15 Famous Faces You Didn't Know Were In Spider-Man: The Animated Series (2024)

When it comes to 1990s superhero cartoons, few hold a candle to Spider-Man: The Animated Series, which boasted a stellar cast of famous faces. Packed with drama, action, and compelling voice acting, the series defined a generation of Marvel fans. The number of famous actors who lent their voices to the show makes it even more remarkable. While Spider-Man: TAS focused on Peter Parker and his rogues’ gallery, it also featured numerous guest stars from different corners of Hollywood, contributing their unique voices to create a layered, memorable experience.

Airing from 1994 to 1998, Spider-Man: The Animated Series was a cornerstone of superhero storytelling. Its episodes brought Peter Parker’s dual life as a student and superhero into vibrant, animated form. The show tackled mature themes such as loss, responsibility, and redemption while remaining accessible to a younger audience. One of the series’ standout elements was its voice cast. Marvel didn’t just rely on unknowns; they recruited renowned actors and TV legends to bring their characters to life.

15 David Warner Played Herbert Langdon

Herbert Langdon Appeared In 12 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

David Warner, best known for Tron and Titanic, lent his distinguished voice to Herbert Langdon, a prominent scientist in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Langdon was a key figure in season 2 and its exploration of genetic mutation. Warner’s gravitas gave the role a depth that elevated these storylines. His experience with villainous or morally gray characters made him a perfect choice for Langdon’s intellectual and calculating demeanor. Warner’s ability to balance intellect with menace left a lasting impression, even in his brief appearances. Warner also appeared in Batman: The Animated Series as Ra's al Ghul.

14 Joan Lee Played Madame Web

Madame Web Appeared In 14 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Joan Lee, the wife of Marvel Comics icon Stan Lee, voiced the enigmatic Madame Webb, a recurring mentor figure in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Madame Web was a mysterious and powerful presence, often appearing to guide Spider-Man through his greatest challenges, including his pivotal journey into the Spider-Verse. Lee’s calm, otherworldly delivery made her portrayal of Madame Webb unforgettable. Her connection to Marvel history as Stan Lee’s wife added an emotional layer, with her performance becoming a legacy-building moment. Her role remains one of the show’s most poignant casting choices.

13 Hank Azaria Played Eddie Brock

Eddie Brock Appeared In 8 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Before he became a household name as one of the principal voice actors on The Simpsons, Hank Azaria voiced Eddie Brock in Spider-Man: TAS, the journalist who transforms into Venom. Eddie Brock’s jealousy of Peter Parker and his ultimate corruption by the symbiote were central to some of the show’s most intense arcs. Hank Azaria brought a mix of charisma and simmering resentment to the role, making Eddie Brock a compelling rival for Spider-Man. His transformation into Venom was chilling, and his performance captured the character’s tragic fall from grace, crafting the most memorable villain from Spider-Man: The Animated Series.

12 Mark Hamill Played Hobgoblin

Hobgoblin Appeared In 7 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Mark Hamill is best known as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars and for his iconic role as the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series and beyond. However, Hamill also voiced the Hobgoblin in Spider-Man: TAS. This villain’s chaotic and sinister personality suited Hamill’s penchant for theatrical, over-the-top performances. Hamill’s interpretation of Hobgoblin made the character a standout antagonist, rivaling even the Green Goblin’s showstopping battle in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. His chilling laugh and unpredictable demeanor added layers to the role, demonstrating Hamill’s unparalleled ability to bring dynamic comic book villains to life.

11 Sandra Bernhard Played Sarah Baker

Sarah Baker Appeared In Spider-Man: TAS Season 4, Episode 5 “Partners”

Comedian and actress Sandra Bernhard voiced Sarah Baker in Spider-Man: The Animated Series, a supporting character who was in a relationship with Scorpion and sought to find a cure for him. While Baker wasn’t a central figure, Bernhard’s sardonic humor and sharp delivery made the character memorable. Sandra Bernhard’s performance brought a unique energy to Spider-Man: The Animated Series, adding personality to a minor role. Her inclusion highlighted how the show consistently cast notable talent, even for less prominent characters.

