ECONOMY & WORK
MONEY 101
NEWS
PERSONAL FINANCE
NET WORTH
About Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use DMCA Opt-out of personalized ads
© Copyright 2023 Market Realist. Market Realist is a registered trademark. All Rights Reserved. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice.
MARKETREALIST.COM / NEWS

10 Actors Who Gave Voice To Popular Theme Songs

While this practice may have dwindled in recent years, the '90s and early 2000s were an era when this delightful crossover between acting and singing was surprisingly common
PUBLISHED SEP 26, 2023
Cover Image Source: GettyImages/ Photo by (L) Dia Dipasupil (M) Gilbert Carrasquillo (R) Mike Coppola
Cover Image Source: GettyImages/ Photo by (L) Dia Dipasupil (M) Gilbert Carrasquillo (R) Mike Coppola

Actors Who Sang the Theme Songs of Shows

Image Source: GettyImages/ Photo by Catherine Powell (L)/Photo by Harry Langdon (R)
Image Source: GettyImages/ Photo by Catherine Powell (L)/Photo by Harry Langdon (R)

In the world of television, theme songs have the power to transport us back to the cherished moments of our favorite shows. These catchy tunes, often the unsung heroes of television, play a significant role in creating the atmosphere and nostalgia that surrounds a series. What's even more fascinating is that some of these theme songs are performed by the very actors who grace our screens. While this practice may have dwindled in recent years, the '90s and early 2000s were an era when this delightful crossover between acting and singing was surprisingly common. In this listicle, we explore 10 actors who not only acted but also lent their voices to sing the theme songs for their shows, leaving an indelible mark on television history.

1. Kelsey Grammer – "Frasier"

Actor Kelsey Grammer attends the
Actor Kelsey Grammer attends the "The God Committee" premiere during the 2021 Tribeca Festival at Brooklyn Commons at MetroTech on June 20, 2021 in New York City/ Photo by Jim Spellman/Getty Images

Kelsey Grammer, known for his role as the lovably pretentious psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane in the hit series "Frasier", is not just a talented actor but also a seasoned musician and stage performer. A graduate of The Julliard School, Grammer has graced both Shakespearian productions and Broadway musicals with his versatile talent. The iconic theme song of Frasier, titled "Tossed Salads and Scrambled Eggs," was penned by Bruce Miller, but it was at the insistence of the producers that Grammer stepped up to perform the now-famous track. With the show set for a reboot on Paramount+, fans are eagerly anticipating whether the beloved theme song will make a return.

2. Queen Latifah – "Living Single"

Queen Latifah performs live during the NMAAHC Hip-Hop Block Party at the Smithsonian National Museum Of African American History on August 12, 2023, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images)
Queen Latifah performs live during the NMAAHC Hip-Hop Block Party at the Smithsonian National Museum Of African American History on August 12, 2023, in Washington, DC.
(Photo by Brian Stukes/Getty Images)

"We Are Living Single", the infectious theme song of the hit sitcom "Living Single", revolved around the lives of six young Black professionals navigating Brooklyn's challenges. What many may not realize is that hip-hop legend Queen Latifah not only wrote the song but also lent her powerful vocals to perform it. Queen Latifah, a celebrated actress in her own right, portrayed the character of successful magazine editor Khadijah James in the series. With a career spanning over three decades, including accolades like Golden Globes, Primetime Emmy, and Grammy Awards, Queen Latifah continues to dazzle audiences, currently starring in the CBS drama "The Equalizer".

3. Jason Schwartzman – "Bored To Death"

Jason Schwartzman attends the New York premiere of
Jason Schwartzman attends the New York premiere of "Asteroid City" at Alice Tully Hall on June 13, 2023, in New York City/Photo by Taylor Hill/FilmMagic

"Bored To Death", a unique and quirky television series, was known for its offbeat humor and distinctive style. While Jason Schwartzman didn't appear on screen in the series, his influence was significant. In a delightful twist, the talented actor and musician took on the role of a musical contributor by performing the show's theme song. This unexpected addition added a layer of creativity and originality to the series, further highlighting Schwartzman's versatility. Jason Schwartzman, whose acting career includes roles in films like "Rushmore" and "The Darjeeling Limited" is not just a talented actor but also a skilled musician. He is known for his musical endeavors as a member of the band Coconut Records and for his solo work.

