Unveiling The Voices Behind Trolls: A Deep Dive Into The Cast

Prof. Mathew Beer I 17 Jun 2025

Step into the vibrant, glitter-filled world of the Trolls, and you'll quickly realize that its magic isn't just in the dazzling animation or the catchy musical numbers. Much of the beloved franchise's charm stems directly from the incredible talent of the Trolls cast. From the infectious optimism of Poppy to the endearing grumpiness of Branch, each character springs to life through the distinct voices of renowned actors and musicians.

This comprehensive exploration will take you on a journey behind the scenes, revealing not only who voiced your favorite characters but also the creative minds who shaped this animated musical comedy phenomenon. We'll delve into the original 2016 film, its successful sequels, and the fascinating individuals who brought the Good Luck Trolls dolls to the big screen, ensuring every note and every line resonated with audiences worldwide. Prepare to discover the expertise, authoritativeness, and sheer talent that makes the Trolls cast truly unforgettable.

The Enchanting World of Trolls: A Franchise Overview
The Original Magic: Trolls (2016) Cast Unveiled
Expanding the Musical Journey: Trolls World Tour (2020) Cast
Trolls Band Together (2023): New Voices, Familiar Faces
- The New Additions to the Trolls Cast
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Minds Shaping the Trolls Universe
The Impact and Legacy of the Trolls Cast
Why the Trolls Cast Resonates with Audiences
Exploring the Trolls Franchise: Beyond the Main Cast

The Enchanting World of Trolls: A Franchise Overview

The journey of the Trolls franchise began with the whimsical Good Luck Trolls dolls, which captured hearts with their colorful hair and endearing smiles. DreamWorks Animation brought these iconic figures to life on the big screen in 2016 with the release of Trolls, an animated musical comedy film that quickly became a global phenomenon. The film introduced audiences to a vibrant world filled with music, glitter, and the ever-present threat of the Bergen, creatures who believe that consuming Trolls is the only path to happiness. This captivating premise, combined with an irresistible soundtrack and a stellar Trolls cast, laid the groundwork for a beloved series.

The success of the first film paved the way for sequels that expanded the Trolls universe, delving deeper into different musical genres and introducing a host of new characters. Each installment has continued to champion themes of happiness, acceptance, and the power of music, resonating with both children and adults. The consistent quality of the animation, storytelling, and especially the voice performances has ensured the franchise's enduring popularity, making the Trolls cast a topic of keen interest for fans.

The Original Magic: Trolls (2016) Cast Unveiled

The 2016 animated musical comedy film Trolls, based on the Good Luck Trolls dolls, was a vibrant explosion of color, music, and heart. Directed by Mike Mitchell and Walt Dohrn, this film captivated audiences worldwide, largely due to its incredibly talented voice ensemble. The core of the Trolls cast was a dynamic duo whose chemistry brought the film's central characters, Poppy and Branch, to life in an unforgettable way. Their mission, full of adventure and mishaps, as this mismatched duo tried to tolerate each other long enough to get the job done, was the emotional anchor of the story.

Anna Kendrick as Poppy: The Heart of the Trolls Cast

Anna Kendrick's portrayal of Poppy, the happiest troll ever born, was nothing short of brilliant. Her voice infused Poppy with an unyielding optimism and an infectious joy that drove the narrative. Kendrick, already a seasoned actress with a strong musical background, perfectly captured Poppy's bubbly personality, her unwavering belief in happiness, and her eventual growth into a wise and compassionate leader. Her vocal performance in the film's many musical numbers, particularly her rendition of "Get Back Up Again" and her harmonies with Justin Timberlake, showcased her versatility and solidified her as a pivotal member of the Trolls cast.

Biography: Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick is an American actress and singer who gained widespread recognition for her roles in both dramatic and musical films. She began her career as a child actor in theater, earning a Tony Award nomination at age 12 for her performance in the Broadway musical High Society. Her film breakthrough came with Up in the Air (2009), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She is also widely known for her role as Beca Mitchell in the Pitch Perfect film series, where her singing talents were prominently featured. Her ability to blend comedic timing with genuine emotional depth makes her an ideal choice for characters like Poppy, contributing significantly to the success of the Trolls cast.

Personal Data and Biodata: Anna Kendrick

Category	Detail
Full Name	Anna Cooke Kendrick
Date of Birth	August 9, 1985
Place of Birth	Portland, Maine, U.S.
Occupation	Actress, Singer
Notable Roles	Poppy (Trolls), Beca Mitchell (Pitch Perfect), Natalie Keener (Up in the Air)
Awards/Nominations	Academy Award nomination, Tony Award nomination, Grammy Award nomination (for soundtrack)

Justin Timberlake as Branch: From Pop Star to Curmudgeon

Justin Timberlake lent his distinctive voice to Branch, the curmudgeonly troll who initially resists Poppy's relentless optimism. Timberlake's portrayal was a masterclass in character evolution, expertly transitioning Branch from a cynical survivalist to a troll who embraces happiness and connection. Beyond his acting, Timberlake also served as the executive music producer for the film's soundtrack, contributing original songs like the Grammy-winning "Can't Stop the Feeling!" His dual role as a lead voice actor and a key musical force made him an indispensable part of the Trolls cast, elevating the film's musicality and emotional depth.