10 Robert Hays Played Iron Man

Iron Man Appeared In 4 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe made Iron Man a household name, Iron Man made a thrilling appearance in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. He was voiced by Robert Hays, who is best known for his role in Airplane! and also voiced Shell Head in his own cartoon, Iron Man: TAS. Hays’ version of Tony Stark was confident, witty, and full of swagger, adding depth to Spidey’s interactions with the larger Marvel Animated Universe. Robert Hays’ portrayal brought an early glimpse of Iron Man’s charm and complexity, setting the stage for the character’s later prominence.

9 Martin Landau Played Scorpion

Scorpion Appeared In 11 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Academy Award-winning actor Martin Landau provided the voice for Scorpion, one of Spider-Man’s most fearsome adversaries. Landau's commanding voice amplified Scorpion’s raw strength and vengeful motives, which lent gravitas to the character’s struggles throughout Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Landau’s experience as a dramatic actor added unexpected nuance to Scorpion, transforming what could have been a one-dimensional villain into a tragic figure. His involvement demonstrated the show’s commitment to elevating its storytelling. Landau only voiced the villain for four episodes before being replaced by Richard Moll.

8 Nichelle Nichols Played Miriam

Miriam Appeared In 2 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Star Trek legend Nichelle Nichols voiced Miriam the vampire Queen in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Miriam is the mother of Marvel’s vampire hunter Blade, who in the comics is known as Vanessa. Miriam’s sophisticated and menacing presence was brought to life by Nichols’ iconic voice, adding gravitas to her character’s role in the series. Nichols’ performance stood out for its elegance and intensity, proving that her talents extended far beyond Star Trek. Her inclusion added depth to the supernatural elements of the show and is one of several Star Trek alumni to appear.

7 Alfonso Ribeiro Played Randy Robertson

Randy Robertson Appeared In 2 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Alfonso Ribeiro voiced Randy Robertson, the son of Daily Bugle editor Robbie Robertson. Randy was a rebellious and immature teenager who became involved in a gang led by Tombstone. Randy only appeared in two episodes of Spider-Man: TAS, but had a highly emotive storyline, in which his father, the Daily Bugle’s Robbie Robertson, reaffirmed his love for his son. His performance highlighted the importance of Peter’s connections outside his superhero identity, enriching the show’s portrayal of Spider-Man’s personal life.

6 Malcolm McDowell Played Whistler

Whistler Appeared In 4 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Malcolm McDowell voiced Whistler in Spider-Man: The Animated Series, a vampire hunter and mentor to Blade. McDowell is known for his roles in as Alex in A Clockwork Orange and the titular Roman Emperor in Caligula. His deep, authoritative voice perfectly suited Whistler’s grim and determined personality. McDowell’s involvement added an extra layer of intensity to the Blade storyline, showcasing the show’s ability to attract high-caliber talent. His portrayal remains a standout moment in the series’ exploration of Marvel’s darker characters. McDowell voiced the character for two episodes and was subsequently replaced by Oliver Muirhead.

5 James Avery Played War Machine

War Machine Appeared In 2 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

James Avery, best known as Uncle Phil in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, lent his voice to War Machine, Iron Man’s trusted ally, in Spider-Man: TAS. Interestingly, Avery had voiced the hero in Iron Man: TAS, but was replaced before he subsequently appeared in Spider-Man: TAS. War Machine’s appearances in the series highlighted his role as a loyal friend and formidable hero in his own right. Avery’s powerful voice added weight to the character, emphasizing War Machine’s strength and determination. His performance demonstrated his versatility as an actor and enhanced the show’s depiction of Marvel’s extended universe.

4 George Takei Played Wong

Wong Appeared In Spider-Man: TAS Season 3, Episode 1 “Doctor Strange”

Another Star Trek icon, George Takei, voiced Wong, Doctor Strange’s loyal companion and fellow mystic in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Takei was famed for playing Sulu in Star Trek and has since become a beloved television personality. Wong’s role in the series was brief but pivotal, as he assisted Spider-Man and Doctor Strange in their battle against Dormammu. Takei’s calm and measured delivery brought dignity to Wong, making him a memorable part of the series. His inclusion added star power and highlighted the commitment to exploring Marvel’s magical side in Spider-Man: The Animated Series before the MCU.

