Some of the most iconic Idris Elba voice roles are featured in some of the most successful animated movies. Like several A-list actors, Elba has raked in an impressive voice role credit in his filmography. Having made his screen debut in 1994, Elba has earned a reputation for his screen presence and deep, authoritative voice.
His voice and impeccable delivery have enabled him to bring several animated characters to life, with the same intensity and charisma he brings to his live-action roles. Over the years, Idris Elba has played everything from noble leaders to ruthless villains, and even comic-relief side characters. With his versatility having made him a go-to actor, here’s a ranking of Idris Elba’s six most iconic voice roles.
6. The Fox in The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse
Idris Elba took a quieter, more introspective approach as The Fox in the 2022 adaptation of Charlie Mackesy’s beloved illustrated 2019 book. The film follows a lonely boy who wanders through the countryside. Throughout the film, he gradually meets three unlikely companions, a mole (Tom Hollander), Fox (Elba), and Horse (Gabriel Byrne). Together, they embark on a quiet journey, where they share conversations about life, love, fear, and hope.
5. Rocco in Fixed
Idris Elba’s most recent voice role was in the 2025 adult animated comedy Fixed. In this irreverent film, Elba voices Rocco, a tough but humorous bulldog who provides comic relief and heart to a story. Fixed follows Bull (Adam DeVine), a hearty, easygoing dog who soon realizes he’s scheduled to be neutered the following morning. Confronted with the reality that his carefree days are numbered, Bull rallies his canine comrades, including Rocco, Fetch (Fred Armisen), and Lucky (Bobby Moynihan).
Together, they embark on one last chaotic 24-hour adventure filled with mischief, reflection, and surprisingly heartfelt moments. What makes Rocco memorable is Elba’s ability to lean into a comedic, exaggerated style without losing authenticity. While Fixed might not have the broad reach of Disney or DreamWorks, it showcases Elba’s range as a voice actor. It also shows his willingness to push boundaries beyond conventional animation roles.
4. Fluke in Finding Dory
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In Pixar’s beloved 2016 sequel, Finding Dory, Idris Elba voices Fluke. His character is the laid-back California sea lion who lounges around with his pal Rudder (Dominic West). The role was a delightful departure from Elba’s usual serious characters. Interestingly, Elba and West had previously co-starred in HBO’s award-winning crime drama The Wire. Their chemistry makes Fluke one of the standout supporting characters in the film. Their playful banter and territorial antics over a rock create some of the funniest moments in Finding Dory.
3. Chief Bogo in Zootopia
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Disney’s Zootopia introduced audiences to a bustling city of anthropomorphic animals and Idris Elba’s Chief Bogo. The character is the African buffalo Chief of Police, who quickly became a fan favorite. Gruff, intimidating, but secretly caring, Bogo is the perfect authority figure to balance Judy Hopps’ (Ginnifer Goodwin) optimism. Chief Bogo is a role that plays directly into Elba’s commanding persona while still allowing for comedic beats. Elba reprised the role in the Disney+ animated series Zootopia+. He’s scheduled to reprise it in the 2025 sequel, Zootopia 2.
2. Shere Khan in The Jungle Book
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One of Idris Elba’s most memorable and iconic voice roles has to be his chilling portrayal of Shere Khan in Jon Favreau’s live-action/CGI adaptation of The Jungle Book (2016). As an adaptation of one of the beloved childhood animation stories, Shere Khan isn’t just a tiger, but a predator that instills fear with every line. The character remains one of Disney’s most terrifying villains, and Elba did justice to it. Elba’s voice conveys Shere Khan’s personal pain, anger, and a sense of wounded pride that makes the character dangerous. It’s no wonder many fans consider this performance Elba’s most iconic and unforgettable voice role to date.
1. Knuckles the Echidna in the Sonic the Hedgehog Franchise
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When Idris Elba stepped into the role of Knuckles the Echidna in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, he instantly elevated the character, making it one of the franchise’s standout characters. Introduced in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 as a rival to Sonic (Ben Schwartz) before eventually becoming an ally, Knuckles is a warrior driven by honor, tradition, and loyalty.
Elba’s commanding voice gave Knuckles the perfect balance of intimidation and sincerity, making the character far more than just a sidekick or antagonist. Knuckles’ popularity exploded after Elba’s portrayals, leading to a dedicated Knuckles spin-off series. Of all these Idris Elba voice roles, his performance as Knuckles is his most iconic.
