The Top 20 Voice Actors: Dick Beals

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This is an entry to Mark Evanier's list of the twenty top voice actors in American animated cartoons between 1928 and 1968. For more on this list, read this. To see all the listings posted to date, click here.

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Dick Beals

Most Famous Role: Speedy Alka-Seltzer.

Other Notable Roles: Davey (of Davey and Goliath), Gumby (at times), Ralph Phillips, Reggie VanDough (on Richie Rich), Buzz (on Frankenstein Jr.), hundreds of children both male and female.

What He Did Besides Cartoon Voices: Dick Beals started in radio and quickly became the go-to guy for everyone who needed a child's voice and didn't want the hassle or risk of hiring an actual child.  He often redubbed real little children on TV, movies and especially commercials and for several decades was one of the workingest voiceover actors in the business.

Why He's On This List: The sheer volume of his work.

Fun Fact: Dick stood 4'7" but never let his height limit his achievement.  For instance, he drove cars and piloted planes using special controls.  He usually showed up for recording sessions in a suit and tie, reportedly his way of reminding those he worked with that he was an adult, not a child.  He was also a very fine actor.