Jess Harnell fans were asked to submit questions for Jess via the Jess Harnell Fans Facebook Group and MySpace fan page. [Fan questions were selected by Voice Actors in the News staff contributor, Ashley Trayder, who is also the administrator of Jess’ fan pages on Facebook and MySpace.]
Instead of typing his replies, Jess took the time to record his answers for the fans. You can listen to the full audio through the Jess Harnell Fan Page on MySpace.
~Ashley Trayder
Voice Actors in the News Staff Contributor
Updated 8.25.2010 — The archived video from Kevin Delaney’s live chat with Bill Farmer can now be viewed at VONINJA.COM.
On a related note, in April 2010 more than a dozen interview links were added to Bill’s category at DMOZ.ORG.
================================================
Originally posted 8.18.2010:
Thanks to voice actor/voice acting coach Kevin Delaney (VONinja.com) for granting permission to repost the following announcement:
It’s not every day that we get to chat with a legend — let alone a Disney Legend!
Join me this Sunday, August 22 at 7 p.m. Pacific Time (10 p.m. Eastern) for a live Video Chat with VO artist Bill Farmer.
Bill is not only one of the busiest voice actors in Hollywood, he’s by far the GOOFIEST!
Bill’s voice is heard constantly in all kinds of projects. For the past 24 years, he’s played the iconic and much-loved character of Goofy in a staggering number of Disney productions.
Bill starred in A Goofy Movie and its sequel, An Extremely Goofy Movie. You can hear him currently on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse airing on the Disney Channel.
In 2009, Bill was honored as a Disney Legend, inducted among many other luminaries whose contributions have brought the magic to life for generations.
Tune in and chat with us live — you don’t need any special equipment to see & hear us, just a computer with speakers and a ‘net connection. Bill will answer the questions you submit in real-time via chat.
Bill is not only an astonishingly talented VO artist, he’s one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet! I’m honored to perform with him as part of Fred Willard’s MoHos sketch comedy group.
RSVP now for this free online event. (When you register, you’ll get instructions for how to access the chat and participate.)
The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has announced the nominees for the 37th Annual Daytime Entertainment Emmy® Awards.
Voice acting-related nominees for “Outstanding Performer in a Children’s Series”:
– Kevin Clash as Elmo, Sesame Street
– Caroll Spinney as Big Bird, Sesame Street
– Joey Mazzarino as Stinky, Myrry & Blogg, Sesame Street
– David Rudman as Baby Bear, Sesame Street
Nominees for “Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program”:
– Ed Asner as Kid Potato, WordGirl (PBS)
– Eartha Kitt as Cool Cat, The Wonder Pets! (Nick)
– Amy Poehler as Bessie Higgenbottom, The Mighty B! (Nick)
– Phillip Seymour Hoffman as William Fillmore Toffman, Arthur (PBS)
Voice acting-related mentions for “Outstanding Directing in an Animated Program”:
– Cynthia True, voice director: The Mighty B! (Nick)
– Andrea Romano, voice director: SpongeBob SquarePants (Nick)
– Lisa Schaffer, voice director: The Penguins of Madagascar (Nick)
– Ginny McSwain, voice director: Fanboy and Chum Chum (Nick)
Some of Seasame Street‘s Muppet performers were also included in nominations for “Outstanding Directing in a Children’s Series”: Kevin Clash, Matt Vogel and Joey Mazzarino, and Mazzarino was also included in a nomination for “Outstanding Writing in a Children’s Series” (he serves as the head writer for Sesame Street).
Nominees for the category for “Outstanding Childrens’ Animated Program”:
– WordGirl (PBS)
– The Backyardigans (Nick)
– Curious George (PBS)
– Sid The Science Kid (PBS)
Also related to animation, PBS’ Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman was nominated for “Outstanding Children’s Series.”
Nominees of note in “Outstanding Achievement in Music Direction and Composition”:
– The Wonder Pets! (Nick)
– Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 (CN)
– Phineas & Ferb (Disney Channel)
– The Penguins of Madagascar (Nick)
Nominees of note in “Outstanding Original Song – Children’s and Animation”:
– “Nochebuena Song,” Dora The Explorer (Nick)
– “It’s a P-H!,” Between the Lions (PBS)
– “A Fiddler Crab Am I,” The Wonder Pets! (Nick)
– “Come Home Perry,” Phineas & Ferb (Disney Channel)
– “Song About Elmo,” Sesame Street (PBS)
And the main title theme for Disney Channel’s Special Agent Oso was nominated for “Outstanding Original Song.”
Also wanted to point out that a couple of the voice cast for WordGirl were included in nominations for “Outstanding Writing in Animation”: Jack Ferraiolo and Ryan Raddatz. And on a related note, Ryan Raddatz says of the three WordGirl Emmy nominations via his official site — RyanRaddatz.com: “I’m thrilled to be a part of the WordGirl team, and doubly thrilled to be recognized for our work.” Raddatz added that a PBS series he helped write, Fizzy’s Lunch Lab, “is nominated in the curiously named ‘New Approaches’ category.”
And just for kicks, here’s a breakdown of the total Emmy noms for networks and shows of interest (as they relate to this blog):
PBS 53
Nickelodeon 25
Disney Channel 5
And shows receiving “multiple nominations”:
Sesame Street 14
Disney Phineas and Ferb 4
Fanboy and Chum Chum 4
The Penguins of Madagascar 4
The Wonder Pets! 4
The Fairly OddParents 3
Fetch! With Ruff Ruffman 3
Hot Wheels Battle Force 5 3
WordGirl 3
Between the Lions 2
The Mighty B! 2
Sid The Science Kid 2
Spongebob Squarepants 2
“The Daytime Entertainment Emmy® Awards” are scheduled to air on CBS June 27th, 2010. You can view the full list of nominees via EmmyOnline.org.
The International Jack Benny Fan Club is reporting that Eddie Carroll, voice of iconic Disney character Jiminy Cricket since 1973, has passed away of a brain tumor at the age of 76.
Carroll assumed the role after the death of Cliff Edwards in 1971 and had voiced the famous cricket for all manner of Disney media over the course of nearly 40 years, including the Kingdom Hearts video game series.
And up until what was described on his site as a “recent injury,” Carroll had been performing the critically-acclaimed one-man tribute stage show Jack Benny: Laughter in Bloom.
Eddie Carroll passed away about an hour ago. Today is also his and Carolyn’s wedding anniversary–47 years. And I read Eddie all the well-wishes that I had received up to about 10PM Pacific Time last night, so he knew that you were thinking of him.
