Legend, Lone Star, Alaska, The Edge, Reindeer Games, Nobody’s Baby, The Doe Boy, Black Point, Now & Forever, On the Corner, Seven Times Lucky, Hank Williams First Nation, That Beautiful Somewhere, and Open Season. TV appearances include Red Serge, Stone Fox, Air Wolf, McGyver, North of 60, Northern Exposure, Lonesome Dove: The Series, 500 Nations, The X-Files, Crazy Horse, Four Directions: A Canoe in the Making, Keeping the Promise, The Magnificent Seven, Due South, Dead Man’s Gun, Big Bear, Smallville, Dreamkeeper, Moccasin Flats, Shania: A Life in Eight Albums, Shoebox Zoo, Wapos Bay: The Series, Bury My Heart at Wounded Knees, and Blackstone.

Personal Life: Brother of famous Cree leader Poundmaker. Married to Irene Seseequasis from 1965 until his death. Had 6 children including daughters Glynis, Alana and Disa along with sons Lee, Winston Bear, and Clint. After their daughter Glynis died of cancer in 1997, they took the responsibility of raising her 4 children in Saskatoon.

Later Life: Died in 2011 of pneumonia at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon at 69. Funeral and internment were held on the Poundmaker Cree Reserve in Cut Knife.

Trivia: Was descendent of Yellow Mud Blanket. Awarded membership in the Order of Canada in 2004. Was chief of his band and vice-president of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations. In 2015, the Saskatchewan Native Theatre Company changed its name to the Gordon Tootoosis Nīkānīwin Theatre Company in his honor.

              Considered Disney’s first original animated film, The Lion King was originally conceived during conversations among various executives with its original director envisioning it as a nature documentary-style film. Yet, ultimately it became a coming of age story with heavy inspiration from Shakespeare’s Hamlet along with the stories of Joseph and Moses in the Old Testament. The creative team also traveled to Kenya for research and added inspiration. While lyricist Tim Rice worked closely with the screenwriting team once it was to become a musical. Since work on The Lion King coincided with that of Pocahontas, most of the animators decided to work on the latter instead, believing it to be more prestigious and successful of the two (spoiler alert: they were wrong). That most of the animation work was done by first-timers in both California and Florida with a staff of 600 artists, animators, and technicians contributing. Weeks before the film’s release, the 1994 Northridge earthquake shut down the studio, leading the animators to complete via remote work. Under the guidance of wildlife experts, character animators studied real life animals that included lions and several other savannah inhabitants to discuss behavior as well as help the animators gain some authenticity. A national park in Kenya the crew visited served as basis for the Pridelands. Tim Rice and Elton John wrote 5 original songs while Hans Zimmer composed the score. Upon its release in 1994, it earned $763 million at the box office, which made it the highest grossing animated film until Finding Nemo and the highest grossing traditionally animated film of all time. Also received rave reviews from critics, won the Golden Globe for Best Picture and 2 Academy Awards and is considered by many as among the best animated films ever made. In my life, The Lion King holds special importance since it was the first movie I ever saw in a theater when I was 4 years old. In this post, you’ll meet voice actors Corey Burton, Bob Bergen, and Cathy Cavadini as well as the voices behind Young Simba, Adult Nala, Pumbaa, Rafiki, Sarabi, and a couple of characters from A Goofy Movie.

181. Corey Burton

Dates: 1955-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Granada Hills, Los Angeles, California. Started his career at 17 under the name Corey Weinman with his imitation of Hans Conried for Disney. Studied radio acting with Daws Butler for 4 years and went on to work with nearly all of the original radio actors in classic-style radio dramas. Because he’s on the Autism Spectrum and shy demeanor, Burton was initially unsure about pursuing voice work but credits the diverse world and character design of Disney’s The Haunted Mansion as his inspiration to move forward.

Movies and Cartoons: Fantasia (1940) [2000 restoration], Aladdin (1992), A Goofy Movie (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), Tarzan (1999), Toy Story 2 (1999), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Return to Never Land (2002), Treasure Planet (2002), The Princess and the Frog (2009), and Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), and Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022) as well as a variety of shorts, series, shorts, direct-to-video installments, theme park attractions, and video games.

Characters: Deems Taylor, Prince Achmed, Necklace Merchant, Wendall, Brutish Guard, Burnt Man, Male Ancestor, Butch Jones, Woody’s Roundup Announcer, Gaetan “Mole” Moliere, Captain Hook, Onus, Harvey Fenner, Grumpy, Dale, Zipper (high-pitched), Ludwig Von Drake, and the How-To Narrator.

Also Known For: Voice actor who’s the current voice of Ludwig Von Drake, the How-To Narrator, and Captain Hook. Also currently voices Shockwave, Brainiac, Count Dooku, and Cad Bane. Film appearances include Wolfen, Galaxy Express 999, Critters, The Transformers: The Movie, Poltergeist II: The Other Side, G. I. Joe: The Movie, Spaceballs, Amazon Women on the Moon, Poltergeist III, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Dudley Do-Right, Princess Mononoke, The Trumpet of the Swan, Castle in the Sky, Porco Rosso, My Neighbors the Yamadas, Whisper of the Heart, Asterix and the Vikings, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Hotel Transylvania, and Machete Kills. TV appearances include Spider-Man, The Transformers, Robotix, G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, James Bond Jr., Bonkers, Mighty Max, Phantom 2040, Dexter’s Laboratory, Pinky and the Brain, Superman: The Animated Series, Freakazoid!, The Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries, The New Batman Adventures, Animaniacs, Oh Yea! Cartoons, Batman Beyond, Boo Boo Runs Wild, A Day in the Life of Ranger Smith, Johnny Bravo, Poochini’s Yard, Justice League, Samurai Jack, The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Static Shock, The Powderpuff Girls, Star Wars: Clone Wars, ChalkZone, Duck Dodgers, Justice League Unlimited, The Boondocks, Korgoth of Barbaria, Squirrel Boy, Legion of Super Heroes, Chowder, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, The Secret Saturdays, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, G.I. Joe: Renegades, Thundercats, Young Justice, Green Lantern: The Animated Series, Ben 10: Omniverse, Avengers Assemble, Ultimate Spider-Man, Wander Over Yonder, Hulk and the Agents of S. M. A. S. H., Niko and the Sword of Light, Harvey Breaks, Star Wars Rebels, Uncle Grandpa, Future-Worm!, Lego Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures, Looney Tunes Cartoons, Star Wars: The Bad Batch, The Book of Boba Fett, Amphibia, Tales of the Jedi, Hamster and Gretel, Ted Lasso, Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures, Delicious in Dungeon, and Batman: Caped Crusader. Video game appearances include Toonstruck, Superman 64, Crash Bandicoot: The Wrath of Cortex, Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds, Final Fantasy X, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars: Bounty Hunter, Metal Arms: Glitch in the System, The Nightmare Before Christmas: Oogie’s Revenge, Final Fantasy X-2, EverQuest II, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith, Star Wars: Battlefront II, True Crime: New York City, The Legend of Spyro: A New Beginning, God of War II, The Legend of Spyro: Dawn of the Dragon, Grand Chase, Brutal Legends, Star Wars: The Clone Wars – Republic Heroes, God of War III, DC Universe Online, Lego Star Wars III: The Clone Wars, Nicktoons MLB, Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham City Lockdown, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Kinect Star Wars, God of War: Acension, God of War, Lego DC Super-Villains, Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled, Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Radio appearances include Alien Worlds and Adventures in Odyssey. Theme park attractions include Dudley Do-Right’s Ripshaw Falls, The Cat in the Hat, and The House on Haunted Hill.

Personal Life: I couldn’t find anything about his personal life.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Has won an Annie for House of Mouse and has been nominated for 2 more. Served as a protégé to Paul Frees for many years.

182. Jonathan Taylor Thomas

Dates: 1981-present

Early Life and Career: Born Jonathan Taylor Weiss in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania before moving to Sacramento and Los Angeles. Began his TV career in 1990 as Greg Brady’s son in The Bradys, a spin-off of The Brady Bunch. In 1991, he appeared in 3 episodes of In Living Color. That same year, he was cast as middle son Randy Taylor in Home Improvement where he remained well into his teenage years. However, he left the show in 1998 to devote more time to his schoolwork and only appeared in 3 episodes during its final season. Since 2004, Thomas has only acted occasionally.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994) as well as Kingdom Hearts II video game.

Characters: Young Simba

Also Known For: Actor and director best known as Randy Taylor in Home Improvement. Film appearances include Pom Poko, Man of the House, Tom and Huck, The Adventures of Pinocchio, Wild America, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, Speedway Junky, Walking Across Egypt, Common Ground, and Thru the Moebius Strip. TV appearances include The Adventures of Spot, The Bradys, In Living Color, Ally McBeal, The Wild Thornberrys, The Simpsons, 8 Simple Rules, Veronica Mars, and Last Man Standing. Directed 3 episodes of Last Man Standing.

Personal Life: Nephew of actor, playwright, and impresario Jeff Weiss.

Later Life: Enrolled in Harvard University in 2000 where he studied history and Philosophy. Spent his third year abroad at the University of Saint Andrews in Scotland. In 2010, Thomas graduated from Columbia University School of General Studies. Since 2017, Thomas has served on the national board of SAG-AFTRA

Trivia: Won 2 Young Artist Awards and 2 Kids’ Choice Award as well as a ShoWest Award for Young Star of the Year 1996.

183. Moira Kelly

Dates: 1968-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Queens, New York City but raised in Ronkonoma, New York. Parents were Irish Catholic immigrants. Mother was a nurse. Father was a concert violinist. Graduated in 1986 from Connetquot High School in Bohemia, Long Island and attended Marymount Manhattan College. A devout Catholic, Kelly had a childhood ambition of becoming a nun. That changed when she was cast in her high school’s production of Annie in 1984 and the girl playing Miss Hannigan had to drop out due to illness, leading to a series of cast changes that paved the way for Kelly to choose acting as her vocation. Made her professional acting debut in the fact-based made-for-TV movie Love, Lies, and Murder, playing a teenage Cinnamon Brown, a girl whose father coerced into killing her stepmother, Linda Brown.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994) as well as direct-to-video installments and the Disney Dreamlight Valley video game.

Characters: Nala

Also Known For: Actress best known for playing Kate Moseley in The Cutting Edge, Karen Roe in One Tree Hill, Donna Hayward in Twin Peaks: Fire Walk with Me, Dorothy Day in Entertaining Angels: The Dorothy Day Story, Mandy Hampton in The West Wing as well as Hetty Kelly and Oona O’Neill in Chaplin. Film appearances include The Boy Who Cried Bitch, Billy Bathgate, With Honors, Little Odessa, Unhook the Stars, Love Walked In, Dangerous Beauty, Hi-Life, The Safety of Objects, Two Tickets to Paradise, and Remember the Daze. TV appearances include Daybreak, To Have & to Hold, Hack, The Twilight Zone, Law & Order, Heroes, Numb3rs, A Smile as Big as the Moon, Drop Dead Diva, The Resident, Panic, and Citadel. Directed 2 episodes of One Tree Hill.

Personal Life: Married to Texas businessman Steve Hewitt since 2000 and has a daughter Ella and a son Eamon. Once maintained a residence in Wilmington, North Carolina for 11 years.

Later Life: Is still working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

184. Ernie Sabella

Dates: 1949-present

Early Life and Career: Born Ernest Sabella in West Chester County, New York. Graduated from the University of Miami where he studied at the Department of Theatre Arts and performed at the university’s Jerry Ring Theatre.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994) as well as direct-to-video installments, series, theme park attractions, and video games.

Characters: Pumbaa

Also Known For: Actor best known as Mr. Donald “Twinkie” Twinkacetti in Perfect Strangers, George Shipman in A Fine Romance, and Leo Carosi in Saved by the Bell. Has done commercials for NyQuil, Master Card, and Lynx. Film appearances include City Heat, Tough Guys, Going Under, Quiz Show, Roommates, In & Out, Mouse Hunt, The Out-of-Towners, Listen to Your Heart, The Challenger, and Bakery in Brooklyn. TV appearances include St. Elsewhere, Cagney & Lacey, The New Odd Couple, Newhart, Knots Landing, Hill Street Blues, Alice, Oh Madeline, The Facts of Life, The New Mike Hammer, Punky Brewster, Diff’rent Strokes, Cheers, Benson, Married…with Children, Mr. Belvedere, Quantum Leap, Coach, Murphy Brown, A Different World, Mad About You, The Practice, Providence, Ed, That’s So Raven, and Blue Bloods. Stage appearances include The Robber Bridegroom, Merrily We Roll Along, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Guys and Dolls, Chicago, Man of La Mancha, Sweet Charity, and Curtains.

Personal Life: Married to a computer programmer named Cheryl whom he met after a Broadway performance in Guys and Dolls in 1994. They’ve been married since 1999 and live in Southern Nevada.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Was nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1996. Joined Nathan Lane during an SNL monologue where they sang “Hakuna Matata” together. Also appeared in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum together on Broadway. Was said to be the first choice to play Tuvok in Star Trek: Voyager but Tim Russ was chosen instead and was considered for the role of Gordon in Sesame Street but that role went to Roscoe Orman.

185. Robert Guillaume

Dates: 1927-2017

Early Life and Career: Born Robert Peter Williams in St. Louis, Missouri. Mother was an alcoholic who later abandoned him and his siblings. So they were raised by their grandmother. Studied at Saint Louis University and Washington University and served in the  US Army before pursuing an acting career. After college, Guillaume joined the Karamu Players in Cleveland performing musical comedies and opera. Made his Broadway debut in Kwamina in 1961. Was a member of the Robert de Cormier Singers, performing in concerts and on television as well as part of a folk trio called the Pilgrims with whom he created an LP. Although record producer Tom Wilson  sought to create them as an answer to Peter, Paul, and Mary, he ended up signing up Simon & Garfunkel instead.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994) as well as direct-to-video installments, series, albums, and video games.

Characters: Rafiki

Also Known For: Actor and singer whose career spanned over 50 years in film, stage, and television. Best known as Benson DuBois on Soap and its spin-off Benson as well as Isaac Jaffe in Sports Night. Film appearances include Super Fly T.N.T., Seems Like Old Times, Prince Jack, Wanted: Dead or Alive, They Still Call Me Bruce, Lean on Me, Death Warrant, Meteor Man, Spy Hard, First Kid, 13^th Child, Big Fish, The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry, and Columbus Circle. TV appearances include Marcus Welby M.D., Stanford and Son, All in the Family, The Jeffersons, Good Times, Hollywood Squares, The Mike Douglas Show, All-Star Family Feud Special, The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, The Love Boat, An Evening at the Improv, Saturday Night Live, Hotel, Crossword, The New Hollywood Squares, The Penthouse, Fire and Rain, Sister Kate, Carol & Company, A Different World, The Arsenio Hall Show, L. A. Law, Jack’s Place, Jeopardy, Diagnosis Murder, Saved by the Bell: The College Years, Burke’s Law, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Reading Rainbow, Children of the Dust, Happily Ever After: Fairy Tales for Every Child, Panic in the Sky, Pandora’s Clock, Sparks, Promised Land, Goode Behavior, Mother Goose: A Rappin’ and Rhymin’s Special, Touched by an Angel, Wheel of Fortune, The Outer Limits, Moesha, The Proud Family, 8 Simple Rules, Century City, and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Stage appearances include Finian’s Rainbow, Kwamina, Tambourines to Glory, Porgy and Bess, Purlie, Guys and Dolls, The Phantom of the Opera, and Cyrano – The Musical.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Marlene Williams from 1955 to their divorce in 1984. They had 2 sons. But Guillaume also had a daughter born in 1980 and possibly another in 1950. Second wife was Donna Brown from 1986 until his death. They had a daughter named Rachel.

