10 Movie Stars Who Secretly Voice Animated Characters

I love when a familiar voice pops up in an animated film, catching me off guard. It’s amazing how some of Hollywood’s biggest names slip into voice acting roles without much fanfare, bringing animated characters to life with their unique flair.

These 10 movie stars have quietly lent their voices to iconic animated characters, often surprising audiences with their performances. From Disney classics to modern hits, here’s a look at celebrities who stepped into the recording booth and made some unforgettable roles their own.

Christian Bale – ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’ (2005)

Christian Bale, known for intense roles in films like ‘The Dark Knight’, voiced the mysterious wizard Howl in the English dub of Studio Ghibli’s ‘Howl’s Moving Castle’. His deep, emotive tone brought depth to the character’s charm and turmoil.

Bale signed on after being blown away by ‘Spirited Away’, eager to work with director Hayao Miyazaki. I think his soulful performance makes the dub a standout, perfectly capturing Howl’s complex personality.

Scarlett Johansson – ‘Sing’ (2016)

Scarlett Johansson, a star of films like ‘Lost in Translation’, voiced Ash, a punk-rock porcupine in the musical animated hit ‘Sing’. Her gritty singing and heartfelt delivery gave Ash a rebellious yet vulnerable edge.

Johansson jumped at the chance to show off her vocal chops in a fun, family-friendly role. I love how her performance blends toughness and heart, making Ash a fan favorite.

Michael J. Fox – ‘Stuart Little’ (1999)

Michael J. Fox, beloved for ‘Back to the Future’, voiced the tiny, adventurous mouse Stuart Little in the live-action/animated hybrid ‘Stuart Little’. His warm, energetic voice brought the character’s optimism to life.

Fox’s charm made Stuart endlessly likable, and he’s said he enjoyed the role’s wholesome vibe. I think his voice perfectly suits the plucky mouse, making the film a cozy classic.

Cameron Diaz – ‘Shrek’ (2001)

Cameron Diaz, known for ‘There’s Something About Mary’, voiced Princess Fiona in the ‘Shrek’ series. Her lively, grounded performance gave Fiona both humor and heart, shaping the iconic ogre princess.

Diaz has said she grew as an actress voicing Fiona over four films, embracing the character’s strength. I find her voice a perfect match for Fiona’s feisty spirit, adding spark to the franchise.

Mark Hamill – ‘Batman: The Animated Series’ (1992-1995)

Mark Hamill, famous as Luke Skywalker in ‘Star Wars’, voiced the Joker in ‘Batman: The Animated Series’. His chilling, manic laugh and unpredictable energy redefined the villain for a generation.

Hamill’s voice work became so iconic that he’s continued voicing the Joker in various projects. I’m amazed by how he transforms into the chaotic character, stealing every scene.

Demi Moore – ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ (1996)

Demi Moore, a star of ‘Ghost’, voiced Esmeralda in Disney’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’. Her warm, strong voice brought compassion and defiance to the spirited heroine.

Moore’s performance added emotional weight to the film’s darker themes, and she embraced the role’s depth. I think her voice gives Esmeralda a powerful presence that elevates the story.

Will Arnett – ‘The Lego Batman Movie’ (2017)

Will Arnett, known for ‘Arrested Development’, voiced Batman in ‘The Lego Batman Movie’. His gruff, comedic take made the character a hilarious yet surprisingly heartfelt parody of the Dark Knight.

Arnett’s distinctive voice and humor shone through, earning him a spinoff from ‘The Lego Movie’. I love how he balances arrogance and vulnerability, making Lego Batman a standout.

Meryl Streep – ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’ (2009)

Meryl Streep, celebrated for ‘The Devil Wears Prada’, voiced Mrs. Fox in Wes Anderson’s stop-motion ‘Fantastic Mr. Fox’. Her gentle, warm delivery gave the character quiet strength and charm.

Streep jumped at the chance to work with Anderson, and her nuanced performance shines. I think her voice adds a grounding warmth to the quirky film, making Mrs. Fox unforgettable.

Eddie Murphy – ‘Mulan’ (1998)

Eddie Murphy, a comedy legend from ‘Beverly Hills Cop’, voiced Mushu, the tiny dragon in Disney’s ‘Mulan’. His fast-talking, comedic energy made Mushu a hilarious and loyal sidekick.

Murphy’s improvisational style brought the character to life, and he’s said he loved the role’s fun vibe. I find his performance a perfect blend of humor and heart, stealing the show.

Robin Williams – ‘Aladdin’ (1992)

Robin Williams, known for ‘Dead Poets Society’, voiced the Genie in Disney’s ‘Aladdin’. His wild, improvisational energy and rapid-fire humor made the character a cultural icon.

Williams took the role for minimal pay, wanting to create something kids would love. I’m blown away by how his voice defines the Genie, making every scene electric.

Which of these secret voice roles shocked you most, or is there another star hiding behind a cartoon character I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!