Will Arnett is one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors, celebrated for his distinctive voice, comedic timing, and ability to take on a variety of roles. With a career that spans both television and film, Arnett has established himself as a household name, known for his unique blend of humor, wit, and charm. From animated series to live-action roles, here’s a closer look at some of the best movies and TV shows in Will Arnett’s impressive career.
Early Beginnings and Breakout Role
Born on May 4, 1970, in Toronto, Canada, Will Arnett’s journey into acting began with small roles in television. He made his acting debut in the early ’90s, appearing in various guest spots on shows like Charmed and The Sopranos. However, his breakthrough came in 2003 with the role of Gob Bluth on the hit sitcom Arrested Development.
Arrested Development (2003-2006, 2013, 2018)
Arrested Development, created by Mitchell Hurwitz, is undoubtedly one of Arnett’s most iconic roles. His portrayal of Gob Bluth, the arrogant and often clueless magician, made him an instant fan favorite. Gob’s awkward and sometimes hilarious behavior, mixed with Arnett’s impeccable comedic timing, turned the character into a standout in an ensemble cast that included stars like Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, and Portia de Rossi.
Though the show was canceled after its third season due to low ratings, it gained a cult following and returned for additional seasons in 2013 and 2018, giving Arnett a chance to reprise his role. Arrested Development remains a defining moment in Arnett’s career, showcasing his ability to balance slapstick humor with sharp wit.
Will Arnett’s Voice Acting Career
One of the most distinctive aspects of Will Arnett’s career is his success in voice acting, particularly in animated series and films. His deep, smooth voice became a sought-after asset for animated characters, allowing him to bring unique personalities to life.
BoJack Horseman (2014-2020)
Arguably Arnett’s most famous voice role, BoJack Horseman is an adult animated series that ran on Netflix from 2014 to 2020. Arnett voices the titular character, BoJack, a washed-up television star and horse battling addiction, depression, and self-loathing. The show is a darkly comedic take on fame, mental health, and personal redemption, and Arnett’s voice acting is a key element in bringing the complex emotions of BoJack to life.
His portrayal of BoJack was praised for its emotional depth, showing Arnett’s ability to move beyond comedy into dramatic, nuanced performances. The show became a critical success and garnered a dedicated fanbase, with many considering Arnett’s work one of the highlights of his career.
The Lego Movies (2014-2017)
Another memorable franchise where Arnett’s voice shines is the Lego Movie series. He voices the character of Batman in The Lego Movie (2014) and its sequel, The Lego Batman Movie (2017). His portrayal of a brooding, self-obsessed version of the iconic superhero is both hilarious and endearing, injecting humor into the darker aspects of Batman’s character. The Lego films, known for their witty dialogue and family-friendly charm, allowed Arnett to showcase his comedic talent on a global scale.
Live-Action Successes
While Arnett has certainly made his mark in the world of animation, he is also a skilled actor in live-action roles. His ability to play both dramatic and comedic roles has made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.
30 Rock (2006-2013)
In 30 Rock, Will Arnett had a recurring role as the charming but clueless boyfriend of Tina Fey’s character, Liz Lemon. His character, Drew, was a lovable goofball who provided some of the show’s most memorable moments. Arnett’s role in 30 Rock was one of his early forays into mainstream TV comedy, and it further solidified his place as a comedic actor.
The Millers (2013-2015)
In The Millers, Arnett starred as Nathan Miller, a recently divorced news reporter who has to adjust to life with his quirky parents. The show was a family sitcom that showcased Arnett’s ability to handle the physical comedy and awkward situations that arose in a multi-generational household. Although the show was canceled after two seasons, Arnett’s comedic chops were once again on full display.
Flaked (2016-2017)
Flaked, a Netflix original series, starred Will Arnett as Chip, a self-help guru living in Venice Beach, California, trying to rebuild his life after a series of personal failures. The show combined Arnett’s comedic strengths with more serious, dramatic undertones, offering a complex portrayal of a man grappling with his past. While Flaked didn’t achieve the same level of success as BoJack Horseman, it still allowed Arnett to explore deeper emotional layers.
Will Arnett in Movies
Beyond television, Will Arnett has enjoyed a successful career in film, often starring in comedies that capitalize on his humor and versatility.
Semi-Pro (2008)
In Semi-Pro, Arnett starred alongside Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson in this sports comedy about a struggling basketball team in the 1970s. Arnett played the role of a goofy team member, bringing his typical humor to the role and contributing to the film’s overall ridiculousness. While the movie was not a major critical success, Arnett’s comedic presence was one of its brighter spots.
The Switch (2010)
In The Switch, Arnett starred alongside Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman in a romantic comedy about a man who secretly donates his sperm to his best friend, only to find out years later that he is the biological father of her son. Arnett played a supporting role in this film, adding his unique charm and comedic sensibility to a heartfelt story.
Conclusion
Will Arnett has proven himself to be a versatile and talented performer, both on-screen and behind the microphone. From his iconic role as Gob Bluth in Arrested Development to his voice work as BoJack Horseman and Lego Batman, Arnett has showcased his ability to excel in various genres. Whether in animated series, sitcoms, or big-screen comedies, his blend of humor, heart, and timing makes him a standout actor in both film and television. As his career continues to evolve, fans can look forward to more of Arnett’s unique brand of comedy and thought-provoking performances.