It’s not uncommon for TV shows to have famous guest stars popping up in episodes. However, it’s less common for these guests to lend their voices to characters, particularly ones who aren’t themselves. That’s why Patrick Stewart’s appearance as Avery Bullock in an episode of American Dad was so surprising. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hilarious and unexpected performance by the acclaimed actor, and explore some other memorable voice actor cameos in television history.
The Unlikely Role of Patrick Stewart as Avery Bullock
Patrick Stewart is best known for his roles in Star Trek and the X-Men franchise, where he played characters of commanding presence and gravitas. That’s what makes his role in American Dad all the more remarkable. Avery Bullock is a CIA deputy director prone to violent outbursts and exaggerated displays of machismo. The character was first introduced in the show’s premiere episode, and Stewart would go on to voice him in more than 40 episodes over the course of the series.
Stewart’s performance is hilarious precisely because it subverts our expectations of the actor. He plays Bullock with a gleeful abandon, riffing on his own reputation as a serious actor and relishing the chance to let loose and have fun with the character. For example, in one episode, Stan, the show’s protagonist, is tasked with babysitting Bullock’s pet goldfish. In a classic moment, Bullock storms into Stan’s house, slams a gun onto the table and says, “If he dies, I die. And I have grand plans to live forever.”
Other Memorable Voice Actor Cameos
Patrick Stewart’s turn as Avery Bullock is just one of many memorable voice actor cameos in TV history. Here are a few others:
Johnny Depp as Rango
Johnny Depp has a well-deserved reputation for creative and quirky performances, and his role as the titular character in 2011’s Rango was no exception. The animated movie tells the story of a chameleon who becomes a sheriff in a Western town full of colorful characters. Depp imbues Rango with all the charm and humor he’s become known for, making it one of the most memorable voice roles in recent memory.
Mike Tyson as Himself in The Mike Tyson Mysteries
The Mike Tyson Mysteries is an Adult Swim show that follows the adventures of the former boxing star and a quirky group of helpers as they solve mysteries. One of the show’s greatest strengths is Tyson’s willingness to poke fun at himself and his notorious reputation. In one episode, for example, Tyson reveals that his real talent isn’t boxing, but cooking with a special ingredient: “I love to cook. And I’m good at it. What’s my secret? I put cocaine in everything.”
Stephen Hawking as Himself in The Simpsons
The Simpsons has featured numerous celebrity guests over the years, but few were as unexpected as physicist Stephen Hawking. In his guest appearance, Hawking lends his voice to a version of himself who engages in a battle of wits with Homer Simpson. The scene where Hawking explains the concept of a doughnut-shaped universe is a classic example of the show’s ability to blend humor and education.
Conclusion
Patrick Stewart’s turn as Avery Bullock on American Dad is a shining example of a voice actor cameo that was both unexpected and wildly entertaining. But it’s just one of many such appearances in TV history. Celebrities from every walk of life have lent their voices to characters, giving audiences memorable performances that range from silly to profound. Whether they’re sending up their own reputations or trying something entirely new, these cameos are always a treat to watch. Who knows which celebrity will be the next to surprise us with a hilarious voice role?
So, next time you’re watching one of your favorite shows, keep an ear out for any unexpected voice cameos. You never know who might be providing the voice of your favorite character.
As always, stay tuned for more fun and informative articles from RFGC.
