Favorite Ninja Turtles Voice Actors?

[Azrael Macool]

Well, something I always love doing (because I'm a huge nerd), is coming up with the definitive voice for various comic book characters. I figured that there would be people here interested in those kinds of things too; so here's how I usually go about this, like, when I'm with my friends: first off, we pick 1 character at a time, and look at every voice actor they've ever had, in order to decide the definitive voice. There needs to be a clip or sound bite of some kind, so, no going off of memory, I want it to be somewhat, shall we say, scientific. Any of them that I miss, if someone can produce a clip of it, is eligible to be voted on. For instance, don't the Fred Wolf Turtles technically have about 4 actors apiece, between the regulars, fill-ins, Turtles Forever cast, and I think the Red Sky seasons had new actora too, didn't they? Anyway, if I, or anyone else can find a clip of it, its eligible. Even things like Turtle Tunes and Coming Out of Their Shells, if anyone actually wants to. Though I'm going to assume that nobody does. I figure once I (or someone else) gets ahold of all the necessary clips, I can start a poll; incidentally, can I edit a poll into this thread, or will I have to start another? Also, can multiple polls be put in the same thread, or will I have to make other ones? Also, and I always have this argument with my friends when we do this, for human characters, should we count live action actors? I tend towards no, because live-action acting and voice acting are very different things, and being good st one doesn't always mean you're good at the other, but if someone can convince me that, say, Ellias Koteas is a better voice of Casey than any of the others, I'm willing to change my stance on that. So, assuming we just start at the top and go with Leonardo first, I'm gonna need to track down examples from Fred Wolf, the first movie, Next Mutation, the 2k3 series, the 4th movie, and the Nick series, and I'll need to check if he was voiced by the same guys in the second and third movies, and the possible fill-ins from the FW series... Anyone actually on board with this?

[Powder]

Man, you need to break that up a bit. It's like 2 giant run on sentences with a lot of unnecessarily confusing details.

tldr; "Who do you feel are the definitive voice actors for each of the turtles?"

For Donatello, Barry Gordon always comes to mind. To me, he gave Donny more range of emotion than anyone else. Great timing & delivery, always on point. His pitch was higher than all other Donatellos too, which to me definitely added to the geek persona he was given in the original cartoon. Often, that sort of thing isn't done justice either, but in this case it was. I can't really elaborate more, it was just spot on for me.

When it comes to Leonardo, I have to cheat a bit. I realize it's a sort of pointless answer, but it's practically a three way tie between Cam Clarke, Brian Tochi, & Michael Sinterniklaas. I'm sure in part that my decision on that is due to Leonardo being my favorite turtle. I hold the majority of his voice actors above others. Though in my own defense, as the leading turtle, the character really does require a voice with a strong and noble presence that can go from prideful and courageous to soft and vulnerable. With that said, they've seldom failed to provide him with one. All in all, I have a soft spot for Brian Tochi, as his Leo was like Barry's Donatello, the one that conveyed the most convincing emotion.

Raphael- This may come as a surprise to some, but I actually think I like Laurie Faso (of Secret Of The Ooze) best. Josh Pais is pretty closed behind him, though. I just think that Laurie's performance was a perfect blend of Raphaels wisecracking and grumpyness. His portrayed in the first film was spectacular, as a brooding loner, but it lacked the humor of the most known Raphael of that era, Rob Paulsens. I realize of course the scripts are responsible for that, but Laurie had put on such a great smartass New Yorker voice that while crude still felt easy-going. Come to think of it, I actually reeeeeeally like Sean Astins Raphael too! He's tough but not in an annoying 'bad-boy' way, as he has been done before. & there's a lot of judgement in his voice, if that makes sense. Like you know this guy's got an opinion about everything, and he's gonna tell the world.

With Michelangelo, I've always been torn between Townsend Coleman & Robbie Rist. For one, they're arguably the voice actors most synonymous with the role. Townsend set the bar for all future Mikey's with his youthful surfer slang infused spiccoli voice. It's just classic. If you were to play various characters clips for the casual/novice TMNT fan, his would be the one most recognized by far. It's the base model, the archetype. Robbie's on the other hand, carries the same tune but adds a child-like wonder and innocence, that make the character even more relatable and lovable. & just the same, he gave him edge without making it feel forced or generic. He could get mad, but he did it Mikey's way. A very fair tie, I think.

To briefly expand upon this topic I'll briefly list who I feel most fits with other notable characters.

Shredder- By far, James Avery. Bumbling fool or not, 1987 Shredder could be one imposing SOB, and that's thanks to James' acting chops. That deep, bellowing, bassy yet sharp voice could really penetrate. True skills. A perfect villain voice.

Splinter- Hate to keep going back to the Fred Wolf series, but I give this one to Peter Renaday. Kevin Clash is 2nd runner up, no question. I just think Peter really nailed the old wise sensei bit. When he delivered those lessons, you knew (Splinter) really knew what he was saying, and believed it truly. You did too. He was convincing, & bold. That aside, he had great range. When Splinter got mad, he was ANGRY. Very powerful. A rare treat when it took place. Hoon Lee is REALLY growing on me too, so major props to him as well.

[CowabungaMikey]

Donatello: 1987 voice.
Raphael: 1987 voice.
Michelangelo: 1987 voice.
Leonardo: 2003 voice.

[Ch'redder]

Leonardo - James Arnold Taylor
Donatello - Sam Riegel
Raphael - Nolan North
Michelangelo - Wayne Grayson
Splinter - Mako/Greg Baldwin
Shredder - Scottie Ray

[Jester]

Leonardo: Brian Tochi for the same reasons as Powder, he just seems to have a great leader presence while still being young and portraying the emotions well.