Later Life: Suffered a minor stroke in the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank while working on Sports Night in 1999. Although it caused relatively slight damage and had little effect on his speech, Guillaume spent 6 weeks in the hospital and underwent therapy consisting of walks and gym lessons. Died of prostate cancer at his Los Angeles home in 2017 at 89.

Trivia: Won 2 Emmys for the role of Benson DuBois on Soap and Benson as well as a Grammy for his audiobook version of The Lion King. Nominated for a Tony Award for his performance as Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls. Was cast as the title character in the Los Angeles production of Phantom of the Opera in 1990. Has a star on the St. Louis Walk of Fame and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his work in television in 1984.

186. Madge Sinclair

Dates: 1938-1995

Early Life and Career: Born Madge Dorita Walters in Kingston, Jamaica. Studied at Shortwood College for Women and worked as a teacher in Jamaica until 1966, when she left for New York City to pursue her acting career. Began acting with Joseph Papp’s Public Theatre. Made her first film in 1974.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994)

Characters: Sarabi

Also Known For: Jamaican actress best known for her roles in Cornbread, Earl, and Me, Convoy, Coming to America, Trapper John M.D., and Roots. Film appearances include Conrack, Leadbelly, Uncle Joe Shannon, Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home, and The End of Innocence. TV appearances include One in a Million: The Robert LeFlore Story, Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones, High Ice, Jonathan: The Boy Nobody Wanted, Sesame Street, Madigan, Medical Center, The Waltons, Joe Forrester, Doctors’ Hospital, Executive Suite, Serpico, ABC Afterschool Specials, The White Shadow, Mathnet, Ohara, Starman, Gideon Oliver, Roseanne, Midnight Caller, Pros and Cons, The Orchid House, L. A. Law, Tales from the Crypt, Alex Haley’s Queen, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Me and the Boys, and Dream On.

Personal Life: Married twice. First husband was Jamaican police officer Royston Sinclair from 1956 to their divorce in 1969. Had 2 sons with him. Second husband was actor Dean Compton from 1982 until her death.

Later Life: Died in 1995 after a 13-year-long battle with leukemia in Los Angeles at 57. Her remains were cremated and her ashes were scattered in her hometown in Jamaica.

Trivia: Won a Primetime Emmy Award For Outstanding Supporting Actress – Drama Series in 1991 for her performance as “Empress” Josephine in Gabriel’s Fire. Also collaborated with James Earl Jones in Coming to America and Gabriel’s Fire. Was posthumously awarded Jamaica’s Order of Distinction, rank of Commander, for service in the performing arts by Prime Minister P. J. Patterson in 2000. Nominated for an NCAAP Image Award for her 1974 performance in Conrack. Played LeVar Burton’s mother in 4 different productions including Star Trek: The Next Generation and his wife in Roots.

187. Bob Bergen

Dates: 1964-present

Early Life and Career: Born Bob Berger in St. Louis, Missouri. In childhood, Bergen spent hours watching and taping cartoons, imitating voices, as well as creating characters of his own. Once told his parents that he wanted to voice Porky Pig, which his parents objected. In 1978 after researching phone books, Bergen called Mel Blanc, crashed a recording session pretending to be Blanc’s assistant, and watched him in action. Upon realizing that he needed training and for his voice to change, Bergen began studying with voice-over coaches in Los Angeles. In 1980, he appeared as a contestant during a Teen Week episode of Wheel of Fortune, winning prizes including a watch. After 2 years at a Meisner acting conservatory and 3 years of improv study with the Groundlings, he was able to secure an agent at 18 and pursue his dream, while working as a tour guide at Universal Studios to make ends meet. In 1990, he joined a handful of actors voicing Looney Tunes characters.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), A Bug’s Life (1998), Tarzan (1999), Toy Story 2 (1999), The Emperor’s New Groove (2000), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Lilo & Stitch (2002), Treasure Planet (2002), Brother Bear (2003), Finding Nemo (2003), Cars (2006), Up (2009), Tangled (2010), Wreck-It-Ralph (2012), Monsters University (2013), and Inside Out (2015) as well as various direct-to-video installments, the series The Emperor’s New School, and several video games.

Characters: Hyena, Baby Quasimodo, Achilles the Horse, Frollo’s Soldiers, Shang’s Horse, The Ancestors, The Hun Army, Aphie, Male Ants, Baby Tarzan, Vincent Snipes, Green Army Men, Bucky the Squirrel, Fly Stuck in Spider Web, Lanky Schmidt, Loop Group, Squad Leader, Officer, Robot on Ladder, Mr. Snuff, Horrified Fish, Blenny, Tim Rimmer, Dogs, and Merv

Also Known For: Voice actor best known as the current voice of Porky Pig and Tweety. Also voices Barnyard Dawg, Henery Hawk, Hubie and Bertie, Marvin the Martian, Sylvester Jr., and Speedy Gonzales. Although he’s had to alternate roles with Jeff Bergman, Noel Blanc, Joe Alasky, Greg Burson, Billy West, and Eric Bauza because Warner Bros. often splits their voice-acting roles to prevent any one of their actors to be a singular successor. Once hosted a children’s game show Jep!, a kid version of Jeopardy!. Film appearances include Tales of the Wolf, Megazone 23, The Secret of Blue Water, Teknoman, Crimson Wolf, Spirited Away, Space Jam, Cats Don’t Dance, Quest for Camelot, Antz, The Prince of Egypt, The Iron Giant, The Road to El Dorado, Chicken Run, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, The Santa Clause 2, Shrek 2, Happily N’Ever After, Horton Hears a Who!, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, The Lorax, Minions, Sing, Despicable Me 3, Space Jam: A New Legacy, Army of Darkness, Gremlins, Total Recall (1990), and Seal Team. TV appearances include Little Muppet Monsters, Fraggle Rock, Tiny Toon Adventures, Duck Dodgers, Robot Chicken, Loonatics Unleashed, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Avengers Assemble, The Looney Toon Show, Mr. Pickles, Bunnicula, New Looney Tunes, Looney Tunes Cartoons, Star Wars: The Bad Batch, Ridley Jones, Bugs Bunny Builders, Tiny Toons Looniversity, and Hell’s Kitchen. Video games include Bugs Bunny’s Birthday Ball, Bloom Blox, Escape from Monkey Island, Infamous First Light, Sheep Raider, Skylanders: SuperChargers, Star Wars: Battlefront II, Star Wars: Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, Star Wars: Rogue Squadron, and Sylvester and Tweety in Cagey Capers.

Personal Life: I can’t find anything about his personal life.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Nominated for an Annie and 4 Emmy Awards.

188. Cathy Cavadini

Dates: 1961-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Long Beach, California. Has been actively working as a voice actress since 1983.

Movies and Cartoons: The Lion King (1994), Dinosaur (2000), Lilo & Stich (2002), Finding Dory (2016), Cars 3 (2017), Incredibles 2 (2018), and Soul (2020) as well as series like Darkwing Duck and Doc McStuffins along with the Lego the Incredibles video game.

Characters: Lemurs, Fainting Girl, Debbie, Maddy McGear, Paddy, Welch, TV Anchor, and Dreamerwind

Also Known For: Actress best known as the original voice of Blossom in What a Cartoon! and The Powderpuff Girls and Tanay Mousekewitz in An American Tail: Fievel Goes West. Film appearances include Starchaser: The Legend of Orin, My Little Pony: The Movie, Jaws: The Revenge, Babes in Toyland, Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within, Sky Blue, Happy Feet, The Other End of the Line, Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore, Happy Feet Two, Transformers: Age of Extinction, Spy, Sing, Ready Player One, The Grinch, Ford vs. Ferrari, Love and Monsters, Wish Dragon, and Minions: The Rise of Gru. TV appearances include Mister T, Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends, Kidd Video, Jem, My Little Pony, Duckman, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, Jackie Chan Adventures, Justice League, Johnny Bravo, Teen Titans, The Batman, Duck Dodgers, Ben 10, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, The Cleveland Show, The Tom and Jerry Show, The Way of the Househusband, Kid Cosmic, and Jellystone!. Video game appearances include Final Fantasy X, Gun, Happy Feet, Cartoon Network Racing, The Golden Compass, Lost Odyssey, Jumper: Griffin’s Story, FusionFall, White Knight Chronicles, Cartoon Network: Punch Time Explosion, Broken Age, WildStar, Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Dishonored: Death of the Outsider, The Walking Dead Onslaught, Redfall, and Multiversus.

Personal Life: Married to Edward Guy Hawke from 1999 to their divorce in 2008. They have one child.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Has been nominated for an Annie Award in 1998.

189. Jason Marsden

Dates: 1975-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Providence, Rhode Island. Mother was a former fashion model. Father was a premier danseur of the Yugoslav National Ballet. At 11, he landed his first professional acting job as A.J. Quartermaine in General Hospital. At 12, he booked his first film role in the science fiction film Robot Jox which was released 2 years after filming due to the studio’s financial problems. First Disney role was that of Calvin in Adventures of the Gummi Bears and would become an announcer of The Mickey Mouse Club.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995), Tarzan (1999), and Monsters University (2016) as well as various series, direct-to-video installments, series, theme park attractions, and video games.

Characters: Max Goof, Mungo, and Monster Student #1

Also Known For: Actor, director, and producer who’s done numerous voice roles in animated films, television series, and video games. Best known as Haku in Spirited Away, Chester McBadbat in Fairly OddParents, Chase Young in Xiaolin Showdown, Richard Foley/Gear in Static Shock, Nermal in The Garfield Show, and Thackery Binx (as a cat) in Hocus Pocus. Film appearances include Almost an Angel, Mr. Saturday Night, White Squall, Trojan War, How to Make a Monster, Nice Guys, Fun with Dick and Jane (2005), Locker 13, Pizza Man, Blue Like Jazz, The Shift, and The Secret Life of Pets. TV appearances include General Hospital, Webster, The Munsters Today, Nightingales, Murphy Brown, Tales from the Crypt, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Blossom, Baywatch, Step by Step, Almost Home, Tom, Full House, Boy Meets World, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, Will & Grace, Just Shoot Me!, Cartoon All-Stars to the Rescue, Sonic the Hedgehog, Mighty Max, Marsupilami, Batman: The Animated Series, The Schnookums and Meat Funny Cartoon Show, Superman: The Animated Series, Extreme Ghostbusters, Histeria!, Batman Beyond, Invader Zim, Justice League, Even Stevens, Rugrats, Oh Yea! Cartoons, My Life as a Teenage Robot, The Batman, A. T. O. M., W. I. T. C. H., Loonatics Unleashed, Codename: Kids Next Door, Danger Rangers, Teen Titans, The Replacements, Batman: The Brave and the Bold, The Garfield Show, Generator Rex, G.I. Joe: Renegades, MAD, The Super Hero Squad Show, Ben 10: Ultimate Alien, Young Justice, ThunderCats, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, DocMcStuffins, Ultimate Spider-Man, Kaijudo: Rise of the Masters, The Legend of Korra, Clarence, Beware the Batman, Hulk and the Agents of S. M. A. S. H., Looped, Transformers: EarthSpark, and Batman: Cape Crusader. Video game appearances include Fallout 2, Baldur’s Gate, Alundra 2: A New Legend Begins, Fallout Tactics: Brotherhood of Steel, Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal, Floiga Bros., Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Gladius, The Fairly OddParents: Breakin’ Da Rules, Tak and the Power of Juju, Tak 2: The Staff of  Dreams, Tak: The Great Juju Challenge, Xiaolin Showdown, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, Resonance of Fate, Fallout: New Vegas, Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet, Killzone 3, X-Men: Destiny, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, Jurassic Park: The Game, Final Fantasy: XIII-2, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, and Lego DC Super-Villains.

Personal Life: Married to Christy Hicks from 2004 until 2020. Had a son in 2010. In 2005, the couple opened a yoga studio in Burbank called “Yoga Blend,” which located to a bigger location in 2007. “Yoga Blend” would be shut down in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic and closed permanently later that year due to financial issues. Also, revealed that he had a girlfriend in 2020 as well.

Later Life: Currently lives in Nashville, Tennessee. Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

190. Kellie Martin

Dates: 1975-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Los Angeles, California. Aunt was a nanny to Michael Landon’s children and helped her land a guest spot in Father Murphy when the girl was 7. At 11, Martin was a contestant during Young People’s Week on the Bob Eubanks-hosted version CardSharks. Later had a recurring role on Season 3 of Valerie’s Family: The Hogans   and contributed to the voice of Daphne Blake in A Pup Named Scooby-Doo from 1988-1991. Landed the role of Rebecca “Becca” Thatcher in Life Goes On in 1989.

Movies and Cartoons: A Goofy Movie (1995) as well as series like The Wonderful World of Disney and Aladdin along with Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas.

Characters: Roxanne

Also Known For: Actress best known as Rebecca “Becca” Thatcher on Life Goes On, Lucy Knight on ER, Samantha Kinsey in the Mystery Woman TV film series, and Hailey Dean on The Hailey Dean Mysteries. Film appearances include Jumpin’ Jack Flash, Body Slam, Doin’ Time on Planet Earth, Troop Beverly Hills, Matinee, Malibu’s Most Wanted, Open House, and Thru the Moebius Strip. TV appearances include Father Murphy, Highway to Heaven, The Canterville Ghost, Dallas, Life with Lucy, Potato Head Kids, My Two Dads, thirtysomething, The Tracey Ullman Show, Superman, A Pup Named Scooby-Doo, America’s Funniest Home Videos, Charles in Charge, Mr. Belvedere, Baywatch, Tas-Mania, ABC Afterschool Specials, Christy, If Someone Had Known, The Face on the Milk Carton, Her Hidden Truth, On the Edge of Innocence, Crisis Center, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Batman, Ghost Whisperer, Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, Drop Dead Diva, Army Wives, Mad Men, The Guest Book, and Death of a Cheerleader.

Personal Life: Married to Keith Christian in his hometown of Polson, Montana in 1999 and have been together ever since. They have 2 daughters.

Later Life: Graduated with an art history degree from Yale University in 2001. Was a member  of the Saybrook Fellowship. Owns and operates her own toy store and has written a novel Madam: A Novel of New Orleans from Plume.