There is a story told by one of the help at Jack’s house that shortly before he passed away, he woke up and said that he had been talking with Lyman Woods (his second vaudeville partner). Jack said that Lyman had shown him the afterlife, and that it was “beautiful”.
I’m sure many of us will want to envision Jack helping Eddie to make his exit to our standing ovation.
Update: 4.07.2010, 2:30 PM (EST): JackBenny.org has provided some additional details regarding the funeral and where to send donations:
For those who have asked about the funeral, it is going to be a private affair for the family only. In a few weeks, a number of Eddie’s friends will be pulling together a tribute to him, which will be entitled: “A Tribute to Eddie Carroll: A Life in Bloom”.
Eddie’s favorite charity was St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, so the family is asking that donations be made there. Here’s a link.
When Carolyn got home from the hospital, there was a beautiful arrangement of lilies waiting for her. They were from the Benny family with their appreciation for all that Eddie did for Jack. Appropriately, it was done by the same florist that Jack had deliver one red rose to Mary for every day for the rest of her life.
My thoughts and prayers go out to Eddie’s family and friends at this time.
I’ll provide a more detailed tribute to Eddie in the future as part of a larger project which is in development.
In the meantime, I’d like to spotlight other tributes from around the web:
I’ll continue to update this report on the Toy Story 3 cast as the highly-anticipated June 18th, 2010 release date approaches.
Update: 2.15.2010:
– Toy Story 3 represents at NYC’s 2010 International Toy Fair. Disney’s official press release has the full details, and here are some publicity photos from the event featuring: “John Lasseter, chief creative officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, Lee Unkrich, director, Toy Story 3, Darla K. Anderson, producer, Toy Story 3 and John Ratzenberger, voice of Hamm.”
(February 14, 2010, NY, NY) Actor John Ratzenberger, voice of Toy Story character Hamm, and John Lasseter, creator of Toy Story, unveiled more than 250 new Toy Story 3 toys including, Lots-O'-Huggin' Bear at a Disney-Pixar event during the American International Toy Fair in New York City. Ratzenberger is known as Pixar's 'lucky charm' as he's appeared in every Pixar film to date. Toy Story 3 releases in U.S. theaters June 18, 2010. (Photo/Stuart Ramson)
(February 14, 2010, NY, NY) John Lasseter, creator of Toy Story, studies a life-size bust of his likeness made of LEGO bricks at a Disney-Pixar event where more than 250 new Toy Story 3 toys were unveiled during the American International Toy Fair in New York City. With this one-of-a-kind piece, LEGO celebrates Lasseter’s induction into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame and the upcoming release of Toy Story 3 in U.S. theaters June 18, 2010.(Photo/Stuart Ramson)
Disney-Pixar’s Toy Story 3 kicked off the American International Toy Fair in New York City with a plethora of new toys and playthings that pay homage and celebrate the best the toy industry has to offer. In a playful, Toy Story-themed setting before an invitation-only crowd of toy industry insiders, Green Army Men descended from the ceiling in 'take-over' mode as they helped John Lasseter, chief creative officer of Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, Lee Unkrich, director, Toy Story 3, Darla K. Anderson, producer, Toy Story 3 and John Ratzenberger, voice of Hamm, unveil a first look at some of the more than 250 new toys releasing this Summer and into the 2010 Holidays. In this picture from left to right: Darla K. Anderson, John Lasseter, and Lee Unrich with the life-size LEGO bust of Lasseter. (Sunday, Feb. 14, 2010.)
Elsewhere, The Hollywood Reporter briefly interviewed Ratzenberger at the event, who “lauded Pixar for producing films using not focus groups, but instinct in what he says is a throw-back to the golden age of Hollywood. ‘It all comes exactly from the heart,’ he said.”
– I’ve been asked a few times recently who will be replacing the late Jim Varney as the voice of Slinky Dog in Toy Story 3, and I keep forgetting to mention it here. TS3 director Lee Unkrich actually announced via video on October 12, 2009 that the voice would be provided by Blake Clark who not only sounds incredibly like Varney but Unkrich says Clark was a longtime, close friend of Varney’s as well.
– The new trailer (linked above) features the first time we hear the voices of Michael Keaton as Ken, Ned Beatty as “Lotso” (aka “Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear”) and Whoopi Goldberg as the “Purple Octopus.” I’m still trying to I.D. the voice of the Triceratops toy and the Fisher Price toy phone — any guesses would be welcome via the comment box below.
Disney also released a 1-minute featurette in January which features the voice of Timothy Dalton as Mr. Pricklepants (via Disney’s official YouTube channel, which Disney has disabled embedding for so click the links to view the trailers):
– On Feb. 11th, Unkrich stated via Twitter (@leeunkrich): “I perform a single line of dialogue in Toy Story 3, and that line happens to be in the trailer.” In a follow-up post he revealed it’s the voice of the Jack in the box toy.
– According to IMDb.com and Wikipedia.org, following is the Toy Story 3 voice cast list (noted as confirmed or rumored in parentheses).
Tom Hanks – Woody (confirmed)
Tim Allen – Buzz Lightyear (confirmed)
Joan Cusack – Jessie the Yodeling Cowgirl (confirmed)
John Ratzenberger – Hamm the Piggy Bank (confirmed)
Wallace Shawn – Rex (confirmed)
Don Rickles – Mr. Potato Head (confirmed)
Estelle Harris – Mrs. Potato Head (confirmed)
Blake Clark – Slinky Dog (confirmed)
Annie Potts – Bo Peep (character confirmed; it’s assumed that Potts will reprise her role but it’s still unconfirmed)
Jeff Pidgeon – Aliens, aka “Little Green Men” (characters confirmed; it’s assumed that Pidgeon will reprise his roles from the previous 2 films)
Jodi Benson – Barbie (confirmed)
Michael Keaton – Ken (confirmed)
Lee Unkrich – Jack in the Box (confirmed)
Whoopi Goldberg – “Purple Octopus” (character still unnamed, voice confirmed)
Bonnie Hunt – “Purple-haired doll” (character still unnamed, voice confirmed)
John Morris – Andy Davis (confirmed)
Laurie Metcalf – Mrs. Davis (Andy’s mom, confirmed)
R. Lee Ermey – Sergeant (the Army Men are confirmed to appear; it’s assumed that Ermey will reprise his role as Sergeant)
Timothy Dalton – Mr. Pricklepants (confirmed)
Kristen Schaal – Trixie (character name rumored, voice confirmed)
Ned Beatty – “Lotso,” aka “Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear” (confirmed)
Jeff Garlin – Twitch (rumored)
On Nov. 8, 2009, Unkrich confirmed via Twitter that RC, Lenny, and Wheezy would return for TS3. While RC doesn’t “speak” (except for whirring sounds), Lenny (the toy Binoculars) and Wheezy (squeaky penguin toy) were both originally voiced by the late Joe Ranft. It has not been announced if Lenny or Wheezy will have speaking lines in TS3.
