Superman: The Animated Seriesgave viewers definitive portrayals of Superman and his world, brought to life by an impressive roster of voice talent.Superman: TASis a beloved entry in theDCAnimated Universe, praised for its nuanced storytelling, iconic art style, and cast of memorable characters. Many big names lent their voices to the series, portraying heroes, villains, and everything in between—sometimes so subtly that audiences may not have realized their involvement.
Superman: TAS(1996-2000) followed the successofBatman: The Animated Series,expanding the DC Animated Universe (DCAU). While focusing on Superman’s battles against his rogues' gallery and larger-than-life threats, the series also explored the Man of Steel’s humanity, relationships, and dual identity. The show’s voice cast brought these characters to life with performances that ranged from deeply emotional to delightfully villainous. The voice talent extended beyond the main cast, with guest stars who later became - or already were - recognizable faces in Hollywood.
20Billy West As Lex Luthor’s Henchman #2
Superman: TAS Season 3, Episode 9 “A Fish Story”
Billy West is best known for his work onFuturamaas Fry, Zoidberg, and Professor Farnsworth, but has a swathe of celebrated credits. West briefly appeared inSuperman: TASas Lex Luthor’s unnamed henchman in “A Fish Story,” credited as Lexie #2. The episode concerned marine life being manipulated by technology, leading to a thrilling team-up with Aquaman. West’s distinctive voice stands out in the DCAU, making Lex’s henchman amore entertaining character than your typical goon.
19Lisa Edelstein As Mercy Graves
Appeared In 14 Superman: TAS Episodes
Lisa Edelstein is famous for her role as Dr. Cuddy inHouse. Prior to this, Edelstein voiced Mercy Graves, Lex Luthor’s fiercely loyal assistant and bodyguard inSuperman: TAS. Mercy became an iconic addition to Superman’s rogues' gallery,embodying a mix of professionalism and cold-blooded efficiency. Edelstein’s smooth yet menacing voice brought an air of authority to the character, making Mercy a standout even when she wasn’t in the spotlight.
Bibbo Appeared In 7 Episodes; Lobo In Season 1, Episodes 9-10 “The Main Man”
Brad Garrett, known for his role inEverybody Loves Raymond, voiced two wildly different characters inSuperman: TAS. He played Bibbo Bibbowski, a kindhearted dockworker and Superman’s biggest fan who appeared throughout, as well as Lobo, the intergalactic bounty hunter. Garrett’sdeep, gravelly voice suited both roles perfectly. As Bibbo, he brought a lovable charm, while his portrayal of Lobo was hilariously over-the-top in one of thebestSuperman: TASepisodes. His versatility demonstrated his range, making both characters memorable in their own right.
17Michael Ironside As Darkseid
Appeared In 5 Superman: TAS Episodes
Michael Ironside, a veteran of sci-fi and action films (Total Recall,Starship Troopers), delivered one of the most chilling performances in the series as Darkseid, the tyrannical ruler of Apokolips. Ironside’s voice exuded menace, perfectly capturing Darkseid’scold, calculating demeanor and godlike authority. Darkseid’s confrontations with Superman remain some of the most intense moments in the DCAU. Ironside’s commanding performance made Darkseid one of the most iconic villains in animated superhero history.
16Malcolm McDowell As Metallo/John Corben
Appeared In 6 Superman: TAS Episodes
Malcolm McDowell, best known for his role inA Clockwork Orange, played John Corben, a criminal turned cyborg known as Metallo. His portrayal of the kryptonite-powered villainadded layers of bitterness and tragic humanity, making him a recurring threat to Superman. McDowell’s distinctive voice lent an air of sophistication to Corben, even as he became increasingly monstrous. His nuanced performance elevated Metallo from a physical adversary to a deeply compelling character.
15Michael Dorn As Kalibak And Steel
Kalibak Appeared In 3 Super: TAS Episodes; Steel In 2 Episodes
Michael Dorn, beloved as Worf fromStar Trek: The Next Generation, voiced two characters inSuperman: TAS. He played Kalibak, Darkseid’s brutish son, as well as Steel, a heroic ally of Superman. Dorn brought a commanding presence to both roles, though they were vastly different in tone. As Kalibak, Dorn’s growling voice captured the character’s brute strength and inferiority complex. Meanwhile, his portrayal of Steelhighlighted the character’s intelligence and noble spirit, spotlighting Dorn’s impressive range.
14Ron Perlman As Jax-Ur
Appeared In 2 Superman: TAS Episodes
Ron Perlman is celebrated for his roles inHellboyandSons of Anarchy. InSuperman: The Animated Series,Perlman voiced Jax-Ur, a Kryptonian criminal banished to the Phantom Zone. Jax-Ur’s cold pragmatism and sinister plans make hima particularly memorable antagonist. Perlman’s deep, resonant voice gave Jax-Ur a commanding presence, adding weight to the character’s machinations. His performance made Jax-Ur a standout amongSuperman’s lesser-known rogues.
13Christopher McDonald As Jor-El
Christopher McDonald had numerous memorable roles, includingHappy GilmoreandThelma & Louise. McDonald played Jor-El inSuperman: TAS, Superman’s father and one of Krypton’s greatest scientists. His portrayal of Jor-El combined intellect, courage, and warmth,making his tragic story even more poignant. McDonald’s performance captured the essence of a father willing to sacrifice everything for his son. His voice brought Jor-El’s wisdom and resolve to life, ensuring his legacy endured throughout the series.
12Miguel Ferrer As Aquaman, De’Cine, & Weather Wizard
Aquaman Appeared In Superman: TAS Season 3, Episode 9 “A Fish Story,” De’Cine In Season 2, Episode 24 “Warrior Queen,” & Weather Wizard In Season 2, Episode 4 “Speed Demons”
Miguel Ferrer is recognized for his appearances inRoboCopandNCIS: Los Angeles. Ferrer played multiple roles inSuperman: TAS, including Aquaman, De’Cine, and Weather Wizard. Ferrer’s distinctive voice added depth to every character he portrayed,proving why he was one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors. As Aquaman, Ferrer embodied the famed Justice League member with a regal air. In “Warrior Queen,” De’Cine fought Maxima in the opening, projecting a smug arrogance. In “Speed Demons,” Ferrer played the villainous Weather Wizard whose extortion scheme brings him into conflict with both Superman and the Flash.
11Gilbert Gottfried As Mr. Mxyzptlk
Comedian Gilbert Gottfried lent his unmistakable voice to Mr. Mxyzptlk, the mischievous fifth-dimensional imp who loved tormenting Superman in two memorableSuperman: TASepisodes. His energetic and exaggerated deliveryperfectly captured Mxyzptlk’s chaotic personalityand his ability to transform into different guises. Gottfried’s portrayal made Mxyzptlk even more infuriating yet strangely endearing, adding a humorous twist to Superman’s challenges.
