John Swasey: The Voice Behind Your Favorite Characters
Born on October 18, 1964, in Houston, Texas, John Allan Swasey has become a prominent figure in the world of voice acting, ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) direction, and scriptwriting. With a career spanning several decades, Swasey has lent his voice to numerous characters in anime, video games, and live-action series, making him a household name among fans of the genre.
Early Life and Entry into Voice Acting
Swasey’s journey into the entertainment industry began in 1987 when he started acting professionally in film, television, and radio. A native Houstonian, he ventured into voice acting in 1997, landing his first role in Golden Boy with ADV Films. This initial foray paved the way for a prolific career in voice acting and direction.
Notable Voice Roles
Throughout his career, Swasey has voiced a plethora of memorable characters. Some of his most notable roles include:
- Gendo Ikari in the Rebuild of Evangelion films, where he embodies the enigmatic and stern commander of NERV.
- Sir Crocodile in the Funimation dub of One Piece, bringing to life the cunning and ambitious former Warlord of the Sea.
- Lord Death in Soul Eater, portraying the whimsical yet powerful Shinigami.
- Van Hohenheim in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, giving depth to the complex and mysterious father of the Elric brothers.
- All For One in My Hero Academia, voicing the sinister and formidable antagonist of the series.
Work in Video Games
Swasey’s talents extend beyond anime into the realm of video games. He has contributed his voice to several popular titles, including:
- Salvador and Flanksteak in Borderlands 2, adding a dynamic range to the game’s colorful cast of characters.
- Dodoria, Farmer, and ZTV Announcer in the Dragon Ball series, showcasing his versatility across multiple roles.
- Yugo Jingu in Monark, contributing to the game’s dark and atmospheric narrative.
- All For One in My Hero One’s Justice 2, reprising his role from the anime to the delight of fans.
- Sir Crocodile in One Piece: Unlimited Adventure, bringing his iconic character to the gaming world.
Live-Action Appearances
In addition to his voice work, Swasey has appeared in various live-action projects. Notably, he played the Beer Delivery Guy in Dazed and Confused, a role that, while brief, left a lasting impression on audiences. He also appeared as Coach Granger in Friday Night Lights and had roles in Ray and Where the Heart Is.
ADR Direction and Scriptwriting
Swasey’s expertise isn’t limited to voice acting; he has also made significant contributions as an ADR director and scriptwriter. He has directed and adapted scripts for numerous series, ensuring that the English-language versions maintain the integrity and nuance of the original works. Some of his directorial projects include:
- Air Gear
- After the Rain
- BanG Dream! (Season 2)
- The Demon Sword Master of Excalibur Academy
- Welcome to the N.H.K.
Founding Anime Dallas
Demonstrating his passion for the anime community, Swasey founded Anime Dallas, an anime convention that debuted in 2018. The event has since become a staple for fans in the region, offering a space to celebrate and engage with anime culture.
Personal Life
Swasey has been married to Dena Summerfield since April 12, 1996, and together they have two children. Despite his busy career, he remains dedicated to his family and continues to balance his professional and personal life with aplomb.
Conclusion
John Swasey’s contributions to the world of voice acting and anime are both extensive and impactful. His ability to bring characters to life with depth and authenticity has endeared him to fans worldwide. Whether voicing a heroic figure, a menacing villain, or directing behind the scenes, Swasey’s work continues to resonate within the industry, solidifying his legacy as a versatile and talented artist.
Be sure to read "SHOCKING: D.C. Douglas Exposes Truth About 101 Voice Actors!"
