From Scarlett Johansson to Mark Hamill, 10 Actors Who Excelled in Voice Acting

These 10 renowned actors effortlessly transitioned from live-action to voice acting.

PUBLISHED OCT 13, 2023

Scarlett Johansson and Kate Foster speak at the launch of "The Outset" at Nordstrom NYC. Getty Images | Photo by Ilya S. Savenok

Actors Who Shone on Screen and Behind the Microphone

Lance Henriksen, John Cooper and Viggo Mortensen attend the 2020 Sundance Film Festival — Lance Henriksen, John Cooper, and Viggo Mortensen attend the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. Getty Images | Photo by Rich Fury

Transitioning from live-action to voice acting is a formidable challenge but a select group of actors have effortlessly made this leap, establishing themselves as exceptional voice artists. These accomplished individuals have breathed life into beloved characters across animated TV shows, movies, and video games. Today, we honor 10 renowned actors who have masterfully navigated this dual world of entertainment, highlighting their remarkable versatility and skill in delivering captivating performances behind the microphone and on the screen.

1. Willem Dafoe

Willem Dafoe attends the "Gonzo Girl" premiere during the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival. Getty Images | Photo by Robin L Marshall

Willem Dafoe, celebrated for his dynamic live-action performances, has proven himself as an equally adept voice actor. His portrayal of Gill in "Finding Nemo" showcased his ability to steal scenes even in animated films. Dafoe also ventured into the realm of video games, embodying a James Bond villain in "Everything Or Nothing." With multiple roles in "The Simpsons" and the supporting character Dawkins in "Beyond: Two Souls," Dafoe has solidified his standing as a compelling voice actor who seamlessly transitions between film and gaming worlds, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

2. Jeffrey Combs

Actor Jeffrey Combs on day 5 of Creation Entertainment's Official Star Trek 50th Anniversary Convention at the Rio Hotel & Casino on August 7, 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Getty Images | Photo by Albert L. Ortega — Actor Jeffrey Combs on day 5 of Creation Entertainment's Official Star Trek 50th Anniversary Convention. Getty Images | Photo by Albert L. Ortega

Horror aficionado Jeffrey Combs, renowned for his roles in the "Re-Animator" films and "Star Trek" possesses a distinctive voice that translates seamlessly into voice acting. His haunting portrayal of Scarecrow in "Batman: The Animated Series" left an indelible mark on the character. Combs continued to lend his voice to Ratchet in the "Transformers" franchise and returned to the "Star Trek" universe with "Star Trek: Lower Decks," demonstrating his versatility and skill in bringing animated characters to life.

3. Freddie Prinze Jr.

Actor Freddie Prinze, Jr. signs his new book "Back To The Kitchen" at Barnes & Noble. Getty Images | Photo by Vincent Sandoval

Freddie Prinze Jr., recognized for his on-screen charisma, has successfully ventured into the realm of voice acting. His performances in BioWare games like "Mass Effect 3" and "Dragon Age: Inquisition" exemplify his talent in creating compelling side characters that players can bond with or despise, depending on their choices. Prinze's portrayal of Kanan Jarrus in "Star Wars Rebels" stands out as one of the franchise's most powerful and emotionally resonant characters, cementing his status as a talented voice actor.

4. Cameron Monaghan

Cameron Monaghan arrives at The Art of Elysium Celebrates Shanola Hampton at The Art of Elysium on September 26, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Getty Images
| Photo by Michael Bezjian — Cameron Monaghan arrives at The Art of Elysium Celebrates Shanola Hampton. Getty Images | Photo by Michael Bezjian

Cameron Monaghan, known for his diverse acting roles, has skillfully showcased his range in voice acting. From his role as Superboy in "Reign Of The Supermen" to bringing Cal Kestis to life in "Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order," Monaghan's ability to blend voice acting with motion capture performances has made him a versatile and sought-after talent in various forms of media. Monaghan's journey from "Click" to the iconic Joker in "Gotham" showcased his versatility, culminating in "Shameless" and mastering voice-acting and motion capture.

