The Beloved Oscar Winner’s Return to Acting Is More Meaningful Than He Imagined
Ke Huy Quan, the Oscar-winning actor celebrated for his moving performances from Everything Everywhere All at Once to his recent voice work in Zootopia 2, has solidified his status as one of Hollywood’s most powerful storytellers. His career, marked by a nearly 20-year hiatus, is a testament to perseverance and a profound love for the craft. In a conversation with Porsha Monique, Quan discusses his defining moments, the significance of authentic representation, and the physicality of voice acting.
A Defining Chapter and the Return to Acting
What has been one of the most defining moments of this second chapter of your career?
It’s hard to pinpoint a single defining moment over the last four years. However, I vividly remember the night my wife and I had the conversation that led to my decision to become an actor again, after a year of back-and-forth contemplation. Calling my agent the next day was such an important decision; it gave me all of this. I love this profession now.
Having stepped away from acting for nearly 20 years, did you ever imagine that you would return in a role that would once again impact audiences globally?
No, this was beyond anything I could have ever imagined. I love storytelling and being part of a team that creates something with a huge impact on people’s lives. I just wanted to be able to do what I love. None of this was in the field of vision of what I was hoping to achieve.
Authentic Representation and the World of Zootopia
You often speak about representation. What does authentic representation look like to you now, especially through animation?
What I love about Zootopia is that the city thrives because it’s built on diversity. You see the predators, prey, and every creature in between, and they all offer something unique. Even though it takes place in a city of animals, it truly reflects our own human world. I believe it’s vital that every face and every voice is seen, heard, and portrayed authentically. Hollywood has made progress, and it feels good to see a true representation of yourself on screen. You feel represented, validated, and important—and everybody deserves that feeling.
Let’s talk about Gary D’Snake, the first reptile in the Zootopia universe. What drew you to his character, and what makes him stand out?
When I was offered the role, I was super excited. What I love about Gary is that snakes are often misunderstood. Going through that experience of being misunderstood all the time still hasn’t made him bitter or caused him to give up hope. He looks at everything with a sense of wonder and curiosity, and he has a heart as big as it can be. For him to maintain that wonder, even though people prejudge him before they know him, is very admirable.
Challenging the Voice and Defining Success
You have such an expressive energy as an actor. How do you channel that through just your voice without the physicality we’re used to seeing from you?
It’s not easy! With voice acting, it’s not just standing in front of the microphone. For me, there is a lot of physicality involved; you move around a lot, trying to mimic what your character will do on screen. Since you’re only using your voice and there’s no facial expression, I clench every muscle in my body to get my voice a certain way. I always finish the session covered in sweat. I once asked the incredible voice actor Pat Oswalt, who did Ratatouille, if he sweats, and he confirmed that he sweats in every session, feeling like he isn’t doing his job if he doesn’t. At least I know I’m doing something right. The entire cast of this movie, including Jennifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman, are absolutely incredible.
What remains your personal definition of success?
What is really heartwarming for me is when I meet people who share their personal stories of struggling or going through a difficult time. When they tell me that my story inspires them and helps them get through a difficult time or continue on their journey, that makes me incredibly happy and makes this entire journey meaningful. If I can get pleasure out of that and make an impact on people’s lives through the characters I play, I feel I have succeeded. I love acting, and this profession is very gratifying.
Rapid Fire: Ke Huy Quan’s Quick Takes
One word to describe Gary D’Snake: Friendly.
Your favorite animated film growing up: Pinocchio.
If Zootopia were real, which district would you live in? Marsh Market. I love seafood, and it’s a new, incredible location in Zootopia 2.
Voice acting versus live action: I have to be greedy and say both.
Who is the dream director you’d love to work with next? I would love to do another movie with Steven Spielberg. Also Christopher Nolan. The list goes on and on. I also just read that Christopher Columbus is directing a new Gremlins movie—I grew up on that, and he wrote The Goonies. It would be incredible to do a movie with him.
Zootopia 2 is set to release on November 26.
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