Donatello: Sam Riegal (he helped move Donatello up my list to 2nd fave behind Raph) and Rob Paulsen is really growing on me of course.

Raph: Oddly enough, I may have to give it to Sean Astin. Sure the others get the Brooklyn attitude down, but Astin seems to keep the Teenage aspect there too.

Mikey: Rough choice. I don't think I've ever disliked a Mikey voice...thought 4Kids characterization might make poor Wayne Grayson on the bottom. Really like Cipes...and Rist...and Townsend...

Splinter: Will always be Kevin Clash in my brain when I read him.

Shredder: James Avery really had a great blend of menace and goofiness.

EDIT: And for science sake:
http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/voice-compare/TMNT/

[snake]

Mikey- 2k12
Donnie-2k12
Leo-2003
Raph- 1987

[RaphAndDonnie]

Leo- James Arnold Taylor, mostly out of default. I've never really paid attention to Leo's voice, since he isn't a character I like but, after watching the fourth movie, I really like how Taylor portrays Leo.
Donnie- Sam Regal. He sound like a middle ground between OT Donnie and 2k12 Donnie.
Raph- Rob Paulsen.
Mikey-Townsend Coleman. His Mikey is a classic and any time I read something as Mikey I use that voice.
Splinter- Darren Dunstan was the perfect Splinter in my eyes. Hoon Lee is also very good.
Shredder- Kevin Michael Richardson has a deep, powerful, threatening voice, perfect for Shredder.

[BabyTurtles]

Leo: Nick
Raph: Nick
Donnie:.....4kids or Nick <-- I liked both!! :D
Mikey: Nick (Cipes nails Mikey down!!)

[tunecedemalis]

Leonardo- no doubt Michael Sinterniklaas from the 2k3 show. His voice really sounded like that of a leader, struck the perfect balance in my opinion. Honorable mention to James Arnold Taylor from TMNT.

Donatello-Sam Riegel 2k3 show. Donnie became my second favorite turtle because of this show and his voice. His voice was soft and thoughtful but didn't sound weak or nerdy.

Raphael- This one is tough since Raph is my favorite. I enjoyed the 1990 (Josh Pais), 2k3 (Gregory Abbey) and 2k7(Nolan North) voices. If I had to choose betwen the three I'd give Nolan North the edge just barely followed by Abbey. Sorry but Sean Austin's voice doesn't work for Raphael's character. Rob Paulsen's voice is better suited for Donnie.

Michelangelo- Wayne Grayson or Robbie Rist.
Splinter-Kevin Clash but I do like Hoon Lee, his voice is very commanding and stern.
Shredder-David McCharen 1990 film followed by Scottie Ray 2k3
Casey Jones-Elias Koteas
April O'Neil-Veronica Taylor 2k3

[jorgovan21]

Man, you need to break that up a bit. It's like 2 giant run on sentences with a lot of unnecessarily confusing details.

tldr; "Who do you feel are the definitive voice actors for each of the turtles?"



Raphael- This may come as a surprise to some, but I actually think I like Laurie Faso (of Secret Of The Ooze) best. Josh Pais is pretty closed behind him, though. I just think that Laurie's performance was a perfect blend of Raphaels wisecracking and grumpyness. His portrayed in the first film was spectacular, as a brooding loner, but it lacked the humor of the most known Raphael of that era, Rob Paulsens. I realize of course the scripts are responsible for that, but Laurie had put on such a great smartass New Yorker voice that while crude still felt easy-going. Come to think of it, I actually reeeeeeally like Sean Astins Raphael too! He's tough but not in an annoying 'bad-boy' way, as he has been done before. & there's a lot of judgement in his voice, if that makes sense. Like you know this guy's got an opinion about everything, and he's gonna tell the world.
.

Wait wait... Laurie Faso?? The girl that hosted I'm Telling! ??

[Jester]

Wait wait... Laurie Faso?? The girl that hosted I'm Telling! ??
No, him. (http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Laurie-Faso/)

[jorgovan21]

Yeeeeep, same person...that's a GUY?? I thought Laurie was a girls name only!!

[turtletoons81]

Yeeeeep, same person...that's a GUY?? I thought Laurie was a girls name only!!

i have a friend who's name is jesse.

[Jester]

O...k...

And the point is that Jesse is a gender neutral name?

[madyankees]

Leo and Mikey - 2003
Don and Raph - OT

[oldmanwinters]

Whenever I read the later Archie & Mirage and the current IDW comics, these are the voices I usually hear in my head:

Leonardo = Cam Clarke
Donatello = Corey Feldman (for Don's edgier and more mechanic-esque work), Sam Riegel for when his brain needs to get more technical and sci-fi inclined.
Michelangelo = Wayne Grayson
Raphael = Josh Pais and/or Gregory Abbey, but Sean Astin is on his way op the list; Rob Paulsen is still my personal favorite, however.

All in all, good job 4Kids for actually earning the right to have the most representative voices for the turtles in my mind. I think part of that is due to the fact that the Mirage stuff started to draw intentionally from the series. When I read the Archie Comics, I do have a tendency to lean more towards the live-action movie voices.

[turtletoons81]

O...k...

And the point is that Jesse is a gender neutral name?

yeah pretty much.

