When it comes to 90s superhero cartoons, few compare to Spider-Man: The Animated Serieswhich boasted a stellar cast of famous faces. Packed with drama, action, and compelling voice acting, the series defined a generation of Marvel fans. The number of famous actors who lent their voices to the show makes it even more remarkable. While Spider-Man: TAS focused on Peter Parker and his rogues gallery, it also featured numerous guest stars from different corners of Hollywood, contributing their unique voices to create a memorable and layered experience.
Aired from 1994 to 1998, Spider-Man: The Animated Series was a cornerstone of superhero storytelling. Its episodes brought Peter Parker’s dual life as student and superhero into vibrant, animated form. The show tackled mature themes like loss, responsibility and redemption while remaining accessible to a younger audience. One of the standout elements of the series was the voice cast. Marvel didn’t just rely on unknowns; they recruited renowned actors and TV legends to bring their characters to life.
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David Warner played Herbert Langdon
Herbert Langdon appeared in 12 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
David Warner, best known for Tron and Titaniclent his distinctive voice to Herbert Langdon, a prominent scientist in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Langdon was a key figure in Season 2 and the exploration of genetic mutation. Warner’s seriousness gave the role a depth that elevated these stories. His experience with villainous or morally gray characters made him the perfect choice for Langdon’s intellectual and calculating demeanor. Warner’s ability to balance intellect with menace left a lasting impression, even in his brief appearances. Warner also appeared in Batman: The Animated Series like Ra’s al Ghul.
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Joan Lee played Madame Web
Madame Web appeared in 14 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Joan Lee, wife of Marvel Comics icon Stan Lee, voiced the enigmatic Madame Webb, a recurring mentor figure in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Madame Web was a mysterious and powerful presence, often appearing to guide Spider-Man through his greatest challenges, including his pivotal journey into the Spider-Verse. Lees calm and otherworldly delivery made her portrayal of Madame Webb unforgettable. Her connection to Marvel history as Stan Lee’s wife added an emotional layer, with her performance becoming a legacy-building moment. Her role remains one of the series’ most poignant casting choices.
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Hank Azaria played Eddie Brock
Eddie Brock appeared in 8 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Before becoming a household name as one of the top voice actors in The SimpsonsHank Azaria voiced Eddie Brock in Spider-Man: TASthe journalist who transforms into Venom. Eddie Brock’s jealousy of Peter Parker and his ultimate corruption by the symbiote were central to some of the series’ most intense arcs. Hank Azaria brought a mix of charisma and latent resentment for the role, making Eddie Brock an attractive rival for Spider-Man. His transformation into Venom was chilling and his performance captured the character’s tragic fall from grace, creating the most memorable villain of all time. Spider-Man: The Animated Series.
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Mark Hamill played the Hobgoblin
Hobgoblin appeared in 7 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Mark Hamill is best known as Luke Skywalker in Star Wars and for his iconic role as the Joker in Batman: The Animated Series and beyond. However, Hamill also voiced the Hobgoblin in Spider-Man: TAS. This villain’s chaotic and sinister personality matched Hamill’s vision. propensity for theatrical and exaggerated performances. Hamill’s portrayal of the Hobgoblin made the character a standout antagonist, rivaling even the Green Goblin’s spectacular battle in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. His chilling laugh and unpredictable behavior added layers to the role, demonstrating Hamill’s unparalleled ability to bring dynamic comic book villains to life.
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Sandra Bernhard played Sarah Baker
Sarah Baker appeared in Spider-Man: TAS Season 4, Episode 5 “Partners”
Comedian and actress Sandra Bernhard voiced Sarah Baker in Spider-Man: The Animated Seriessupporting character who had a relationship with Scorpion and sought a cure for him. Although Baker was not a central figure, Bernhard’s sharp, sardonic humor the delivery made the character memorable. Sandra Bernhard’s performance brought a unique energy to Spider-Man: The Animated Seriesadding personality to a smaller role. Its inclusion highlighted how the show has consistently cast notable talent, even for less prominent characters.
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Robert Hays played Iron Man
Iron Man appeared in 4 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Before the Marvel Cinematic Universe made Iron Man a household name, Iron Man made an exciting appearance in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. He was voiced by Robert Hays, best known for his role in Plane! and also voiced Shell Head in his own cartoon, Iron Man: TAS. Hays’ version of Tony Stark was confident, witty, and full of swagger, adding depth to Spidey’s interactions with the Marvel animated universe. Robert Hays’ portrayal provided a glimpse of Iron Man’s charm and complexity, setting the stage for the character’s later prominence.
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Martin Landau played the Scorpion
Scorpion appeared in 11 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Oscar-winning actor Martin Landau provided the voice of Scorpion, one of Spider-Man’s most fearsome adversaries. Landau’s commanding voice amplified Scorpion’s brute strength and vengeful motives, which lent seriousness to the character’s struggles all over Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Landau’s experience as a dramatic actor added unexpected nuances to Scorpion, transforming what could have been a one-dimensional villain into a tragic figure. His involvement demonstrated the show’s commitment to elevating its storytelling. Landau only voiced the villain for four episodes before being replaced by Richard Moll.
