Marvel Studios is introducing a new cast of voice actors to replace Chris Hemsworth and six other familiar MCU stars for the upcoming Disney+ series, Marvel Zombies. This change highlights fresh voices behind some of the franchise’s key characters and incorporates talent who have voiced these heroes in past animated projects.
Marvel Zombies, a four-episode series set to premiere on Disney+ on September 24, features six notable cast changes from the live-action MCU. The practice of recasting voices aligns with Marvel Animation’s approach seen in shows like What If…?, where different performers have previously taken on iconic roles.
New Voice Actors Leading Marvel Zombies Cast
Hudson Thames will voice Spider-Man, taking over from Tom Holland, who plays the character in the live-action MCU. Thames is not new to this role, having voiced Peter Parker in What If…?, and continues to build on that animated legacy since Holland has not provided voice work exclusively for Disney+ projects.
Todd Williams lends his voice as Blade, replacing Mahershala Ali, who has yet to debut on screen as the character in the MCU. Williams is familiar with Marvel animation and gaming, known for roles such as Titan in Invincible and Rick Mason in the Spider-Man: Miles Morales PS5 game, marking his first time voicing Blade.
Kenna Ramsey steps in as the voice of Zombie Okoye, taking over from Danai Gurira of the live-action films. Ramsey also voiced Okoye in What If…? and now portrays the character in her undead form, who plays a major role under Scarlet Witch’s command in the series.
Additional Key Character Voice Replacements
Rama Vallury voices Baron Zemo in Marvel Zombies, substituting for Daniel Brühl from the live-action MCU. Vallury has experience with alternate versions of this character, having voiced Zemo in Episode 8 of X-Men ’97.
Greg Furman takes on the voice of Thor, stepping in for Chris Hemsworth. Hemsworth, who has portrayed Thor extensively in live-action and voiced the character in What If…?, is currently filming Avengers: Doomsday, his ninth MCU film. This marks Furman’s debut as Thor’s animated voice.
Kari Wahlgren reprises her role as Melina Vostokoff, replacing Rachel Weisz from the films. Wahlgren voiced this character in What If…? Season 3 and has also contributed to other Marvel projects, including roles in X-Men ’97 and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man.
Returning Voice Talent and Surviving Heroes
Feodor Chin returns to voice Xu Wenwu, stepping in for Tony Leung, who did not come back for the animated series after previously voicing the character in What If…? Season 2. Despite these changes, Simu Liu, star of Shang-Chi, is confirmed to play a significant role as one of the surviving heroes, alongside a character named Katy, as shown in the series trailer.
Implications of Recasting for Marvel Zombies and the MCU
The decision to recast these iconic characters reflects Marvel Animation’s ongoing strategy of employing dedicated voice actors for their animated properties, rather than relying on live-action stars for voice roles. While some fans may find the recasting disappointing, especially after confirmations that actors like Paul Rudd, Tessa Thompson, and Wyatt Russell would return, this approach ensures consistency within the animated universe and allows for flexibility in storytelling.
With Marvel Zombies debuting soon, this new cast will shape fresh interpretations of beloved heroes in a darker and intriguing narrative. The involvement of returning performers from What If…? strengthens the connection between Marvel’s animated projects, showcasing an alternative side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe that continues to expand its storytelling horizons.
