Celebs Who Secretly Voice Iconic Characters in AAA Video Games

The intersection of Hollywood and the gaming industry has led to many surprising cameos and starring roles from famous actors. While some celebrities are the face of marketing campaigns, others provide voice work that many players might never notice during their initial playthrough. These performances add a layer of professional quality and emotional depth to digital stories that help immerse the player. From massive open world epics to intense first person shooters, these recognizable voices bring complex characters to life in ways that often go uncredited in the minds of the general public.

Mark Hamill

The legendary actor known for playing Luke Skywalker provided the iconic voice for the Joker in ‘Batman Arkham Asylum’. His performance brought a unique level of intensity and madness to the famous comic book villain. Many players did not realize that the veteran screen star was the person behind the menacing laughter throughout the game. He continued this role across several sequels to create a definitive version of the character. This work helped bridge the gap between traditional film acting and high quality voice work in interactive media.

Rami Malek

Before he became an Oscar winner, this talented actor appeared as the character Josh in the horror game ‘Until Dawn’. He provided both his voice and his likeness for the motion capture process to create a very realistic performance. The game utilized his expressive face to convey the fear and psychological distress of the narrative. Fans often rediscover this role after seeing his later success in major films and television series. It stands as a notable example of a rising star contributing to a major gaming project.

Samuel L. Jackson

One of the most recognizable voices in Hollywood appeared in the classic title ‘Grand Theft Auto San Andreas’. He played the corrupt police officer Frank Tenpenny who serves as the primary antagonist of the story. His commanding presence and delivery made the character one of the most memorable villains in the history of the franchise. Players often felt a genuine sense of tension during his scenes due to his powerful vocal performance. This role is a highlight of the star power that the series began to attract in the early two thousands.

Keanu Reeves

This beloved action star took on a massive role as Johnny Silverhand in the ambitious title ‘Cyberpunk 2077’. He provided extensive voice work and motion capture for the digital ghost who lives inside the head of the protagonist. His involvement was a major part of the marketing for the game but the scale of his performance still surprised many players. The character is central to the entire plot and appears frequently throughout the long journey. His unique vocal style fits the rebellious and cynical nature of the futuristic rocker.

Gary Oldman

The versatile actor lent his voice to the character Viktor Reznov in ‘Call of Duty World at War’ and its sequels. He delivered a powerful and gritty performance as a Russian soldier leading the charge in historic battles. Many fans were impressed by the emotional range he brought to a role in a fast paced shooter. His voice helped ground the cinematic experience of the campaign and made the character a fan favorite. It is often cited as one of the best examples of a high profile actor elevating a gaming narrative.

Kiefer Sutherland

Known for his intense role in the series twenty four, this actor replaced the original voice for Venom Snake in ‘Metal Gear Solid V The Phantom Pain’. His casting was a significant change for the long running franchise and brought a more subdued and weary tone to the character. He performed through facial motion capture to provide a more nuanced physical performance during cutscenes. While the decision was controversial among some longtime fans, his delivery added a cinematic quality to the story. He successfully portrayed the weight of the burdens carried by the legendary soldier.

Liam Neeson

The respected actor appeared in ‘Fallout 3’ as the father of the main character who triggers the start of the adventure. His calm and authoritative voice provided a sense of comfort and motivation for the player as they left the vault. This role was a major selling point for the game and helped establish the high production values of the project. Having such a recognizable voice at the beginning of the journey helped players feel a personal connection to the story. His performance is remembered fondly as a grounded part of the post apocalyptic experience.

Matthew Perry

The late comedy star voiced the character Benny in ‘Fallout New Vegas’ after expressing his genuine love for the previous game in the series. He played the smooth talking antagonist who shoots the player in the opening cinematic of the story. His casting brought a distinct personality to the role that combined charm with a dangerous edge. Many fans were delighted to hear a familiar voice from one of the most popular sitcoms of all time in such a different setting. The character remains one of the most recognizable figures in the entire role playing genre.

Patrick Stewart

The celebrated stage and screen actor provided the voice for Emperor Uriel Septim VII in ‘The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion’. His presence at the start of the game gave the fantasy world an immediate sense of gravity and historical importance. Although the character has a relatively short amount of screen time, his performance left a lasting impression on the audience. He brought a regal and wise quality to the dialogue that set the stage for the epic conflict. This involvement helped the game achieve a high level of prestige upon its initial release.