Trivia: Has received a Young Artist Award, a Viewers for Quality Television Award, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

              The origins for Disney’s Aladdin date all the way to 1988 as a passion project for Howard Ashman. His pitch included a 40-page treatment that remains faithful to the original story but envisioned as a campy 1930s-style musical with a popular 1930s-style genie. With Alan Menken, Ashman composed several songs as well as added some original characters. At first, Michael Eisner didn’t think a story set in the Middle East would be commercially appealing and their project was removed from active development once they were recruited to write songs for Beauty and the Beast. Other screenwriters were brought in to rework the story, taking influences from The Thief of Bagdad and research from the Saudi Arabian Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Scenery was based on architectural elements seen in 19^th century orientalist paintings and photographs from the Arab world as well as The Thief of Bagdad and Disney’s other animated films from the 1940s and 1950s. Robin Williams’ dialogue for the Geneie was mostly ad-libbed while Disney Studios eventually screwed him out of royalties. Upon its release in 1992, Aladdin raked over $504 million at the box office and was the highest grossing film of that year and the highest grossing animated film of all time until The Lion King. While it garnered positive reviews from critics. In this post, you’ll meet 5 more voice actors from Beauty and the Beast including Tony Jay and Bill Farmer, voice actor Jim Cummings, as well as the voices behind Aladdin, Princess Jasmine, Jafar, and Gazeem.

171. Tony Jay

Dates: 1933-2006

Early Life and Career: Born in London, England. Attended Pinner County Grammar School and completed his National Service with the Royal Air Force in 1953. He later recalled, “I was always an actor at school” but opted for the financial security of a real estate business. Although while he established a real estate business, he occasionally acted in amateur productions. Moved to South Africa in 1966 after hearing the potential there for his line of work. But things didn’t go as planned and within 3 months of moving there at 33, Jay found himself acting in a radio drama where he played a savvy but blind FBI agent for 5 years. This experience led him to decide to take up acting professionally. Acted, wrote, and directed radio plays on the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s first commercial station, Springbok Radio. To bridge the gap between the visual orientation of British TV and the sound-only perspective of radio, Jay created a narrator he imbued with irony and skepticism. Jay’s voice work led him to do commercials for Gunston’s Cigarettes, Barclays Bank, and Bols Brandy. Returned to the UK in 1973 where he first appeared on television, film, and stage productions with the Royal Shakespeare Company. Came to the United States in 1986 while on an on-tour production of Nicholas Nickleby and ended up moving permanently after a brief return to the UK to shoot an ill-fated pilot episode.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Recess: School’s Out (2001), and Treasure Planet (2002) as well as various direct-to-video installments, series, video games, toy commercials, and theme park attractions.

Characters: Monsieur D’Arque, Judge Claude Frollo, and Dr. Rosenthal

Also Known For: British actor and former member of the Royal Shakespeare Company known for his voice work in animation, radio, film, and video games. Was particularly noted for his raspy baritone voice, which often led him being cast in villainous or authoritative roles. Best known non-Disney roles were Nigel St. John on Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Vladimir Maximovitch in Love and Death, and Professor Werner in Twins. Film appearances include Time Bandits, Little Dorrit, My Stepmother Is an Alien, Asterix and the Big Fight, Tom and Jerry: The Movie, Thumbelina, All Dogs Go to Heaven 2, The Rugrats Movie, Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Rugrats Go Wild!, and Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind. TV appearances include Fall of Eagles, Within These Walls, Justice, The Hanged Man, Six Days of Justice, The XYY Man, The Professionals, Timon of Athens, The Greatest Adventure: Stories from the Bible, Dempsey and Makepeace, The Golden Girls, Beverly Hills Buntz, Beauty and the Beast, Mr. Belvedere, The Smurfs, The New Lassie, Newhart, Peter Pan and the Pirates, Rainbow Drive, Twin Peaks, Murphy Brown, Matlock, Night Court, Adventures in Odyssey, The Legend of Prince Valiant, Star Trek: The Next Generation, Rugrats, Sonic the Hedgehog, Mighty Max, 2 Stupid Dogs, Duckman, Picket Fences, Scooby-Doo in Arabian Nights, Skeleton Warriors, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Tick, Fantastic Four, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, Animaniacs, Superman: The Animated Series, Spider-Man, Pinky and the Brain, Mighty Ducks, Hey Arnold!, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, ReBoot, Extreme Ghostbusters, Johnny Bravo, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, Miss Spider’s Sunny Patch Kids, Miss Spider’s Sunny Patch Friends, Teen Titans, and To Serve and Protect. Video game appearances include Blood Omen: Legacy of Kain, Fallout: A Post-Nuclear Role-Playing Game, Rock & Roll Racing 2: Red Asphalt, Warcraft Adventure: Lord of the Clans, Die by the Sword, Reboot, Legacy of Kain: Soul Reaver, Planescape: Torment, Y2K: The Game, Forgotten Realms: Icewind Dale, Sacrifice, Soul Reaver 2, Forgotten Realms: Baldur’s Gate – Dark Alliance, Star Trek: Armada II, Return to Wolfenstein, Draconus: Cult of Wyrm, Freelancer, Star Trek: Elite Force II, Armed & Dangerous, Mace Griffin: Bounty Hunter, Legacy of Kain: Defiance, X-Men Legends, Fallout: Brotherhood of Steel, Champions of Norath: Realms of EverQuest, Galleon, and The Bard’s Tale.

Personal Life: Had a longtime girlfriend named Marta McGeraghty with whom he began a relationship with in 1974 and had a son with her named Adam in 1989. They married in 2004 and remained together until his death. There’s a bit that he was married a couple times before, once to a makeup artist named Kathy Rodgers during the late 1980s but I’m uncertain about the source on that one and she’s normally not listed as his spouse on his profile on other websites. Still, despite portraying one of the greatest, darkest, and scariest Disney villains of all time, Jay was said to be a rather kindly man in real life.

Later Life: Eventually became a naturalized American citizen. In 2006, Jay underwent  surgery at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles to remove a non-cancerous tumor in his lungs. Was unable to recover from the procedure and became critically ill due to complications afterwards. Was readmitted to Cedars-Sinai sometime later where he died at 73. Buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills, California.

Trivia: Was preferred over actors Sir Patrick Stewart, Sir Ian McKellen, and Sir Derek Jacobi as the voice of Judge Claude Frollo. Was a Broadway devotee and made several records and performances of old-time Broadway lyrics in spoken-word form. A CD of these readings, Speaking of Broadway was released in 2005 while a version recorded in 1996 was entitled Poets on Broadway. On his website, Jay recites lyrics written by the likes of Noel Coward, Ira Gershwin, and Ira Gershwin accompanied by synthesized music he composed. George Lucas once considered him for the role of Obi Wan Kenobi and Jay agreed to the role. But Lucas ended up casting Sir Alec Guiness instead which is for the best. Nominated for a Drama Desk Award in 1987. Recorded all his lines for Beauty and the Beast at his audition as the producers thought he nailed the utterly creepy Monsieur D’Arque so perfectly that they didn’t see any point in bringing him in to re-record his lines.

172. Patrick Pinney

Dates: 1952-present

Early Life and Career: Born in San Francisco, California. Attended University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. Has performed in theaters in the United States and Europe. After moving to Los Angeles, he played 3 characters in a play. Afterwards a producer approached him, offering Pinney a role in a Hanna-Barbera animation. From there, he made the transition from serious stage actor to voice actor.

Movies and Cartoons: The Little Mermaid (1989), Duck Takes the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp (1990), Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), Toy Story (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), A Bug’s Life (1998), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Lilo & Stitch (2002), and Brother Bear (2003)

Characters: Gramps, Pizza Delivery Guy, Angry Driver #2, Quasimodo’s Father, Cyclops, Rock Titan’s Left Head, Grasshopper, Smithsonian Board Member #2, Firefighter, and Male Bear #1.

Also Known For: Singer as well as television and voice actor. Best known as the speaking voice for Painty the Pirate in SpongeBob Squarepants. Film appearances include An American Tail: Fievel Goes West, The Terminator, Dead Men Don’t Die, The Fifth Musketeer, and Look Who’s Talking Now. TV appearances include Fantasy Island, Fraggle Rock: The Animated Series, Mighty Mouse: The New Adventures, X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men, Spider-Man, The Wild Thornberrys, Johnny Bravo, The Powderpuff Girls, My Life as a Teenage Robot, and Robot Chicken.

Personal Life: I can’t find anything about his personal life.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

173. Philip Proctor

Dates: 1940-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Goshen, Indiana. Family moved to New York City when he was 4 where he worked as a child actor in television. Later earned a drama degree from Yale University.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Toy Story (1995), Hercules (1997), A Bug’s Life (1998), Tarzan (1999), Toy Story 2 (1999), Recess: School’s Out (2000), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Treasure Planet (2002), Brother Bear (2003), Home on the Range (2004), and The Incredibles (2004)

Characters: Dick, Pizza Planet Guard, Pizza Planet Announcer, Boat Captain, Ant, Fly, Grasshopper, English Captain, Scared Elephant, Mr. Konishi, Golfer, Scientist, Charlie, Inuit Tribesman, Man on Train, and Guard.

Also Known For: Actor and member of the Firesign Theatre who’s performed voice-over work for video games, films, and television. Film appearances include A Thousand Plane Raid, A Safe Place, Tunnel Vision, Cracking Up, Amazon Women on the Moon, Lobster Man from Mars, Night Life, Dr. Doolittle, The Rugrats Movie, The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle, Rugrats in Paris: The Movie, Dr. Doolittle 2, Spirited Away, Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, Rugrats Go  Wild, Fly Me to the Moon, and Koala Kid. TV appearances include Pound Puppies, Taz-Mania, Rugrats, The Tick, Spider-Man, Big Brother, The Wild Thornberrys, Justice League, Power Rangers Time Force, All Grown Up!, Arrested Development, and Avatar: The Last Airbender. Video game appearances include Lighthouse: The Dark Being, Battlezone, Star Wars: X-Wing Alliance, Indiana Jones and  the Infernal Machine, Star Trek: Klingnon Academy, Star Wars: Galactic Battlegrounds, La Pucelle: Tactics, Eternal Darkness, Final Fantasy X-2, Ape Escape: On the Loose, Area 51, From Russia with Love, Ape Escape 3, Metal Gear Acid 2, Dead Rising, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance, Blue Dragon, Assassin’s Creed, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North, and Batman: Arkham Knight.

Personal Life: Married 3 times. First wife was actress Sheila Wells from 1971 until their divorce in 1976. Second wife was Norwegian TV producer Babro Semmingsen from 1976 until their divorce in 1980. They had a daughter named Kristin who’s also an actress. Third wife was Melinda Peterson from 1992 until her death in 2023.

Later Life: Published an autobiography titled Where’s My Fortune Cookie? that he co-wrote with Brad Schreiber. In recent years, he’s performed on the radio program American Parlor Songbook in sketches called “Boomers on a Bench.”

Trivia: Great-uncle was Mennonite writer Joseph Yoder. Won a Theatre World Award in 1964 for his performance in The Amorous Flea.

174. Bill Farmer

Dates: 1952-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Pratt, Kansas. Began doing voices at 10 which involved doing impressions, especially of Western stars like John Wayne and Walter Brennan. He and his friends would sometimes go through fast food drive-thrus and order foods in his character voices. Graduated from the University of Kansas in 1975 when he became a member of the Sigma Chi Fraternity. While in college, Farmer found work in radio and TV before moving on to stand-up comedy as an impressionist. In 1982, he worked at a club called the Comedy Corner in Dallas, Texas until his move to Hollywood in 1986 upon an agent’s suggestion. But not until he talked it over about it with his new wife. Anyway, 4 months after moving into Hollywood, his agent asked him if he could do any Disney characters. Mentor was versatile actor Daws Butler who taught Farmer that when doing cartoon voices, a person is not merely doing a funny voice, but they are an actor and the acting is paramount and that you have to think like the character one is performing. Later Farmer received a call for an open audition for Goofy. When he auditioned, Farmer studied the way original actor Pinto Colvig performed as Goofy in the classic cartoons, going over the hilarious laughs and the distinctive “gawrsh.” After auditioning, he inherited the role of Goofy in 1987.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), A Goofy Movie (1995), Runaway Brain (1995), Toy Story (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), A Bug’s Life (1998), Toy Story 2 (1998), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Brother Bear (2003), Home on the Range (2004), The Incredibles (2004), Cars (2006), and Monsters University (2013) as well as a variety of series, direct-to-video installments, video games, shorts, and theme park attractions.

Characters: Stanley, Goofy, Pluto, Horace Horsecollar, Monotone Announcer, Frollo’s Soldiers, Male Builder #1, Male Ant #3, Man #1, Edgar, Donkey, Oliver Sansweet’s Lawyer, Winford Bradford Rutherford, Lee Revkins, Ryan Shields, Professor Brandywine, and Jason Chiang.

Also Known For: Actor, comedian, and impressionist who is the current voice of Goofy, Pluto, and Horace Horsecollar since the 1990s. Film appearances include Robocop, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Theodore Rex, Space Jam, Cats Don’t Dance, The Iron Giant, Shrek 2, Ice Age: The Meltdown, Surf’s Up, Horton Hears a Who!, The Lorax, Minions, The Secret Life of Pets, Porco Rosso, Sing, Despicable Me 3, The Grinch, Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe, Seal Team, and Four Souls of Coyote. TV appearances include Murphy Brown, ‘Til Death, Astro Boy, Wild West C. O. W.- Boys of Moo Mesa, Bonkers, The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy, Game Over, Loonatics Unleashed, Robot Chicken, Ergo Proxy, Wheel of Fortune, The Garfield Show, The Tom and Jerry Show, We Baby Bears, Dead End: Paranormal Park, and Dew Drop Diaries. Video game appearances include Sam and Max Hit the Road, Full Throttle, Mortimer and the Riddles of the Medallion, Baldur’s Gate, Looney Tunes Racing, Looney Tunes: Space Race, The Flintstones: Bedrock Bowling, Ty the Tasmanian Tiger, Champions of Norath: Realms of EverQuest, EverQuest II, Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 2, Crash Tag Team Racing, Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 3: Night of the Quinkan, Over the Hedge, Dead Rising, Scooby Doo! Who’s Watching You?, Flushed Away, Harvey Birdman: Attorney at Law, Kung Fu Panda, Looney Tunes: Cartoon Conductor, Yakuza: Like a Dragon, and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth.

Personal Life: Married to Jennifer Wynne since 1984. Has a son named Austin born in 1989 who’s a sound engineer and freelance drummer.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Named Disney Legend in 2009. Received the International Family Film Festival ‘Friz’ Award in 2011. Won the Annie Award for his performance as Goofy.

175. Carlos Alazraqui

Dates: 1962-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Yonkers, New York to Argentine parents. Mother was a Methodist minister. Family moved to Concord, California when he was little. Graduated from Concord High School. Attended California State University, Sacramento from 1982-1986 where he began competing in open mic contests. After winning in his fourth year, Alazraqui took his prize money and moved to Los Angeles. Began his career in stand-up comedy, where he won the San Francisco Comedy Competition in 1993 beating out fellow comedians Mark Maron and Patton Oswalt.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), A Goofy Movie (1995), Pocahontas (1995), Hercules (1997), A Bug’s Life (1998), Toy Story 2 (1999), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Finding Nemo (2003), The Incredibles (2004), Cars (2006), Toy Story 3 (2010), Monsters University (2013), Planes (2013), Inside Out (2015), Cars 3 (2017), Toy Story 4 (2019), Onward (2020), Lightyear (2022), and Elemental (2023) as well as various live action and animated series, direct-to-video installments, and video games.