– Slashfilm.com has a pictorial analysis of “easter eggs” hidden in the new trailer (linked above).
I’ll continue to update this page throughout the month of February.
As always, readers can stay informed of all blog updates/additions via Twitter (@voiceroy) and Facebook. I also regularly post celebrity voice news items through Facebook and Twitter which I don’t publish on the blog.
Update: 2.19.2010
– Via Animated Views by Ben Price: Premiering on HBO Friday, Feb. 19th at 9PM is The Ricky Gervais Show, an animated version of the Guinness World Record-holder for “most downloaded podcast.” It features the voices of comedian/actor Ricky Gervais (popular BBC sitcom The Office), Stephen Merchant and Karl Pilkington. You can watch the first full episode online at HBO.com.
– Via TVSquad.com: Gilbert Gottfried now has a new title to add to his credit: “TV pitchman,” as the spokesperson for “ShoeDini”:
– Via LA Times’ Hero Complex: Rockers Gene Simmons and David Lee Roth howled for “Wolfman” film vocal effects.
– Added two photos to the press release for Goodspeed Musicals gala event honoring Paul Williams.
– Via Zachary-Levi.com: Disney’s Rapunzel changes title (again) to “Tangled.” (Currently confirmed voice cast previously reported here.)
– Via DivineCaroline: “Name That Voice: 10 Celebrity Commercial Voice-Overs.”
– Via WalletPop: “The Celebrity Voices Behind the Commercials.”
– Via DailyFill.com: “15 Secret Celebrity Voice Overs.”
– Via toonzone.net: Archer‘s Aisha Tyler (The Boondocks, The Wild) and series creator Adam Reed (Frisky Dingo, Sealab 2021) discuss the show and the voice cast.
Update: 2.15.2010
The LA Times Hero Complex blog has an interview with Tim Burton discussing Barbara Windsor, who voices the Dormouse in Burton’s Alice in Wonderland.
In related news, there will be an Alice in Wonderland “fan event” in Hollywood on Feb. 19th with in-person appearances by Tim Burton and “some cast members” whose names have yet to be announced. Hero Complex has more details on the event.
The world premiere of Alice in Wonderland will take place in London on Feb. 25th. Expected to attend the red carpet event: Tim Burton, Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Avril Lavigne, Alan Rickman, Anne Hathaway, Christopher Lee, Mia Wasikowska, Crispin Glover, Matt Lucas, Timothy Spall, Paul Whitehouse, Barbara Windsor and Michael Sheen.
Other details on the film were previously reported below.
Update: 2.14.2010
– Via toonzone.net: Saturday Night Live’s Chris Parnell will guest star on Nick at Nite’s Feb. 15th episode of Glen Martin D.D.S. as the voice of U.S. Vice President Joe Biden.
– Comics/TV/film writer/producer Neil Gaiman says via his blog that he will be providing a voice for an upcoming episode of the PBS’ kids show Arthur. As of his Jan. 21st post, he had only received the script and does not mention when he would be recording. [Source: toonzone.net]
– PBS kids show WordGirl has an impressive voice cast which includes many celebrity guest voices such as Ed Asner, Elliot Gould, Peter Graves, John C. McGinley and Jeffrey Tambor. Read my review of the show here.
James Marsden has signed on to star opposite Russell Brand in “I Hop,” a live-action/computer-animated hybrid comedy.
Tim Hill, who directed the hybrid “Alvin and the Chipmunks,” is pushing his resume into hipper territory with this tale of an out-of-work slacker (Marsden) who accidentally injures the Easter Bunny (voiced by Brand) and must take him in as he recovers. As Fred struggles with the world’s worst houseguest, both will learn what it takes to finally grow up.
I’ve never heard of a movie being named after an actual restaurant chain, but I guess there’s a first time for everything? I predict this “working title” doesn’t last three months.
– TV.com has an interview with Tim Daly, voice of Superman in Superman: The Animated Series and Batman/Superman: Public Enemies. He indirectly discusses his voiceover work and briefly mentions his role as Superman:
Q: You’ve done a little bit of everything in television—hour-long network drama, sitcoms, voiceovers for animation, TV movies, prestige cable shows. Is there any format you like working in more than others?
Q: No. Every step, every character, every medium has its own particular challenges, but essentially, I consider my job finding a way to tell the truth, to deliver the truth to people in a way that effects them, that makes them say, “Wow, that moved me or enlightened me or made me laugh.” I think that’s the job of pretty much any artist. We listen to music and it makes us weep—why? Because it speaks truth to us. I think TV should be the same way. It should strike a chord in us where we say, “That struck a human chord in me and it moved me.”
Q: So it’s not all just a let-down after playing Superman?
A: [laughs] Well, a little bit. I mean, come on, it’s Superman, after all. Superman was a great role, and I loved doing it, and I would welcome doing it more, especially with Andrea Romano, who’s such a great director. I hope that opportunity presents itself again.
– Via SeattleWeekly.com: Simpsons‘ creator Matt Groening and cast member Hank Azaria will appear as guest judges on the upcoming seventh season of Top Chef. It is not known when the show will air; production is scheduled to begin in April 2010.
– On December 22, 2009, Atari/Cryptic Studios issued a press release announcing that Leonard Nimoy would be narrating the intro as well as key scenes and events throughout the game for Star Trek Online (which released Feb. 2nd):
“I am happy to be involved with Star Trek Online. In this game, the essence of Star Trek – exploration and adventure – lives long and prospers,” said Nimoy. “I’m pleased that a whole new generation of fans will be able to discover new frontiers in the Star Trek universe.”
Elsewhere, Nimoy is interviewed in the Winter 2010 print issue of NVISION Magazine which includes an 8-page feature on the game. The magazine is available on newsstands through March 2nd, 2010 and can also be ordered online.
On Dec. 12, 2009, Zachary Quinto, who played Spock in the J.J. Abrams Star Trek movie, announced at the Spike Video Game Awards that he would be the “the voice of” Star Trek Online. He does not, however, reprise his role as Spock. According to a Jan. 27th interview on Wired.com, Quinto “provides the voice for a holographic doctor — the Emergency Medical Hologram Mark VI…[new] players of the MMO will hear Quinto’s voice as they make their way through the game’s opening tutorial.”
