Acclaimed voice actor Troy Baker is reuniting with Naughty Dog for another leading role, as confirmed by Neil Druckmann. This exciting collaboration continues a long and successful partnership between the two.
A Partnership Forged in Collaboration (and a Little Friction)
A recent GQ article revealed Baker's involvement in an upcoming Naughty Dog title. Druckmann's statement, “In a heartbeat, I would always work with Troy,” highlights the strong bond between them, despite their contrasting approaches to acting. Their history includes Baker's iconic portrayal of Joel in The Last of Us and Samuel Drake in Uncharted 4 and The Lost Legacy – projects largely directed by Druckmann.
Early in their collaboration, creative differences emerged. Baker's meticulous approach, often involving multiple takes to achieve perfection, initially clashed with Druckmann's vision. Druckmann's intervention, emphasizing trust and the director's role in guiding the performance, ultimately proved pivotal in solidifying their professional relationship. Despite early tension, their collaboration flourished, resulting in Baker becoming a staple in many Naughty Dog productions. Druckmann even praised Baker's performance in The Last of Us Part II, noting his ability to elevate the character beyond initial expectations.
While details of the new game remain undisclosed, Baker's involvement promises another captivating performance.
A Legacy of Voice Acting Excellence
Troy Baker's resume extends far beyond his work with Naughty Dog. He's known for his roles in numerous video games and animated shows, including Higgs Monaghan in Death Stranding, the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Schneizel el Britannia in Code Geass, and various characters in Naruto: Shippuden and Transformers: EarthSpark. His credits also encompass popular shows like Scooby Doo, Ben 10, Family Guy, and Rick and Morty.
This impressive body of work has garnered him numerous awards and nominations, including a Spike Video Game Award for Best Voice Actor in 2013 for his role as Joel in The Last of Us. His contributions to the gaming and entertainment industries have cemented his status as a leading voice actor.
