Man Who Voiced Winnie the Pooh Says Iconic Character Still Lives in His ‘Heart’ – and Now in His Grandson’s Too (Exclusive)

Renowned Voice Actor, Known for Voicing Winnie the Pooh, Shares Heartfelt Connection with Grandson

Veteran voice actor Jim Cummings has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with his iconic portrayals of beloved characters such as Winnie the Pooh and Tigger. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Cummings reveals how these characters have taken on new significance in his life as he embraces the role of a grandfather.

Cummings, who has lent his voice to over 1,500 roles in film, TV, gaming, and theme parks, reflects on the profound impact of embodying Winnie the Pooh for many years. He describes how the honey-loving bear transcends being just a cartoon character and becomes a cherished state of mind for both himself and his audience.

Having interacted with fans of all ages at conventions and Comic Cons, Cummings has witnessed firsthand the emotional resonance of his work. He recounts touching encounters with fans who are moved to tears by the nostalgic connection to their childhood memories brought forth by his vocal performances.

Now, as a grandfather to 8-month-old Jax, Cummings finds a new dimension of joy in sharing his craft with his grandson. While Jax may not yet recognise the iconic voices, Cummings delights in reading stories to him in characters’ voices, creating tender moments that are sure to leave a lasting impression on the young child.

A heartwarming video capturing a Father’s Day interaction between Cummings and Jax went viral, showcasing the special bond between the two. As Cummings reflects on the enduring appeal of Winnie the Pooh, he emphasises how the character continues to resonate across generations, evoking a sense of nostalgia and comfort for all who encounter him.

Delving into his early inspirations as a voice actor, Cummings shares a childhood memory of watching Mel Blanc, the legendary voice behind characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. This encounter ignited his passion for voice acting, setting him on a path to bring characters to life in a way that would captivate audiences for years to come.

Despite his immense success, Cummings remains grounded in his dedication to his craft and the responsibility he feels as a torchbearer for multiple generations. Through his podcast, Toon’d In with Jim Cummings, he offers fans a peek behind the scenes of voice acting and a glimpse into the stories behind the characters that have become part of our cultural tapestry.

Reflecting on his journey as a voice actor, Cummings emphasises the importance of pushing boundaries and exploring unique and unconventional characters. This spirit of creativity and versatility has been a guiding force throughout his career, allowing him to breathe life into a diverse array of roles with skill and authenticity.

As he continues to inspire and entertain audiences of all ages, Jim Cummings exemplifies the timeless magic of storytelling and the enduring impact of beloved characters. His ability to connect with his grandson through Winnie the Pooh serves as a heartwarming reminder of the power of storytelling to transcend generations and create lasting memories.

In a world where entertainment is ever-evolving, Jim Cummings stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of classic characters and the profound bond that can be shared through the magic of storytelling.