Characters: Loco, Ant, Bill, El Chupacabra, Dad’s Fear, Helicopter Pilot, and Panchito Pistoles

Also Known For: Actor who’s best known as Spyro in Spyro the Dragon, Shameless O’Scanty, Leslie P. Lilylegs, Elliot Sampson, and Tad Tucker in New Looney Tunes, the Taco Bell chihuahua in Taco Bell commercials, Denzel Crocker, Juandissimo Magnifico, and Sheldon Dinkleberg in The Fairly OddParents, Spunky and Rocko in Rocko’s Modern Life, Lazlo, Clam, and other characters in Camp Lazlo, Felipe in Handy Manny, Rikochet in ¡Mucha Lucha!, Walden in Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!, Paco the Macaw in Maya & Miguel, Grandpapi Rivera in El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera, Carlos Casagrande, Sergio, Vito, and other characters in The Loud House franchise, Scissors in Rock Paper Scissors, and Deputy James Garcia in Reno 911!.  Weekly contributor to The Stephanie Miller Show. Film appearances include The Godson, Dirt Merchant, Spanish Fly, Pixels, The Funhouse Massacre, Take the 10, Dance Baby Dance, Strange Nature, The Re-Education of Molly Singer, Space Jam, Osmosis Jones, The Powderpuff Girls Movie, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Happy Feet, Asterix and the Vikings, Space Chimps, Ponyo, Delhi Safari, The Lorax, The Book of Life, Minions, April and the Extraordinary World, Despicable Me 3, The Emoji Movie, Charming, The Grinch, America: The Motion Picture, Rumble, and The Super Mario Bros. Movie. TV appearances include Twin Peaks, Men Behaving Badly, That ‘70s Show, Taina, I Downloaded a Ghost, Pushing Daisies, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Bones, Jane the Virgin, Adam Ruins Everything, Kevin Can Wait, Animaniacs, What a Cartoon!, Hey Arnold!, The Angry Beavers, Cow and Chicken, The Secret Files of the Spy Dogs, Men in Black: The Series, The Powderpuff Girls, CatDog, Crashbox, Rugrats, Johnny Bravo, Detention, SpongeBob SquarePants, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, Family Guy, King of the Hill, The Grim Adventures of Bill & Mandy, My Life as a Teenage Robot, The Batman, Duck Dodgers, Squirrel Boy, Higglytown Heroes, The Life and Times of Juniper Lee, Avatar: The Last Airbender, The Replacements, Random! Cartoons, Tom and Jerry Tales, Curious George, Chowder, The Boondocks, The Goode Family, Back at the Barnyard, The Super Hero Squad Show, Scooby Doo! Mystery Incorporated, G. I. Joe: Renegades, The Looney Tunes Show, The Legend of Korra, Pound Puppies, Brickleberry, Ben 10: Omniverse, TripTank, Archer, Moonbeam City, The Adventures of Puss in Boots, The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show, Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Ben 10, Clarence, Bunsen Is a Beast, Big Mouth, Vampirina, Spirit: Riding Free, American Dad!, The Casagrandes, Duncansville, Lego City Adventures, Farzar, Beavis and Butt-Head, Star Trek: Lower Decks, and Oddballs. Video game appearances include Soviet Strike, Nickelodeon 3D Movie Maker, Top Gun: Fire at Will, Shattered Steel, Star Warped, Star Wars: Starfighter, Maximo: Ghosts to Glory, Bruce Lee: Quest of the Dragon, Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits, Secret Weapons Over Normandy, The Bard’s Tale, GoldenEye: Rogue Agent, Nicktoons Unite!, Saints Row, Open Season, Justice League Heroes, The Sopranos: Road to Respect, Happy Feet, Flushed Away, Nicktoons: Attack of the Toybots, Crash: Mind Over Mutant, Spider-Man: Edge of Time, Batman: Arkham City, Call of Juarez: Bound in Blood, World of Warcraft: Mists of Pandaria, Skylanders: Giants, Marvel Heroes, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows, Lego Jurassic World, and Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl.

Personal Life: Married to Laura Mala since 2010. Has 2 daughters, one of whom Rylee voices Rohk-Tahk in Star Trek: Prodigy.

Later Life: Resides in Los Angeles.

Trivia: Nominated for 2 Emmys and 3 Annie Awards.

176. Scott Weinger

Dates: 1975-present

Early Life and Career: Born in New York City to a Jewish family. Father was an orthopedic surgeon. Mother was a teacher. Spent much of his childhood in Florida before moving to Los Angeles. Became interested in acting while in third grade and pestered his parents to get him an agent. First acting gig was a national commercial for Ideal Toys. First film role was in Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach. After guest starring on ABC’s Life Goes On, Weinger became a series regular on the CBS sitcom The Family Man. His next regular role came as Steve Hale from Full House from 1991 to 1995.

Movies and Cartoons: Aladdin (1992) as well as a variety of shorts, direct-to-video installments, series, and video games.

Characters: Aladdin

Also Known For: Actor, writer, and producer best known as Steve Hale from Full House and Fuller House. Film appearances include Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach, Metropolis (2001), Shredder, and Roulette. TV appearances include Life Goes On, The Family Man, Where in the World Is Carmen Sandiego?, The Shaggy Dog, What I Like About You, Scrubs, The Mistresses, and The Neighbors. Was a writer and/or producer for Like Family, What I Like About You, Privileged, 90210, The Neighbors, Black-ish, Galavant, and The Muppets.

Personal Life: Married to TV writer and producer Rina Mimoun since 2008 and have a son who was born in 2009.

Later Life: Graduated from Harvard University in 1998 magnum cum laude with a degree in English and American Literature as well as minored in French Literature.

Trivia: None.

177. Linda Larkin

Dates: 1970-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Alaska and raised in Duluth, Minnesota. Began her career in 1990 with the film Zapped Again! as Joanne. While voicing Princess Jasmine, Disney instructed her to lower her voice as Larkin’s natural speaking voice was considered too high-pitched.

Movies and Cartoons: Aladdin (1992) and Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) as well as a variety of shorts, direct-to-video installments, series, and video games.

Characters: Princess Jasmine

Also Known For: Actress best known as the voice of Princess Jasmine. Film appearances include Zapped Again!, Basquiat, Childhood’s End, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend, Personals, Two Ninas, Runaway Bride, The Next Best Thing, Knots, and Joshua. TV appearances include Murder, She Wrote, Doogie Houser M.D., Wings, Evening Shade, New York News, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, Trinity, and Law & Order: Criminal Intent. Video game appearances include Darkened Skye and Grand Theft Auto V.

Personal Life: Has been married to musician Yul Vasquez since 2002.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Named Disney Legend in 2011. Said to be friends with Jodi Benson and Paige O’Hara.

178. Jonathan Freeman

Dates: 1950-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Bay Village, Ohio. Graduated from Ohio University.

Movies and Cartoons: Aladdin (1992) as well as a variety of shorts, direct-to-video installments, series, shorts, theme park attractions, and video games.

Characters: Jafar

Also Known For: Actor, singer, and puppeteer best known as the voice of Jafar. Was also Tito Swing in Shining Time Station. Film appearances include Let My Puppets Come, Forever Lulu, Homeboy, The Associate, The Ice Storm, The Hoax, and The High Note. TV appearances include Mathnet, Remember WENN, Teamo Supremo, American Dragon: Jake Long, Gossip Girl, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Submissions Only, Elementary, and Helluva Boss. Stage appearances include The Producers, 42^nd Street, On the Town, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, She Loves Me, Platinum, Minky, Of Thee I Sing, Finian’s Rainbow, A Class Act, Lil’ Abner, Babes in Arms, Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme, A Christmas Carol, You Can’t Take It With You, Fortinbras, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, The Flowering Peach, Gay Divorce, Student Prince, Can-Can, Arsenic and Old Lace, and The Desert Song.

Personal Life: Married to husband Jace Coronado since 2016 and I’m sure they were together longer than that.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Frequently appeared on the Disney stage musicals where he played Cogsworth in Beauty and the Beast, Grimbsy in The Little Mermaid, Admiral Boom and the Bank Chairman in Mary Poppins, and reprised his role as Jafar in Aladdin. Was nominated for a Tony for Best Featured Actor in a Musical in 1994 for She Loves Me.

179. Jim Cummings

Dates: 1952-present

Early Life and Career: Born James Jonah Cummings in Youngstown, Ohio. Attended Immaculate Conception and St. Columba grade schools as well as graduated from Ursuline High School in 1970. Shortly, thereafter, Cummings moved to New Orleans where he designed and painted Mardi Gras floats, worked as a deck hand, as well as sang and played the drums in the regionally successful rock band Fusion. Later married and moved to Anaheim, California where he managed a video store in the early 1980s before launching his voice acting career in late 1984. First voice role was Lionel the Lion and Aunt Fira in Dumbo’s Circus. Some of his earliest work was at Disney where he replaced Sterling Holloway as the voice of Winnie the Pooh.

Movies and Cartoons: Aladdin (1992), The Lion King (1994), A Goofy Movie (1995), Pocahontas (1995), Runaway Brain (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Tarzan (1999), The Tigger Movie (2000), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Return to Never Land (2002), Treasure Planet (2002), Piglet’s Big Movie (2003), The Incredibles (2004), Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (2005), The Princess and the Frog (2009), Winnie the Pooh (2011), Wreck-It-Ralph (2012), Christopher Robin (2018), and Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers (2022) as well as a variety of shorts, direct-to-video installments, series, shorts, theme park attractions, live action films, and video games.

Characters: Razoul, Ed, Scar (partial singing voice), Pete, Chief Powhatan (singing voice), Kekata (singing voice), Julius, Frollo’s Soldiers, Gypsies, Nessus, Tall Theban, Elderly Theban, Dennis, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Helmsman, Smithsonian Board Member #1, Atlantean Ketak Warrior, Atlantean Photographer, Light Green Monster, Turk, Male Alien, News Reporter, Ray, Game Over Voice, Fat Cat, Bootleg Winnie the Pooh, Bootleg Tigger, Shredder’s Arm, and Darkwing Duck

Also Known For: Voice actor who began his career in the 1980s and has appeared in over 400 titles. Film appearances include Who Framed Roger Rabbit, The Garbage Pail Kids Movie, Small Soldiers, Babe: Pig in the City, Space Jam: A New Legacy, Cartoon All-Stars to the Rescue, The Pagemaster, Balto, All Dogs Go to Heaven 2, Anastasia (1997), The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars, Rusty: A Dog’s Tale, Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island, Antz, The Road to El Dorado, Titan A.E., Shrek, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, Castle in the Sky, Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas, Bee Movie, Dead Space: Downfall, Turok: Son of Stone, Despicable Me, Zambezia, Minions, The Secret Life of Pets, and Sing. TV appearances include The Real Ghostbusters, The Transformers, Pound Puppies, Snorks, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Widget, Tiny Toon Adventures, Tom & Jerry Kids, Where’s Wally?, The Pirates of Dark Water, Taz-Mania, Batman: The Animated Series, The Addams Family, Wild West C. O. W. – Boys of Moo Mesa, Raw Toonage, Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog, 2 Stupid Dogs, Marsupilami, Bonkers, Sonic the Hedgehog, Animaniacs, SWAT Kats: The Radical Squadron, Fantastic Four, The Tick, Iron Man, Biker Mice from Mars, Duckman, The Schnookums & Meat Funny Caroon Show, The Savage Dragon, Eartworm Jim, Freakazoid!, Pinky and the Brain, The Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries, Friends, Superman: The Animated Series, Dexter’s Laboratory, Road Rovers, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, The Incredible Hulk, King of the Hill, The Secret Files of Space Dogs, CatDog, The Powderpuff Girls, Courage the Cowardly Dog, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, The Simpsons, The Mummy, Chalkzone, Teen Titans, The Batman, Curious George, The Replacements, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Robot Chicken, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, The Penguins of Madagascar, The Super Hero Squad Show, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, The Looney Toons Show, Adventure Time, Kung Fu Panda: Legends in Awesomeness, Ben 10: Omniverse, Transformers: Rescue Bots, The Adventures of Puss and Boots, Star Wars Rebels, Avengers Assemble, New Looney Tunes, Skylanders Academy, and Star Wars Forces of Destiny. Video game appearances include Alpha Protocol, Anastatia: Adventures with Pooka and Bartok, Animaniacs, Baldur’s Gate Series, Blazing Dragons, Cartoon Network Universe: Fusion Fall, Clive Barker’s Jericho, Dragon Age: Origins, Earthworm Jim 3D, Fallout 4, Fallout 4: Nuka World, Grand Theft Auto V, Guild Wars 2, Icewind Dale, Infinity Blade II, Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, The Lost Vikings 2, Looney Tunes: Acme Arsenal, Looney Tunes: Cartoon Conductor, Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet, Marvel: Ultimate Alliance 2, Mass Effect 2, MultiVersus, Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl, Nickelodeon Party Blast, Nicktoons MLB, Orion Burger, Painkiller, Quest for Glory IV: Shadow of Darkness, Spider-Man: Edge of Time, Spider-Man: Shattered Dimensions, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time, The Elder Scroll V: Skyrim, The Elder Scrolls Online, Toonstruck, Wacky Races: Starring Dastardly and Muttley, WildStar, and World of Warcraft: Shadowlands. Theme park appearances include Flight of Fear at Kings Island and Kings Dominion and T2-3D: Battle Across Time at Universal Studios Theme Parks.

Personal Life: Married 3 times. Second wife was Stephanie Jardon from 2001 to their divorce in 2011. Has 2 daughters with her and 2 daughters from a previous marriage. In 2019, Cummings and Jardon became involved in an acrimonious custody dispute which he won. Current wife is Margaret Judge since 2020.

Later Life: Has had a YouTube channel called Toon’d In with Jim Cummings since 2023. As of 2025, it has 106,000 subscribers and 38,208,212 views.

Trivia: Voiced Smokey the Bear in a series of PSAs from 1993 to 2008. Cited his voice acting influences as Mel Blanc, June Foray, Paul Winchell, Paul Frees, and Frank Welker. Called Blanc the “Frank Sinatra of voice acting” and Welker as the “Beatles of voiceover.”  Won Annie Awards for Darkwing Duck and Goof Troop. Often distinguishes himself from Paul Winchell by giving Tigger a slight lisp.

180. Charlie Adler

Dates: 1956-present

Early Life and Career: Born Charles Michael Adler in Paterson, New Jersey. Family later moved to New York and Massachusetts. Nicknamed “Beanie” because he always wore a beanie cap. Grew up as a self-described TV junkie who was an avid fan of the Three Stooges, The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle, and Irene Ryan’s Granny Moses from The Beverly Hillbillies. First acting job was in a 1971 commercial before taking a hiatus. Worked a variety of jobs including waiter, janitor, paper delivery man, floor stripper, house painter, remedial reading teacher, and caretaker at an Episcopal church. Starred in Torch Song Trilogy from 1984-1985 in which he was nominated for a Helen Hayes Award in New York City. First animation role was of Spike in Rescue in Midnight Castle which he recorded in New York City. Moved to Los Angeles in 1986.

