Exploring the Animation Scene with Everett Oliver

Welcome to the latest post from Voice Acting Unplugged, where we delve into the enigmatic world of voice acting and animation. In this episode, hosts Margaret Ashley and Anthony Rudd sit down with the illustrious Everett Oliver—a renowned international voiceover director, casting director, coach, mentor, and the self-proclaimed “Mr. Voiceover Motivator.” This post will highlight key insights from their engaging conversation on the evolution of animation and the intricacies of the industry.

Everett Oliver’s Journey into Animation

Starting in 1994, Everett Oliver’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. His ambition led him to the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles at the young age of nine. Initially cutting his teeth on revered shows like The Simpsons and King of the Hill, he learned the ropes of animation production from the ground up.

“I absorbed all the information about animation as fast as I could,” Everett recounts. His mentorship under Charlie Adler, a top-tier casting and production icon in LA, further propelled him toward success.

Evolving Dynamics in Animation

Over the past 30 years, Everett has witnessed significant changes in animation. From the traditional reliance on union actors to the emergence of non-union opportunities, the landscape has expanded. He observes, “Animation now opens a slight opportunity for non-union actors, although, predominantly, jobs remain union.”

The creative process has likewise evolved, shifting from the conventional 2D artistry of hand-drawn frames to the streamlined capacities of digital media. Everett reminisces about the laborious work of xerox copying for The Simpsons, saying, “everything was all done on paper before it moved to Korea for drawing and filming.”

Advice to Aspiring Voice Actors

For those new to the industry seeking guidance, Everett’s advice is clear: “Take a class, take an improv class, and find a coach who fits your personality.” He stresses the importance of understanding the market, being versatile, and staying informed about industry trends.

His candid insights highlight the necessity of personal initiative: “It’s your career, and if you’re not taking the initiative, I don’t know what to tell you.”

The Role of Coaching and Training

Beyond his work in casting and production, Everett finds purpose in coaching voice actors. A realist at heart, he’s committed to bringing out authentic performances through understanding his students’ backgrounds. “I feel my purpose is to show how to get into animation if you’re going to take it seriously,” he asserts. Tailoring his approach for each actor, he paints vivid pictures to help them find their character’s essence spontaneously.

The conversation between Everett Oliver, Margaret Ashley, and Anthony Rudd paints a vivid tapestry of the animation world and offers those seeking to enter the industry invaluable insights. As Everett continues to shape the future of voice acting through his expert guidance, his enthusiasm and commitment remain an enduring source of inspiration.

Join Margaret & Anthony next time on Voice Acting Unplugged.