Nathan Kress Shares the ‘Pressure’ of Voicing Chuck E. Cheese in Exclusive Interview
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Voice actor Nathan Kress opens up about the challenges he faced while bringing the iconic character of Chuck E. Cheese to life in a new Christmas film. Known for his role as Chuck E. Cheese in the holiday movie “A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas,” Kress delves into the immense responsibility he felt in embodying a character that holds a special place in the hearts of many.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Kress reveals the internal struggle he experienced in capturing the essence of Chuck E. Cheese. He confesses, “It was a lot of pressure. And it sounds crazy thinking about, like, it’s just a cartoon character. But it’s not though! I feel like people have this weird innate expectation of what that character might actually sound like in a narrative-based cartoon environment and not just at your birthday party, kicking off a song.”
The actor, aged 33, reflects on the process of delving into the character’s persona and energy, navigating between the familiar and the innovative. Kress shares, “I had to sit with that for a while and figure out, who is this guy and what’s his energy level? What can you bring to it that’s got some heart and some character to it?”
As a father of three, Kress appreciates the versatility of “A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas,” which offers entertainment for both children and adults. He highlights the film’s appeal across generations, with jokes that cater to different age groups and catchy Christmas tunes that add a festive touch to the narrative.
Kress further elaborates on the thematic elements of the movie, focusing on how Chuck E. Cheese embodies the spirit of Christmas and the importance of spreading joy during the holiday season. He remarks, “The entire town is experiencing Christmas burnout, and that extends all the way up to the big man himself. Santa is getting burned out. So Chuck E. takes it upon himself to bring back the Christmas spirit by throwing an epic Christmas party for Santa.”
The actor’s portrayal of Chuck E. Cheese as a symbol of infectious joy and celebratory energy highlights the character’s role as a beacon of festive cheer. Kress envisages exploring Chuck E. Cheese’s involvement in various holidays beyond Christmas, hinting at the character’s potential to enliven any occasion with his lively persona.
In closing, Kress reflects on the rewarding experience of bringing Chuck E. Cheese to life on screen and the positive impact the character has had on him personally. He expresses his hopes for the film to become a holiday staple, resonating with audiences seeking a heartwarming and joyous Christmas tale.
“A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas” is now available for streaming on Prime Video and YouTube, offering viewers a chance to embark on a magical Christmas adventure with everyone’s favorite party animal, Chuck E. Cheese.
The article captures Nathan Kress’s insights into the challenges and rewards of voicing the beloved character, shedding light on the creative process behind the festive family film. With its blend of nostalgia, humour, and heartwarming moments, “A Chuck E. Cheese Christmas” promises to enchant audiences of all ages with its spirited celebration of the holiday season.