[The Boston Ninja Turtle]

when it comes to voices one always stands out to me and that was Mako's Spilnter.


to me it felt like we finally got the splinter we had been missing out on, Mako brought his own Japanese traditions and quirks into him, and yes I have always Considered Splinter Japanese, i know you can aruge he is a pet rat he gets to nationality but Splinter was raised in a Japanese home.

the Current Splinter ,Hoon Lee, is a close second and i almost look at him as a prequel to Mako's Splinter

[ninjafowlkes8705]

Man, you need to break that up a bit. It's like 2 giant run on sentences with a lot of unnecessarily confusing details.

tldr; "Who do you feel are the definitive voice actors for each of the turtles?"

For Donatello, Barry Gordon always comes to mind. To me, he gave Donny more range of emotion than anyone else. Great timing & delivery, always on point. His pitch was higher than all other Donatellos too, which to me definitely added to the geek persona he was given in the original cartoon. Often, that sort of thing isn't done justice either, but in this case it was. I can't really elaborate more, it was just spot on for me.

When it comes to Leonardo, I have to cheat a bit. I realize it's a sort of pointless answer, but it's practically a three way tie between Cam Clarke, Brian Tochi, & Michael Sinterniklaas. I'm sure in part that my decision on that is due to Leonardo being my favorite turtle. I hold the majority of his voice actors above others. Though in my own defense, as the leading turtle, the character really does require a voice with a strong and noble presence that can go from prideful and courageous to soft and vulnerable. With that said, they've seldom failed to provide him with one. All in all, I have a soft spot for Brian Tochi, as his Leo was like Barry's Donatello, the one that conveyed the most convincing emotion.

Raphael- This may come as a surprise to some, but I actually think I like Laurie Faso (of Secret Of The Ooze) best. Josh Pais is pretty closed behind him, though. I just think that Laurie's performance was a perfect blend of Raphaels wisecracking and grumpyness. His portrayed in the first film was spectacular, as a brooding loner, but it lacked the humor of the most known Raphael of that era, Rob Paulsens. I realize of course the scripts are responsible for that, but Laurie had put on such a great smartass New Yorker voice that while crude still felt easy-going. Come to think of it, I actually reeeeeeally like Sean Astins Raphael too! He's tough but not in an annoying 'bad-boy' way, as he has been done before. & there's a lot of judgement in his voice, if that makes sense. Like you know this guy's got an opinion about everything, and he's gonna tell the world.

With Michelangelo, I've always been torn between Townsend Coleman & Robbie Rist. For one, they're arguably the voice actors most synonymous with the role. Townsend set the bar for all future Mikey's with his youthful surfer slang infused spiccoli voice. It's just classic. If you were to play various characters clips for the casual/novice TMNT fan, his would be the one most recognized by far. It's the base model, the archetype. Robbie's on the other hand, carries the same tune but adds a child-like wonder and innocence, that make the character even more relatable and lovable. & just the same, he gave him edge without making it feel forced or generic. He could get mad, but he did it Mikey's way. A very fair tie, I think.

To briefly expand upon this topic I'll briefly list who I feel most fits with other notable characters.

Shredder- By far, James Avery. Bumbling fool or not, 1987 Shredder could be one imposing SOB, and that's thanks to James' acting chops. That deep, bellowing, bassy yet sharp voice could really penetrate. True skills. A perfect villain voice.

Splinter- Hate to keep going back to the Fred Wolf series, but I give this one to Peter Renaday. Kevin Clash is 2nd runner up, no question. I just think Peter really nailed the old wise sensei bit. When he delivered those lessons, you knew (Splinter) really knew what he was saying, and believed it truly. You did too. He was convincing, & bold. That aside, he had great range. When Splinter got mad, he was ANGRY. Very powerful. A rare treat when it took place. Hoon Lee is REALLY growing on me too, so major props to him as well.

Leonardo: Brian Tochi for the same reasons as Powder, he just seems to have a great leader presence while still being young and portraying the emotions well.

Donatello: Sam Riegal (he helped move Donatello up my list to 2nd fave behind Raph) and Rob Paulsen is really growing on me of course.

Raph: Oddly enough, I may have to give it to Sean Astin. Sure the others get the Brooklyn attitude down, but Astin seems to keep the Teenage aspect there too.

Mikey: Rough choice. I don't think I've ever disliked a Mikey voice...thought 4Kids characterization might make poor Wayne Grayson on the bottom. Really like Cipes...and Rist...and Townsend...

Splinter: Will always be Kevin Clash in my brain when I read him.

Shredder: James Avery really had a great blend of menace and goofiness.

EDIT: And for science sake:
http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/voice-compare/TMNT/

Leonardo- no doubt Michael Sinterniklaas from the 2k3 show. His voice really sounded like that of a leader, struck the perfect balance in my opinion. Honorable mention to James Arnold Taylor from TMNT.

Donatello-Sam Riegel 2k3 show. Donnie became my second favorite turtle because of this show and his voice. His voice was soft and thoughtful but didn't sound weak or nerdy.

Raphael- This one is tough since Raph is my favorite. I enjoyed the 1990 (Josh Pais), 2k3 (Gregory Abbey) and 2k7(Nolan North) voices. If I had to choose betwen the three I'd give Nolan North the edge just barely followed by Abbey. Sorry but Sean Austin's voice doesn't work for Raphael's character. Rob Paulsen's voice is better suited for Donnie.