Sean Bean

This famous actor joined the cast of ‘The Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion’ to voice Martin Septim, the secret heir to the throne. He delivered an emotional performance as a man struggling to accept his destiny as a leader in a time of crisis. Players spent a significant portion of the main quest interacting with his character and watching his growth. His voice work helped make the stakes of the story feel personal and urgent. It is a rare instance where his character is central to the resolution of the entire plot.

Martin Sheen

The veteran actor voiced the mysterious Illusive Man in the critically acclaimed ‘Mass Effect 2’ and its sequel. He portrayed the leader of a human first organization with a sophisticated and calculating demeanor. His performance was enhanced by the distinctive look of the character who was often seen smoking in a futuristic office. The calm and articulate delivery made the character both untrustworthy and fascinating to interact with. Many players consider this to be one of the best voice acting performances in the history of science fiction games.

Yvonne Strahovski

This talented actress provided both her voice and her physical likeness for the character Miranda Lawson in ‘Mass Effect 2’. She played a genetically engineered officer who becomes a key member of the crew and a potential love interest. The character was designed to be highly capable and professional, which the actress captured through her confident delivery. Her involvement helped make the squad feel more like a group of real individuals with complex backgrounds. She returned for the final game in the trilogy to conclude the story of her character.

Seth Green

The comedic actor and creator voiced the pilot Jeff Moreau in the ‘Mass Effect’ trilogy. He brought a sense of humor and lightheartedness to the bridge of the spaceship during stressful missions. The character is known for having a brittle bone disease which added a layer of vulnerability and strength to his personality. Players often visited the cockpit just to hear his witty remarks and observations about the galaxy. His performance made the pilot one of the most beloved non combat characters in the entire series.

Carrie-Anne Moss

Known for her iconic role in the matrix movies, this actress voiced the character Tilda van der Meer in ‘Horizon Forbidden West’. She played a sophisticated and technologically advanced woman from a distant era who influences the main plot. Her voice carried a sense of mystery and cold intelligence that fit the high stakes of the science fiction narrative. The character was a significant addition to the sequel and provided a link to the history of the world. Her performance helped elevate the tension during the final acts of the story.

Kristen Bell

This popular actress voiced the character Lucy Stillman in the early ‘Assassin’s Creed’ games. She played a researcher who assists the protagonist in navigating his ancestors’ memories through a special machine. Her character was central to the modern day storyline that framed the historical action of the series. Many fans enjoyed her natural and relatable delivery in a plot that involved complex conspiracies. Her departure from the series was a shocking moment for many players who had grown attached to her role.

Ray Liotta

The late film star voiced Tommy Vercetti in the massive hit ‘Grand Theft Auto Vice City’. He brought a tough and ambitious energy to the character as he rose through the ranks of the criminal underworld. This was one of the first times a major Hollywood actor took a leading role in an open world game. His performance helped define the eighties aesthetic and the cinematic feel of the entire experience. It remains a landmark moment for celebrity involvement in the video game industry.

Burt Reynolds

The legendary screen icon voiced a version of himself in the chaotic world of ‘Saints Row The Third’. He appeared as the mayor of the city who assists the player during various wild missions. His inclusion was a self aware nod to his status as a cultural icon and he delivered his lines with great humor. Players were often surprised to encounter such a famous figure in the middle of the over the top action. This cameo added to the irreverent and celebrity obsessed tone of the franchise.

Giancarlo Esposito

The actor famous for playing intense villains took on the role of Antón Castillo in ‘Far Cry 6’. He portrayed a ruthless dictator who is trying to maintain control over a fictional Caribbean nation. His performance was featured heavily in the trailers and provided a menacing face for the revolution story. He used his ability to convey cold authority and suppressed rage to make the antagonist feel truly dangerous. The game utilized advanced motion capture to bring his subtle facial expressions into the digital world.

Elliot Page

This acclaimed actor provided the voice and likeness for Jodie Holmes in the cinematic adventure ‘Beyond Two Souls’. The story follows the character through different stages of her life as she deals with a mysterious supernatural entity. His performance required a huge amount of emotional range to cover the many years of the narrative. The project was designed to feel like an interactive film and relied heavily on the quality of the acting. This role demonstrated how games could provide a platform for deep and character driven storytelling.

