Top 10 Inside Out Voice Actors in Other Roles

Nostalgia usually doesn’t hit people hard until their 20s and beyond. Of course, you’re never too old to miss something or someone. With Riley at another turning point, the other emotions have their first brush with Nostalgia, voiced by June Squibb. While this character actress has been active for decades, her big break came during her 80s when she starred in Alexander Payne’s “Nebraska,” receiving an Oscar nomination. In a film so bleak it had to be shot in black and white, Squibb’s Kate is a constant source of humor. She may share too much information, but when defending her loved ones, you’ll be glad she always speaks her mind. Although Kate has lived a full life, there’s still plenty of life left in her.

Reportedly due to a pay dispute, Mindy Kaling opted not to reprise her role as Disgust. For the sequel, Pixar turned to Liza Lapira, who’s popped up in various crime dramas. Her best comedic work was arguably on the tragically short-lived “Don’t Trust the B---- in Apartment 23.” In the pilot, Lapira’s Robin delivers the title drop, although the “B” isn’t bleeped. Despite resorting to foul language, Robin is obsessed with her former roommate Chloe, so much so that she moves to Apartment 21. While Robin may never be more than a blip in Chloe’s self-absorbed universe, she became a welcome addition to this ensemble piece with Lapira upgraded from a guest to a series regular in the second and unfortunately last season.

Those who didn’t spend French class looking at their phones will know that ennui translates to boredom. This new emotion is voiced by French actress Adèle Exarchopoulos. It may be a coincidence, but we’re willing to wager that Ennui’s indigo color is a nod to Exarchopoulos’ most beloved film. Exarchopoulos garnered worldwide acclaim for her performance as Adèle in the love story “Blue Is the Warmest Colour.” Adèle gets caught up in a passionate romance with Léa Seydoux’s Emma, who stands out with striking blue hair. The film’s success largely rests on the shoulders of its two leads. Adèle perhaps evolves the most throughout the years-spanning story as a young woman coming out of her shell, embracing her sexuality on the road to independence.

Like Mindy Kaling, Bill Hader won’t return as Fear in “Inside Out 2.” The role thus went to Tony Hale, who’s no stranger to Pixar. The comedic actor received an Annie nomination for voicing eating utensil turned plaything Forky in “Toy Story 4.” Hale was already known for playing overanxious characters like Buster Bluth and Gary Walsh, making him an ideal fit for a spork who believes he belongs in the trash rather than a toybox. Through Woody, Forky realizes his self-worth, seeing how much he matters to Bonnie. Fear is a somewhat similar role. “Live without fear” is a popular phrase, but when danger is charging toward you, fear can be an essential emotion to hold onto - not throw away.

Some people turn red with embarrassment. On the inside, though, they may be turning pink. At least that’s the case for Riley, whose Embarrassment is voiced by Paul Walter Hauser. This versatile actor has appeared in a wide range of movies and shows as of late. His most recognizable role is likely Raymond Porter, aka Stingray, on “Cobra Kai.” As karate makes a comeback, Stingray finds himself in a class of younger students. How much younger? Let’s just say Stingray is the only one old enough to remember the 80s. Some might find this embarrassing, but Stringray is either too oblivious or just in denial. That isn’t until he gets an emotional beating from John Kreese and a physical one from Terry Silver. That stings.

This comedian has based much of his career around heated rants. Who better to voice the embodiment of Anger in “Inside Out?” While primarily known for his standup and “Daily Show” duties, Black has various acting credits to his name. He had a brief yet impactful guest spot on “The Big Bang Theory” as Professor Crawley, an entomologist whose lab loses its funding. This being a Lewis Black character, he doesn’t take it well. Given his fondness for insects, Crawley might not hurt a fly, but he’ll crush a person’s spirit with his words alone. Armed with Black’s signature firecracker voice, Crawley becomes more intense with every moment on screen. He even does the impossible, driving a speechless Sheldon Cooper to admit defeat.

Ayo Edebiri might be cyan with envy in “Inside Outside 2.” Considering how her filmography has exploded with credits in recent years, though, the rest of Hollywood should envy her. Following a series of standup and TV writing gigs, the masses noticed Edebiri’s star power when “The Bear” debuted. Edebiri stars as Sydney, a newcomer at a Chicago restaurant who has unlimited potential, but is still finding her place in this new environment. A kitchen is like a body and every chef is an emotion. It can get chaotic and messy, but when everyone does their part accordingly, the results can only be described with a chef’s kiss. Sydney plays an essential role as new life is breathed into the restaurant, winning Edebiri an Emmy.

“Inside Out” producer Jonas Rivera thought Phyllis Smith would be perfect for the voice of Sadness after seeing her meekly eat lunch opposite Cameron Diaz in “Bad Teacher.” Any “Office” fan could also tell you that Smith perfected this role long before entering the recording booth. Smith was originally a casting associate for the sitcom, but she worked off the actors so well during auditions that a role was made for her. Smith’s character is often undermined and mistreated at work, feeding into her insecurities. Working at Dunder Mifflin has its perks, however. Namely, it’s in the same building as Vance Refrigeration, leading her to meet Bob Vance. Around this time, things start looking up for Phyllis as she becomes more outspoken in the office.

Maya Hawke was so anxious when she auditioned for the role of Anxiety that she got choked up. Director Kelsey Mann also felt moved to tears during her audition. When considering Hawke’s most well-know character, Robin Buckley, anxiety might not be the first word that comes to mind. As confident as Robin might be on the surface, she certainly isn’t without this emotion. Behind her sharp tongue and fearless attitude, Robin has been holding back her sexual identity. She has no problem talking to Steve, but when she comes face to face with a girl she likes, the words can get jumbled in her throat. This fan-favorite character served as a breakout role for Hawke, making her famous parentage an afterthought.

Amy Poehler has been bringing joy to audiences for decades, from her “SNL” tenure to her turn as Leslie Knope. Leslie perhaps best prepared Poehler to voice Joy in “Inside Out.” This proud deputy director is a ray of optimism in an otherwise unproductive government workplace. It’s often up to Leslie to rally her team together, much like how Joy tries to keep the other emotions in order. Just as Joy can’t do everything on her own, neither can Leslie. As dysfunctional as the parks department can be, it does ultimately function as Leslie’s team deals with incompetent politicians, disgruntled citizens, and children of all ages. The park isn’t all fun and games, but when Leslie’s in charge, work is a lot more fun.

What other roles do you recognize the cast of “Inside Out 2” from? Share their filmographies in the comments!