Michelangelo- Wayne Grayson or Robbie Rist.
Splinter-Kevin Clash but I do like Hoon Lee, his voice is very commanding and stern.
Shredder-David McCharen 1990 film followed by Scottie Ray 2k3
Casey Jones-Elias Koteas
April O'Neil-Veronica Taylor 2k3

Whenever I read the later Archie & Mirage and the current IDW comics, these are the voices I usually hear in my head:

Leonardo = Cam Clarke
Donatello = Corey Feldman (for Don's edgier and more mechanic-esque work), Sam Riegel for when his brain needs to get more technical and sci-fi inclined.
Michelangelo = Wayne Grayson
Raphael = Josh Pais and/or Gregory Abbey, but Sean Astin is on his way op the list; Rob Paulsen is still my personal favorite, however.

All in all, good job 4Kids for actually earning the right to have the most representative voices for the turtles in my mind. I think part of that is due to the fact that the Mirage stuff started to draw intentionally from the series. When I read the Archie Comics, I do have a tendency to lean more towards the live-action movie voices.

when it comes to voices one always stands out to me and that was Mako's Spilnter.


to me it felt like we finally got the splinter we had been missing out on, Mako brought his own Japanese traditions and quirks into him, and yes I have always Considered Splinter Japanese, i know you can aruge he is a pet rat he gets to nationality but Splinter was raised in a Japanese home.

the Current Splinter ,Hoon Lee, is a close second and i almost look at him as a prequel to Mako's Splinter

Leonardo's 1987 and 2003
Michelangelo's 1987
Donatello's 1987
Raphael 's 1990 movies,2003, and 2012
Master Splinter's 1987,1990 movie and 2003
April's 2003
Shredder 1987 and 2012

[Whatswiththeheadbands?]

Mikey- 2k12
Donnie-2k12
Leo-2003
Raph- 1987

not to criticize, but you would want Donnie and Raph's voices to be identical.

alright, its you're list

[Prowler]

I think the Turtles have been lucky with all the different people that have voiced them throughout history and each of the Turtles' voices fit their personality and the universe they're part of. The only VA I haven't liked so far was Cory Feldman, and I don't even count the terrible Donatello's and Raphael's replacement VAs in the OT since they only voiced them in a few episodes.

That being said, I'll just list my favorite VAs for each turtle:

Leonardo: Michael Sinterniklaas gets my vote. Never been a fan of Cam Clarke as Leonardo. He sounded fine in the first 5 episodes, but from the 2nd season on he sounded a bit high pitched and whiny or my taste. One of the reasons why Leonardo was my least favorite turtle in the OT.

Raphael: This is the hardest one for me. Raphael's character in the OT is so different from his character in most of his other incarnations that's hard to pick a favorite. I think both Rob Paulsen and Josh Pais are equally great.

Michelangelo: I don't have a particular favorite, but I guess I'll have to go with Towned Coleman. OT Michelangelo has such an iconic voice that it's hard not to think of Coleman's voice when you think of Michelangelo. I guess he is the onyl turtle I'd say that has a "true voice".

Donatello: I'll have to go with Sam Regal here. While his voice wasn't anything special, it fit Donatello's character perfectly in the 4Kids series. Barry Gordon deserves a mention too, but his voice acting was a bit, how should I put it, "annoying" or "exaggerated" at times. Donatello's voice was a tad bit too geeky in the OT, which is a shame since it's my favorite incarnation of the character.

[kelligrafie]

Leo - I like both 1987 and 2012 but Jason Biggs just pips it because he sounds more like an actual teenager.
Raph - 1987 / 2012 even tie. Rob and Sean are both brilliant.
Donnie - 1987 / 2012 even tie. Barry Gordon made Donnie my favourite turtle in the 1987 series and is the only one that actually sounds genuinely teenger-ish. However again, I love what Rob's doing right now.
Mikey - 2012 BOOYAKASHA. Greg Cipes is da man.
Shredder - 1987
Splinter - 2012
April O'Neill - 2012
Krang/Kraang Prime - I'm only going on the trailer we saw but 1987 at the moment.

Might be worth pointing out I didn't like ANY of the voices from the 2007 film. At all. Except for Patrick Stewart and I'm biased because he's local to where I live.

[Whatswiththeheadbands?]

i would say:

Leo - 2k3 or 2k7

Raph - 2k3 or first movie

Don - 2k3

Mikey - 2k12 or first movie

Shredder - 2k3

Splinter - 2k12

April - 2k3

[pingclang]

Raphael- Movie 1 voice
Leonardo- Movie 1 voice
Donatello- 1987
Michelangelo- 1987
Shredder- Movie 1 voice
Splinter- 1987
April- 1987
Casey- 2k3

[pannoni1]

Leo: 4kids. He had a humble yet youthful voice and by sometimes calling the Turtles by full name, knew how important he was to them. Brian Tochi is a nice runner up.

Raph: 1st movie, had the most natural sounding Brooklyn accent, with 4kids Raph right behind. No problem with Rob Pauslen though it was too unique of a character to get the "true Raphael". Though if you think of Raph as being both fearful/brave and a wisecracker, then the 2nd movie makes a good compromise. Nick's Raph just doesn't sound "Brooklyn enough" to have the true voice despite being written like most Raphs.

Don: 4kids/Nick tie. The former was nicely calm and collective to focus upon figuring things out, while Nick's has a nice compromise between the overgeekiness of 1987's and skillfulness of 4kids.

Mike: 1987. He was the face of the original series, and the surf lingo/pizza talk, which is still what he's most famous for, can only be imagined with an excited voice. The '90s movies are closely behind. 2003 sounds too cocky and at times annoying, 2007 lacks flair, and 2012 sounds a bit too young (though I'm not as annoyed as I was at the beginning).

