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The voice behind the Pillsbury Doughboy: A Legendary Mascot
The Pillsbury Doughboy, also known as Poppin’ Fresh, is undoubtedly one of the most beloved brand mascots in history. With his infectious giggle and iconic catchphrase, this lovable character has captured the hearts of millions of Americans for decades. But have you ever wondered who originally voiced the Pillsbury Doughboy? In this article, we delve into the fascinating story behind the voice that brought this doughy icon to life.
The birth of Poppin’ Fresh
In 1965, Rudolph Perz, a copywriter at the Leo Burnett agency, was tasked with marketing Pillsbury’s innovative refrigerated dough. This new concept allowed consumers to simply pop open the dough and bake it in their ovens. During this time, Perz introduced the Pillsbury Doughboy, affectionately named Poppin’ Fresh. Pillsbury, a dry goods company, had been producing flour, cake mixes and pasta since 1869, when Charles A. Pillsbury became a partner in a flour mill.
From animation to clay-mation
The Pillsbury Doughboy was originally intended to be an animated character. However, Rudolph Perz was inspired by the stop-motion credits of “The Dinah Shore Show” and decided to turn the mascot into clay-mation. This decision paved the way for the adorable and squishy character we all know and love today.
The Search for the Voice
When it came time to find the perfect voice for the Pillsbury Doughboy, more than 50 actors auditioned for the role in 1965. One notable contender was Paul Winchell, best known as the voice of Tigger in Winnie the Pooh. Despite his impressive credentials, Winchell did not secure the role of Poppin’ Fresh. Instead, it was Paul Frees who became the first actor to voice the Pillsbury Doughboy, forever shaping the character’s identity in the hearts and minds of Americans.
Paul Frees: The Man of a Thousand Voices
Celebrated for his versatile vocal talents, Paul Frees had already made a name for himself in the world of cartoons. He voiced characters such as Boris Badenov in “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle” and Inspector Fenwick in “The Dudley Do-Right Show”. Frees has also lent his voice to numerous attractions at Disneyland and even voiced another famous mascot, Toucan Sam. His four-octave vocal range and undeniable talent earned him the title “The Man of a Thousand Voices.
On November 7, 1965, Frees made his debut as the Pillsbury Doughboy in a commercial in which he exclaimed, “I’m Poppin’ Fresh, the Pillsbury Doughboy!” It was a defining moment that solidified the character’s popularity and secured his place in advertising history.
A legacy carried forward
Tragically, Paul Frees passed away in 1986, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as the original voice of the Pillsbury Doughboy. However, the role has been passed on to other talented performers over the years. Jeff Bergman, Peter New, Fred Young, JoBe Cerny and Jeremy Geller have all lent their voices to bring this beloved mascot to life.
The Pillsbury Doughboy remains an enduring symbol of joy and nostalgia, evoking warm memories and a sense of comfort. His iconic voice, originally provided by the legendary Paul Frees, continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
The story of the voice behind the Pillsbury Doughboy is a testament to the power of a well-crafted character and the talented individuals who bring it to life. From the creative mind of Rudolph Perz to the unforgettable performances of Paul Frees and subsequent voice actors, the Pillsbury Doughboy’s journey is one that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. So the next time you hear that familiar giggle and catchphrase, remember the legacy of the voice that brought the Pillsbury Doughboy to life.
FAQS
Who originally voiced the Pillsbury Doughboy?
The original voice of the Pillsbury Doughboy was provided by Paul Frees, a renowned voice actor known for his versatility and talent.
How was the voice of the Pillsbury Doughboy chosen?
Over 50 actors auditioned for the role, including Paul Winchell, but it was Paul Frees who secured the position and brought the iconic character to life.
What other famous characters has Paul Frees voiced?
In addition to the Pillsbury Doughboy, Paul Frees voiced characters such as Boris Badenov in “The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle” and Inspector Fenwick in “The Dudley Do-Right Show”. He has also voiced various attractions at Disneyland and Toucan Sam, the mascot for a popular cereal brand.
How did the voice of the Pillsbury Doughboy contribute to his iconic status?
Paul Frees’ unique voice, including the Doughboy’s infectious giggle and memorable catchphrase, was instrumental in establishing the character’s iconic status and endearing him to audiences worldwide.
Who has voiced the Pillsbury Doughboy since Paul Frees?
After Paul Frees passed away in 1986, other talented performers such as Jeff Bergman, Peter New, Fred Young, JoBe Cerny and Jeremy Geller stepped into the role and continued to voice the Pillsbury Doughboy in subsequent commercials and campaigns.
What is the legacy of the original voice of the Pillsbury Doughboy?
Paul Frees’ portrayal of the Pillsbury Doughboy left an indelible mark on the history of advertising. His talent and contributions to the character’s identity ensure that his legacy lives on, and his voice continues to inspire joy and nostalgia in audiences of all generations.