Movies and Cartoons: The Little Mermaid (1989), Duck Tales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp (1990), The Rescuers Down Under (1990), and Aladdin (1992) as well as a variety of shorts, series, shorts, and video games.

Characters: Arab, Gazeem, Melon Merchant, and Nut Merchant

Also Known For: Voice actor and voice director who’s best known as Buster Bunny, the Bigheads, Doctor Doom, Wrecker, Sabertooth, MODOK, Cobra Commander, and Starscream. Film appearances include Rainbow Brite and the Star Stealer, My Little Pony: The Movie, The Chipmunk Adventure, Police Academy 6: City Under Siege, Wake, Cool World, Once Upon a Forest, Rusty: A Dog’s Tale, The Rugrats Movie, Rugrats in Paris: The Movie, Transformers, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, A Turtle’s Tale: Sammy’s Adventures, Khumba, Norm of the North, and Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling. TV appearances include The Redd Foxx Show, Thirtysomething, 1^st & Ten, Hot in Cleveland, The Smurfs, My Little Pony, The Pound Puppies, The Transformers, The Glo Friends, G. I. Joe: A Real American Hero, Inhumanoids, My Little Pony ‘n Friends, The Flintstones Kids, The Real Ghostbusters, Sky Commanders, Ultraman: The Adventure Begins, The Little Clowns of Happytown, The Little Troll Prince, Yogi’s Treasure Hunt, The New Adventures of Mighty Mouse, Rockin’ with Judy Jetson, The New Yogi Bear Show, Dino-Riders, The Further Adventures of SuperTed, Paddington Bear, ABC Weekend Special, Gravedale High, Tiny Toon Adventures, Tom & Jerry Kids, Bobby’s World, Star Street: The Adventures of the Star Kids, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, The Plucky Duck Show, Super Dave: Daredevil for Hire, Family Dog, 2 Stupid Dogs, Marsupilami, Mighty Max, Bonkers, Sonic the Hedgehog, Rocko’s Modern Life, Duckman, The Schnookums & Meat Funny Cartoon Show, Beavis and Butt-Head, Earthworm Jim, What a Cartoon!, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper, Tales from the Crypt, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, The Tick, Adventures of the Book of Virtues, Extreme Ghostbusters, Men in Black: The Series, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, The Secret Files of the Spy Dogs, Toonsylvania, Hey Arnold!, Johnny Bravo, Rugrats, The Wild Thornberrys, As Told by Ginger, The New Woody Woodpecker Show, All Grown Up!, Brandy & Mr. Whiskers, Pet Alien, Loonatics Unleashed, Camp Lazlo!, The Replacements, El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera, Chowder, Wolverine and the X-Men, G.I. Joe: Resolute, The Super Hero Squad Show, G.I. Joe: Renegades, Hero Factory, Word Girl, Ben 10: Omniverse, Avengers Assemble, The Tom and Jerry Show, Ultimate Spider-Man, SpongeBob Squarepants, The Rocketeer, and Harley Quinn. Was casting an voice director for As Told by Ginger, Dead Space: Downfall, All Grown Up!, Harley Quinn, Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius, Johnny Bravo Goes to Bollywood, Kung Fu Panda: Paws of Destiny, Rugrats, Rugrats Go Wild, Marvel Super Hero Squad: Comic Combat, Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet, Sabrina: Secrets of a Teenage Witch, Stripperella, The Bob’s Burgers Movie, The Replacements, The Wild Thornberrys, and Top Cat Begins. Video game appearances include Normality, Nickelodeon 3D Movie Maker, Blazing Dragons, Atomic Bomberman, Fallout, Fallout 2, Earthworm Jim 3D, Planetscape: Torment, Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn, Escape from Monkey Island, Sacrifice, Stupid Invaders, Nicktoons Racing, Earth and Beyond, Ty the Tasmanian Tiger 3: Night of the Quinkan, Cartoon Network Racing, Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen, Marvel Super Hero Squad, Star Trek Online, Marvel Super Hero Squad: The Infinity Gauntlet, Marvel Super Hero Squad Online, Final Fantasy XIII-2, Marvel Heroes, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, Lego Marvel’s Avengers, Red Dead Redemption II, and Skylanders: Imaginators.

Personal Life: Brother of psychotherapist Cheryl Adler best known for writing Sober University. Has a son named Danny Adler.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Has won a Helen Hayes Award and a Daytime Emmy. Was the guest of honor at AnthroCon 2017.

Regarded as one of the greatest animated films of all time, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast began as project Walt Disney had attempted to adapt twice as an animated film but ultimately shelved due to the plot proving too challenging as well as Jean Cocteau’s 1946 version. In 1987, the Disney studio resurrected Beauty and the Beast as a project for a satellite animation studio they established in London. Hiring Linda Woolverton, it became the first animated Disney movie to employ a screenwriter in an official capacity, which was unusual at the time. Since most traditionally animated films were usually developed on storyboard than in scripted form. Although it was originally supposed to be a darker and a non-musical, Howard Ashman and Alan Menken were called again to give Beauty and the Beast the same Broadway-style treatment as they did with The Little Mermaid. Yet, this would be a difficult time for Ashman not just because he was working on songs for Aladdin at the time, but also because he learned that he was dying from AIDS. So Disney decided to move pre-production work to Fishkill, New York, close to Ashman’s New York City home. There, the development crew retooled the script where they enhanced the two major characters, added new ones such as the household objects, and guide the audience toward the film as well as added the “real villain” Gaston. Ashman and Woolverton agreed that Beauty and the Beast should be the Beast’s story since according to producer Don Hahn, “He’s the guy trapped in the monkey suit who has to redeem himself during the course of the movie. The meter’s ticking for him.” They also took some inspiration from the Jean Cocteau version which introduced an oafish suiter named Avenant who’s somewhat similar to Gaston. Although not as bad as his Disney movie counterpart. While the animated objects were given distinct personalities. Production for Beauty and the Beast would be completed on a compressed timeline of 2 years. While Ashman died 8 months before its release. By the time it was shown at the New York Film Festival in 1991, it was still not finished. When it was released in 1991, Beauty and the Beast would rake in a worldwide box office gross of $335 million, critical acclaim, a Best Picture win for a Golden Globe, 2 Academy Awards for its music, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. In 1994, it would become the first Disney film adapted into a Broadway musical, which won a Tony Award and ran for 13 years. In more recent years, Beauty and the Beast is widely considered as one of the greatest animated films of all time for its innovative blend of traditional and computer animation, its role in revitalizing Walt Disney Animation Studios, and its contribution to establishing animation as a legitimate art form beyond children’s entertainment.  In this post, we’ll meet the voice actors David Ogden Stiers, Mary Kay Bergman, and Kath Soucie as well as the voices behind Gaston, LeFou, Lumiere, Chip, Maurice, and Stove.

161. Richard White

Dates: 1953-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Oak Ridge, Tennessee but was primarily raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and graduated from Bethel Park High School in 1971. Yet, he was actively involved with school musicals and community theater. Later attended the Oberlin Conservatory and the Indiana School of Music. Made his debut in 1979.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) as well as specials and video games.

Characters: Gaston

Also Known For: Actor and opera singer best known as the voice of Gaston. Stage appearances include The Most Happy Fella, Jekyll and Hyde, Gigi, The Desert Song, Showboat, Carousel, Annie Get Your Gun, Phantom, The Merry Widow, Oklahoma!, Camelot, and A Christmas Carol.

Personal Life: Married twice. First to actress Sharon Halley from 1982 to their 2003 divorce. They have a daughter named Amanda. Second and current wife is singer-actress named Susan Powell whom he met during the 1980s. Couple has been married since 2013.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Said he doesn’t see Gaston as a villain or think that he actually died.

162. Jerry Orbach

Dates: 1935-2004

Early Life and Career: Born Jerome Bernard Orbach in The Bronx, New York City. Mother was a greeting card manufacturer and radio singer of Polish-Lithuanian Catholic descent from Luzerne, Pennsylvania who raised him in her faith. Father was a Jewish restaurant manager and vaudeville performer from Hamburg, Germany. Family moved frequently during his childhood, living in places like Mount Vernon, New York, Wilkes-Barre, Nanticoke, and Scranton, Pennsylvania, Springfield, Massachusetts, and Waukegan, Illinois. Attended Waukegan High School and graduated in 1952 where he played on the football team as well as learned acting in a speech class. After his high school graduation, Orbach worked a summer in theatre at the Chevy Chase Country Club of Wheeling, Illinois and enrolled at the University of Illinois Urbana – Champaign in the fall. In 1953, he returned to the Chicago area and enrolled at Northwestern University but left before his senior year. In 1955, he moved to New York City to pursue acting and study at the Actors Studio where one of the instructors was its founder Lee Strasberg. Soon became a successful Broadway and Off-Broadway actor during the 1960s and 1970s.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) as well as direct-to-video installments, theme park attractions, and video games.

Characters: Lumiere

Also Known For: Actor and singer described at the time of his death as, “one of the last bona fide leading men of the Broadway musical and global celebrity on television” and a “versatile stage and film actor.” Best known as Detective Lenny Briscoe in Law & Order from 1992-2004 and whom he reprised in several series including Homicide: Life on the Street, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and Law & Order: Trial by Jury. Was also Harry McGraw in Murder, She Wrote (which also starred his Beauty and the Beast co-star Angela Lansbury) and The Law & Harry McGraw. Notable film roles include a detective in Prince of the City, a coach in Brewster’s Millions, and an overly protective father in Dirty Dancing. Film appearances include Guys and Dolls, Marty, Bye Bye Birdie, The Sentinel, The Gang That Couldn’t Shoot Straight, Underground Aces, Someone to Watch Over Me, F/X, Crimes and Misdemeanors, Out for Justice, Toy Soldiers, California Casanova, Universal Soldier, Mr. Saturday Night, The Road to El Dorado, Prince of Central Park, and Manna from Heaven. TV appearances include Annie Get Your Gun, Kojack, Buck Rogers of the 25^th Century, Ryan’s Hope, The Magic of Herself the Elf, Our Family Honor, The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers, Tales from the Darkness, Out on a Limb, Simon & Simon, The Golden Girls, Who’s the Boss?, Empty Nest, Quiet Killer, Broadway Bound, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, and Frasier. Stage appearances include The Threepenny Opera, The Fantasticks, Carnival!, The Cradle Will Rock, Guys and Dolls, Carousel, Annie Get Your Gun, Scuba Duba, Promises, Promises, 6 Rms Riv Vu, Chicago, and 42^nd Street. Video game appearances include Law & Order: Dead on the Money, Law & Order: Double or Nothing, and Law & Order: Justice Is Served.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Marta Curro from 1958 to their divorce in 1975. Had 2 sons with her named Anthony “Tony” Nicholas who’s a construction manager and accomplished crossword constructor who’s published more than 25 puzzles in The New York Times and actor-singer Christopher Orbach who once played his nephew Ken on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. Second wife was Broadway dancer Elaine Cancilla whom he met while starring as Billy Flynn in Chicago. They were married from 1979 until his death. Had 2 grandchildren named Peter and Sarah Kate by his older son Tony around the time of his death. Lived in a high-rise on 53^rd Street off 8^th Avenue in Hell’s Kitchen and was a fixture of the neighborhood’s restaurants and shops. His glossy publicity photo hangs at Buffy’s Cleaners and was a regular at some of the Italian restaurants nearby.

Later Life: Was diagnosed with prostate cancer early in 1994. Treated with radiation therapy but by the end of the year, the cancer had metastasized. Underwent hormone therapy throughout the next decade while continuing to star in Law & Order. After leaving the series in 2004, he underwent chemotherapy but he ultimately succumbed to the cancer around the end of that year while at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City at 69. Marquees on Broadway dimmed in mourning. NBC aired his last Law & Order episodes and dedicated them to him. Corneas were donated as per his request. Interred at Trinity Church Cemetery and Mausoleum in upper Manhattan.

Trivia: Won a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 1968 for Promises, Promises as well as was nominated for another years later. Won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series for Law & Order in 2005. Was nominated for 3 Emmys and a Grammy Award. Was said to have an IQ of 163 and perfect 20/20 vision during his whole life. Described his Lumiere voice as “halfway between Maurice Chevalier and Pepe Le Pew.” Performed a live stage rendition to the Oscar-nominated song, “Be Our Guest” at the Academy Awards. Had an intersection of New York City’s 8^th Avenue and 53^rd Street renamed in his honor. Was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1999. Was named a “Living Landmark” by the New York Conservancy along with Law & Order co-star Sam Waterson in 2002. In 2007, the Snapple Theater Center named the Jerry Orbach Theatre at Broadway and 50^th Street. Author Kurt Vonnegut was a fan of his. Starred in Chicago as Billy Flynn alongside Rex Everhart as Amos Hart from 1975-1977.

163. David Ogden Stiers

Dates: 1942-2018

Early Life and Career: Born at St. Francis Hospital in Peoria, Illinois. Family moved to Eugene, Oregon where he graduated from North Eugene High School and briefly attended the University of Oregon where a performance by George Szell and the Cleveland Orchestra ignited his love of classical music. Stiers moved to San Francisco where he performed with The California Shakespeare Theater, San Francisco Actors Workshop, and the improvisational group, The Committee, whose members included Rob Reiner, Howard Hesseman, and Peter Bonerz. Worked for the Santa Clara Shakespear Festival for 7 years until John Houseman discovered him and invited him to study at the Julliard School in New York City where he graduated in 1972. Although he’d occasionally skip acting classes to hear master classes by Pierre Boulez, John Williams, and Sir Georg Solti. Following that, Stiers became a founding member of the City Center Acting Company and appeared in many of their productions. Made Broadway debut in 1974.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Pocahontas (1995), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), and Lilo & Stitch (2002) as well as well as direct-to-video installments, series, theme park attractions, live stage appearances, and video games.

Characters: Cogsworth, Governor Radcliffe, Wiggins, Archdeacon, Fenton Q. Harcourt, and Dr. Jumba Jookiba

Also Known For: Actor and conductor who appeared on numerous Broadway productions but is best known as Major Charles Winchester III on M*A*S*H. Other roles include District Attorney Michael Reston in the Perry Mason TV movies during the 1980s, Reverend Gene Purdy in The Dead Zone, and Oberoth in Stargate: Atlantis. Film appearances include THX 1138, The Cheap Detective, Oh, God!, Harry’s War, The Man with One Red Shoe, Better Off Dead…, Another Woman, The Accidental Tourist, Doc Hollywood, Shadows and Fog, The Last of His Tribe, Porco Rosso, Iron Will, Bad Company, Napoleon, Mighty Aphrodite, Everyone Says I Love You, Jungle 2 Jungle, My Neighbors the Yamadas, The Stand-In, Tomcats, The Majestic, Spirited Away, The Curse of the Jade Scorpion, Hoodwinked!, and Lady in the Water. TV appearances include Kojak, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Charlie’s Angels, Rhoda, CBS Afternoon Playhouse, The First Olympics: Athens 1896, North and South, Murder, She Wrote, North and South Book II, Matlock, ALF, The Ray Bradbury Theater, CBS Schoolbreak Special, Wings, Star Trek: The Next Generation, American Experience, Ally McBeal, The Angry Beavers, The Practice, The Outer Limits, The Wild Thornberrys, Bull, Teacher’s Pet, Justice League, Frasier, Touched by an Angel, Static Shock, NOVA, Justice League Unlimited, Leverage, and Rizzoli & Isles. Video game appearances include Toonstruck, Icewind Dale, Uru: Ages Beyond Myst, Uru: To D’ni, Myst V: End of Ages, and Baldur’s Gate: Siege of Dragonspear. Stage appearances include Three Sisters, The Beggar’s Opera, Measure for Measure, Ulysses of Nighttown, and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas.