Willem Dafoe

The versatile actor joined the cast of ‘Beyond Two Souls’ to play Nathan Dawkins, a government scientist who studies the protagonist. He brought a complex mix of fatherly concern and professional obsession to the role. Working alongside other high profile actors, he helped create a grounded and believable atmosphere for the supernatural plot. His distinctive voice and intense delivery added a layer of prestige to the production. The collaboration between such established actors was a major talking point during the release of the game.

Norman Reedus

This star from the walking dead portrayed the lead character Sam Porter Bridges in ‘Death Stranding’. He provided his full likeness and voice for a journey across a fractured and surreal version of America. The game focuses on the physical struggle of the character, making his grunts and exhaustion part of the performance. He worked closely with the director to create a unique and lonely atmosphere that defined the experience. His involvement helped draw a large audience to the unconventional and artistic title.

Mads Mikkelsen

The acclaimed Danish actor played the mysterious character Cliff in ‘Death Stranding’. He appeared in haunting flashbacks and intense combat sequences that left players questioning his true motives. His performance was praised for its physical intensity and the emotional depth he brought to a complex father figure. The visual fidelity of the game allowed his distinct features and expressions to be captured perfectly. He received awards for his work which highlighted the growing respect for acting within the gaming industry.

Kit Harington

Known for his role in the game of thrones series, this actor played the primary villain in ‘Call of Duty Infinite Warfare’. He portrayed Salen Kotch, a ruthless commander leading a separatist movement in space. This was a departure from his usual heroic roles and allowed him to show a more aggressive and cold side of his acting. While his character appeared mainly in transmissions and cutscenes, he provided a strong motivation for the player’s mission. His presence helped market the game as a blockbuster entertainment experience.

Peter Dinklage

The famous actor provided the original voice for the Ghost in the science fiction shooter ‘Destiny’. He played the small robotic companion that guides the player through the entire universe and explains the complex lore. His delivery was criticized by some for being too flat but it became a memorable part of the early game experience. The role was eventually re recorded by a different actor but his original lines remain a piece of gaming history. Many players still remember the specific phrases he uttered during the first year of the title.

Nathan Fillion

This fan favorite actor voiced the character Cayde-6 in the ‘Destiny’ series and its sequel. He brought a witty and charming personality to the robot leader who often served as the comic relief. His performance was so popular that the character became a central figure in the marketing and the story expansion. He also lent his voice to various characters in the ‘Halo’ series, showing his long term commitment to the industry. His ability to deliver humor in the middle of intense action made him a perfect fit for these franchises.

Bill Nighy

The distinguished British actor provided the voice for the High King Emeric in ‘The Elder Scrolls Online’. He brought a sophisticated and weary quality to the leader of one of the main factions in the massive multiplayer world. His performance helped differentiate the various cultures and political struggles within the game. Players often encounter his character while navigating the complex diplomacy of the fantasy setting. His involvement added a level of vocal variety and professional polish to the sprawling narrative.

John Goodman

The versatile character actor voiced Dan Hagar in the post apocalyptic shooter ‘Rage’. He played the leader of a small settlement who rescues the player at the very beginning of the story. His warm and familiar voice provided a sense of safety in a world filled with dangerous mutants and bandits. The character serves as a mentor and quest giver who helps the player understand the rules of the new world. His performance added a human element to the gritty and industrial aesthetic of the game.

Susan Sarandon

The Oscar winning actress lent her voice to the character Granny Rags in the stealth game ‘Dishonored’. She played a mysterious and eccentric old woman who was once a member of high society but now lives in the shadows. Her performance captured the unsettling and magical nature of the character who provides side quests to the player. The role required a mix of elegance and madness which she delivered with great skill. This unexpected cameo added to the rich atmosphere and world building of the fictional city.

Chloë Grace Moretz

This young actress voiced the character Emily Kaldwin in the first ‘Dishonored’ game. She played the young heir to the throne who is kidnapped after the assassination of her mother. Her performance conveyed the innocence and fear of a child caught in a violent political struggle. The relationship between her character and the protagonist is the emotional core of the entire narrative. She helped make the player’s motivation to rescue her feel genuine and urgent throughout the campaign.

Michael Fassbender

The acclaimed actor voiced the character Logan in ‘Fable III’, playing the role of the tyrannical King of Albion. He portrayed the older brother of the protagonist whose harsh rule leads to a popular revolution. His voice work captured the cold pragmatism of a leader who believes he is doing what is necessary for his country. Players spent the first half of the game working to overthrow him only to discover the true reasons for his actions. His performance added a layer of moral complexity to the whimsical fantasy world.

