Goku's English Voice Actors: A Complete Guide

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey everyone! Ever wondered about the voices behind the legendary Saiyan, Goku, in the English dub of Dragon Ball? You're in luck! This article dives deep into the amazing voice actors who've brought Goku to life for us English-speaking fans. We'll explore their journeys, from their initial roles to their lasting impact on the Dragon Ball universe. Grab your Senzu beans and let's get started!

The Pioneers: The Early English Voices of Goku

Let's kick things off by chatting about the folks who originally voiced Goku in the English dub. The early days of Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z were a wild ride, and the voice actors had the awesome task of introducing this iconic character to a whole new audience. These voice actors weren't just reading lines; they were shaping how we, as English-speaking fans, would experience Goku. Their performances laid the groundwork for the future of the English dub, and they definitely deserve our respect.

Ocean Productions Dub

In the early days of Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, the English dub was handled by a Canadian company named Ocean Productions. This version has its own nostalgic charm and holds a special place in the hearts of many older fans. It was their early work that opened the door for many future voice actors.

  • Brian Drummond: Brian Drummond voiced Goku. This was the first time an English-speaking audience heard Goku in the Saiyan Saga and his amazing power. He brought energy to the character. His work provided the initial English voice for Goku. He was also credited as Goku Jr. in Dragon Ball GT.

  • Kirby Morrow: Kirby Morrow took over the voice of Goku, and was the voice of Goku in the last episodes of the Cell Saga and the Buu Saga. His work introduced the English voice of Goku that many had grown to love. He also voiced King Cold, Captain Ginyu, and other characters in Dragon Ball Z.

These initial voice actors played a huge role in the legacy of Dragon Ball. Without their efforts, the English dub would not be what it is today. They helped the show reach a wider audience and their contribution cannot be overstated. They set the tone for the English version of Goku.

The Voice of a Generation: Sean Schemmel's Reign as Goku

Now, let's talk about the voice actor most synonymous with Goku for the past couple of decades: Sean Schemmel. This guy is basically the voice of Goku for a huge chunk of Dragon Ball fans. Schemmel's portrayal of Goku is more than just a voice; it's a performance that captures the essence of Goku's character. His voice is instantly recognizable, and he's been voicing Goku for so long that he has become part of the Dragon Ball universe. His influence on the character is undeniable, and his legacy is secured. He's not just a voice actor; he's an icon in the anime world.

Sean Schemmel: The Voice Behind the Spirit Bomb

Sean Schemmel's journey as Goku began in 1999 with the Funimation dub of Dragon Ball Z. Schemmel stepped into the role with his own unique approach. He took a classic approach with Goku's character, which involved both his voice and a wide range of emotion. He brought an amazing range of emotion, from the goofy, naive side to the incredible power during battles. He has been voicing Goku for over two decades now, and with each arc, he continued to evolve the character.

Schemmel's contributions to the character go far beyond just voicing Goku. He helps provide direction, and he is a vital part of the Dragon Ball family. He has helped shape the character into the hero that we all know and love. His passion for the role is clear, and his dedication to the character is inspiring. For many fans, it's hard to imagine Goku without Schemmel's voice. He is a key part of the show.

The Impact of Schemmel's Goku

Schemmel's portrayal of Goku has left a lasting impact on Dragon Ball. His take on the character has become the standard for many English-speaking fans. His shouts, screams, and iconic lines are a part of the show. He created moments in the show that will last for years to come. He has brought a charm and energy to the character that has made him a household name. He has helped make the show a worldwide success. Schemmel's work as Goku is a defining part of Dragon Ball's legacy. He has helped the show reach a worldwide audience.

Other Notable English Voice Actors

While Schemmel is the most well-known, other voice actors have stepped into the role of Goku in various Dragon Ball projects. These actors have brought their own unique perspective to the character. Their contributions have helped showcase the versatility of Goku.

Contributions

  • Stephanie Nadolny: She is known for her roles as Kid Gohan and Kid Goku in the original Funimation dub of Dragon Ball Z. She helped provide an amazing and energetic role in Dragon Ball Z. Her voice acting contributed greatly to the early success of the English dub.

  • Peter Kelamis: He voiced Goku during the early years of the Ocean Productions dub. His initial voice was critical to helping bring the character to the English dub. His work brought the initial work of the English version to the anime.

These voice actors all played a role in the Dragon Ball series. They brought different energies to their characters. They all played a part in the English dub success.

Where to Find These English Dubs

So, where can you actually watch these different English dub versions of Dragon Ball? Here's the lowdown:

  • Streaming Services: Services like Crunchyroll and Funimation (now merged as Crunchyroll) are your best bets for the Funimation dub, which includes Sean Schemmel's iconic portrayal of Goku. They often have the latest seasons and movies available. If you're a fan of watching anime on the go, then they are great.

  • Home Video: You can often find the series and movies on Blu-ray and DVD. These are great if you like to have a physical copy.

  • Online Platforms: You might find older dubs on various online platforms. Be aware that the availability of certain versions might vary depending on your region.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Goku's English Voices

So, there you have it, folks! We've taken a deep dive into the world of Goku's English voice actors. From the early pioneers to the iconic Sean Schemmel, these talented individuals have shaped the character we all know and love. Their voices have brought Goku's story to life for English-speaking audiences around the globe. Whether you're a long-time fan or just getting into Dragon Ball, appreciating the work of these voice actors is a great way to celebrate the series. So next time you hear Goku's iconic “Kamehameha,” remember the amazing voice actors who brought him to life. Thanks for reading and keep powering up!