Splinter: Most of them are really good, especially 1987's, the '90s movies, and 2012's. I guess paparazzi/image hurts Kevin Clash's Splinter, but I'd give the slight edge to Nick's, with a more natural Japanese-American accent.

Shredder: I'm starting to view 1987's Shredder much like that show's Raphael, in which outside of some earlier episodes, he wasn't taken too seriously and the insults became just recurring humor. I give the first movie's Shredder as the real voice, with the natural Japanese accent, sinister tone, and disbelief when he gets killed.

April: People still view April as the TV reporter, so 1987 gets my vote, even though Nick's April is just as good with a teenage sounding voice that sounds very loyal and determined.

Casey: Too early to judge Nick's, but Movie I by far. 1987's was TOO badass and never feels any soft spots; 2003's was too gentle.

[Justin]

I don't care if this is bias or not, I would like all of the 2K3 voices as the true ones except for Shredder, who should be James Alvery.

[Hanzo the Razor]

I don't know if this topic's been done before, but I was curious to know who everyone thinks is the best voice for each Ninja Turtle.

So, if you were going to do your ultimate TMNT voice cast, who would get the nod?

Leonardo

Cam Clarke (1987 Animated Series)
David Forman (1990 Film)
Mark Caso (1991 & 1993 Films)
Michael Sinterniklaas (2003 Animated Series)
James Arnold Taylor (2007 Animated Film)
Jason Biggs (2012 Animated Series)

Donatello

Barry Gordon (1987 Animated Series)
Corey Feldman (1990 & 1993 Films)
Leif Tilden (1991 Film)
Sam Riegel (2003 Animated Series)
Mitchell Whitfield (2007 Animated Film)
Rob Paulsen (2012 Animated Series)

Raphael

Rob Paulsen (1987 Animated Series)
Josh Pais (1990 Film)
Kenn Scott (1991 Film)
Matt Hill (1993 Film)
Gregory Abbey (2003 Animated Series)
Nolan North (2007 Animated Film)
Sean Astin (2012 Animated Series)

Michelangelo

Townsend Coleman (1987 Animated Series)
Michelan Sisti (1990 & 1991 Films)
David Fraser (1993 Film)
Vinnie Penna (2003 Animated Series)
Mikey Kelley (2007 Animated Film)
Greg Cipes (2012 Animated Series)

[Hanzo the Razor]

For me, it'd be --

Leonardo: Cam Clarke (1987 Animated Series)

Donatello: Corey Feldman (1990 & 1993 Films)

Raphael: Rob Paulsen (1987 Animated Series)

Michelangelo: Michelan Sisti (1990 & 1991 Films

[Garfield]

Can I do two separate list, One of who I think is the most suited voice for the turtle and the other being which voice I liked the most?

[Hanzo the Razor]

Do whatever you want!

[Brianardo]

Townsend Coleman, Rob Paulsen, and Cam Clarke! And James Avery as Shred-Head forever

[Netkeeper]

Leonardo: Michael Sinterniklaas
Donatello: Sam Riegel
Raphael: Josh Pais
Michelangelo: Michelan Sisti or Vinnie Penna/Wayne Grayson [the latter name is just who I know him as]

Mikey's was a bit tougher for me because I think I like Michelan Sisti's voice better, but Wayne Grayson plays Mike's emotions better and does that unforgettable scream. I can't unhear Leo and Don's 2k3 voices, nothing else works better for them for me [but I will say I really love Cam Clarke's Leo and Rob Paulsen plays Don well] and for Raph I just like the fact that Josh Pais had a naturally thick accent and didn't have to put one on for the character.

[Jester]

Um....Michelan Sisti was the non-stunt suit actor for Mike in the movies. Robbie Rist was the voice.

[Netkeeper]

Welp. Blame the list. :P

[Jester]

Welp. Blame the list. :P
Exactly... :D

Also, here's a handy site with clips of most of the VAs of the Turtles and other characters with multiple actors who've done the role.
http://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/voice-compare/TMNT/

[Aaronardo]

You know what? I had this same kind of idea earlier! Guess you beat me to it. :P
Leonardo
Michael Sinterniklaas

Donatello
Barry Gordan

Raphael
Nolan North

Michaelangelo
Greg Cipes

[Warhorse]

I don't know if this topic's been done before, but I was curious to know who everyone thinks is the best voice for each Ninja Turtle.

So, if you were going to do your ultimate TMNT voice cast, who would get the nod?

This is mine.

Leonardo
Michael Sinterniklaas (2003 Animated Series)


Donatello
Mitchell Whitfield (2007 Animated Film)


Raphael
Josh Pais (1990 Film)


Michelangelo
Robbie Rist. (1990'a films)

[Jester]

This is rough for me. Rob Paulsen's Raph is why I'm a Raph fan, but it's soooo far away from the other Raphs...all of whom ae great. Sam Riegal's Donnie moved him 2 second on my TMNT list, but I love Paulsen's interpretation, too. Brian Tochi and Robbie Rist were the only constants in the 90's movies...and they did a stellar job, but I also like Cam Clarke, Townsend Coleman and Michael Sinterniklaas.

PASS!

[Warhorse]

This is rough for me. Rob Paulsen's Raph is why I'm a Raph fan, but it's soooo far away from the other Raphs...all of whom ae great. Sam Riegal's Donnie moved him 2 second on my TMNT list, but I love Paulsen's interpretation, too. Brian Tochi and Robbie Rist were the only constants in the 90's movies...and they did a stellar job, but I also like Cam Clarke, Townsend Coleman and Michael Sinterniklaas.

