Beauty And The Beast 1991: Voice Cast Then And Now

Hey guys! Beauty and the Beast! Who doesn't love this classic? Seriously, the 1991 animated movie is like, peak Disney magic. And a huge part of that magic? The incredible voice cast! We're diving deep into who voiced those unforgettable characters and what they've been up to since. Get ready for a trip down memory lane!

The Iconic Voices Behind the Characters

When you think of Beauty and the Beast, the voices are just as iconic as the animation itself. Let's explore the talents who brought these beloved characters to life. We're talking about the OG voice actors who made the 1991 film a timeless masterpiece. Seriously, these voices are etched into our brains!

Paige O'Hara as Belle

Paige O'Hara, the voice of Belle, brought so much warmth, intelligence, and yearning to the character. Her voice isn't just beautiful; it's expressive and full of emotion. Before landing the role of Belle, O'Hara was a seasoned Broadway performer, which totally explains her incredible vocal range and acting ability.

O'Hara's journey as Belle didn't end in 1991. She continued to voice Belle in various sequels, spin-offs, and even video games. Talk about dedication! Beyond Beauty and the Beast, she's had a successful career as a singer and actress, continuing to perform on stage and in concert. She's also become a visual artist, often painting Belle and other Disney characters. It's like, she is Belle, inside and out!

Robby Benson as Beast

Robby Benson gave the Beast a depth and vulnerability that made him so much more than just a scary monster. His voice perfectly captured the Beast's gruff exterior and the wounded soul beneath. Before voicing the Beast, Benson was already a well-known actor, with roles in films like Ice Castles and One on One. He brought a sensitivity to the role that made the Beast's transformation all the more believable and moving.

After Beauty and the Beast, Benson continued his acting career, appearing in various TV shows and movies. He also ventured into directing and writing, showcasing his diverse talents. Fun fact: he even wrote a novel! And, of course, he reprised his role as the Beast in subsequent Beauty and the Beast projects. He really nailed the balance between ferocity and tenderness. It's hard to imagine anyone else as the Beast!

Jerry Orbach as Lumière

Jerry Orbach IS Lumière. His charismatic and flamboyant performance brought so much humor and warmth to the enchanted candelabra. Orbach's Broadway background shone through in his vocal performance, giving Lumière that perfect blend of charm and wit. Before Beauty and the Beast, Orbach was a Broadway legend, known for his roles in shows like Chicago and 42nd Street. He had that classic song-and-dance man quality that made Lumière so captivating.

Even after Beauty and the Beast, Orbach remained a prominent figure in entertainment, most notably as Detective Lennie Briscoe on Law & Order. His deadpan delivery and world-weary attitude made him a fan favorite. Sadly, Jerry Orbach passed away in 2004, but his legacy as Lumière and Detective Briscoe lives on. He was truly one of a kind! His voice is instantly recognizable and forever associated with Lumière's playful energy.

David Ogden Stiers as Cogsworth

David Ogden Stiers nailed the role of Cogsworth. His stuffy and meticulous portrayal of the enchanted clock was absolutely perfect. Stiers' impeccable timing and dry wit made Cogsworth one of the most memorable characters in the film. Before Beauty and the Beast, Stiers was known for his roles in TV shows like MASH* and North and South. He had a distinguished voice that lent itself perfectly to characters of authority and intelligence.

Stiers continued to have a prolific career in voice acting, lending his talents to numerous Disney films, including Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Lilo & Stitch. He also appeared in live-action roles, showcasing his versatility as an actor. David Ogden Stiers passed away in 2018, leaving behind a remarkable body of work. Cogsworth will forever be a testament to his comedic timing and vocal talent. He truly brought the uptight clock to life!

Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Potts

Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Potts is just pure perfection. Her warm, comforting voice is like a hug in audio form. Lansbury brought so much heart and wisdom to the role of the enchanted teapot, making Mrs. Potts the ultimate mother figure. Before Beauty and the Beast, Lansbury was a legendary actress with a career spanning decades. She was known for her roles in films like Gaslight and The Picture of Dorian Gray, as well as her iconic portrayal of Jessica Fletcher in Murder, She Wrote. Her experience and talent shone through in her performance as Mrs. Potts.

Lansbury's rendition of the title song, "Beauty and the Beast," is one of the most iconic Disney songs of all time. It's just impossible to not feel warm and fuzzy when you hear her sing. She continued to act well into her later years, proving that talent has no age limit. Angela Lansbury passed away in 2022, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy. Mrs. Potts will forever be a reminder of her incredible warmth, talent, and grace. Seriously, who else could make a teapot so lovable?

Richard White as Gaston

Richard White's portrayal of Gaston is hilariously arrogant and self-absorbed. His booming voice and exaggerated mannerisms made Gaston the perfect villain. White perfectly captured Gaston's over-the-top machismo and his utter lack of self-awareness. Before Beauty and the Beast, White was primarily an opera singer. His powerful voice and stage presence made him a natural fit for the role of Gaston.

White continued to perform as Gaston in various Disney productions, solidifying his place in Disney history. He also continued his career as an opera singer, showcasing his impressive vocal range. Gaston is the kind of villain you love to hate, and Richard White's performance is a huge reason why. He brought so much comedic energy to the role, making Gaston both detestable and entertaining.

Where Are They Now?

It's been over three decades since Beauty and the Beast premiered, so what have these amazing voice actors been up to? Let's catch up with the cast and see where their careers have taken them!

Continued Success in Entertainment

Many of the Beauty and the Beast voice actors continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. Some remained dedicated to voice acting, lending their talents to other animated projects, while others pursued careers in live-action television, film, and theater. The talent that shone in Beauty and the Beast clearly opened doors to many other exciting opportunities.

Broadway and Beyond

Given the strong Broadway backgrounds of many cast members like Paige O'Hara and Jerry Orbach, it's no surprise that some continued to shine on stage. Their vocal talents and acting skills translated beautifully to live performances, captivating audiences around the world. The stage is where many of them honed their craft, and they continued to find success and fulfillment in the theater world.

Legacy and Lasting Impact

The Beauty and the Beast voice cast left an indelible mark on popular culture. Their performances continue to be celebrated and cherished by fans of all ages. The film's enduring popularity is a testament to their talent and the magic they brought to their respective roles. They not only voiced characters; they became them, creating unforgettable performances that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

The Enduring Magic of Beauty and the Beast

The voice cast of Beauty and the Beast 1991 is a huge reason why the movie remains so beloved. Their talent, passion, and dedication brought these characters to life in a way that's both timeless and unforgettable. It's amazing how much emotion and personality they infused into their performances. Beauty and the Beast wouldn't be the same without them!

So, the next time you watch Beauty and the Beast, take a moment to appreciate the incredible voice actors who made it all possible. They're the unsung heroes behind one of Disney's greatest masterpieces. And that's the tea! This movie is a cinematic gem, and these voice actors helped make it sparkle. What are your favorite memories about the movie? Let us know!