5. Lance Henriksen

Lance Henriksen of 'Falling' attends the IMDb Studio at Acura Festival Village on location at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival – Day 3 on January 26, 2020 in Park City, Utah. Getty Images | Photo by Rich Polk — Lance Henriksen of 'Falling' attends the IMDb Studio at Acura Festival Village. Getty Images | Photo by Rich Polk

Lance Henriksen, renowned for his appearances in '80s films like "Aliens" and "Terminator," possesses a commanding baritone voice that perfectly suits voice acting. His guest appearances in multiple animated shows, including "The Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes" and "The Legend Of Korra," have solidified his status as a prolific voice actor. Henriksen's work extends to numerous video game roles, making him a memorable presence in both animation and gaming. Additionally, Henriksen serves as the narrator for Verizon Droid ads and revisited his Bishop role in the Alien film franchise.

6. Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson attends the Clooney Foundation For Justice's 2023 Albie Awards at New York Public Library on September 28, 2023 in New York City. Getty Images | Photo by James Devaney — Scarlett Johansson attends the Clooney Foundation For Justice's 2023 Albie Awards. Getty Images | Photo by James Devaney

Scarlett Johansson, a Hollywood luminary, seamlessly transitioned into voice acting, leaving her mark with notable roles. Her portrayal of Samantha in "Her" showcased her ability to convey complex emotions through her voice while her performance as Kaa in "The Jungle Book" demonstrated her versatility. Johansson's talent as an actress and singer shines through in her voice-acting roles, adding depth and resonance to animated characters. Scarlett Johansson's portrayal of Ash, in the film "Sing" and its sequel "Sing 2," has also been a testament to her versatility as a voice actor.

7. Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson attends Marvel Studios' New Series "Secret Invasion" Launch Event. Getty Images | Photo by Axelle

Samuel L. Jackson, renowned for his extensive filmography, has also made a significant impact in the world of voice acting. His animated character, Frozone in "The Incredibles" became iconic. Jackson's versatility shines in voice acting roles such as his portrayal of Nick Fury in Marvel's "What If...?" series, the villainous Officer Tenpenny in "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas," and the titular hero in the "Afro Samurai" video game. His unmistakable voice adds depth and charisma to characters, enriching animated narratives.

8. J.K. Simmons

J.K. Simmons attends the world premiere of "Downton Abbey: A New Era." Getty Images | Photo by Gareth Cattermole

J.K. Simmons, an experienced voice actor, is celebrated for his portrayal of J. Jonah Jameson in various "Spider-Man" adaptations. His contributions extend to diverse roles in animated projects like "Kung Fu Panda 3," "Invincible," and "Klaus." Simmons' distinct voice and ability to bring characters to life have solidified his status as an iconic voice actor who effortlessly transitions between different roles and mediums. His contributions to the world of animation continue to be celebrated by fans and industry peers alike.

9. Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill speaks speaks onstage during the ceremony for Carrie Fisher being honored posthumously with a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on May 04, 2023 in Hollywood, California. Getty Images | Photo by Albert L. Ortega — Mark Hamill speaks onstage during the ceremony for Carrie Fisher being honored posthumously. Getty Images | Photo by Albert L. Ortega

Mark Hamill, famous as Luke Skywalker, has become equally renowned as a voice actor. His legendary portrayal of The Joker in "Batman: The Animated Series" is a fan favorite. Hamill has lent his voice to an array of iconic characters, including Skeletor and Ozai the Fire Lord. His ability to seamlessly switch between heroes, villains, and mentors showcases his versatility in voice acting. Hamill's contributions to voice acting are a testament to the enduring influence of his animated roles, captivating audiences across various mediums for years.

10. Keith David

Keith David arrives to the 54th Annual NAACP Image Awards at Pasadena Civic Auditorium on February 25, 2023 in Pasadena, California. Getty Images | Photo by Aaron J. Thornton — Keith David arrives at the 54th Annual NAACP Image Awards. Getty Images | Photo by Aaron J. Thornton

Keith David, known for his commanding presence in live-action films, has seamlessly transitioned into voice acting. He has become the definitive voice of iconic characters like Goliath in "Gargoyles" and Spawn in animation and video games. With roles in Disney classics, video game franchises like "Mass Effect," and animated series like "Rick & Morty," Keith David's performances consistently stand out, solidifying him as an iconic voice actor across various media platforms.