Paul Frees

Born:June 22, 1920

Place of Birth:Chicago, Illinois, USA

Died:November 2, 1986

Known For:Acting

Biography

Paul Frees, born Solomon Hersh Frees, was a multi-talented American artist who left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. His remarkable career spanned across various mediums, including acting, voice acting, and screenwriting. Frees gained recognition for his work on iconic productions by MGM, Walter Lantz, and Walt Disney during the Golden Age of Animation, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the industry.

One of Frees' most notable contributions was his portrayal of Boris Badenov in the beloved animated series, The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show. His distinctive voice brought the character to life, captivating audiences with his impeccable comedic timing and vocal versatility. Alongside legendary voice actor Mel Blanc, Frees earned the title of "The Man of a Thousand Voices," showcasing his incredible range and talent.

Beyond his work in animation, Frees made significant strides as a screenwriter, demonstrating his creative prowess behind the scenes. His ability to craft compelling narratives and bring characters to life through his writing further highlighted his artistic depth and versatility. Frees' contributions to the entertainment industry were multifaceted, showcasing his diverse skill set and passion for storytelling.

Throughout his career, Frees became known for his ability to immerse himself fully in every role he undertook, bringing a level of authenticity and depth to his performances. Whether voicing animated characters or embodying complex personas on screen, he approached each project with dedication and artistry, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

Frees' legacy as a trailblazer in the world of voice acting endures to this day, inspiring generations of performers to follow in his footsteps. His contributions to iconic cartoons and animated films have left an indelible mark on popular culture, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the realm of animation.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Frees was known for his warm personality and genuine love for his craft. Colleagues and fans alike admired his dedication to his work and his ability to bring joy to audiences of all ages through his performances. His passion for storytelling and his commitment to excellence served as a guiding light throughout his illustrious career.

As a visionary artist and storyteller, Frees pushed the boundaries of traditional voice acting, infusing his characters with nuance, humor, and depth. His iconic voice work continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the timeless appeal of his performances and the enduring impact of his creative legacy.

Paul Frees' remarkable career stands as a testament to his talent, passion, and unwavering commitment to his craft. His contributions to the world of entertainment have left an indelible mark on the industry, inspiring countless artists and entertainers to strive for excellence in their own work. Through his iconic roles and memorable performances, Frees will always be remembered as a true pioneer of animation and voice acting, whose influence continues to be felt in the art form to this day.

Images

Paul Frees
Paul Frees

Filmography

Acting

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One Hundred and One Dalmatians

Dirty Dawson (voice)

1961

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Beneath the Planet of the Apes

Ending Voiceover (uncredited) (voice)

1970

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Some Like It Hot

Funeral Director / Waiter / Josephine (voice) (uncredited)

1959

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The War of the Worlds

Second Radio Reporter / Opening Announcer

1953

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The Manchurian Candidate

Narrator (voice)

1962

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Tora! Tora! Tora!

Japanese Ambassador Kichisaburo Nomura (voice) (uncredited)

1970

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The Time Machine

Talking Rings (voice) (uncredited)

1960

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Godzilla, King of the Monsters!

Unidentified Character (voice) (uncredited)

1956

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The Last Unicorn

Mabruk (voice)

1982

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The Hobbit

Bombur/Troll #1 (voice)

1977

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The Thing from Another World

Prof. Voorhees

1951

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Operation Petticoat

Colonel in Jeep on Cebu (voice) (uncredited)

1959

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The Abominable Dr. Phibes

Singer of 'The Darktown Strutters' Ball' (voice)

1971

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Frosty the Snowman

Santa Claus / Traffic Cop / Additional Voices (voice)

1969

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The Absent-Minded Professor

PA Man / Air Force Dispatcher (voice) (uncredited)

1961

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The Flight of Dragons

Solarius / Antiquity (voice)

1982

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The Point

Oblio's Father / Pointed Man's Right Head / King / Leaf Man / Villagers (voice)

1971

Production