– Voice cast info on some upcoming animated films and live-action/CGI features:
> Alice in Wonderland (March 5th, 2010): I’ll bypass mentioning the main stars in the Tim Burton-directed *sequel* to the Lewis Carroll classic children’s novel since you’ve likely seen your fill of them in recent TV ads. What I’m personally looking forward to hearing/seeing are the performances by Crispin Glover as The Knave of Hearts, Stephen Fry as The Cheshire Cat, Christopher Lee as The Jabberwock, Alan Rickman as The Caterpillar and Matt Lucas as both Tweedledum and Tweedledee.
> The Hero of Color City: No specific release date has been announced yet, but this computer-animated film from Magnolia Pictures is supposed to be released sometime in 2010. According to IMDb.com, it will feature the voices of Christina Ricci as “Yellow,” David Kaye (Transformers Beast Wars, Beast Machines) as “Black,” and Craig Ferguson and Rosie Perez in yet-unannounced voice roles.
> Guardians of Ga’Hoole (September 24, 2010): Based on the popular children’s book series, this film has been generating some advance buzz based on the voice cast which includes Emilie de Ravin, Hugo Weaving, Helen Mirren, Abbie Cornish, Geoffrey Rush, Sam Neill, Jim Sturgess and Miriam Margolyes. (Complete voice cast linked via IMDb on the movie title above.)
> Holy Cow! (release date unknown): Variety first reported March 5th, 2009 that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson would voice a Texas steer in this computer-animated feature and I have yet to see any announcements since. The film doesn’t even have an IMDb page. I guess maybe this one has fizzled like the Johnny Bravo live-action movie starring Johnson that was announced back in 2004.
> Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore (July 30, 2010): This is a sequel to the 2001 live-action/CGI talking-animal film, but only a handful of the original cast reprise their roles. According to IMDb.com, returning to voice their canine characters are Alec Baldwin (Butch), Michael Clarke Duncan (Sam) and Joe Pantoliano (Peek), while Bette Midler voices the villain Kitty Galore with Carlos Alazraqui (Reno 911, Camp Lazlo, The Fairly Odd Parents) in a supporting role as the voice of “Cool Cat.” IMDb lists comedian/actor Paul Rodriguez as “Crazy Carlito,” but does not specify whether the role is voice-only.
I know the original was your average kids/family film, but I admit I enjoyed it..mainly for nostalgic reasons: the first dog I ever owned in grade school was a beagle, so I must admit I’m disappointed that Lou (as voiced by Tobey McGuire) does not appear to be returning for the sequel. And other favorite noteworthy performances from the original don’t seem to be returning either: Sean Hayes (Mr. Tinkles), Jon Lovitz (Calico) and voice actors Danny Mann and Billy West as the Ninja cats.
> Yogi Bear (December 15, 2010): *Sigh* Why, Warner Bros…why would you do this? Oh yeah, money…that’s why. At any rate, it features the motion capture performances and voices of Dan Aykroyd (Yogi), Justin Timberlake (Boo-Boo) [yikes!], and Christine Taylor (Cindy). I’m not looking forward to this movie. I will wait to see the reviews, but even then chances are slim that I will ever watch it.
In unfortunately related news, LA Times‘ Hero Complex blog reports that Warner Bros has named Alex Zamm to direct its planned live-action/CGI Marvin the Martian feature film. (Zamm is also contracted to helm yet another similar feature for Hong Kong Phooey.) Two TV writers — Paul Kaplan and Mark Torgove — have also signed on for the Marvin screenplay (who in turn are writing the CHiPS remake).
The LA Times says that the producers are “talking to a number of stars” and mentions Mike Myers as “one name that’s come up.”
I guess there really is no animated property that’s safe from this sort of treatment.
– toonzone.net reports that David Spade is in talks with cable channel TBS to develop an animated series based on the Joe Dirt feature film.
Hey, TBS! If you’re going to produce an animated series based on a feature film and expect it to be successful, you might want to pick a film that was actually good.
– Via toonzone.net: Olympic figure skating champion Michelle Kwan will guest star on Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! Sunday, February 21, 2010, at 7:00 PM (Eastern).
– toonzone.net reports (via Adult Swim press release) that Robot Chicken has been renewed for two more seasons, with an “unprecedented” order for 40 new episodes. toonzone adds, “No information was provided on when the new seasons will begin production or when they will air.”
Says co-creator Seth Green in the press release: “We’re very excited,” says Green, “we never expected to do a second season, let alone a fifth and sixth, so we are thrilled by the audience response and how the show continues to grow internationally.” Matt Senreich says, “We love Adult Swim. It’s really that simple. From the get-go, we’ve always said that Robot Chicken was a show where we play with friends and we look forward to doing that for years to come!”
And I’ll add that it could be a really long before we see new episodes since Green and Senreich along with Tom Root are developing an untitled pilot for FOX (previously reported here).
– Leonardo DiCaprio will narrate the NASA space documentary Hubble 3D. The film arrives in theaters March 19th, 2010.
And some of my own celebrity-related reports outside of this article:
– 2.11.2010 — Curb Your Enthusiasm‘s Cheryl Hines and Star Trek‘s George Takei guest star on the 2-part season finale of The Superhero Squad Show. (Link includes interviews with Hines and Tom Kenny.) Mark Hamill also guest-starred in January as the voice of the Red Skull.
– 2.11..2010 — In a Futurama Cast Round-Up of news on the upcoming sixth season of the show, I reported that late-night talk show host Craig Ferguson will guest on the second episode of the new season.
Update: 2.11.2010:
– Robin Williams, Hank Azaria and Elijah Wood have recently been in Sydney, Australia recording dialog and filming motion capture for the computer-animated Happy Feet II. On Feb. 9th, Williams gave an impromptu stand-up performance in a Sydney bar and received a standing ovation.
On a related note, Movieline.com reported Jan. 15th that Matt Damon and Brad Pitt had also been cast in the film, although Warner Bros has declined to confirm this. Movieline says their sources state that both Damon and Pitt were in the studio recording dialog for the film that week.
It is assumed that “Gloria,” the character voiced by the late Brittany Murphy, will return for the sequel because Murphy had plans in early December 2009 to fly to Sydney with Elijah Wood to record the dialog, and then afterwards was allegedly fired by Warner Bros. There has been no announcement since whether Gloria’s role in the sequel will be cut or if Warner Bros will cast a replacement.