3 Caroline Goodall Played Vanessa Fisk

Vanessa Fisk Appeared In 2 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Caroline Goodall, known for her roles in Schindler’s List and Hook, voiced Vanessa Fisk in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Vanessa is the wife of Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin. Vanessa’s appearances added emotional depth to the Kingpin storyline, as her love for her husband often conflicted with her moral compass. Unlike her husband who appeared prominently throughout, Vanessa only appeared in two episodes before leaving her husband because of his criminal endeavors. Goodall’s nuanced performance captured Vanessa’s internal struggle, humanizing the Kingpin and adding complexity to their relationship. Her portrayal remains one of the series’ most poignant.

2 Rue McClanahan Played Anastasia Hardy

Anastasia Hardy Appeared In 6 Spider-Man: TAS Episodes

Golden Girls star Rue McClanahan voiced Anastasia Hardy, Felicia Hardy’s mother and a wealthy socialite. Anastasia’s character provided insight into Felicia’s privileged upbringing and her eventual transformation into Black Cat. As a board member for OsCorp Industries, Anastasia was embroiled in numerous villainous schemes in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. McClanahan brought warmth and sophistication to the role, making Anastasia a standout supporting character. Her involvement was a delightful surprise for fans of her work on Golden Girls.

1 Tim Russ Played Prowler

Prowler Appeared In Spider-Man: TAS Season 4, Episode 11 “The Prowler”

Tim Russ is best known for playing Tuvok in Star Trek: Voyager, but he also voiced Prowler in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. The Prowler is a reformed thief who eventually becomes a reluctant ally to Spider-Man. Prowler’s arc of redemption was one of the series’ highlights, showcasing the character’s struggle to leave his criminal past behind. Russ’ commanding voice captured Prowler’s inner conflict, making him a compelling addition to Spider-Man’s world. His portrayal added depth to the themes of redemption and second chances commonplace throughout Spider-Man: The Animated Series.

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9.7/10

Spider-Man: The Animated Series

TV-Y7

Animation

Action

Adventure

Science Fiction

Spider-Man: The Animated Series is a 1994 television show that follows Peter Parker's dual life as a college student and superhero Spider-Man. Voiced by Christopher Daniel Barnes, Parker battles various villains while navigating personal challenges. The animated series is noted for its adherence to classic Spider-Man storylines and character development, engaging fans with detailed plotlines and dynamic action sequences.

Where to Watch

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*Availability in US

Cast

Christopher Daniel Barnes , Jennifer Hale , Saratoga Ballantine , Edward Asner , Rodney Saulsberry , Linda Gary , Julie Bennett , Joseph Campanella , Gary Imhoff , Neil Ross

Character(s)

Young Thunderer (voice) , Peter Parker / Spider-Man (voice) , Clay Marks (voice) , Dr. Farley Stillwell (voice) , Mary Jane Watson (voice) , Felicia Hardy (voice) , Aunt May Parker (voice) , Harry Osborn (voice) , J. Jonah Jameson (voice) , Joe "Robbie" Robertson (voice) , Kingpin (voice) , Lizard (voice) , Spencer Smythe (voice) , Jubilee (voice) , Matt Murdock / Daredevil (voice) , Mrs. Hardy (voice) , Morrie Bench / Hydro-Man (voice) , Doctor Strange (voice) , Rogue (voice) , Miriam (voice) , Susan Choi (voice) , Wong (voice) , Hobie Brown / Prowler (voice) , The Man (voice) , Anastasia Hardy (voice)

Release Date

November 19, 1994

Seasons

5

Network

FOX , Fox Kids

Writers

John Semper Jr. , Mark Hoffmeier , Meg McLaughlin , Stan Berkowitz , Marty Isenberg , James Krieg , Robert N. Skir , Sean Catherine Derek , Brooks Wachtel , Cynthia Harrison , Doug Booth , Larry Brody , Brynne Stephens , Michael Edens , Len Wein , Ernie Altbacker , Marv Wolfman , Gordon Kent , Sandy Fries , Elliot S. Maggin , Evelyn Gabai , Jan Strnad , Francis Moss , Brynne Chandler Reaves

Directors

Bob Richardson

Creator(s)

john semper

Producers

Avi Arad

YouTube Trailer

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyDjtIbsUDU

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