Meet the Cast of Up: Carl Fredricksen, Russell and More

The greatest adventure is just getting back home.

"Up" is a delightful animated film that brings together an unlikely team on an unforgettable adventure. The movie is brought to life by a talented voice cast, with Ed Asner lending his voice to the character of Carl Fredricksen. Asner is best known for his roles in "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" and "Lou Grant," and his grumpy yet endearing portrayal of Carl adds warmth and depth to the character. Joining him is Christopher Plummer, who brings the character of Charles F. Muntz to life. Plummer is a highly respected actor, known for his roles in films such as "The Sound of Music" and "All the Money in the World." His deep, resonant voice adds a sense of grandeur and mystery to the adventurous Muntz.

The story of "Up" revolves around Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old man who has spent his entire life dreaming of adventure and exploration. However, the realities of life and its many responsibilities have kept him from achieving his life-long dream. Carl is a character who is easy to sympathize with. His longing for adventure is something that many people can relate to. Despite his age, he possesses a youthful spirit and a sense of wonder that is inspiring. He represents the idea that it's never too late to chase one's dreams.

The twist of fate that rekindles Carl's zest for life is the presence of Russell, an 8-year-old Wilderness Explorer. Voiced by Jordan Nagai, Russell is an energetic, curious, and persistent boy who befriends Carl. He inspires Carl with his enthusiasm for life and his never-ending quest for adventure. Russell's presence in Carl's life provides a new sense of purpose and a renewed hope for the future. Together, they embark on a journey that brings them face-to-face with the legendary explorer, Charles F. Muntz, and the exotic wilderness of South America. Their adventures are filled with excitement, danger, and unexpected turns that make "Up" a truly captivating and heartwarming film.

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Full Cast of Up

Ed Asner

as Carl Fredricksen (voice)

Ed Asner's voice performance as Carl Fredricksen in Pixar's 'Up' is a masterclass in emotional depth and nuance. As the curmudgeonly widower who embarks on an extraordinary adventure, Asner imbues Carl with a profound sense of loss and longing, while also capturing the character's endearing stubbornness and eventual warmth. His vocal work is both gruff and tender, perfectly complementing the film's visual storytelling. Asner's portrayal resonates with audiences of all ages, as he navigates the gamut of human emotion, from the joy of adventure to the sorrow of unfulfilled dreams and the healing power of newfound friendships. His ability to convey complex feelings without the aid of physical expression is a testament to his talent and is central to the film's heartfelt narrative. Asner's Carl is not just a character; he is a symbol of resilience and the human capacity for change, making 'Up' an unforgettable and poignant cinematic experience.

Christopher Plummer

as Charles F. Muntz (voice)

Christopher Plummer delivered a powerful and memorable performance as the voice of Charles F. Muntz in the critically acclaimed Pixar film "Up." Plummer's vocal work breathed life into the character of Muntz, an eccentric and famed explorer turned antagonist, whose obsession with capturing a rare bird in South America drives the film's central conflict. His portrayal was both chilling and charismatic, showcasing Muntz's descent from a celebrated hero to a vengeful and embittered figure, determined to prove his doubters wrong at any cost. Plummer's ability to convey the complexity of Muntz's character through his voice alone is a testament to his exceptional talent as an actor. His performance added depth to the film, offering a nuanced portrayal of a man consumed by regret and hubris, making Muntz one of Pixar's most compelling and morally ambiguous villains. Plummer's voice captured the essence of Muntz, from his initial grandiose and adventurous spirit to his ultimate unraveling, providing both gravitas and a haunting sense of tragedy to the character.

Jordan Nagai

as Russell (voice)

Jordan Nagai (born February 5, 2000) is an American student and former child voice actor. He is best known for his vo...

Bob Peterson

as Dug / Alpha (voice)

Bob Peterson delivered a memorable voice performance in the beloved Pixar film "Up," bringing to life the endearing and comedic characters of Dug and Alpha. As Dug, Peterson imbued the lovable, golden retriever with an infectious enthusiasm and unwavering loyalty that instantly captured the hearts of audiences. His ability to convey Dug's innocent and affectionate nature through his voice, especially when Dug speaks through his collar translator, added a layer of charm and humor to the film. Peterson's portrayal of Alpha, the intimidating yet ultimately good-hearted leader of the dogs, showcased his versatility as a voice actor. With a deeper, authoritative tone, he crafted a character that was both commanding and endearing, with a surprising twist of vulnerability. Peterson's performances as both Dug and Alpha were instrumental in creating some of the most iconic and quotable moments in "Up," contributing significantly to the film's emotional depth and its celebration of friendship and adventure.

Delroy Lindo

as Beta (voice)

Delroy Lindo's portrayal of Beta in Pixar's "Up" is a masterclass in voice acting, where he brings depth and warmth to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. As the loyal and slightly goofy canine companion to the adventurous explorer Charles Muntz, Lindo infuses Beta with a blend of enthusiastic eagerness and a touch of melancholy, reflecting the character's unwavering devotion to his master. Despite being equipped with a high-tech collar that gives him the ability to speak, Beta's dialogue doesn't detract from his canine charm; instead, it enhances the comedic elements of his personality, highlighting his endearing naivety and the unbreakable bond he shares with Muntz. Lindo's voice work is pivotal in making Beta a lovable and memorable character, as he skillfully navigates the line between comedic relief and a poignant representation of a dog's loyalty, contributing significantly to the film's emotional resonance.

Jerome Ranft

as Gamma (voice)

Jerome Ranft's vocal portrayal of Gamma in Pixar's "Up" is a standout example of his talent for bringing animated characters to life. As one of the rambunctious canine companions to the film's protagonist, Carl Fredricksen, Ranft infuses Gamma with a distinct personality that is both endearing and humorous. His performance captures the eager-to-please and somewhat neurotic nature of the dog, whose passion for fetching and squirrel-chasing antics provides a constant source of entertainment. Ranft's voice work is nuanced, balancing the enthusiastic barks and whimpers with subtle emotional undertones that convey Gamma's loyalty and the depth of his relationship with Carl and his fellow canines. Jerome Ranft's Gamma is not just a sidekick; he is a fully-realized character that complements the film's heartwarming narrative and contributes to its enduring charm.