Personal Life: Came out as gay in 2009, telling Oklahoma City blog Gossip Boy that he feared doing so would hurt his career for reasons that I need not explain. Claimed that his reason for coming out had more to do for the sake of a potential partner, “I could claim noble reasons as coming out in order to move gay rights forward, but I must admit it is for far more selfish reasons. Now is the time I wish to find someone, and I do not desire to force any potential partner to live a life of extreme discretion with me.”

Later Life: Spent his later years as associate conductor of the Newport (Oregon) Symphony Orchestra and the Ernest Bloch Music Festival as well as played a major role in establishing the Newport Symphony. Also guest conducted over 70 orchestras around the world including, the Oregon Mozart Players, the Vancouver Symphony, the Virginia Symphony, the Oregon Chamber Players, and the Yaquina (Oregon) Chamber Orchestra, as well as orchestras in San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Chicago, Salt Lake City, and Toronto. Died in 2018 from complications of bladder cancer at his home in Newport, Oregon at 75. His will made bequests to several arts organizations in his area, including the Newport Symphony, Newport Public Library, and the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts, among others.

Trivia: Received 2 Emmy nominations.

164. Bradley Pierce

Dates: 1982-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Glendale, Arizona, Pierce began acting from the age of 6 and has appeared in various projects ranging from commercial and voiceover work to film and television.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) and Return to Never Land (2002) as well as a variety of series and video games.

Characters: Chip and Nibs

Also Known For: Actor, producer, and cinematographer. Best known roles outside Disney are Peter Shepherd in Jumanji, Tails in Sonic the Hedgehog, and Pete Lender in The Borrowers. Film appearances include Chaplin, Down to You, Pearl Harbor, Crazy/Beautiful, Riding in Cars with Boys, Big Trouble, Harold & Kumar Get the Munchies, College Road Trip, High School Musical 3: Senior Year, Phantom, The Internship, My All-America, Detective Pikachu, Porco Rosso, Whisper of the Heart, and The Cat Returns. TV appearances include Too Young to Die, Life Goes On, Beverly Hills 90210, Days of Our Lives, Roseanne, Herman’s Head, Mad About You, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Cries from the Heart, The Client, The Home Court, The Siege of Ruby Ridge, Touched by an Angel, Mr. Show with Bob and David, Star Trek: Voyager, Camp Rock, Timeless Tales from Hallmark, The Pink Panther, The Busy World of Richard Scarry, The Wild Thornberrys, and As Told by Ginger. Video game appearances include Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland and The Lego Movie Videogame.

Personal Life: Married to Shari Holmes from 2005 to their divorce in 2017. Has 3 children with her.

Later Life: Has a short film production company with fellow actor Joey Zimmerman called ZFO entertainment that also works as press/media outlet.

Trivia: Co-founded Pierce & Luna, a cocktail company geared towards bartending education and liquor review. Along with partner, Bella Luna, Pierce has begun bartending services and consultations for elite parties. They also provide specialty cocktails for festivals such as the Hollywood Burlesque Festival and the Hollywood Fringe Festival.

165. Rex Everhart

Dates: 1920-2000

Early Life and Career: Born in Watseka, Illinois. Father was a doctor and mother died when he was 15. Attended Western Military Academy in 1935 and graduated in 1938. Studied at the University of Missouri and received a theater degree at the Pasadena Playhouse. Received a bachelor’s and master’s degree at New York University where he studied acting with Martin Ritt, Paul Mann, and Curt Conway. Started his theater career in 1939, working in regional and repertory theaters including the Phoenix Theater, Yale Repertory Theater and seven seasons at The American Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, Connecticut. Also served in the US Navy as a 1^st lieutenant during World War II from 1942 to 1947. Appeared in Pasadena Playhouse productions, acted and directed shows for NYU, as well as acted at Newport, Rhode Island’s Sarah Stamms Theatre and Dallas’ Margo Jones Theatre. Made his Broadway debut in 1955.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991)

Characters: Maurice

Also Known For: Film, theater, and television actor with a career spanning over 5 decades. Film appearances include Who Killed the Teddy Bear?, The Seven-Ups, Matilda (1978), Superman, Friday the 13^th, The Rosary Murders, and Family Business. TV appearances include Armstrong Circle Theatre, Naked City, The Du Pont Show of the Week, ABC Stage 67, For the People, Car 54, Where Are You?, The Trials of O’Brien, The Blue Hotel, Gnomes, The Elephant Man, ABC Afterschool Special, Man in a Suitcase, Law & Order, Square One Television, and Ghostwriter. Stage appearances include No Time for Sergeants, Tall Story, Lysistrata, Peer Gynt, Henry IV Part 1, Henry IV Part 2, Tenderloin, Skyscraper, 1776, The Iceman Cometh, Peer Gynt, Chicago, Working, Woman of the Year, The Playboy of the Western World, Rags, and Anything Goes.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Jill Reardon from 1944 to their divorce in 1957. Second wife was actress Clare Violet whom he met during the run of Tenderloin. They were married from 1962 until his death. Also had a daughter named Degan together. Lived in Westport, Connecticut for 37 years.

Later Life: Retired in 1997. Died of lung cancer in 2000 in Branford, Connecticut at 79.

Trivia: Was nominated for a Tony Award for Best Actor in 1978 for Working. Was Howard Da Silva’s understudy in 1776. Starred in Chicago as Amos Hart alongside Jerry Orbach as Billy Flynn from 1975-1977.

167. Jo Anne Worley

Dates: 1937-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Lowell, Indiana. Parents divorced in 1962 and father remarried and had a second family with a woman named Nancy. Said she had such a loud voice that she had to only lip sync hymns at church because she’d drown everyone else if she sang them. Was named class clown before graduating from high school in 1955. Afterwards, Worley moved to Blauvelt, New York, where she began her professional career as a member of the Pickwick Players. This led to a drama scholarship to Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas. After studying at Midwestern for a couple of years, Worley moved to Los Angeles to study at Los Angeles City College and the Pasadena Playhouse. Was soon given her first role in the musical Wonderful Town. Received her first major break in 1961 in a Los Angeles musical revue called Billy Barnes People, which later moved to Broadway. In 1965, Worley created her own nightclub in Greenwich Village, where Merv Griffin discovered her in 1966. Impressed by her talents, Griffin engaged her to be among the primary guests of his show where she appeared 40 times. In 1967, Worley’s stint on Griffin’s show led to her discovery by George Schlatter, who soon cast her in Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. She remained there until 1970.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) and A Goofy Movie (1995) as well as a variety of direct-to-video installments, video games, and series.

Characters: Wardrobe and Miss Maples

Also Known For: Actress, comedian, and singer whose work covers film, television, theater, talk shows, game shows, cartoons, and commercials. Best known for her work on the comedy-variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. Film appearances include Moon Pilot, Head, The Shaggy D.A., and Nutcracker Fantasy. TV appearances include The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, Adventures in Paradise, Captain Nice, Hot Dog, Night Gallery, Adam-12, The Paul Lynde Show, Pyramid, Emergency!, Match Game, The Six Million Dollar Man, New Zoo Revue, Hawaii Five-O, The Love Boat, The Gift of the Maji, CHiPs, The All New Popeye Hour, Murder, She Wrote, Super Password, Pound Puppies, The Wuzzles, The Pink Panther, Mad About You, Caroline in the City, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Hollywood Squares, Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List, Bones, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and The Middle. Stage appearances include Carnival!, Hello, Dolly!, The Pirates of Penzance, Prince of Central Park, Annie, Grease, The Wizard of Oz, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Wicked.

Personal Life: Married to actor Roger Perry from 1975 to their divorce in 2000. An avid animal lover, Worley has been involved with the organization Actors and Others for Animals for more than 40 years, which was founded in 1971 to fund spay-and-neuter programs as well as provide veterinary assistance for pet owners in Southern California. She served on a voluntary basis on the board of directors for several years before becoming vice president. Has served as president of the organization since 2007.

Later Life: Still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

168. Mary Kay Bergman

Dates: 1961-1999

Early Life and Career: Born in Los Angeles, California. Mother was an animation cel painter for Max Fleischer on Popeye cartoons in New York City. Her parents performed as a singing duo in Los Angeles as well as Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada. Only settling in Los Angeles when her mom became pregnant. Yet, it was her mother’s interest in animation that piqued Bergman which led to a shared interest in watching Saturday morning cartoons together. Even at an early age, Bergman wanted to be a film star with her early passion influenced by Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs which she watched in theaters when she was around 6 or 7. She also grew up around the corner from Adrianna Caselotti’s home, whom she idolized. Attended Joseph Le Conte Middle School and Hollywood High School where she graduated with top academic honors in 1978. At 16, she received her first acting job for a TV movie starring Elizabeth Taylor but she was left disappointed because her scene was cut. She later joined the Screen Actors Guild. After graduation, she enrolled at UCLA and studied theater arts from 1978 to 1981, mainly because she was a big Carol Burnett fan. However, after 3 years at UCLA, Bergman received a role in a play outside of school and dropped out to start her professional life. Joined a small agency in the valley of Los Angeles that started 6 months before she came in. Auditioned for an exercise program scheduled to appear on cable. Yet, a week after Bergman won the part, the agency closed and reopened as a candy store. Described the experience as “the worst agency story in the business.” She then a receptionist for the Boy Scouts of America, which she enjoyed and was pleased working with the organization’s people. Also worked as a receptionist for an insurance company, where she managed to move up the ranks to become assistant underwriter that she found “extremely boring.” Although she thought about becoming a DJ, she couldn’t find any information on where to take classes. Bergman caught the attention of voice-over teacher Kay Lehrman after she did her Ethel Merman impression to a karaoke machine. Bergman then studied voice acting and took all of Lehrman’s classes. After her final class, she recorded a demo tape for the voice-acting agency Abrams, Rubaloff, and Lawrence before quitting her receptionist job after realizing that “squeezing auditions into her regular work schedule was not working.” First voice acting role was a frightened woman in a local radio commercial for a home security company. After doing radio voice-overs, Bergman was soon selected by Disney to take over for Caselotti as the voice of Snow White.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), and Toy Story 2 (1999) as well as a variety of series, radio appearances, and video games.

Characters: Claudette, Laurette, Quasimodo’s Mother, Djali, Earthquake Lady, Nymphs, Teenage Girls, Athena, Third Ancestor, and Jessie (yodeling).

Also Known For: Voice actress and voice-over teacher who was the original lead female voice actress in South Park from its beginning in 1997 until her death. Performed voice work for every aspect of media including over 400 television commercials. Known for her distinctive voice acting on her “sweet, little cute characters” but her range would later expand as she got older. Film appearances include Annabelle’s Wish, Kikki’s Delivery Service, Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island, Rusty: A Dog’s Tale, The Brave Little Toaster to the Rescue, The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars, South Park: Bigger, Longer, & Uncut, and The Iron Giant. TV appearances include Alvin and the Chipmunks, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, Family Dog, The Bears Who Saved Christmas, Fantastic Four, Space Strikers, The Tick, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, The Fantastic Voyages of Sinbad the Sailor, What a Cartoon!, Roar, USA High, Extreme Ghostbusters, The New Adventures of Zorro, Spider-Man, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, The Secret Files of the Spy Dogs, Men in Black: The Series, Family Guy, and Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot. Video game appearances include Leisure Suit Larry 6: Suit Up or Slip Out!, Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers, Leisure Suit Larry: Love for Sail!, I Can Be a Dinosaur Finder, I Can Be an Animal Doctor, South Park, Leisure Suit Larry’s Casino, King’s Quest: Mask of Eternity, Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace, Scooby-Doo! Mystery of the Fun Park Phantom, South Park Rally, Alundra 2, and Tenchu 2: Birth of the Stealth Assassins.

Personal Life: Married to fellow voice actor Dino Andrade from 1990 until her death. However, although Bergman achieved great success as a voice actress, there was a very dark side to it. At the height of her popularity, Bergman began to physically suffer from insomnia, myalgia, and nausea. Her doctor would later diagnose her with generalized anxiety disorder caused by severe stress. She kept this a secret from everyone including her husband, family, and friends. However, Andrade soon found out which led to Bergman admitting that she was afraid of losing her abilities and that her condition would end her career. Unfortunately, she would’ve almost certainly been much better off if she took time off and sought help. Even if she had to make sacrifices in her career as a voice actress, which she really needed to do in my opinion. Yet, tragically, she ended up choosing her career over her own mental well-being and at a very steep price.

Later Life: Started teaching voice-acting at Burbank’s Kalmenson & Kalmenson Studios. In November 1999, Bergman contributed to a radio program celebrating Disneyland’s 45^th anniversary, performing as Snow White in the commercial. Later that evening, Andrade returned to their home in the Los Angeles neighborhood of Venice to find that Bergman had fatally shot herself in the head, with 2 suicide notes: one for him and one for John Bell stating that she couldn’t “handle her fear anymore.” She was only 38. Attorney Robert Harrison stated that Bergman showed no signs of depression. However, we must understand that suicide and depression are listed among complications regarding generalized anxiety disorder. The Los Angeles Coroner’s Office reported as a self-inflicted gunshot wound as her cause of death. Buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park since one of her biggest thrills was attending private screenings of Beauty and the Beast in the Walt Disney Company’s original screening room that’s located near her grave. News of her sudden death triggered an outpouring of grief from her fans and friends. While a lot of websites publishing the devastating news also included a memorial page and message board of Bergman that also received popularity. To honor Bergman and encourage others to seek help, Andrade established the Mary Kay Bergman Memorial Fund at the Suicide Prevention Center of Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center, which has raised thousands of dollars toward the cause. Her official website has been converted to mkbmemorial.com in order to support a mental health program for those diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder.

Trivia: Classmate and friend of Nancy Cartwright. Was a member of an improve troupe called the Groundlings. Frank Welker was one of her mentors. Gave Trey Parker and Matt Stone many ideas for South Park that the creators originally didn’t have while she performed in the show under the name Shannen Cassidy in order to keep Disney from finding out and dropping her as the voice of Snow White. Nominated for an Annie for her performance as Sheila Blofovski in the South Park film.

169. Kath Soucie

Dates: 1953-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Cleveland, Ohio. Studied acting under drama teacher Manu Tupou. After attending the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Soucie began a successful career on the New York stage. Appeared in several TV movies but soon experienced disappointment with the physical restrictions of on-camera acting. Had her first voice acting job in 1986.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), The Tigger Movie (2000), Recess: School’s Out (2001), Return to Never Land (2002), Lilo & Stitch (2002), Piglet’s Big Movie (2003), Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (2005), Wreck-It-Ralph (2012), and Zootopia (2016) as well as a variety of direct-to-video installments, series, TV movies, and video games.