– Added another update to my August 2009 news on DreamWorks’ computer-animated superhero adventure, MegaMind (formerly “Oobermind,” which was originally “Master Mind”).
– The live-action/CGI hybrid Marmaduke, voiced by Owen Wilson, arrives in theaters June 10, 2010 and features the voices of Steve Coogan, Ron Perlman, Jeremy Piven, Fergie, George Lopez, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Thomas F. Wilson, Emma Stone, Damon Wayans and Marlon Wayans.
– Movieweb.com attended DreamWorks’ 2010 film presentation on Jan. 15th, and for those who enjoy spoilers Movieweb describes the action from previews of the upcoming computer-animated films MegaMind, Shrek Forever After and How to Train Your Dragon.
Shrek Forever After features returning cast members Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz and Antonio Banderas. Other confirmed cast members: Kathy Griffin and Kristin Schaal (Flight of the Conchords) as ogre-hunting witches, Jane Lynch (Glee), Jon Hamm (Mad Men) as the ogre leader of an underground resistance group, Megan Fox (Transformers film series) as a princess, and Walt Dohrn as Rumpelstiltskin [Dorhn voiced several incidental characters in Shrek the Third].
And here’s the most recent trailer (as of this writing):
And DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon arrives in theaters March 25th, featuring the Movieweb-confirmed voices of Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, America Ferrera, Craig Ferguson, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse and Kristen Wigg. Chris Sanders, who wrote and directed (and voiced) Disney’s Lilo & Stitch, is the film’s co-writer and co-director.
Originally posted 2.10.2010:
– Kevin McKidd, who plays Poseidon in the feature film Percy Jackson and the Olympians, revealed in an interview on DailyRecord.co.uk that he was “asked to provide a voice in Pixar’s Scottish animated movie, The Bear And The Bow,” which will feature the voices of Reese Witherspoon, Billy Connolly and Emma Thompson.
McKidd adds, “[My son was delighted that I’m] doing a voice in a Pixar film. I haven’t done the recordings yet so I’ll know more in March when I start. I’m dead excited about it – and that I’m working with Billy Connolly.”
– Via Adweek: Dexter‘s Michael C. Hall is the image voice for the Dodge Charger.
– Via TheFlickCast.com: Ron Perlman narrates the trailer for Fallout: New Vegas video game.
– Via toonzone.net: T.C. Carson, voice of Kratos in the God of War video game series, will be doing a signing Feb. 14th at Rose Bowl Comics in Pasedena, CA.
– Via ComicBookResources.com: Curb Your Enthusiasm‘s Cheryl Hines voices Stardust, herald of Galactus, on the 2-part season finale of The Superhero Squad Show airing Feb. 13th and 20th at 7:30 PM on Cartoon Network.
Says Hines of her voice acting experience:
The first time you do this, it’s such a strange feeling, because you’re in this booth that has this big glass window and there are usually, I don’t know, five to eight people on the other side staring at you with their headphones on. You can’t really hear what they’re saying, unless they want you to hear what they’re saying, and then they push a little button and say something to you. Otherwise, you’ll do a take and see them all talking. “Oh no, what’s going on in there?” Then they’ll push the button and go, “That was good, but let’s just try it one more time.” [Laughs] They’re always super calm when they talk to you, because they don’t want you getting rattled.
I remember the first time I did it, I was sweating. You’re not sure if you’re doing it right. You don’t really know what you’re doing. After you do a few [takes], you realize that there’s actually no right or wrong. The people on the other side of the glass, they’re listening and they’re really good at imagining the world that you’re creating.
You are so exhausted at the end of recording something like this. It’s very draining. I mean, let’s be honest, I’m not digging ditches, but your whole body is all tense and you’re trying to get it right and you’re so in it and concentrating so hard for three or four hours at a time. When it’s over, it feels like you just ran a marathon. Plus, with everybody’s eyes all on you, everyone’s listening to every little swallow, and God help you if you have any other body noises. [Laughs] It can be very stressful! But it’s weird. It’s a different way of working.
– Via CreativeLoafing.com: Aisha Tyler (Archer, Boondocks, The Wild) discusses voice acting:
Creative Loafing: You’re currently doing the voice for the character Lana Kane on the animated TV show Archer. What’s that like?
Aisha Tyler: Well, I have done a good number of animated parts already; a show called the The Boondocks that Aaron McGruder created for Adult Swim, shows for the Disney channel, and also a big Disney movie, The Wild. So, I’ve done a good amount, but this is the first time I have done a series. It’s great. It’s much easier than regular TV. You don’t have to do hair and make-up and you just get to go into a booth. The workload is cake, and it’s really fun actually.
CL: How is that working right now with your comedy tour kicking off?
AT: We finished all the episodes for this season. But, what’s great about voice-overs is that as long as you have access to a high quality sound booth in any city, we’re able to do it from any part of the country. So, it’s not too difficult.
– toonzone.net reports that Classic Media and Vivendi Entertainment will release a brand new animated direct-to-DVD title, Kung Fu Magoo, on May 11th. It features the voices of:
Jim Conroy (Celebrity Death Match, Grand Theft Auto IV) as Mr. Magoo Dylan & Cole Sprouse (The Suite Life of Zack & Cody) Alyson Stoner (Camp Rock) Chris Parnell (Saturday Night Live) Kenny Mayne (Dancing With The Stars) Fred Travalena (Bogey from Shirt Tales)
Also on May 11th, Classic/Vivendi will release the 1964 Magoo classic, Mr. Magoo in Sherwood Forest, starring the original voice of Mr. Magoo, Jim Backus (Gilligan’s Island).
– BBC.co.uk has an interview with Family Guy’s Mike Henry discussing the celebrity guest voices featured on the Family Guy spin-off The Cleveland Show, which include Kanye West, T-Pain, will.i.am (Black Eyed Peas), U2 drummer Larry Mullen Jr and film director David Lynch.
Henry says of Kanye:
Kanye could not be a cooler guy at our show – we do definitely have some jokes where he makes light of himself.
He does some things out in public that stir up controversy and opinions. He knew that and we contacted him and he was totally up for doing the part. He’s a recurring character [as Kenny West]. He does an extended rap-off with Cleveland Jnr in an episode first season and he and Cleveland hook up and do another rap in season two.
The first time we had actually written a rap for him. Five of our writers sat down to write this rap and they were like, ‘I wonder how he’s going to like it?’.
But he was genuinely laughing. He very humbly asked if we could change one line which didn’t feel right. He was even joking that we should write a song for his next album.
