The world of acting has produced numerous mesmerizing actors, renowned for their skills in the industry. The likes of Robin Williams worked on films that proved his versatility as an actor, whilst also remaining known for his unbelievable comedic speed. Others such as Robert De Niro firmly made their mark on a specific genre of film, namely gangster epics.
For a large portion of actors, their voice is one of their greatest tools. The softness with which they speak can draw an audience in, or get hearts racing at the threatening tone they may convey. With that in mind, there are many artists whose voices are so recognizable, audiences can tell who they are without seeing them.
Matthew McConaughey
As an actor who has successfully moved from movies to TV, Matthew McConaughey has risen to the top of the industry and his talents are only ever welcomed by fans. Born in Texas, the actor has kept his strong southern accent, which is very easy to recognize.
Whilst film parts may require a slight change in the way he speaks, in televised interviews, his southern drawl is unmistakable. McConaughey is not only an engaging actor, but his voice suitably accompanies the skill he has and makes each performance even more watchable. Alright, alright, alright!
Julie Andrews
Julie Andrews showcased her singing ability in films such as Mary Poppins and The Sound Of Music, with a powerful voice that only enhanced each film.
As well as her singing, any dialogue Andrews has in a movie allows for her delicate British accent to take center stage and pull on the heartstrings of audiences. She has an unquestionable, soft tone which is always appropriate for the roles she plays. As Mary Poppins, her gentle speech made the part as famous as it is, just as it did with The Princess Diaries.
Will Smith
The delights of Will Smith’s art has graced viewers’ screens since The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air first aired in 1990. From there, his acting career has shown no bounds, taking on various roles throughout.
Smith’s voice makes him easy to recognize in any film, even animated productions such as Aladdin, with a deep yet joyful tone, able to lift the spirits of any viewer. His career as a musician also allowed his unique tones to shine through. There’s no mistaking his hearty laugh or his musical vocal ability from the first note of any of his songs.
Judi Dench
Perhaps most famously, Judi Dench took up the role of M in the James Bond franchise for many years. Her cutting British accent made for a perfect casting in the part, as it enhanced her portrayal of a professional woman in the secretive organization.
Dench’s career hasn’t solely remained on screen, with an equally successful time in theatre productions. Roles in many Shakespearean plays proved how her accent was fitting for a genre that incorporates a vast amount of old English, easily linking Dench’s accent to her. As a well-spoken actor, her voice isn’t to be mistaken for that of a timid woman. No part is too tough for Judy Dench to conquer.
Tom Hanks
It only takes the words “there’s a snake in my boots,” for any fan to be able to hear Tom Hanks’ voice in their head. The words themselves may make for one of the best Woody quotes in Toy Story, but it also helps to have them said by the clear recognizable voice of a great actor.
Hanks has turned his hand to displaying different accents, as he did in The Terminal, but no matter the background of the character that he’s playing, somehow hints of his own accent come through.
Alan Rickman
The late Alan Rickman had a distinctive voice like no other. His identifiable way of speaking was a remarkable tool that got put to great use for various characters.
The first role that will often spring to movie fans’ minds is Severus Snape in Harry Potter. As a somewhat enigmatic yet intimidating presence, Snape’s voice is instantly familiar and stands out from the rest of the cast. Rickman’s extensive career saw him play a plethora of different roles, but his voice could always be identified instantly.
Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish has shown her talent in not just acting, but also stand-up comedy, with a voice that is distinguishable from her fellow artists.
As one of the most hilarious modern-day performers, she uses her voice in her comedy, changing pitch or using her tone for emphasis in her work. Her usual upbeat sound was adapted slightly for the recent Apple TV show After Party, in which she plays a more serious (but still humorous) police officer. Whether in stand-up, talk shows, or films, audiences don’t have to see Haddish to know that they’re listening to her.
Billy Connolly
Having a broad Celtic accent is sure to make anyone stand out from the crowd, especially as an actor. Billy Connolly’s voice does just that, whether in comedy, presenting, or acting.
The thick Scottish accent certainly grabs the attention of any viewer and it only adds to his outstandingly great comedy. For any person that’s heard his voice more than once, they’ll be able to pinpoint when they next hear him.
Chris Rock
Taking the brilliant part of Kurt in Grown Ups, Chris Rock used his distinctive voice to suit the role as a man who hadn’t forgotten his playful childhood. Similarly, in his stand-up comedy, his voice is easily recognized, using various pitches to deliver jokes.
Rock’s voice was also immediately recognizable in the animated movie Madagascar. Only using his voice for this role was a strong example of how distinguishable his voice is and how effectively he uses it.
Morgan Freeman
As possibly the most recognizable and loved voice, Morgan Freeman would be the choice of many a fan, to narrate their life stories.
Of course, he is a tremendous actor, but even the segments of films where he is speaking as a voice-over on the scene are given so much feeling and emotion that it can only be the Shawshank Redemption actor speaking. As an actor with a very deep voice, he was selected to narrate the opening of the Invictus Games, which didn’t need a visual to prove it was him.