PASS!

Oh, it was tough. I love Paulsen and North for Raph. I also think Paulsen does a pretty great Donnie, but I also liked him from 2k3. I have never had an issue with Leo's voices. I like 2k3 the best, but 2k7, Cam Clarke, the movies, and even Biggs, are all great.

Mikey is the only one I'm hard core for. Rist is perfect. About the only time he doesn't sound like he's on crack or has some sort of ADD. I think the 80's toon would be the closest second.

[Midnight Mutant]

Depends on the incarnation. Some of the voices fit that particular style of turtle better than anyone else.

I'll think on this, but this is going to be a hard list to make for me.

[Powder]

This thread quite elaborately covers this topic-
http://forums.thetechnodrome.com/showthread.php?t=42564

[Aaronardo]

This thread quite elaborately covers this topic-
http://forums.thetechnodrome.com/showthread.php?t=42564

And its last post was quite elaborately posted more than 100 days ago.

[Powder]

And its last post was quite elaborately posted more than 100 days ago.

http://forums.thetechnodrome.com/showpost.php?p=809831&postcount=47

[zodiac brave]

I don't know if this topic's been done before, but I was curious to know who everyone thinks is the best voice for each Ninja Turtle.

So, if you were going to do your ultimate TMNT voice cast, who would get the nod?

Leonardo

David Forman (1990 Film)
Mark Caso (1991 & 1993 Films)


Um....Michelan Sisti was the non-stunt suit actor for Mike in the movies. Robbie Rist was the voice.

same thing here...

those were the in-suit actors for the movies.

brian tochi did leo's voice throughout the original live-action trilogy.

[thebrownranger]

Favorites for each turtle is at the top of each list.

Leonardo

Brian Tochi - TMNT (1990 film), TMNT II (1991 film) TMNT III (1993 film)
Michael Sinterniklaas - 2k3 series
Michael Dobson - Next Mutation

Donatello

Adam Carl - TMNT II (1991 film)
Corey Feldman - TMNT (1990 film), TMNT III (1993 film)
Jason Gray Stanford - Next Mutation
Rob Paulsen- Nick series

Raphael

Josh Pais - TMNT (1990 film)
Laurie Faso - TMNT II (1991 film)
Tim Kelleher - TMNT III (1993 film)
Greg Abbey - 2k3 series
Matt Hill - Next Mutation

Michelangelo

Robbie Rist - TMNT (1990 film), TMNT II (1991 film), TMNT III (1993 film)
Wayne Grayson - 2k3 series
Kirby Morrow - Next Mutation

[Jester]

same thing here...

those were the in-suit actors for the movies.

brian tochi did leo's voice throughout the original live-action trilogy.
How did I miss this? (picks mutated dandelion)

[Le Glorieux Tortue]

Leonardo: Michael Sinterniklaas (2003 cartoon)

Donatello: Leif Tilden (Secret of the Ooze)

Michelangelo: Robbie Rist (1990 Movie)

Raphael: Josh Pais (1990 movie)

I think maybe because I watch movies a lot I am used to their voice and other feels like trying impression?

Donatello is hard pick as they are all kind of different, I guess I just like his snarkiness in number 2 Ooze

is it too late to pick Johnny Knoxville for Leonardo ha ha!

[billbot85]

For me I think these are my favorite:

Leonardo: Cam Clarke (1987 Animated Series)
Donatello: Corey Feldman (1990 & 1993 Films)
Raphael: Rob Paulsen (1987 Animated Series)
Michelangelo: Townsend Coleman (1987 Animated Series)

Most of my favorites are from the OT, but I really do love Corey Feldman as Donnie. :tgrin:

[Hanzo the Razor]

Um....Michelan Sisti was the non-stunt suit actor for Mike in the movies. Robbie Rist was the voice.

Sorry, got the names from IMDB...

This thread quite elaborately covers this topic-
http://forums.thetechnodrome.com/showthread.php?t=42564

I did a search but that didn't come up.

[PizzaFaceDelivers]

Wow... this was way harder than I expected it to be.

Leonardo: Jason Biggs
I have always actively disliked Leonardo. I'm not a big fan of Biggs in general, but his portrayal of Leo has made me love the character for the first time. That being said, I'm pretty excited to hear Seth Green's take on the character.

Donatello: Barry Gordon
This was probably the hardest one for me. Donatello is my favorite turtle and I love Rob Paulsen's and Corey Feldman's respective versions. However, Barry Gordon is just perfect. When I read Donatello, that's the voice in my head.

Raphael: Josh Pais
"I mean, come on, how do you guys expect to beat me?" So good. Sean Astin and Rob Paulsen are great as well.

Michelangelo: Greg Cipes and Robbie Rist.
Yeah, a tie. Cipes is perfect as the little kid brother and Rist is perfect as a slightly older Mikey.

I also want to add that Hoon Lee as Splinter is maybe the best thing to happen to TMNT ever. Until now, Splinter always seemed like more of a feeble old grandfather to me. Lee's Splinter is younger, sarcastic, and a little scary. He may be my favorite character of the new show.