4. Will Smith and Jeffrey Allen Townes – "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"

Image Source: Jason Merritt/Getty Images
Image Source: Jason Merritt/Getty Images

Long before Will Smith became a household name, he was a rising rapper who snagged the role of the titular character in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air". This partnership with DJ Jazzy Jeff not only catapulted Smith to fame but also led to their collaboration on the show's theme song, "Yo Home To Bel-Air." While the music was composed by legendary producer Quincy Jones, Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff added their lyrics and production, making it an international sensation across Europe.

5. Drew Carey – "The Drew Carey Show"

Drew Carey speaks onstage during A GRAMMY Salute to The Beach Boys at Dolby Theatre on February 08, 2023 in Hollywood, California/Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy
Drew Carey speaks onstage during A GRAMMY Salute to The Beach Boys at Dolby Theatre on February 08, 2023, in Hollywood, California/Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

The "Drew Carey Show", a beloved sitcom that spanned nine seasons, embarked on a musical journey with various theme songs. However, the show's namesake, Drew Carey, a former Marine and accomplished stand-up comedian, seized the opportunity to showcase his musical talents as well. He personally sang the original theme song, "Moon Over Parma" as a heartfelt tribute to his hometown of Parma, Ohio. Beyond his stint as a sitcom star, Drew Carey made a significant mark as a television host, notably on improvisational comedy series like "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" and as the long-serving host of "The Price Is Right".

6. Tia and Tamera Mowry – "Sister, Sister"

(L-R) Tamera Mowry-Housley and Tia Mowry-Hardrict attend the 2023 ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 09, 2023 in Los Angeles, California/Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for ESSENCE
(L-R) Tamera Mowry-Housley and Tia Mowry-Hardrict attend the 2023 ESSENCE Black Women In Hollywood Awards at Fairmont Century Plaza on March 09, 2023, in Los Angeles, California/Photo by Arnold Turner/Getty Images for ESSENCE

Twin sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry shot to fame with their lead roles in "Sister, Sister". However, not many knew that these talented actresses were also gifted singers. They even joined forces to sing the show's catchy theme song, leaving an indelible mark on the series. While "Sister, Sister" concluded in 1999, both Mowry sisters continued to shine in the entertainment industry. Interestingly, their younger brother, Tahj Mowry, also ventured into television with the sitcom "Smart Guy", featuring a rap performance by Omar Gooding in its second theme song.

7. Chuck Norris – "Walker, Texas Ranger"

Martial artist/actor Chuck Norris make his Wizard World Comic Con debut during Wizard World Comic Con Philadelphia 2017 - Day 3 at Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 3, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania/Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images
Martial artist/actor Chuck Norris made his Wizard World Comic Con debut during Wizard World Comic Con Philadelphia 2017 - Day 3 at Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 3, 2017, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania/Photo by Gilbert Carrasquillo/Getty Images

Chuck Norris, an undisputed martial arts legend and action star, is forever etched in pop culture as the face of "Walker, Texas Ranger". While his martial arts prowess is well-documented, his involvement in the show's theme song, "The Eyes Of A Ranger," added a surprising layer to his illustrious career. This catchy tune, performed by Norris himself, became synonymous with the show's enduring popularity, which spanned eight successful seasons. Chuck Norris's contribution to the music of his own series further solidified his status as one of the most iconic figures in the history of television action heroes.

8. LL Cool J – "In The House"

 LL Cool J performs onstage during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Center on September 12, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey/Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for MTV
LL Cool J performs onstage during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards at Prudential Center on September 12, 2023, in Newark, New Jersey/Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images for MTV

Rap superstar LL Cool J had a unique role in the theme song of "In The House". While the song itself was primarily instrumental, LL Cool J, who also starred in the sitcom, acted as a hype man, delivering memorable lines like "no diggity, no doubt, baby" and "we in the house." As a Grammy winner, Rock and Roll Hall Of Famer, and Kennedy Center Honoree, LL Cool J's discography speaks for itself, making this theme song a memorable part of his illustrious career.