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Nichelle Nichols played Miriam
Miriam appeared in 2 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Star Trek legend Nichelle Nichols voiced Miriam, the vampire queen in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Miriam is the mother of Marvel’s vampire hunter Blade, who in the comics is known as Vanessa. Miriam sophisticated and threatening presence brought to life by Nichols’ iconic voice, adding gravitas to her character’s role in the series. Nichols’ performance stood out for its elegance and intensity, proving that his talent went far beyond Star Trek. Its inclusion added depth to the show’s supernatural elements and is one of several Star Trek alumni appear.
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Alfonso Ribeiro played Randy Robertson
Randy Robertson appeared in 2 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Alfonso Ribeiro voiced Randy Robertson, son of Daily Bugle editor Robbie Robertson. Randy was a rebellious and immature teenager who became involved in a gang led by Tombstone. Randy only appeared in two episodes of Spider-Man: TASbut had a highly emotional plotin which his father, the Daily Bugle’s Robbie Robertson, reaffirmed his love for his son. His performance highlighted the importance of Peter’s connections outside of his superhero identity, enriching the show’s portrayal of Spider-Man’s personal life.
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Malcolm McDowell played Whistler
Whistler appeared in 4 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Malcolm McDowell voiced Whistler in Spider-Man: The Animated Seriesa vampire hunter and mentor to Blade. McDowell is known for his roles as Alex in A Clockwork Orange and the titular Roman emperor in Caligula. From him the deep, authoritative voice perfectly matched Whistler’s dark and determined personality. McDowell’s involvement added an extra layer of intensity to Blade’s storyline, showcasing the show’s ability to attract high-caliber talent. His portrayal remains a standout moment in the series’ exploration of Marvel’s darker characters. McDowell voiced the character in two episodes and was later replaced by Oliver Muirhead.
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James Avery played the war machine
War Machine appeared in 2 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
James Avery, better known as Uncle Phil in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Airlent his voice to War Machine, Iron Man’s trusted ally, in Spider-Man: TAS. Interestingly, Avery voiced the hero in Iron Man: TASbut was replaced before later appearing in Spider-Man: TAS. War Machine’s appearances in the series highlighted his role as a loyal friend and formidable hero in his own right. Avery’s powerful voice added weight to the character, emphasizing War Machine’s strength and determination. His performance demonstrated his versatility as an actor and improved the representation of the extended Marvel universe.
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George Takei played Wong
Wong appeared in Spider-Man: TAS Season 3, Episode 1 “Doctor Strange”
Other Star Trek icon, George Takei, voiced Wong, Doctor Strange’s loyal companion and mystical companion in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Takei became famous for playing Sulu in Star Trek and has since become a beloved television personality. Wong’s role in the series was brief but fundamentalwhile helping Spider-Man and Doctor Strange in their battle against Dormammu. Takei’s calm and measured delivery brought dignity to Wong, making him a memorable part of the series. His inclusion added star power and highlighted the commitment to exploring Marvel’s magical side in Spider-Man: The Animated Series before the MCU.
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Caroline Goodall played Vanessa Fisk
Vanessa Fisk appeared in 2 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Caroline Goodall, known for her roles in Schindler’s List and Hookvoiced Vanessa Fisk in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. Vanessa is the wife of Wilson Fisk, the Kingpin. Vanessa’s appearances added emotional depth to the Kingpin storyline, as her love for her husband often conflicted with her moral compass. Unlike her husband, who featured prominently throughout, Vanessa only appeared in two episodes before leaving her husband because of his criminal activities. Goodall’s nuanced performance captured Vanessa’s internal struggle, humanizing the Kingpin and adding complexity to their relationship. His portrayal remains one of the most moving in the series.
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Rue McClanahan played Anastasia Hardy
Anastasia Hardy appeared in 6 episodes of Spider-Man: TAS
Golden Girls star Rue McClanahan voiced Anastasia Hardy, mother of Felicia Hardy and a wealthy socialite. Anastasia’s character provided insight into Felicia’s privileged upbringing and eventual transformation into Black Cat. As a board member of OsCorp Industries, Anastasia was involved in several villainous schemes in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. McClanahan brought warmth and sophistication to the role, making Anastasia a standout supporting character. His involvement came as a pleasant surprise to fans of his work in Golden Girls.
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Tim Russ played Prowler
Prowler appeared in Spider-Man: TAS Season 4, Episode 11 “The Prowler”
Tim Russ is best known for playing Tuvok in Star Trek: Voyagerbut he also voiced Prowler in Spider-Man: The Animated Series. The Prowler is a reformed thief who eventually becomes a reluctant ally of Spider-Man. Prowler’s redemption arc was one of the series’ highlights, showing the character’s struggle to leave his criminal past behind. Russ’s commanding voice captured Prowler’s inner conflict, making him a compelling addition to Spider-Man’s world. His portrayal added depth to the themes of redemption and second chances common throughout the film. Spider-Man: The Animated Series.