DC Animated Universe, praised for its nuanced storytelling, iconic art style, and cast of memorable characters. Many big names lent their voices to the series, portraying heroes, villains, and everything in between—sometimes so subtly that audiences may not have realized their involvement.

expanding the DC Animated Universe (DCAU). While focusing on Superman’s battles against his rogues' gallery and larger-than-life threats, the series also explored the Man of Steel’s humanity, relationships, and dual identity. The show’s voice cast brought these characters to life with performances that ranged from deeply emotional to delightfully villainous. The voice talent extended beyond the main cast, with guest stars who later became - or already were - recognizable faces in Hollywood.

20 Billy West As Lex Luthor’s Henchman #2

Superman: TAS Season 3, Episode 9 "A Fish Story"

Billy West is best known for his work on Futurama as Fry, Zoidberg, and Professor Farnsworth, but has a swathe of celebrated credits. West briefly appeared in Superman: TAS as Lex Luthor’s unnamed henchman in "A Fish Story," credited as Lexie #2. The episode concerned marine life being manipulated by technology, leading to a thrilling team-up with Aquaman. West’s distinctive voice stands out in the DCAU, making Lex’s henchman a more entertaining character than your typical goon.

19 Lisa Edelstein As Mercy Graves

Appeared In 14 Superman: TAS Episodes

Lisa Edelstein is famous for her role as Dr. Cuddy in House. Prior to this, Edelstein voiced Mercy Graves, Lex Luthor’s fiercely loyal assistant and bodyguard in Superman: TAS. Mercy became an iconic addition to Superman’s rogues' gallery, embodying a mix of professionalism and cold-blooded efficiency. Edelstein’s smooth yet menacing voice brought an air of authority to the character, making Mercy a standout even when she wasn’t in the spotlight.

18 Brad Garrett As Bibbo and Lobo

Bibbo Appeared In 7 Episodes; Lobo In Season 1, Episodes 9-10 "The Main Man"

Brad Garrett, known for his role in Everybody Loves Raymond, voiced two wildly different characters in Superman: TAS. He played Bibbo Bibbowski, a kindhearted dockworker and Superman’s biggest fan who appeared throughout, as well as Lobo, the intergalactic bounty hunter. Garrett’s deep, gravelly voice suited both roles perfectly. As Bibbo, he brought a lovable charm, while his portrayal of Lobo was hilariously over-the-top in one of the best Superman: TAS episodes. His versatility demonstrated his range, making both characters memorable in their own right.

17 Michael Ironside As Darkseid

Appeared In 5 Superman: TAS Episodes

Michael Ironside, a veteran of sci-fi and action films (Total Recall, Starship Troopers), delivered one of the most chilling performances in the series as Darkseid, the tyrannical ruler of Apokolips. Ironside’s voice exuded menace, perfectly capturing Darkseid’s cold, calculating demeanor and godlike authority. Darkseid’s confrontations with Superman remain some of the most intense moments in the DCAU. Ironside’s commanding performance made Darkseid one of the most iconic villains in animated superhero history.

16 Malcolm McDowell As Metallo/John Corben

Appeared In 6 Superman: TAS Episodes

Malcolm McDowell, best known for his role in A Clockwork Orange, played John Corben, a criminal turned cyborg known as Metallo. His portrayal of the kryptonite-powered villain added layers of bitterness and tragic humanity, making him a recurring threat to Superman. McDowell’s distinctive voice lent an air of sophistication to Corben, even as he became increasingly monstrous. His nuanced performance elevated Metallo from a physical adversary to a deeply compelling character.

15 Michael Dorn As Kalibak And Steel

Kalibak Appeared In 3 Super: TAS Episodes; Steel In 2 Episodes

Michael Dorn, beloved as Worf from Star Trek: The Next Generation, voiced two characters in Superman: TAS. He played Kalibak, Darkseid’s brutish son, as well as Steel, a heroic ally of Superman. Dorn brought a commanding presence to both roles, though they were vastly different in tone. As Kalibak, Dorn’s growling voice captured the character’s brute strength and inferiority complex. Meanwhile, his portrayal of Steel highlighted the character’s intelligence and noble spirit, spotlighting Dorn’s impressive range.

14 Ron Perlman As Jax-Ur

Appeared In 2 Superman: TAS Episodes

Ron Perlman is celebrated for his roles in Hellboy and Sons of Anarchy. In Superman: The Animated Series, Perlman voiced Jax-Ur, a Kryptonian criminal banished to the Phantom Zone. Jax-Ur’s cold pragmatism and sinister plans make him a particularly memorable antagonist. Perlman’s deep, resonant voice gave Jax-Ur a commanding presence, adding weight to the character’s machinations. His performance made Jax-Ur a standout among Superman’s lesser-known rogues.

13 Christopher McDonald As Jor-El

Appeared In 5 Superman: TAS Episodes

Christopher McDonald had numerous memorable roles, including Happy Gilmore and Thelma & Louise. McDonald played Jor-El in Superman: TAS, Superman’s father and one of Krypton’s greatest scientists. His portrayal of Jor-El combined intellect, courage, and warmth, making his tragic story even more poignant. McDonald’s performance captured the essence of a father willing to sacrifice everything for his son. His voice brought Jor-El’s wisdom and resolve to life, ensuring his legacy endured throughout the series.

12 Miguel Ferrer As Aquaman, De’Cine, & Weather Wizard

Aquaman Appeared In Superman: TAS Season 3, Episode 9 "A Fish Story," De'Cine In Season 2, Episode 24 "Warrior Queen," & Weather Wizard In Season 2, Episode 4 "Speed Demons"

Miguel Ferrer is recognized for his appearances in RoboCop and NCIS: Los Angeles. Ferrer played multiple roles in Superman: TAS, including Aquaman, De’Cine, and Weather Wizard. Ferrer’s distinctive voice added depth to every character he portrayed, proving why he was one of Hollywood’s most reliable character actors. As Aquaman, Ferrer embodied the famed Justice League member with a regal air. In “Warrior Queen,” De’Cine fought Maxima in the opening, projecting a smug arrogance. In “Speed Demons,” Ferrer played the villainous Weather Wizard whose extortion scheme brings him into conflict with both Superman and the Flash.

11 Gilbert Gottfried As Mr. Mxyzptlk

Appeared In 2 Superman: TAS Episodes

Comedian Gilbert Gottfried lent his unmistakable voice to Mr. Mxyzptlk, the mischievous fifth-dimensional imp who loved tormenting Superman in two memorable Superman: TAS episodes. His energetic and exaggerated delivery perfectly captured Mxyzptlk’s chaotic personality and his ability to transform into different guises. Gottfried’s portrayal made Mxyzptlk even more infuriating yet strangely endearing, adding a humorous twist to Superman’s challenges.