9. Selena Gomez – "Wizards of Waverly Place"

Cover Image Source: GettyImages/	Jon Kopaloff
Selena Gomez | Image Source: GettyImages/Jon Kopaloff

In the magical world of "Wizards of Waverly Place", where spellbinding adventures are the norm, Selena Gomez's musical talents added another dimension to the show's charm. Gomez, already an accomplished actress during her Disney Channel days, performed the show's theme song, "Everything Is Not What It Seems." Her catchy and melodic voice set the tone for the series, drawing viewers into the enchanting world of the Russo family, where everything was indeed not as it seemed. Selena Gomez's dual talents as an actress and a singer made her a standout star of the Disney Channel era, solidifying her place in the hearts of fans worldwide.

10. Zooey Deschanel – "New Girl"

Zooey Deschanel poses at the Rosie Assoulin Presentation during New York Fashion Week - September 2023: The Shows at Gallery at Spring Studios on September 11, 2023 in New York City/Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows
Zooey Deschanel poses at the Rosie Assoulin Presentation during New York Fashion Week - September 2023: The Shows at Gallery at Spring Studios on September 11, 2023, in New York City/Photo by Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows

Zooey Deschanel, celebrated for her endearing portrayal of Jessica Day in the hit series "New Girl", is a multifaceted artist who extends her talents well beyond acting. Beyond her on-screen charm, she's a gifted singer, songwriter, pianist, and ukulele player. Her musical abilities shine brightly in the show, as she lent her voice to the infectious theme song, "Hey Girl", which perfectly captures the essence of the series. But Zooey's musical journey doesn't stop there. She is one-half of the folk duo "She & Him", along with M. Ward, and together they've released several albums that have earned critical acclaim.

MORE ON MARKET REALIST
The "Rolling Stones" singer said leaving a part of the inheritance might "do some good in the world."
36 minutes ago
Inititally, reports claimed that it sold for $1.8 million which changed as the the dust cleared up.
3 hours ago
The number was so large that it didn't even fit on a single line on the document.
4 hours ago
Her new properties were estimated to be worth around $50 million.
23 hours ago
He sued the lottery company for breach of contract, gross negligence and the infliction of emotional distress among other claims.
1 day ago
As of 2024, the iconic West Coast rapper is worth well over $160 million.
1 day ago
Taylor never knew he had won because the slot machine had malfunctioned.
1 day ago
"People were super welcoming and everyone wanted to have a coffee with me," she talked about the residents.
1 day ago
“It’s challenging, being an inventor,” Catherine Hettinger said.
1 day ago
The Facebook listing from is a contender for the weirdest rent agreement in history.
1 day ago
The "Bullet Train" actor made an unusual arrangement with the old widower.
2 days ago
He found the gold coin from the "world's most valuable shipwreck."
2 days ago
The man even promised that he would make them $96 billion in profits.
3 days ago
She has starred in classic films such as "Sixteen Candles", "The Lost Boys", and "Twister".
3 days ago
There are ways to claim dependents for certain people in your life, including your boyfriend. The IRS has four factor that must be met. We have all the details.
3 days ago
Following the incident, Brad Pitt's representative has issued a warning to all fans.
3 days ago
While five transactions were worth about $80 million, one payment order worth $20 million didn't clear.
4 days ago
Back in 1997, during a special episode of "Wheel of Fortune" 1997, Trebek took the stage to host the show.
4 days ago
What's Judy “Judge Judy” Sheindlin’s salary per episode? Here’s what we know about the TV judge and her new IMDb TV show, ‘Judy Justice.’
4 days ago
Vance claims that the Biden administration's policies have pushed grocery prices over the edge with eggs costing $4 a dozen.
4 days ago