Stephen Fry

The famous writer and actor provided the voice for Reaver in the ‘Fable’ series and narrated the ‘LittleBigPlanet’ titles. He brought a witty and aristocratic flair to the selfish and immortal character who often hindered the player. His narration in other games is known for being warm and educational, which made him a staple of the platforming genre. His distinct voice is instantly recognizable and adds a sense of British charm to every project he joins. He is one of the most prolific mainstream stars to consistently work in the gaming industry.

Christopher Walken

The iconic actor appeared in the crime game ‘True Crime New York City’ as a veteran police officer. He provided the voice for Gabriel Caselle who serves as a mentor figure to the main character. His unique speech patterns and delivery were perfectly captured in the digital dialogue of the game. Having such a legendary figure in the cast helped the title compete with other major open world crime franchises. His presence made the police station feel like a setting from a classic gritty crime movie.

Vin Diesel

This action star is well known for his love of gaming and voiced the character Richard B. Riddick in several titles. He was heavily involved in the development of ‘The Chronicles of Riddick Escape from Butcher Bay’ to ensure it stayed true to the movies. His deep and gravelly voice is perfect for the stealthy and dangerous protagonist who must escape a high security prison. These games are often cited as some of the best movie tie ins ever made thanks to his commitment. He also founded a game studio to help produce high quality interactive entertainment.

Jack Black

The comedic actor and musician played the lead role of Eddie Riggs in the heavy metal inspired game ‘Brutal Legend’. He provided his voice and likeness for a roadie who is transported to a fantasy world based on rock album covers. His energetic performance and love for the genre were evident in every line of dialogue. The game featured a massive cast of rock stars and actors, but he was the driving force of the story. His involvement made the project feel like a personal passion piece for everyone involved.

Hayden Panettiere

The actress known for her roles in television and film played the character Sam in the horror title ‘Until Dawn’. She was one of the central figures in the story who had to survive a night of terror in a mountain cabin. The game used her likeness and voice to create a character that players wanted to protect from various threats. Her performance included a lot of physical acting during motion capture to convey fear and exertion. She helped the game achieve a cinematic quality that appealed to fans of teen horror movies.

Timothy Olyphant

This charismatic actor voiced the character Sergeant First Class Grinch in ‘Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3’. He played a member of a specialized delta force unit that carries out dangerous missions across the globe. His calm and professional delivery fit the tone of a elite soldier operating under extreme pressure. While he was part of an ensemble cast, his voice was a notable addition for fans of his work in westerns and crime dramas. This role showcased how the series used famous actors to fill out the ranks of its military units.

Idris Elba

The popular actor took on a starring role as Solomon Reed in the expansion ‘Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty’. He played a secret agent who becomes the primary ally and guide for the player in a new area of the city. His performance brought a weary and experienced quality to the espionage focused storyline. He provided extensive voice work and facial capture to make the character feel as real as possible. His involvement was a major highlight of the game’s post launch content and was highly praised by critics.

Emma Stone

Before she became one of the biggest stars in the world, this actress voiced a character in the open world game ‘Sleeping Dogs’. She played Amanda Cartwright, an American student who acts as a brief love interest for the protagonist. Her performance was a small part of the large city experience but remains a fun discovery for fans today. The game featured a high quality cast that helped bring the vibrant setting of Hong Kong to life. Her natural charm and delivery were evident even in this early supporting role.

Lucy Liu

The established actress provided the voice for Vivienne Wu in the action game ‘Sleeping Dogs’. She played a famous singer and socialite who interacts with the undercover police officer protagonist. Her performance added a layer of glamour and celebrity to the criminal world of the game. She brought a confident and sophisticated energy to her scenes which helped define the culture of the fictional city. This was one of many roles that used her talent to enhance the cinematic storytelling of the title.

Mila Kunis

This famous actress voiced a character in the original ‘Saints Row’ before the series became an international hit. She played Tanya Winters, a high ranking member of one of the rival gangs that the player must dismantle. Her performance showed a more aggressive and villainous side compared to her usual comedic roles. While she did not return for the sequels, her contribution helped establish the gritty urban tone of the early series. It is an interesting early career moment for an actress who would later become a household name.