Characters: Bimbettes, Kanga, Counselor, Wendy Darling, Hawaiian Woman, and Young Nick Wilde

Also Known For: Voice actress best known as the voice of Lola Bunny, Phil, Lil, and Betty DeVille, Fifi Le Fume, Lil Sneezer, Maddie Fenton, Linka, Dexter’s Mom, Princess Sally Acorn, Bubbles, and Tuffy Mouse. Film appearances include Hollyrock-a-Bye Baby, Space Jam, Kiki’s Delivery Service, The Rugrats Movie, Rugrats in Paris: The Movie, The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, The Trumpet of the Swan, Hey Arnold!: The Movie, The Santa Clause 2, Rugrats Go Wild, The Animatrix, Clifford’s Really Big Movie, My Neighbor Totoro, Stuart Little 3: Call of the Wild, Curious George, Back to the Sea, and Wonder Park. TV appearances include The Tale of Tillie’s Dragon, Annabelle’s Wish, Dexter’s Laboratory: Ego Trip, Hellboy: Blood and Iron, Hey Arnold!: The Jungle Movie, Home Improvement, The Incredible Journey of Doctor Meg Laurel, Imagination Movers, My Little Pony, The Smurfs, Pound Puppies, The Real Ghostbusters, The New Yogi Bear Show, The Adventures of Raggedy Ann and Andy, X-Men: Pryde of the X-Men, Timeless Tales from Hallmark, Tiny Toon Adventures, Captain Planet and the Planeteers, Toxic Crusaders, Little Dracula, James Bond Jr. Space Cats, Rugrats, Raw Toonage, The Plucky Duck Show, Animaniacs, Mighty Max, Sonic the Hedgehog, The Pink Panther, Where on Earth Is Carmen Sandiego?, Superhuman Samurai Syber-Squad, The Critic, Savage Dragon, The Hot Rod Dogs and Cool Car Cats, Quack Pack, The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper, Adventures from the Book of Virtues, Dexter’s Laboratory, Hey Arnold!, Johnny Bravo, CatDog, I Am Weasel, The Magician, Oh Yeah! Cartoons, The Powderpuff Girls, Courage the Cowardly Dog, Futurama, Baby Blues, Clifford the Big Red Dog, As Told by Ginger, Time Squad, Samurai Jack, The Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries, Duck Dodgers, My Life as a Teenage Robot, Static Shock, Justice League Unlimited, The Batman, W.I.T.C.H, Ben 10, Curious George, The Replacements, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, The Spectacular Spider-Man, Winx Club, Mad, Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated, Transformers: Rescue Bots, DocMcStuffins, The Tom and Jerry Show, New Looney Toons, The Loud House, and Star Wars: The Bad Batch. Video game appearances include Full Throttle, Stonekeep, Space Jam, Fallout, Outlaws, Detective Barbie in the Mystery of the Carnival Caper!, Rugrats: Search for Reptar, Rugrats Adventure Game, Rugrats Studio Tour, Baldur’s Gate II: Shadows of Amn, Looney Tunes Racing, Looney Tunes: Space Race, Warriors of Might and Magic, Dexter’s Laboratory: Science Ain’t Fair, Rugrats: Totally Angelica, Baldur’s Gate II: Throne of Bhaal, Jump Start Advanced 1^st Grade, Jump Start Advanced 2^nd Grade, Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi Outcast, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, Final Fantasy X, Icewind Dale II, Jurassic Park: Dinosaur Battles, Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits, Star Wars Jedi Knight: Jedi Academy, The Cat in the Hat, World of Warcraft, Gun, Robots, Star Wars: Empire at War, Tomb Raider: Legend, Cartoon Network Racing, Thrillville, Thrillville: Off the Rails, Mass Effect, Lost Odyssey, Tomb Raider: Underworld, Brutal Legend, Dragon Age: Origins, StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, Star Wars: The Old Republic, Syndicate, StarCraft II: Heart of the Swarm, Lightning Returns: Final Fantasy XIII, The Elder Scrolls Online, World of Final Fantasy, Heroes of the Storm, Fallout 76, and Ninjala.

Personal Life: I couldn’t find anything about her personal life.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

170. Brian Cummings

Dates: 1948-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Began pursuit of his chosen career at local radio station KDSN in Aberdeen, South Dakota during his senior year in high school. Said he set his sights high and has continued to “talk” a lot.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) as well as the series Duck Tales and along with Mark Elliot, has been one of the long-time voices of Walt Disney Home Entertainment trailers and promotions.

Characters: Stove

Also Known For: Voice actor known for his work in commercials, film promos, cartoons and as an announcer The All-New Let’s Make a Deal from 1984-1985. Also has done extensive work for Paramount Home Entertainment. Film appearances include The Jetsons: The Movie, California Suite, Where the Buffalo Roam, Good Burger, and Fern Gully: The Last Rainforest. TV appearances include Spider-Man, The Little Rascals, Snorks, The Berenstein Bears, G. I. Joe: A Real American Hero, Animaniacs, Les Dalton, ALF, Fun House, Most Shocking, Most Daring, and We Wish You a Merry Walrus. Video game appearances include Tron: Solar Sailor, The Mark of Kri, Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, Metal Gear Solid: Portable Ops, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice.

Personal Life: Married to Carla McNally and has 8 children.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: None.

              With The Rescuers being Disney’s most successful recent film by 1984, Walt Disney Studios decided to award the film the rare honor of a sequel back when the company didn’t do these. Yet, when writing began in 1986, it was determined that the movie would be set in Australia due to the success of Crocodile Dundee at the time. Because of the rising popularity of Australian-themed action films and with Americans becoming more environmentally conscious, the studio decided to abandon its musical format, market it as its first action-adventure film, and have it be the first Disney film since Bambi to with an environmental and animal rights message. By 1988, Bob Newhart and Eva Gabor have confirmed to reprise their roles. But since Orville’s actor Jim Jordan died from a fall at his home, Roy E. Disney suggested that Orville be replaced by his brother Wilbur as a tribute. Storyboard artist Joe E. Ranft was brought on to serve as the story supervisor. As for the animation, animators studied the mannerisms of Newhart and Gabor during their voice recording sessions and used George C. Scott’s performance in Doctor Strangelove as a reference for Percival McLeach whom the actor portrayed. To create believable realism with Australian animals, animators traveled to the San Diego Zoo to observe kangaroos, kookaburras, and snakes. While an iguana from Walt Disney World’s Discovery Island was brought into the studio as a reference for Joanna. The Rescuers Down Under is also notable as Disney’s first traditionally animated film using only the new computerized CAPS process (Computer Animation Production System) developed by Pixar, which was a computer-based production system used for digital ink and paint compositing, allowing for more efficient and sophistication post-production of the Disney animated films and making the traditional practice of hand-painting cels obsolete. With animators’ drawings and backgrounds scanned into computer systems instead and where the animation drawings were inked and painted by digital artists. The drawings were later composited with the scanned backgrounds in software to allow for digital compositing like camera positioning, camera movements, multiplane effects, and other camera techniques. Those digital files would be recorded onto film stock. While The Rescuers Down Under received positive reviews from critics, it only grossed $47.4 million at the box office, making it a box office bomb. Yet, it receives an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and its animation methods would be used in later films. In this post, we’ll meet the voice behind Ariel’s Sisters (and the Feather Duster), voice actor Jack Angel and Russi Taylor, as well as the voices behind, Jake, Red, Frank, Krebbs (and the Sultan), and Baitmouse along with 2 characters from Beauty and the Beast which I’ll cover in the next post.

151. Kimmy Robertson

Dates:1954-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Los Angeles, California. Began her career as a ballet dancer but her distinctive sense of humor and quirky style brought her to the attention of an agent who happened to work in the same office as her ballet company. Although initially unsure about being an actress, Robertson was hired for the first role she auditioned for in the 1982 teen comedy The Last American Virgin.

Movies and Cartoons: The Little Mermaid (1989) and Beauty and the Beast (1991) as well as several direct-to-video instalments and series.

Characters: Ariel’s Sisters and Featherduster

Also Known For: Actress best known as Lucy Moran in Twin Peaks as well as the voice of Ollie in Ollie & Scoops. Speaks in a high-pitched voice. Film appearances include The Last American Virgin, Bad Manners, The Couch Trip, Trust Me, My Mom’s a Werewolf, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead, Leprechaun 2, Speed 2: Cruise Control, Stuart Little, and Anderson’s Cross. TV appearances include Perfect Secrets, Second Chance, Webster, Married…with Children, ABC Weekend Special, Tales from the Crypt, The Simpsons, Batman: The Animated Series, 2 Stupid Dogs, The Louie Show, Ellen, The Critic, The Tick, ER, Batman Beyond, The Amanda Show, Becker, Drake & Josh, Southland, Psych, Marry Me, and Angel from Hell.

Personal Life: Was said to be married to a guy named Johnny Walker from 2003 to their divorce in 2004.

Later Life: In 2004, she wrote a letter of support for convicted sex offender Brian Peck before his sentencing. He had been found guilty of sexual offenses against a child.

Trivia: Was said to perform in the Disneyland parade at one point.

152. Jack Angel

Dates: 1930-2021

Early Life and Career: Born in Modesto, California. Father was a Greek immigrant. Graduated from San Francisco State University in 1957 before being hired as a DJ for a California radio station and decided to pursue a career in radio programs. Within a decade, Angel became one of the most popular radio personalities with his radio programs being heard on KMPC and KFI Los Angeles. In his early career, Angel also landed roles in stage productions at The Actor’s Ring and the Portland Civic Theater. Began experimenting with voiceovers that he’d produce for clients. While at KMPC, Angel’s demo tape ended up in the hands of Gary Owens who already made inroads as an animation voiceover and forwarded Angel’s demo tape to his agent. After nearly 20 years of radio, Angel shifted to full-time voice acting.

Movies and Cartoons: The Little Mermaid (1989), Duck Tales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp (1990), The Rescuers Down Under (1990), Beauty and the Beast (1991), Aladdin (1992), Toy Story (1995) The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), Hercules (1997), Mulan (1998), A Bug’s Life (1998), Tarzan (1999), Toy Story 2 (1999), Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001), Monsters, Inc. (2001), Lilo & Stitch (2002), Treasure Planet (2003), Finding Nemo (2003), The Incredibles (2004), Cars (2006), Toy Story 3 (2011), and Monsters University (2013) as well as various cartoon series, specials, and video games.

Characters: Sailor, Tom, Arab, Rocky Gibraltar, Mr. Shark, Builder #2, Ancestor, Thud, Monkey, Alien Guard, Grewnge, Police Robot, Mr. Johansen, Guard #2, Chuck Armstrong, Chunk, and Fear “The Terror” Thompson

Also Known For: Voice actor who provided voiceovers for animation and video games. Was the voice of Smokey the Bear from 2002-2012. Film appearances include Transformers: The Movie, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, An American Tail: Fievel Goes West, Porco Rosso, Dragon Ball Z: Wrath of the Dragon, Balto, Quest for Camelot, The Prince of Egypt, The Iron Giant, The Trumpet of the Swan, Spirited Away, Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were Rabbit, Ice Age: The Meltdown, Horton Hears a Who, The Lorax, Despicable Me 2, Funny Lady, The World’s Greatest Lover, Beetlejuice, Hook, Mom and Dad Save the World, A.I. Artificial Intelligence, Looney Tunes: Back in Action, Deterrence, Crime and Punishment in Suburbia, and Noah. TV appearances include The All-New Super Friends Hour, Challenge of the Super Friends, Scooby-Doo and Scrappy-Doo, Super Friends, The Smurfs, The New Scooby and Scrappy-Doo Show, Pole Position, Super Friends: The Legendary Super Powers Show, Voltron: Defender of the Universe, The Super Powers Team: Galactic Guardians, The Transformers, G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero, The Real Ghostbusters, Blondie and Dagwood, Superman, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Tiny Toon Adventures, Raw Toonage, Sonic the Hedgehog, Bonkers, The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper, Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm, Rugrats, Hey Arnold!, The Wild Thornberrys, Ben 10, My Life as a Teenage Robot, ChalkZone, Clarence, Care Bears: Unlock the Magic, The Young and the Restless, The Dukes, Snorks, Saber Rider and Star Sheriffs, Where’s Waldo?, The Legend of Prince Valiant, Kid ‘n Play, Space Cats, The New Adventures of Captain Planet, The Fantastic Voyages of Sinbad the Sailor, All-New Dennis the Menace, Sonic Underground, Scrubs, Crime Story, The Six Million Dollar Man, The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Amazing Stories, Silver Spoons, and TUGS. Video game appearances include Star Wars: Dark Forces, Full Throttle, The Dark Eye, Shattered Steel, Outlaws, Grim Fandango, Crusaders of Might and Magic, Throne of Darkness, Ratchet & Clank, EverQuest II, World of Warcraft, Shadow of Rome, Killer7, Call of Duty 2, Dreamfall: The Longest Journey, Titan Quest, Gothic 3, Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance, Aion, Watchmen: The End Is Nigh, Wolfenstein, Supreme Commander 2, Prison Break: The Conspiracy, The Darkness II, Voltron: Defender of the Universe, Call of Duty: Black Ops II, and Final Fantasy XV.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Barbara Champion whom he had 3 children with. They divorced in 1980. Second wife was talent agent/owner Arlene Thornton from 1984 until his death. They resided in the Studio City neighborhood of Malibu, California.

Later Life: Died in 2021 of natural causes in Malibu, California at 90. Buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Hollywood Hills.

Trivia: None.

153. Tristan Rogers

Dates: 1946-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Melbourne. Early roles were short stints on Australian soap operas and other television shows. Also appeared in some early British films during the 1970s. Originally appeared on General Hospital in 1980.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990)

Characters: Jake

Also Known For: Australian-American actor best known as Robert Scorpio on General Hospital a show which he currently stars in. Has done voiceover work for Outback Steakhouse, Foster’s Lager, Reebok, and Epson. Also did voice work in a Mad Max video game. Film appearances include Four Dimensions of Greta, The Flesh and Blood Show, A Piece of Eden, Delgo, and Jack Rio. TV appearances include The Link Men, Barrier Reef, Number 96, The Box, Power Without Glory, Bellbird, Cover Up, Babylon 5, The Real Adventures of Johnny Quest, Fast Track, Batman Beyond, General Hospital: Night Shift, The Bay, and The Young and the Restless.

Personal Life: Married twice. First wife was Barbara Meale from 1974 until their divorce in 1984. Second and current wife is Teres Parkinson since 1995. They have a daughter named Sarah Jane born in 1992 and a son named Cale born in 1996.

Later Life: Bought a home in Palm Springs, California in 1997.

Trivia: None.

