When we get lost in the enchanting world of cartoons, we are often captivated by characters whose voices seem to jump off the screen, personalities brought to life by skilled voice actors hidden behind the scenes. And there have been times in Hollywood when an actor bears an uncanny resemblance to the animated character he plays, blurring the lines between fiction and reality in a way that has thrilled everyone from Robin Williams to Ed Asner. (Also Read: #IndiaAtCannes: Indian animation gets a boost at Cannes Film Festival 2022)
In the vast expanse of the animated universe, there are a select few whose resemblance to their animated alter egos creates an unreal resonance, proving that behind every great cartoon lies a voice that truly brings it to life.
Rowan Atkinson as Zazu
When The Lion King was released on the big screen in 1994, the film had many stars. Rowan Atkinson played the red-billed hornbill Zazu in this Oscar-winning film. People never thought a bird could look so nearly like a human, but Zazu looks just like Rowan. This is because of Zazu’s bushy eyebrows that resemble Rowan’s. In fact, some of his facial features are very similar to Rowan’s.
Danny DeVito as Philoctetes
Danny DeVito has had a very diverse acting career, and he even has a Disney title to his name. He voiced the role of Philoctetes in the 1997 film Hercules. Philoctetes, aka Phil, is half human and half goat. The character is a short and round creature that resembles Danny.
John C. Reilly as Ralph
When Wreck-It Ralph was released in 2012, the Disney film grossed $471 million worldwide and received nominations for both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award. Ralph was voiced by John C. Reilly. He and his character have a lot in common. Both are very mischievous, have a weird smile and messy hair.
Ed Asner as Carl
Ed Asner voiced the character in the movie Up. This Disney-Pixar film was a huge success when it was released in 2009, grossing $731 million. It also received five Academy Award nominations, including a Best Picture nomination. The film follows the main character, Carl, a 78-year-old man who has lost his beloved wife. Both the character and the actor have a striking resemblance. Thick white eyebrows, square glasses, round nose and eyes make Ed and Carl look alike.
Robin Williams as the Genie
Robin Williams played Genie in Aladdin, which was released in 1992. At first Robin was unsure about playing the role, but he changed his mind after the animators showed him some clips of Genie. Except for Genie’s blue skin, they have similar facial features such as rounded cheek bones, square jaws and big smiles.