Keith David

The veteran actor with a deep and commanding voice has appeared in many major franchises including ‘Halo’ and ‘Mass Effect’. He played the Arbiter in the ‘Halo’ series, turning a former enemy into a noble and complex ally. In ‘Mass Effect’, he played Admiral David Anderson who serves as a mentor and father figure to the player. He also voiced a version of himself in ‘Saints Row IV’, leaning into his status as a legendary voice actor. His presence in a game always signals a high level of narrative quality and gravitas.

Lance Reddick

The late actor provided the voice and likeness for Sylens in the ‘Horizon’ series and Commander Zavala in ‘Destiny’. He was known for his calm and articulate delivery which gave his characters a sense of immense knowledge and authority. In the ‘Horizon’ games, his character was a mysterious figure who moved between being an ally and an antagonist. His consistent work in the ‘Destiny’ universe made him a cornerstone of the community for nearly a decade. His contributions are considered essential to the identity of these massive science fiction worlds.

Elijah Wood

This famous actor voiced the character Spyro the Dragon in ‘The Legend of Spyro A New Beginning’ and its sequels. He brought a more mature and heroic tone to the character as the series attempted to reboot the franchise with a deeper story. Working alongside other famous actors, he helped transform the purple dragon into a character capable of leading an epic adventure. His voice provided a sense of wonder and determination that fit the new direction of the series. This role showed his willingness to engage with different types of media and genres.

Snoop Dogg

The world famous rapper appeared as a voice option in the ‘Call of Duty’ series through special downloadable content. He provided unique lines of dialogue for the multiplayer mode that replaced the standard announcer voices. His laid back and humorous delivery brought a very different energy to the intense military combat. Players could hear his commentary on their performance and game events while they played online. This collaboration was a major crossover between the worlds of hip hop and mainstream gaming culture.

Gary Busey

The eccentric actor appeared as a version of himself in ‘Saints Row 2’ and later in other titles like ‘Hitman’. In the open world of ‘Saints Row’, he provided comedic dialogue that fit the wild and unpredictable nature of the game. His unique personality was used to create memorable and often strange interactions for the player. He also participated in a marketing campaign where he was a target for players to track down in a stealth mission. His involvement added to the sense of fun and celebrity satire that the industry often embraces.

Ice-T

The rapper and actor provided the voice for the character Griffin in the action game ‘Gears of War 3’. He played a leader of a group of survivors who has a very hostile relationship with the main military characters. His tough and uncompromising delivery fit the brutal and gritty world of the franchise perfectly. He is a well known fan of the series and his enthusiasm for the project was evident in his performance. This role allowed him to bring his distinct persona into one of the most popular shooter series of its time.

Rosario Dawson

This versatile actress voiced the character Meagan Foster in the stealth sequel ‘Dishonored 2’. She played the captain of the ship that serves as the player’s home base and provides transport between missions. Her voice work conveyed a sense of weariness and hidden history that added depth to her character. She also provided her voice for characters in the ‘Ratchet and Clank’ series and other major titles. Her consistent involvement in gaming shows her appreciation for the narrative potential of the medium.

Cameron Monaghan

The talented actor provided the voice and full motion capture for Cal Kestis in ‘Star Wars Jedi Fallen Order’ and its sequel. He played a young Jedi in hiding who must rediscover his connection to the Force while being hunted by the Empire. His performance was praised for bringing a human and relatable perspective to the famous galaxy far away. He spent a significant amount of time performing the physical stunts and emotional scenes to make the character his own. The success of the games has made him a central figure in the modern era of the franchise.

Lena Headey

The actress famous for her role as a queen in game of thrones voiced Callista Curnow in ‘Dishonored’. She played a noblewoman who assists the protagonist and cares for the young heir to the throne. Her performance brought a sense of dignity and restrained emotion to the dark and decaying city of Dunwall. She worked alongside an ensemble cast of other famous actors to create a high quality audio experience. Her voice helped ground the political intrigue and personal drama of the supernatural story.

Michelle Rodriguez

The action movie star provided the voice for a marine in the legendary shooter ‘Halo 2’. She brought her characteristic grit and intensity to the combat focused dialogue of the game. Many players missed her contribution because her character was part of a larger squad of soldiers that can appear during missions. Her involvement showed the early trend of mainstream actors taking small but impactful roles in major gaming franchises. This performance remains a fun fact for fans of the iconic shooter series.

Tell us about your favorite celebrity video game cameos in the comments.