Also, shout out to Elias Koteas, the one true Casey Jones! lol

[fridaynightdestination]

I don't really pay attention to the voice actors, I hardly know any of their names, but I thought that Nolan North did a really good job as Raphael in TMNT (2007). But then again, it is Nolan North, the guy who voices this guy:
http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/3/34651/1186155-000drake.jpg

[Icebot]

Michelangelo: Wayne Grayson
Donatello: Sam Reigel
Raphael: Michael Gough
Leonardo: Cam Clarke

[ranger_scout]

The voices of the turtles from the 1987 series have meant a lot to me over the years. Renae Jacobs thought they really put their hearts and souls into those roles and she is absolutely right. My favorite voices from the original live-action trilogy are Brian Tochi and Robbie Rist's.

[PizzaPower1985]

This was difficult guys but here is mine!

Leonardo: Cam Clarke

Donatello: Corey Feldman... He just had a neat quality to his voice!

Raphael: Laurie Faso
I also like Josh Pais but Laurie Faso seemed a little more... I don't know!

Michelangelo: Robbie Rist.
There never was a better Mikey.

Also, Splinter's best voice actor was Peter Renaday IMO.
April: Renae Jacobs
Casey Jones: Marc Thompson... just perfect as Casey... Live action of course goes to Elias Koteas

Shredder: Scott Rayow

[Guitar_Raph]

Mikey; Kibry Morrow (Next Mutation), Wayne Grayson (2K3) & Greg Cipes (Nick)

[Ulisa]

Hmm...

Leonardo--1987 series, Cam Clarke remains my favorite voice for this character. I felt a sense of honor and strength to him but he could still be goofy and comedic if the situation called for it. I do like 2003s version but he was almost too serious at times which knocked him down a few points. I really appreciate the 1990s movie versions as well, as they seemed a good combination of 1987 and 2003.

Raphael--1987 series, I grew up with Rob Paulsen as this character and I still hear his voice when I read Raphael. I like 1990s movie Raph similar and out of the 1st three movies, I like them about equal. I don't mind Nicks version and I rank Nick and 2003 about the same though 2003 does sound much older. That never bothered me too much though.

Donatello--2003 series, followed closely by SOTO. I think these voices can really illustrate his intelligence without giving into the geek sounding stereotypes. I do like Barry Gordon for being so unique though. As for Nick, as much as I love Rob Paulsen, I don't think his voice suits Donatello. I can't even say why. It just doesn't work for me

Michelangelo--1987/1990s Movies. These voices ARE Mikey to me. They just show all his empathic, laid back, energetic but still very competent personality. I think they cover all aspects of his personality. I could hear heart in these performances. 2003 was decent but aside from one or two instances, I really didn't hear as wide a range. I do love his girly screams but the rest was missing something. As for Nick...I'm sorry but I hate this voice for Mikey. First off, the performance isn't Mikey; it's Beast Boy. He sounds too young and I just feel nothing but "I'm the goofball" from him.

Splinter--1987. I like the others about the same but this voice is leagues above them in my book. He sounds older, he sounds capable of being a martial arts master. He can be stern or understanding or even funny. I really love that mixture.

April--1987. This one, much like Splinter, I just like so much better than the others. She can be funny, energetic, compassionate, enraged, etc. I remember hearing all kinds of emotions from her and all of them felt believable. The first movie comes pretty close after for similar reasons.

Shredder--1987. I like his deep voice that could be humorous or threatening. 2003 and Nick feel too ove the top though still done well. Movie Shredder I don't remember making much of an impression on me.

Casey Jones--First movie hands down. Goofy but competent. Threatening when he needed to be but you believed he truly cared about people. 2003 was not threatening enough, 1987 was too "Dirty Harry." No opinion on Nick as of yet.

[MikeandRaph87]

In part nostalgia, part-pop culture icon, and part simply the best voices I got to say Michelangelo: Townsend Coleman, Raphael: Rob Paulsen, and Shredder: James Avery. The best voices and iterations of my three favorite TMNT characters.

[MsMarvelDuckie]

I'm gonna repeat much of what I've said before on this, but with a couple of changes.

Leo- Cam Clarke hands down. I just love his voice, and it's the most distinctive Leo of all. No matter what he's been in, I always think Leo when I hear it. Seth Green is fast becoming my second fave, though.

Donnie- This one is a three way tie. Barry Gordon, Corey Feldman, and Rob Paulson. All of them bring something special to the role, and I love all three for differnt aspects of Don's personality.

Mikey- Robbie and Townsend, because like others have said, these guys ARE Mikey. I can't think of Mikey without hearing one or the other.

Raph- Rob Paulson or Josh Pias. They just bring him to life in differnt ways, but I love both.

[Autbot_Benz]

Raph: Greg Abbey and Rob Paulsen and Laurie Faso

Donny: Rob Paulsen and Barry Coleman
Mikey : Townsend Coleman and Robbie Rist as Mikey.

Leo: Seth Green and Cam Clarke
Splinter: Hoon Lee

Shredder: James Avery and Kevin Micheal Richardson

April: Mae Whitman and Renae Jacobs

Casey Jones Elias Koteas Pat Fraley & Marc Thompson

[newfan]

Bumping this thread seen as I joined after it, we also have had new members lately and we now have Rise (in case anyone wants to add to their list)

Though I have favourite VA's, different voices suit different versions of that character sometimes so I do like others for their version.

Shredder, Splinter and Raph, all 2012 for definite, I think Mikey too actually, though again some for their version. Splinter, strong and sincere, Shredder deep and powerful, Raph, just loved the voice, went well with the sarcasm, and Mikey, well, worked with the innocent fun loving character.

Leo, 2012 (more so Green) and 2k3 was a good match for that Leo. I think a number of Leo's have sounded like they would be Leo though. I did not like the sound of him in the 3rd movie as that just didn't fit Leo and Rise doesn't sit right with me but I haven't watched that much, maybe one I could get used to if I did.