T-Pain and will.i.am will play Cleveland Jr.’s sidekicks in season 2. “We just recorded [will.i.am] last week and he was absolutely hilarious,” Henry says. “He could do his own animated show he’s got so many voices.”
Of Larry Mullen Jr. Henry says, “We just recorded him doing a couple of different parts and he was very funny. He plays a mobster in one episode; he plays a bad Elvis impersonator by design in another episode. He’s got his own studio so we just record it from Dublin. You don’t have to record at a certain time. It’s an easy gig and one that people like to do.”
Henry adds, “It’s very cool to have all these people from different walks of entertainment participating in what we’re doing.”
A related interview with Cleveland Show executive producer Rich Appel on HollywoodReporter.com mentions that this Sunday’s episode (2.14) guest stars the Black Eyed Peas’ Fergie, and adds that episode 16 in season 2 will feature guest stars Carl Reiner, will.i.am and T-Pain.
– Via toonzone.net: …and speaking of T-Pain, he spoke with ABCNews.com about his role in Freaknik: The Musical, a hip-hop animated musical scheduled to air on Adult Swim March 7, 2010 (previously reported here) The much-hyped special also features the voices of Rick Ro$$, Andy Samberg, Lil’ Wayne, Bill Hader, Kelis, Snoop Dogg, George Clinton, Young Cash, Sophia Fresh and Charlie Murphy.
Shoutcastblog.com reports that Latin Grammy-winner and legendary Cuban singer Omara Portuondo has been cast as Moma Odie for the Spanish dub of Disney’s The Princess and the Frog (‘Tiana y el sapo’).
This article was originally published 2.08.2010. Please scroll down to read the most recent updates and additions.
On Feb. 1st, Backstage.com published a list of TV Pilot Production Listings. Now, I’ll grant that unless you’re a working actor, that might not be of any interest to you. And for animation fans, the list is worth noting for details on upcoming animated productions.
But both beginning and professional voice actors should find this HUGELY interesting as it includes contact info for the casting directors of such popular animated shows as Family Guy, American Dad and The Simpsons.
But before I share that info, please note Backstage’s preface to their article:
The following listings are not casting notices but instead reflect the best general information available about current casting assignments. Do your homework and use them wisely. Do not phone or visit casting directors’ offices. Unless otherwise instructed, all contact with casting directors should be through the mail. Blind mass mailings are not recommended.
And I must also emphasize that this is not a notice for an “open call” or even an audition, frankly. However, you could *submit* for an audition by sending a demo through the mailing addresses Backstage.com provides. Chances are very small that such a demo would even be heard, but there’s no harm in submitting anyway.
American Dad – Linda Lamontagne, 5700 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 325, L.A., CA 90035.
Family Guy – Linda Lamontagne, 5700 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 325, L.A., CA 90036.
King of the Hill – Mossberg/Anthony Casting, 4024 Radford Ave., Trailer 800, Studio City, CA 91604
The Simpsons – Bonita Pietila, c/o 20th Century Fox Studios, 10201 W. Pico Blvd., Trailer 730, L.A., CA 90035
You’re likely as surprised as I am to see King of the Hill mentioned, especially since FOX announced August 2009 that the one-hour season finale would effectively end the series. I don’t think fans should take this as any kind of sign — or even a glimmer of hope — that further production for the series is planned. There have been no official announcements to date otherwise.
As an addendum to Backstage’s article, I have a related list for which I have opted to not disclose the source out of professional courtesy since it was from an agency.
Update: 2.11.2010 — I have tracked down what I believe to be the original source of the casting information which I received via an agency in mid-January.
The source is NowCasting.com — a reputable casting site widely used throughout the TV/film industry. Some TV/film productions I’ve worked on personally as background, stand-in and in a featured role have posted casting notices through this site. (Just to name one: Tyler Perry Studios.)
Note that the names of casting directors ARE included, but no direct contact information is given. If you want that info, you’ll have to track it down on your own or “upgrade” to a paid membership with NowCasting as it mentions on the linked pdf file.
The following list (which according to the document was originally published Jan. 7th, 2010) is worth noting not only for the “currently casting” info but also for the current and upcoming animated series and TV specials (aka “MOW” or “movie-of-the-week”) included in the list which are related to productions which air (or will air) on FOX, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim. (I did not include any Nick or Disney shows because all the Nick and Disney shows on NowCasting.com’s list are live-action.)
– American Dad (FOX): currently casting
– Eagleheart – 1/2 hour pilot (CN): currently casting
– Family Guy – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Firebreather – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Kamen Rider – 1/2 hour (CN): on hiatus
– Robot Chicken – 1/2 hour (CN): on hiatus
– The Tiger’s Apprentice – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Titan Maximum – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Delocated – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Futurama – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– The Simpsons – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– The Cleveland Show – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Untitled Green/Root/Senerich Project (FOX) – 1/2 hour pilot: currently casting
Update: 2.09.2010 — Following the feedback on sites which have also carried this news, it seems I must point out they are neither “recasting” nor “replacing” any of the cast members for the recurring series listed. Backstage.com merely provided the contact address for the casting directors. And NowCasting.com’s list which mentions that shows like Family Guy and American Dad are “currently casting” means that they are possibly casting for incidental characters, guest stars, etc. — *not* the main or supporting cast.
Update: 4.08.2010 — NowCasting.com published an updated list on 3.09.2010. And my apologies that I am just now updating this article following this new information, but I was in Japan for two weeks when this notice was released and am just now catching up on backlogged messages.
Here’s the updated list:
– American Dad (FOX): currently casting
– Family Guy – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Firebreather – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Kamen Rider – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Robot Chicken – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– The Tiger’s Apprentice – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Horrorbots – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Children’s Hospital – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Scooby Doo – MOW (CN): currently casting [This has been confirmed as a live-action TV movie following a March 12th press release.]
– Titan Maximum – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Delocated – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Futurama – 1/2 hour (FOX): still listed as “currently casting” [see earlier note from February above]
– The Simpsons – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– The Cleveland Show – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Untitled Green/Root/Senerich Project (FOX) – 1/2 hour pilot: wrapped [This project has now been confirmed — and this is no April Fools — as a Star Wars animated sitcom.]
Note that no animated Disney or Nickelodeon projects are included in NowCasting’s list. If you’d like to see the new and continuing animated productions for each of these networks, toonzone has coverage of Nickelodeon’s Upfront 2010 and Disney Channel/Disney XD’s 2010-2011 Programming Announcements. Cartoon Network’s Upfront 2010 is scheduled for April 21st.
