The Voice of Rick and Morty: A Q&A with Justin Roiland
Summary
Justin Roiland, acclaimed voice actor and writer of shows such as “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites,” sits down to discuss his experiences voicing characters and his career in animation. In this Q&A session, Roiland addresses questions about his partnership with Dan Harmon through Channel 101, the possibility of a “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites” crossover, and his feelings about NFTs. He also expresses excitement about his new non-VR game and the release of his shorts on Xbox. Overall, Roiland is enthusiastic about his projects and grateful for his audience’s support.
Table of Contents
- Channel 101: Meeting Dan Harmon and developing a friendship.
- Contacting Justin Roiland and the misconception about “Rick and Morty” being designed for stoners.
- Mixed feelings about NFTs and hopes of using them positively.
- Excitement about new game and soon-to-be-released animated shorts.
- “Solar Opposites”: The importance of the character “Pupa” and emotional impact of character death.
- Possibility of a “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites” crossover.
Introduction
Justin Roiland is a name that many animation enthusiasts know very well. His distinctive voice has graced some of the most popular animated shows in recent memory, such as “Rick and Morty,” “Adventure Time,” and “Solar Opposites.” Roiland has also lent his talents to writing and directing animated shows, proving that he is not just a one-trick pony. In this Q&A session, we get to know Roiland a little better as he shares his experiences in the world of animation.
Q&A
1. Channel 101: Meeting Dan Harmon and developing a friendship.
Roiland met Dan Harmon through Channel 101, an online video showcase that allowed them to become close friends and collaborate on different shows. Roiland mentions that he and Harmon were both drawn to the irreverent and absurdist humor that Channel 101 allowed them to explore. Roiland credits their friendship as being instrumental in their shared success, with Harmon as the showrunner and co-creator of “Rick and Morty,” and Roiland as one of the show’s main voice actors.
2. Contacting Justin Roiland and the misconception about “Rick and Morty” being designed for stoners.
Roiland addresses the common misconception that “Rick and Morty” was designed for stoners. He states that while there may be drug references in the show, it was never intended to glorify drug use or promote it in any way. Roiland also shares his thoughts on how fans can reach out to him, emphasizing that he loves hearing from them.
3. Mixed feelings about NFTs and hopes of using them positively.
Roiland expresses mixed feelings about NFTs, explaining that while he certainly understands the appeal of owning a unique digital asset, the environmental impact and elitism surrounding them are concerning. However, he desires to find a way to use them in a positive and ethical way.
4. Excitement about new game and soon-to-be-released animated shorts.
Roiland shares his excitement about his new non-VR game, which involves talking guns as companions. He also discusses his animated shorts, which are set to be released on Xbox as part of an anthology called “Your Pretty Face is Going to Hell.” Roiland goes into detail about the shorts, one of which developed into a series called “High on Life.”
5. “Solar Opposites”: The importance of the character “Pupa” and emotional impact of character death.
Roiland talks about “Solar Opposites,” a show about a team of aliens trying to fit into life on Earth. He explains the significance of the character “Pupa” and the role it plays in the show’s overarching storyline. Roiland also confirms that a character named Molly dies in the show, and explains the emotional impact of the episode.
6. Possibility of a “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites” crossover.
Roiland acknowledges the possibility of a “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites” crossover, but is unsure if it will ever happen. He mentions that the shows are distinct in tone and style, making it difficult to merge the two worlds seamlessly. Roiland does leave the door open, saying that “anything is possible” and expressing admiration for the creators of “Smiling Friend” and “Koala Ma.”
Conclusion
Justin Roiland is clearly a man with many projects and irons in the fire. From his work on “Rick and Morty” to his upcoming non-VR game and animated shorts, Roiland is constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in animation. Even with his success, Roiland remains grounded and appreciative of his fans, proving that even the most talented individuals can still be humble and gracious.