**Josh Gad Reflects on Memorable Encounter with Sacha Baron Cohen at D23 Event**
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At the recent D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California, actor Josh Gad, renowned for his voice role as the lovable snowman Olaf in Disney’s *Frozen*, shared an amusing anecdote that reflects the unique experiences of those in the entertainment industry. The incident he recounted took place shortly after the premiere of the first *Frozen* film in 2013, during what was likely a glamorous Oscar party.
In a conversation with *PEOPLE*, Gad revealed that the encounter involved British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen. “I was at a party… a large man pushes me into a bathroom,” Gad recounted. It soon became clear to him that the man was Cohen, known for his roles in films such as *Borat* and *Bruno*.
Cohen, who shares three children with ex-wife Isla Fisher, was eager for Gad to record a special voice message for his kids. “He goes, ‘Listen, mate, I need you to do a voice message for my kids as Olaf,’” Gad recalled. The request quickly escalated, as Cohen asked the actor to repeat the message multiple times. “He had me do it like six times because he didn’t like the quality of the first five,” Gad added with a laugh.
Gad’s commitment to the character extends beyond mere voice acting. He mentioned that he only sends voice messages as Olaf and avoids video messages in order to maintain the magical illusion for young fans. This dedication is evident in his performances across various *Frozen* projects, including the sequel *Frozen 2* and several shorts such as *Frozen Fever* and *Olaf’s Frozen Adventure*.
The popularity of Olaf has not only solidified Gad’s place in the Disney franchise but has also led to various accolades, including two Annie Awards for voice acting. Excitingly, Gad is set to continue his journey with the character in the upcoming *Frozen 3*, scheduled for release on 24 November 2027.
During the event, Gad reflected on the impact of the *Frozen* franchise on his family. He shared an emotional moment with his eldest daughter, Ava, who expressed a desire to watch the film together. “I started to tear up. I go, ‘Are you serious?’ She’s like, ‘Yeah, I really miss it. I want to see it again,’” Gad reminisced, describing it as a beautiful experience to witness his daughter’s nostalgia for the movie.
His co-star, Kristen Bell, joined in the conversation, playfully contrasting her children’s interests with Gad’s. She jokingly noted, “My kids like procedurals. Their niche is cop dramas,” highlighting the different entertainment preferences of their families.
The bond between *Frozen* and its cast is evident in their interactions and shared experiences. Gad’s story about Cohen serves not only as a reminder of the lighter side of celebrity encounters but also illustrates how characters can have a lasting impact across generations.
As the beloved franchise continues to perform well in cinemas and at home, the anticipation for *Frozen 3* builds. Fans are eager to see how Olaf and his friends will evolve in the next chapter, providing newer audiences and the existing fanbase alike with more laughter and heartwarming moments.
In conclusion, Gad’s humorous recollection showcases the unexpected encounters that often occur within Hollywood’s social scene, while also emphasising the personal connections and lasting legacy that *Frozen* has created — both for its creators and its audience. As the film series prepares to expand, it seems that Olaf and his friends will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans for years to come.