Backstage.com also has a comprehensive list of Animation Production Companies (last updated 6.09.2009), some of which are seeking voiceover demos (as noted). But make sure you not only follow Backstage’s advice for submissions, but also note the note individual studios’ guidelines for submitting demos. And bear in mind that in most cases “demo” refers to a reel of animation samples, not voiceovers.
This article was originally posted 1.03.2010 and has since been revised and updated as new details have become available.
Presented by the International Animated Film Society, ASIFA-Hollywood, the 37th Annual Annie Awards were held on Saturday, February 6, 2010, at UCLA’s Royce Hall, in Los Angeles, California. The ceremony will also be webcast on AnnieAwards.org beginning Tuesday, Feb. 9th.
Following are the nominees and winners for the voice acting-related categories:
~ Voice Acting in a Television Production ~
Tom Kenny accepting his award. (Photo courtesy Carol Wyatt)
– Danny Jacobs, Voice of King Julien: “Merry Madagascar”: DreamWorks Animation
– Nicky Jones, Voice of Chowder: “Chowder: The Dinner Theatre'”: Cartoon Network Studios
* WINNER: Tom Kenny, Voice of SpongeBob: “SpongeBob SquarePants: Truth or Square”: Nickelodeon
– Dwight Schultz, Voice of Mung Daal: “Chowder:The Party Cruise”: Cartoon Network Studios
– Willow Smith, Voice of Abby: “Merry Madagascar”: DreamWorks Animation
~ Voice Acting in a Feature Production ~
* WINNER: Jen Cody, Voice of Charlotte: “The Princess and the Frog”: Walt Disney Animation Studios
– Dawn French, Voice of Miss Forcible: “Coraline”: Laika
– Hugh Laurie, Voice of Dr. Cockroach Ph.D.: “Monsters vs. Aliens”: DreamWorks Animation
– John Leguizamo, Voice of Sid: “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaur”: Blue Sky Studios
– Jennifer Lewis, Voice of Mama Odie: “The Princess and the Frog”: Walt Disney Animation Studios
The highest honor of the night went to Pixar/Disney’s Up for “Best Animated Feature,” which won another award for “Directing in a Feature Production.”
Futurama: Into The Wild Green Yonder won for “Best Home Entertainment Production,” and Robot Chicken: Star Wars 2.5 was the winner for “Best Animated Short Subject.”
Disney’s Prep and Landing won “Best Animated Television Production” and 3 additional awards, while The Penguins of Madagascar won for the “Best Animated Television Production for Children.”
Producer/animator/artist Bruce Timm was one of three recipients of the prestigious Winsor McCay Award. Timm has also voiced incidental characters and performed background walla for the many DC Comics animated properties with which he’s been involved.
My hearty congratulations to all the winners and nominees.
William Shatner hosting (photo courtesy Carol Wyatt)
William Shatner served as host for the event (previously reported here), and presenters included June Foray, Seth Green, John Leguizamo, Sean Astin, Pete Docter, Ed Catmull and Henry Selick. Disney’s Don Hahn also introduced a special tribute to the late Roy Disney.
Please visit AnnieAwards.org for the complete list of winners.
I will be adding more photos and video from the event over the next week, but in the meantime here’s a video from the 2009 Annie Awards featuring voice actors James Hong, Brad Garrett and Pat Fraley (via ActorsReporter.com):
Update: 2.08.2010, 3:05 AM (EST) — My friend and fellow voice actor fan Matt Dunford had the privilege of attending the Annies and provided the following report:
It was great show. But I really don’t think that Shatner was anywhere near as good as Tom Kenny has been for the past 5 years. But the highlight of the evening was Shatner totally botching the pronunciation of John Leguizamo and the running gag it prompted for the rest of the evening.
[Besides the aforementioned presenters], John DiMaggio and Fred Tatasciore presented an award together. Later on Bill Farmer, Tony Anselmo, and Russi Taylor went on stage and presented an award and also gave a marvelous tribute to Wayne Allwine. It was wonderful, Russi was so thankful to everyone there as she was holding back tears, yet the trio still gave a wonderful performance.
And for VAs in the audience I ran into Dana Snyder from [Aqua Teen Hunger Force], and Michael-Leon Wooley [Princess and the Frog]. Wooley was…very smiley and laughing all the time.
Other comments on the Annie Awards ceremony via Cartoon Brew:
From Floyd Norman: “William Shatner was a terrific host. Plus, he really moved the show along nicely, making the most out of every comic opportunity. I’d gladly have him back at the helm for another awards ceremony.”
From Floyd Bishop: “I thought the show was great, even from the nosebleed seats. The Tom [Kenny]/William Shatner voice swap skit was funny, and as Floyd Norman mentioned, Mr Shatner did a great job of keeping the show moving. It didn’t feel as long as it was.”
Update: 2.09.2010, 5:00 AM (EST) — The first few minutes of AnimationArchive.org’s podcast includes an “Annies Wrap Up.”
Seth Green fan blog “Freakin’ Awesome!” has posted photos collected from around the web of Green’s appearance at the Annie Awards here and here.
I also have a full gallery of photos courtesy of artist Carol Wyatt of Carol Wyatt Illustration (Thanks again, Carol!):
And if anyone from ASIFA-Hollywood happens to be reading this, I would like to submit Richard Horvitz as host for the 38th Annual Annie Awards, provided that Tom Kenny is not available again. I’ve observed Horvitz for a few convention panel presentations and he’s naturally funny, quick-witted, great with people and presents himself professionally as well. He also has ample experience as a speaker since he teaches voice acting workshops which come highly-recommended.
While I’m sure having a celebrity guest host helped boost the Annies’ media exposure, wouldn’t you really rather have the host represent someone who genuinely works in your own industry?
Added: 2.08.2010, 3:39 AM (EST) — 2010 Annie Awards videos from the red carpet event:
– Lacey Chabert (The Spectacular Spider-Man, The Wild Thornberrys, and the original voice of Meg Griffin on Family Guy):
– John Leguizamo (Ice Age film series):
– Russi Taylor (Minnie Mouse):
– Tony Anselmo and Bill Farmer (Donald and Goofy, respectively):
– Jennifer Lewis (Princess and the Frog):
– Michael-Leon Wooley (Princess and the Frog):
– Jennifer Cody (Princess and the Frog):
…and Cody receiving her Annie Award:
– Nicky Jones (Chowder)
– Seth Green (Robot Chicken, Family Guy)
– Tom Kenny vs William Shatner: Battle for the Host!
