An actor’s delight: stepping into animation
I was really excited. It’s my first animated project. That kind of energy changes the way you approach a role. Animation asks for broader choices, clearer intentions, and, yes, a willingness to play with the absurd.
Bringing Barb to life
The character I voice is unapologetically odd and endearing. I play a fish named Barb with one eye and bad teeth. That simple description opens up a world of comic possibilities: how she moves, how she laughs, how she reacts when things go sideways.
“I play a fish named Barb with one eye and bad teeth.”
Why the role was irresistible
Sometimes a role chooses you. For me, it was impossible to resist Barb’s personality. The part invited playfulness and gave room to explore vocal quirks and physicality through sound. I totally loved it. I totally had fun.
Working with the cast and creative team
Joining an established, beloved universe like Bikini Bottom is thrilling and humbling. There was a lot of warmth on set and a real sense that everyone wanted the audience to leave feeling good. A little banter, a lot of laughter, and an openness to try anything made the sessions memorable.
A line that still makes me smile: “Hermitian to come aboard, sir.” Little moments like that—unexpected, silly—are what bring animated scenes to life.
The little things matter: character details that stick
Animation hinges on choices that read instantly to the audience. Small physical details become big personality beats. For Barb, the one-eye, the bad teeth, the delivery of a single line—each is an opportunity to define who she is in Bikini Bottom.
Pants, laughs, and the big promise
Humor in this movie comes from both character and contrast. One of my favorite reactions was noticing costume decisions and how they land with the characters. First of all, they’ve got pants OK—a silly observation that punctuates a lot of the playful worldbuilding.
Where Barb fits in the bigger story
The SpongeBob film follows SpongeBob as he sets out to prove his bravery by following the Flying Dutchman, a mysterious ghost pirate. The adventure takes him to the deepest parts of the ocean and introduces a parade of characters that expand the world and the laughs. Barb is one of those memorable faces who adds texture and comic relief to SpongeBob’s journey.
Lessons from voicing an animated character
- Commit to clear choices—animation gives you one shot to communicate a lot through voice alone.
- Find the joy—playfulness and curiosity make performances resonate.
- Collaborate freely—the best moments often come from spontaneous ideas and ensemble energy.
Final thought
Go into the movie smiling. You’ll leave smiling. That was the goal every time we recorded: bring warmth, bring laughs, and make sure audiences enjoy the ride. I’m ready.