154. Peter Firth

Dates: 1953-present

Early Life and Career: Born in Bradford, Yorkshire, England. Parents owned a bar. Attended Bradford’s Hanson School. Became a leading child actor in British television during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Made his theatrical debut in 1973.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990)

Characters: Red

Also Known For: British actor best known for his role as Sir Harry Peare in the BBC One series Spooks and has been the only cast member to appear in every episode of the 10-season show. Also played Alan Stang in Equus. Did voice work for Star Wars Fleet Commander. Film appearances include Aces High, Joseph Andrews, Tess, Fire and Sword, Sword of the Valiant: The Legend of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, White Elephant, Lifeforce, Letter to Brezhnev, Prisoner of Rio, Tree of Hands, Trouble in Paradise (1989), The Hunt for Red October, The Pleasure Principle, Shadowlands, White Angel, Merisairas, Gaston’s War, Amistad, Mighty Joe Young (1998), Pearl Harbor, The Greatest Game Ever Played, World Without End, and Risen. TV appearances include The Flaxton Boys, Here Come the Double Deckers, The Doctors, The Adventures of Black Beauty, Owen M.D., Scene, The Protectors, Arthur of the Britons, Diamonds on Wheels, The Picture of Dorian Gray, The Lady of the Camellias, Tales of the Unexpected, Northanger Abbey, The Incident, The Young Indiana Jones, Anna Lee, Resort to Murder, The Witch’s Daughter, Band of Gold, The Broker’s Man, Kavanaugh QC, Dead Man’s Gun, The Magnificent Seven, Cracker, That’s Life, The Vice, Hawking, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire, South Riding, Mayday, Undeniable, Dickensian, Victoria, and Summer of Rockets. Audiobook appearances include After Hannibal, Brave New World, Suspicion, Tess of the D’Ubervilles, Maurice, Birdsong, Regeneration, The Eye in the Door, and The Ghost Road.

Personal Life: Lodged with Peter Schaffer during Equus’ run on Broadway in a father-son relationship. Married 3 times. First wife was Maya Sendall from 1980 until their divorce. Has fathered a child named Rory to her. Second wife was Lindsey Readman from 1990 until their divorce. Have 4 children together. Third and current wife is actress Alexandra Pigg since 2017, whom he was in a relationship with since 2010. Were interviewed together during the making of Letters to Brezhnev.

Later Life: Still working as of 2025.

Trivia: Won a Golden Globe in 1977 for his performance in Equus as well as received an Academy Award nomination. Awarded an honorary Doctorate of Letters degree from the University of Bradford by the School of Computing, Informatics, & Media in 2009.

155. Wayne Robson

Dates: 1946-2011

Early Life and Career: Born in Vancouver, British Columbia. Began his acting career on stage but moved with his family to Toronto, Ontario where he continued with stage acting and appeared on Canadian TV commercials during the 1970s. Made first film in 1971.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990)

Characters: Frank

Also Known For: Canadian television, stage, film, and voice actor who’s best known as ex-convict Mike Hamar from The Red Green Show and Duct Tape Forever. Was also escape artist Rennes “the Wren” from the 1997 science fiction film Cube. Film appearances include McCabe & Mrs. Miller, Russian Roulette, Popeye, Improper Channels, The Grey Fox, Finders Keepers, One Magic Christmas, Dead of Winter, Candy Mountain, Housekeeping, Something About Love, Parents, Bye Bye Blues, Bingo, Dolores Claiborne, Two If by Sea, Getting Away with Murder, Pippi Longstocking, Affliction, Babar: King of the Elephants, Interstate 60, Wrong Turn, Cold Creek Manor, The Incredible Hulk, and The Timekeeper. TV appearances include Scales of Justice, Goosebumps, When the Dark Man Calls, Redwall, Lexx, Anne of Green Gables: The Animated Series, and Miss Spider’s Sunny Patch Friends.

Personal Life: Married to Lynn Woodman from 1985 until his death. Had 2 children, including a son named Louis and singer Ivy Robson.

Later Life: Died in 2011 of a heart attack while rehearsing The Grapes of Wrath at the Stratford Festival in Stratford, Ontario at 64.

Trivia: Was nominated for a Genie Award for The Grey Fox in 1984.

156. Douglas Seale

Dates: 1913-1999

Early Life and Career: Born in London, England. Attended the Rutlish School in Wimbledon and trained for the stage at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. Made his debut in 1934 and performed in theatre until 1940 before serving in the Royal Corps of Signals during World War II. After finishing his service in 1946, Seale joined the Shakespeare Memorial Theatre company in Stratford-upon-Avon for 2 seasons before turning to producing and directing stage plays in the UK and the US. After returning to acting later in life, he enjoyed his greatest success as Sebastian Mowbray in the 1983 production of Noises Off.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990) and Aladdin (1992)

Characters: Krebbs and the Sultan

Also Known For: British film, stage and television actor with a career spanning over 60 years. Did voice work in the Phantasmagoria video game. Film appearances include Amadeus, Heaven Help Us, Ernest Saves Christmas, Ghostbusters II, A More Perfect Union, Mr. Destiny, Almost an Angel, and For Love or Money. TV appearances include A Smoky Mountain Christmas, Amazing Stories, Cheers, Family Ties, and Rags to Riches.

Personal Life: Married 3 times. First wife was Elaine Wodson from 1938 to their divorce in 1942. Second wife was Joan Barbara Geary from 1950 to their divorce in 1967. Couple had 2 sons named Jonathan and Timothy. Third wife was TV and stage actress Louise Troy from 1992 to her death from breast cancer in 1994.

Later Life: Died in New York City in 1999 at 85. Was survived by his 2 sons and 2 grandchildren. Was cremated and his ashes were sprinkled into the Atlantic Ocean.

Trivia: Nominated for a Tony Award in 1983 for his performance in the play Noises Off.

157. Russi Taylor

Dates: 1944-2019

Early Life and Career: Born in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Began her voice-over career in the mid-1970s.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990), DuckTales the Movie: Treasure of the Lost Lamp (1990), and Fantasia 2000 (1999) as well as cartoon series, shorts, direct-to-video installments, video games, albums, and theme park attractions.

Characters: Nurse Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby, and Daisy Duck (screams only).

Also Known For: Voice actress best known for as the English voice of Minnie Mouse from 1986 to 2019, making her the longest tenured actress to voice the character, having held the role for 33 years. Was also the original voice for Strawberry Shortcake, Baby Gonzo, Nova, Melissa, Pac-Baby, Queen Rosedust, Birdie the Early Bird, and numerous characters from The Simpsons. Film appearances include The Private Eyes, My Little Pony: The Movie, The Adventures of the American Rabbit, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Jetsons: The Movie, Babe, Babe: Pig in the City, Pom Poko, and The Simpsons Movie. TV appearances include The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The World of Strawberry Shortcake, The Flintstone Comedy Show, Heathcliff, The Smurfs, Strawberry Shortcake in Big Apple City, Strawberry Shortcake: Pets on Parade, The Little Rascals, Christmas Comes to Pac-Land, Pac-Man, Strawberry Shortcake: Housewarming Surprise, Dungeons & Dragons, Strawberry Shortcake and the Baby Without a Name, Muppet Babies, ABC Weekend Special, Strawberry Shortcake Meets the Berrykins, Kissyfur, My Little Pony, Glo Friends, Blondie and Dagwood, Yogi’s Treasure Hunt, Superman, Widget the World Watcher, What-a-Mess, Mr. Bogus, Adventures of Sonic the Hedgehog, Bonkers, Hollyrock-a-Bye Baby, The Critic, The Baby Huey Show, Capitol Critters, The Wild Thornberrys, Clifford’s Puppy Days, Teen Titans, and Wheel of Fortune. Video game appearances include The Simpsons Cartoon Studio, The Simpsons Virtual Springfield, and The Flintstones: Bedrock Bowling.

Personal Life: Married to Mickey Mouse voice actor Wayne Allwine from 1991 to his death in 2009.

Later Life: Died in 2019 from colon cancer at her Glendale, California home at 75. Interred in Forest Lawn Memorial Park next to her husband.

Trivia: Named Disney Legends with her husband Wayne Allwine in 2008. Was once nominated for a Primetime Emmy and an Annie Award.

158. Billy Barty

Dates:1924-2000

Early Life and Career: Born William John Bertanzetti in Millsboro, Pennsylvania. Family moved to California in 1927. Co-starred with Mickey Rooney in the Mickey McGuire shorts of the 1920s and 1930s. Small for his age even then, Barty would impersonate young children alongside brawny authority figures or wild animals, making these threats seem larger in comparison.

Movies and Cartoons: The Rescuers Down Under (1990) as well as series like Duck Tales and Adventures of the Gummi Bears.

Characters: Baitmouse

Also Known For: Actor and activist who stood 3’9” due to cartilage-hair hypoplasia dwarfism. Was often cast in films opposite taller performers for comic effect. Specialized in outspoken and wisecracking characters. Film appearances include Footlight Parade, Gold Diggers of 1933, Alice in Wonderland (1933), Bride of Frankenstein, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1935), Nothing Sacred, Three Wise Fools, Pygmy Island, Fireman Save My Child, The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm, The Perils of Pauline (1967), The Day of the Locust, The Amazing Dobermans, Happy Hooker Goes to Washington, Rabbit Test, Foul Play, Firepower, Under the Rainbow, Night Patrol, Rumpelstiltskin, Snow White, Masters of the Universe, Willow, Life Stinks, The Naked Truth, and The Radioland Murders. TV appearances include The Spike Jones Show, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, Peter Gunn, Rawhide, The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, Get Smart, The Waltons, Barney Miller, The Love Boat, Charlie’s Angels, CHiPs, Fantasy Island, Little House on the Prairie, Trapper John M.D., The Golden Girls, ABC Weekend Special, The Munsters Today, Frasier, The New Batman Adventures, and L.A. Heat.

Personal Life: Married to Shirley Bolingbroke in 1962 in Malad City, Idaho. They had 2 children: Lori Nielson and TV director and producer Braden. Couple remained together until his death.

Later Life: Was sued in small claims court by 2 of the writers of his cancelled show Short Ribs in 1990 that aired for 13 weeks in the fall of 1989 on KDOC-TV.  Both filed separate lawsuits for money owed and Barty lost both cases. He later claimed the lawsuit news was the most publicity he ever got. Died of heart failure in 2000 in Los Angeles at 76. Entombed in Glendale’s Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

Trivia: Founded the Little People of America organization in 1957. It was the first North American organization for dwarfs. Received a motion pictures star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6922 Hollywood Boulevard. During the 1980s, he owned a popular roller rink in Fullerton, California that also booked bands on weekends. In 2002, a tribute book published by his nephew Michael Copeland and Debra called Within Reach: An Inspirational Journey into the Life, Legacy and Influence of Billy Barty.

159. Paige O’Hara

Dates: 1956-present

Early Life and Career: Born Donna Paige Helmintoller in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Began acting at 4 and started acting classes in her home state. Developed an interest in singing at 12 and enrolled in a performing arts high school. Major childhood hero was Judy Garland. Made her Broadway stage debut as Della in The Gift of the Magi in 1975. A Disney fan since childhood, she auditioned for Beauty and the Beast (1991) at the age of 35.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991), Enchanted (2007), and Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) as well as direct-to-video installments, specials, and video games.

Characters: Belle and Angela

Also Known For: Actress, singer, and painter who began her career on Broadway before making her film debut in Beauty and the Beast (1991) where she’s best known for her role as Belle. TV appearances include The Legend of Prince Valiant, The Twisted Tales of Felix the Cat, Adventures of the Book of Virtues, and Rapsittie Street Kids: Believe in Santa. Stage appearances include The Gift of the Magi, Fiorello!, Naughty Marietta, Paint Your Wagon, Showboat, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, Oklahoma!, Of Thee I Sing!, Mack and Mabel, The Cat and the Fiddle, Evita, Les Miserables, South Pacific, Peter Pan, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Menopause the Musical.

Personal Life: Married twice. First husband was Lee Resseguie whom she met during a run of Fiorello!. They were married from 1980 to their divorce. Second and current husband is Michael Piontek since 1990.

Later Life: Is still actively working as of 2025.

Trivia: Named Disney Legend in 2011. Said to be friends with Jodie Benson and Linda Larkin.

160. Robbie Benson

Dates: 1956-present

Early Life and Career: Born Robin David Segal in Dallas, Texas to a Jewish family. Father was a writer. Mother was a singer, actor, and business promotions manager. Family moved to New York City when he was 5, where he was raised. Took his mother’s maiden name as his stage name at 10. Attended Lincoln Square Academy in Manhattan where he graduated at 14 as the class valedictorian. Made his film debut in 1967 and first appeared on Broadway in 1969.

Movies and Cartoons: Beauty and the Beast (1991) as well as direct-to-video installments, specials, and video games.

Characters: The Beast/Prince

Also Known For: Actor, director, singer, composer, and musician who rose to prominence as a teen idol during the late 1970s, appearing in films Ode to Billy Joe, One On One, and Ice Castles. Did voice work for video game King’s Quest VI: Heir Today, Gone Tomorrow. Has composed songs for several films. Film appearances include Wait Until Dark, Jory, Jeremy, Lucky Lady, The End, Walk Proud, Die Laughing, Tribute, The Chosen, Running Brave, Harry & Son, Rent-a-Cop, Modern Love, and The Life & Adventures of Santa Claus. TV appearances include Search for Tomorrow, Death Be Not Proud, One Day at a Time, The Last of Mrs. Lincoln, The Death of Richie, Our Town, Two of a Kind, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, California Girls, The Greatest Adventure: Stories from the Bible, Tough Cookies, The Hitchhiker, The Legend of Prince Valiant, Evening Shade, P.J. Sparkles, Batman: The Animated Series, Wild West C. O. W. Boys of Moo Mesa, Road to Avonlea, Precious Victims, Exosquad, The Magic School Bus, Caroline in the City, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Seinfeld, The Huntress, American Dreams, and Severance. Directed episodes for Modern Love, Family Album, Evening Shade, Monty, Muddling Through, Good Advice, Thunder Alley, Ellen, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Friends, The Naked Truth, Jesse, and The Huntress.

Personal Life: Married to actress Karla DeVito since 1982 whom he met during a production of Pirates of Penzance. Have 2 children: a daughter named Lyric born in 1992 and a son named Zephyr born in 1994. Was diagnosed with a heart murmur and a bicuspid aortic valve defect as a teenager. Began experiencing symptoms like dizziness and losing consciousness during his late 20s and subsequently underwent open-heart surgery in 1984 to repair the valve defect. Received a bovine valve transplant that lasted for 15 years. Had a second surgery once the valve failed and underwent the Ross procedure. Benson had struggled breathing during the next 6 years. In a third open-heart surgery, doctors discovered that Benson’s breathing problems were caused by the previous procedure resulting his aortic valve to buckle and close. Received a delicate fourth open-heart surgery known as the “reverse Ross procedure” to correct damage to his heart. Is currently an activist and fundraiser for heart research, which led him to write a book, lyrics, and music for an original Off-Broadway play called Open Heart.

Later Life: Wrote a novel in 2007 called Who Stole the Funny?: A Novel of Hollywood landed him on the Los Angeles Times bestseller list. Released a memoir in 2012 called I’m Not Dead … Yet!. Has been a professor at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, the University of Utah, the University of South Carolina, and Indiana University.

Trivia: Nominated for 2 Golden Globe Awards. Won an RIAA Gold Record for writing the song “We Are Not Alone” performed by his wife for the soundtrack of the 1985 John Hughes film The Breakfast Club.