…also includes Seth Green presenting the award for “Best Home Entertainment Production” (and a brief appearance by John Di Maggio)
A very special thanks to Matt Dunford for providing the event report, to artist Carol Wyatt of Carol Wyatt Illustration / Carol’s Couch for all the photos, and to Doreen Mulman for the heads-up on Carol’s photos.
I’d also like to thank the Academy…
Josh Keaton, voice of the title character on The Spectacular Spider-Man series, sounds off with The Geek Files on the movie franchise reboot as well as his love of comics and genre films. The interview also has a few photos, including one of Keaton’s Spidey-themed Mini-Cooper.
And in regards to the cancellation rumors of the Marvel fan-favorite Disney XD Spidey series, Keaton says, “If it’s cancelled, that would be news to me. I haven’t heard anything regarding the status of the show.”
And as a bonus, here’s a fan compilation of Keaton’s TV/film appearances:
Posted by ashleyhippie 
Voice Actors in the News 
Want to Audition for Family Guy or The Simpsons?
02.08.2010This article was originally published 2.08.2010. Please scroll down to read the most recent updates and additions.
On Feb. 1st, Backstage.com published a list of TV Pilot Production Listings. Now, I’ll grant that unless you’re a working actor, that might not be of any interest to you. And for animation fans, the list is worth noting for details on upcoming animated productions.
But both beginning and professional voice actors should find this HUGELY interesting as it includes contact info for the casting directors of such popular animated shows as Family Guy, American Dad and The Simpsons.
But before I share that info, please note Backstage’s preface to their article:
The following listings are not casting notices but instead reflect the best general information available about current casting assignments. Do your homework and use them wisely. Do not phone or visit casting directors’ offices. Unless otherwise instructed, all contact with casting directors should be through the mail. Blind mass mailings are not recommended.
And I must also emphasize that this is not a notice for an “open call” or even an audition, frankly. However, you could *submit* for an audition by sending a demo through the mailing addresses Backstage.com provides. Chances are very small that such a demo would even be heard, but there’s no harm in submitting anyway.
American Dad – Linda Lamontagne, 5700 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 325, L.A., CA 90035.
Family Guy – Linda Lamontagne, 5700 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 325, L.A., CA 90036.
King of the Hill – Mossberg/Anthony Casting, 4024 Radford Ave., Trailer 800, Studio City, CA 91604
The Simpsons – Bonita Pietila, c/o 20th Century Fox Studios, 10201 W. Pico Blvd., Trailer 730, L.A., CA 90035
You’re likely as surprised as I am to see King of the Hill mentioned, especially since FOX announced August 2009 that the one-hour season finale would effectively end the series. I don’t think fans should take this as any kind of sign — or even a glimmer of hope — that further production for the series is planned. There have been no official announcements to date otherwise.
As an addendum to Backstage’s article, I have a related list
for which I have opted to not disclose the source out of professional courtesy since it was from an agency.Update: 2.11.2010 — I have tracked down what I believe to be the original source of the casting information which I received via an agency in mid-January.
The source is NowCasting.com — a reputable casting site widely used throughout the TV/film industry. Some TV/film productions I’ve worked on personally as background, stand-in and in a featured role have posted casting notices through this site. (Just to name one: Tyler Perry Studios.)
Note that the names of casting directors ARE included, but no direct contact information is given. If you want that info, you’ll have to track it down on your own or “upgrade” to a paid membership with NowCasting as it mentions on the linked pdf file.
The following list (which according to the document was originally published Jan. 7th, 2010) is worth noting not only for the “currently casting” info but also for the current and upcoming animated series and TV specials (aka “MOW” or “movie-of-the-week”) included in the list which are related to productions which air (or will air) on FOX, Cartoon Network and Adult Swim. (I did not include any Nick or Disney shows because all the Nick and Disney shows on NowCasting.com’s list are live-action.)
– American Dad (FOX): currently casting
– Eagleheart – 1/2 hour pilot (CN): currently casting
– Family Guy – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Firebreather – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Kamen Rider – 1/2 hour (CN): on hiatus
– Robot Chicken – 1/2 hour (CN): on hiatus
– The Tiger’s Apprentice – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Titan Maximum – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Delocated – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Futurama – 1/2 hour (FOX):
currently casting– The Simpsons – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– The Cleveland Show – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Untitled Green/Root/Senerich Project (FOX) – 1/2 hour pilot: currently casting
Update: 2.09.2010 — Following the feedback on sites which have also carried this news, it seems I must point out they are neither “recasting” nor “replacing” any of the cast members for the recurring series listed. Backstage.com merely provided the contact address for the casting directors. And NowCasting.com’s list which mentions that shows like Family Guy and American Dad are “currently casting” means that they are possibly casting for incidental characters, guest stars, etc. — *not* the main or supporting cast.
Update: 2.11.2010 — According to one of Futurama’s writers, the show “isn’t casting voice actors.”
Update: 4.08.2010 — NowCasting.com published an updated list on 3.09.2010. And my apologies that I am just now updating this article following this new information, but I was in Japan for two weeks when this notice was released and am just now catching up on backlogged messages.
Here’s the updated list:
– American Dad (FOX): currently casting
– Family Guy – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Firebreather – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Kamen Rider – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Robot Chicken – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– The Tiger’s Apprentice – MOW (CN): wrapped
– Horrorbots – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Children’s Hospital – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Scooby Doo – MOW (CN): currently casting [This has been confirmed as a live-action TV movie following a March 12th press release.]
– Titan Maximum – 1/2 hour (CN): currently casting
– Delocated – 1/2 hour (CN): wrapped
– Futurama – 1/2 hour (FOX): still listed as “currently casting” [see earlier note from February above]
– The Simpsons – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– The Cleveland Show – 1/2 hour (FOX): currently casting
– Untitled Green/Root/Senerich Project (FOX) – 1/2 hour pilot: wrapped [This project has now been confirmed — and this is no April Fools — as a Star Wars animated sitcom.]
Note that no animated Disney or Nickelodeon projects are included in NowCasting’s list. If you’d like to see the new and continuing animated productions for each of these networks, toonzone has coverage of Nickelodeon’s Upfront 2010 and Disney Channel/Disney XD’s 2010-2011 Programming Announcements. Cartoon Network’s Upfront 2010 is scheduled for April 21st.
Backstage.com also has a comprehensive list of Animation Production Companies (last updated 6.09.2009), some of which are seeking voiceover demos (as noted). But make sure you not only follow Backstage’s advice for submissions, but also note the note individual studios’ guidelines for submitting demos. And bear in mind that in most cases “demo” refers to a reel of animation samples, not voiceovers.