John DiMaggio: Voice Actor Behind Bender, Jake, & More | Biography

By Fabiola SchultzMay 04, 2025

Ever wondered who's behind the voices that bring your favorite animated characters to life? John DiMaggio, a name synonymous with iconic roles in animation and gaming, is a testament to the power of vocal artistry.

Born in Plainfield, New Jersey, DiMaggio's journey to becoming a voice acting legend is a compelling story of talent, dedication, and a knack for bringing characters to life that has resonated with audiences worldwide. He's more than just a voice; he's an entertainer, a comedian, and a producer, embodying the multifaceted nature of the modern artist.

Attribute	Details
Full Name	John William DiMaggio
Date of Birth	September 4, 1968
Age	56 (as of November 2024)
Place of Birth	North Plainfield, New Jersey, USA
Nationality	American
Occupation	Actor, Voice Actor, Comedian, Producer
Known For	Bender Bending Rodrguez in Futurama Jake the Dog in Adventure Time King Zg in Disenchantment The Joker in Batman: Under the Red Hood Marcus Fenix in Gears of War series
Notable Roles	Dr. Drakken in Kim Possible Rico in The Penguins of Madagascar Shnitzel in Chowder Various DC Comics characters (Aquaman, Gorilla Grodd, Brother Blood)
Spouse	Kate Miller (married October 22, 2014)
Awards & Recognition	2001 Annie Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement for Voice Acting by a Male Performer in an Animated Television Production (Futurama)
Reference	IMDB Profile

From his humble beginnings in North Plainfield, New Jersey, DiMaggio's voice has echoed through countless homes and gaming consoles, etching itself into the cultural landscape. His versatility is perhaps his greatest strength, seamlessly transitioning between the boisterous, hard-drinking robot Bender in Futurama and the lovable, shape-shifting dog Jake in Adventure Time. This ability to embody such a wide range of characters speaks volumes about his talent and dedication to his craft.

DiMaggio's career has spanned various genres, including animation, video games, and live-action. He has lent his voice to some of the most beloved animated shows and films of our time, including Kim Possible, Teen Titans, and Zootopia. Beyond animation, he has also made his mark in the world of video games, providing the voice for iconic characters in franchises like Gears of War and Final Fantasy X.

One of DiMaggio's most iconic roles is undoubtedly Bender Bending Rodrguez, the foul-mouthed, cigar-chomping robot from Futurama. DiMaggio's portrayal of Bender is a masterclass in voice acting, bringing a unique blend of humor, cynicism, and surprising vulnerability to the character. The role earned him critical acclaim and a 2001 Annie Award, solidifying his place in the pantheon of voice acting legends. His famous catchphrases and the character's overall personality became instantly recognizable and beloved by fans worldwide.

Equally impressive is DiMaggio's portrayal of Jake the Dog in Adventure Time. In stark contrast to Bender, Jake is a gentle, fun-loving, and loyal companion. DiMaggio's ability to capture Jake's playful spirit and emotional depth demonstrates his remarkable range and adaptability as a voice actor. He successfully balanced Jake's goofy nature with moments of surprising wisdom and heartfelt emotion, which made the character a fan favorite.

DiMaggio's contributions extend beyond just playing the characters. He often brings a unique perspective to his roles, injecting his own comedic timing and personality into each performance. He is a master of improvisation, which allows him to bring a level of spontaneity and authenticity to his characters that resonates with audiences. His background as a comedian undoubtedly contributes to his ability to bring humor and heart to every role he undertakes.

DiMaggio's voice work is not limited to just television and film; he has also made significant contributions to the world of video games. He is the voice behind Marcus Fenix, the gruff, battle-hardened protagonist of the Gears of War franchise. His portrayal of Fenix perfectly captured the character's intensity and vulnerability, making him a memorable and relatable figure in the gaming world.

Furthermore, DiMaggio has proven himself capable of tackling a range of different characters, from the menacing Joker in Batman: Under the Red Hood to the various characters in the Penguins of Madagascar series. His ability to embody such diverse personalities is a testament to his skill and versatility as a voice actor. He effortlessly navigates the tonal shifts required by the various projects he undertakes.

DiMaggio's work has also extended into the world of Disney, where he has voiced characters like Dr. Drakken and Motor Ed. This highlights his ability to adapt his voice to the different styles and tones of the various animation studios, further demonstrating his adaptability and versatility as a voice actor.

The success of John DiMaggio goes beyond individual roles; it lies in his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Whether he's making us laugh as Bender, or rooting for the good-hearted Jake, his performances consistently resonate with viewers. He creates characters that feel real, even when they are fantastical or absurd.

The longevity of DiMaggios career is a direct result of his talent and commitment. He has remained a highly sought-after voice actor for decades. From the early days of his career through to his most recent projects, his voice has remained a fixture of popular culture. He has the ability to constantly evolve and adapt, which keeps him relevant and ensures that his voice continues to captivate audiences.

DiMaggio's influence can be seen in the burgeoning world of voice acting and animation. He serves as an inspiration to aspiring voice actors, demonstrating the power of dedication and versatility. His success proves that the power of the voice is immense, and that voice actors have the power to shape the landscape of entertainment.

As the entertainment industry evolves, so does the art of voice acting. With the rise of streaming services and the ever-increasing popularity of animation and video games, the demand for talented voice actors continues to grow. John DiMaggio, with his proven track record, is perfectly positioned to continue making significant contributions to this expanding field.

In the future, we can expect to see more of DiMaggios unique talent. His recent return to the role of Bender in the Futurama revival is a testament to the enduring appeal of his voice. The voice of this generation will continue to create memorable characters for generations to come.

In a world overflowing with entertainment, John DiMaggio stands out not just for his distinct vocal talents, but also for his ability to breathe life into the characters that have captured the hearts of millions. He is an artist, a comedian, and an enduring presence in the entertainment industry.

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