Donnie I liked Both 2k3 and 2012, they were different characters and their voices suited what they were going for.

[Prowler]

It's kinda strange how Rob Paulsen has voiced both Raphael and Donatello in two different Turtles' cartoons. It's great, though. Tbh, I kinda expected him to voice Leonardo or Michelangelo in Rise so that, one day, if there's a 5th Turtles cartoon series, he'd voice the only Turtle left and thus complete the set haha. He does voice a character in the series, though, I believe. Surprised he didn't end up voicing one of the Turtles again.

I guess it's safe to say that Rob Paulsen is the most recognisable voice in TMNT animation history at this point? He's only missed 2k3.

[Dejablue]

Oh boy. This is not an easy topic for me to tackle. I love all (most) of the voices for the ninja turtles. And I like them all separately in a compartmentalized fashion. So I can't really say I have a favorite but I'll do my best. It will be based on the voice I hear in my head when reading the comics or fanfiction.

Raphael: Greg Abbey. I know he isn't the only Raphael to have the Brooklyn accent but I liked his the most. Second place goes to Omar Benson Miller. Rise Raphael isn't my favorite Raph but he is my favorite character in that show.


Donatello: Rob Paulson and Sam Riegel. I remember being really apprehensive about Rob Paulson voicing Donatello but after the first couple of episodes I was completely sold. Love the sass. I adore Sam Riegel's voice because he makes Donatello sound calm and introspective. My two favorite voices for Donatello are nearly the polar opposites of each other.
This was a tough choice so I made it a tie. So Barry Gordon is second place lol.


Michelangelo:Townsend Coleman wins easily. Mostly because his voice is the template every Mikey after him followed. But like I said, I adore every Mikey voice, but Coleman's Mikey is the voice I hear the most in my head. Second place goes to both Wayne Grayson and Robbie Rist. Robbie Rist is just a cool dude (And I liked him in Naruto). With Wayne Grayson, I was always yelling "I'm the Battle Nexus Champion!!" at my friends when I'd win in Smash Bros. None of them got the joke unfortunately.


Leonardo: Jason Biggs. *dodges rocks* To be honest, I have no problem with Cam Clark or Mike Sinterniklaas but Jason Biggs' performance was the first time I ever saw Leo as more than just "the boring leader one". For the first time Leo had a personality outside of "leader" and I was immediately charmed. It's hard to explain but Biggs' Leo is of course serious and focused on leadership, but in a "boyscout" kind of way. I give second place to Mike Sinterniklaas for doing a better job than Seth Green at voicing a "serious business" character. I'd give second place to James Arnold Taylor but I'm more used to Sinterniklaas' voice.

So you can probably guess I was not happy about the voice actor change. If nothing else I would have gladly kept Dominic Catrambone for the rest of the show. Seth Green shot Leo right back down into that "I'm the boring leader" zone that I was quite happy to do without.

So my most controversial opinion is Seth Green's voice is the only voice in all TMNT history I have actively disliked.

Third place goes to literally every voice actor I didn't mention on this list. So that includes the 2007 movie, 2014/16 movie, the 90s movies, Rise, and whatever else I can't remember right now.

[FredWolfLeonardo]

My favourite voice overall in tmnt and of Leonardo will always be Cam Clarke, no doubt about it.

For other characters, it is generally always the 80s cartoons versions first (since that show had some pretty fantastic performances). But to make things more interesting, I'll see who is my favourite not counting the 80s cartoon:

1. Donatello: Josh Brener

2. Michelangelo: Greg Cipes

3. Raphael: Sean Astin (but I like Omar Benson Miller as well. Maybe watching more Rise will make me pick him for no.1)

4. Casey Jones: Marc Thompson

5. April O'Neil: Veronica Taylor

6. Splinter: Hoon Lee

7. Shredder: Kevin Micheal Richardon (great Shredder for the Nick show, also did a great impersonation of Avery for the crossover)

8. Baxter Stockman: Scott Williams

9. Karai: Kelly Hu

[DarkFell]

Pat Fraley.
James Avery.
The OT Turtle voice actors.
Seth Green.
Sean Astin.
The 90's TMNT movie Turtle voice actors.
David McCharen (The 90's TMNT movie voice actor for 'helmeted' Shredder.)

I think that is everybody.

[Dejablue]

Ah yeah. Might as well say my favorites for the non turtle characters too.

April: Veronica Taylor. I mean come on. Ash Ketchum as April.

Splinter: Hoon Lee. Holy crap the sexiest Splinter voice ever.

Casey Jones: Marc Thompson and Josh Peck. Both since one is an adult and the other is clearly a child still going through puberty. They are so different I almost count them as different characters.

Shredder: Avery is my favorite but when I'm reading comics or any fanfic where he is supposed to be menacing I go with Kevin Richardson.

Karai: Kelly Hu. Outside of her comic interpretations the 2012 version of Karai is probably my favorite.

Baxter Stockman: Scott Williams. Menacing and arrogant at the same time. Love it.

Rocksteady: Cam Clark. In 2k12 he has a generic Russian accent, I’ll take Cam Clark’s Rocksteady over that.

Bebop: JB Smoove. This is probably the WORST Michael Jackson impression I have ever heard...but I still liked it? Also the character design was cool.

[pferreira]

My favourite voice overall in tmnt and of Leonardo will always be Cam Clarke, no doubt about it.FW series voices will always be my favourite.