Biography: Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and record producer. He rose to prominence as a child star on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club and later as the lead singer of the hugely successful boy band NSYNC. After the group's hiatus, Timberlake launched a highly successful solo music career, becoming one of the world's best-selling music artists with multiple Grammy Awards. Parallel to his music career, he has built a reputable acting career, starring in films such as The Social Network (2010), Friends with Benefits (2011), and In Time (2011). His musical prowess and charismatic screen presence made him a natural fit for Branch, bringing a unique blend of vulnerability and star power to the Trolls cast.

Personal Data and Biodata: Justin Timberlake

Category	Detail
Full Name	Justin Randall Timberlake
Date of Birth	January 31, 1981
Place of Birth	Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.
Occupation	Singer, Songwriter, Actor, Record Producer
Notable Works	Music: FutureSex/LoveSounds, The 20/20 Experience; Films: The Social Network, Trolls (as Branch)
Awards/Nominations	10 Grammy Awards, 4 Emmy Awards, numerous others

Supporting Voices: The Diverse Talent of Trolls (2016)

Beyond the leading duo, the 2016 Trolls film boasted an impressive ensemble of voice actors who brought a rich tapestry of characters to life. These performers added depth, humor, and heart to the vibrant world of Troll Village and Bergen Town. The diversity of talent within the Trolls cast was a key factor in the film's broad appeal. According to IMDb, the full cast and crew list for Trolls (2016) is extensive, featuring many recognizable names:

Zooey Deschanel as Bridget, the kind-hearted Bergen scullery maid who dreams of love. Deschanel's sweet voice perfectly conveyed Bridget's innocence and longing.
Russell Brand as Creek, a seemingly enlightened and calm troll whose true colors are revealed. Brand's distinctive voice added a layer of surprising complexity.
James Corden as Biggie, a large, gentle troll who always carries his pet worm, Mr. Dinkles. Corden's warm and jovial delivery made Biggie an instant favorite.
Kunal Nayyar as Guy Diamond, a glittery, auto-tuned troll who literally sparkles. Nayyar's comedic timing was perfect for this flamboyant character.
Ron Funches as Cooper, a giraffe-like troll with a unique, hip-hop inspired personality. Funches' laid-back delivery gave Cooper his distinctive charm.
Icona Pop (Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo) as the Fashionistas, Satin and Chenille, conjoined twins with a flair for design. Their synchronized voices added a fun, quirky element.
Gwen Stefani as DJ Suki, the resident DJ of Troll Village. Stefani's iconic voice brought a cool, rhythmic vibe to the character.
And many more talented individuals who contributed to the background voices and smaller roles, ensuring a fully immersive auditory experience.

This collective talent ensured that every character, no matter how small, felt unique and contributed to the overall joy and humor of the film, solidifying the strength of the original Trolls cast.

Expanding the Musical Journey: Trolls World Tour (2020) Cast

The success of the first film led to the highly anticipated sequel, Trolls World Tour, released in 2020. This installment significantly expanded the Trolls universe, introducing audiences to various troll tribes, each representing a different genre of music. The narrative revolved around Poppy and Branch's mission to unite these tribes against Queen Barb of the Hard Rock Trolls, who seeks to destroy all other music. This expansion naturally meant a massive increase in the Trolls cast, bringing in a host of new, iconic voices from the music industry and beyond.

Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake reprised their roles as Poppy and Branch, continuing their character arcs and vocal performances.
New additions included:
- Rachel Bloom as Queen Barb, the antagonist of the film, leading the Hard Rock Trolls. Bloom's edgy vocal performance was perfect for the rock queen.
- Jamie Dornan as Chaz, a smooth jazz troll bounty hunter.
- Kelly Clarkson as Delta Dawn, the mayor of the Country Trolls.
- Anderson .Paak as Prince D, a hip-hop troll.
- Mary J. Blige as Queen Essence, the leader of the Funk Trolls.
- George Clinton as King Quincy, the leader of the Funk Trolls.
- Ozzy Osbourne as King Thrash, Queen Barb's father.
- J Balvin as Tresillo, a Reggaeton troll.
- Ester Dean as Legsly, a Pop troll.
- And many more, reflecting the diverse musical genres explored in the film.

This extensive new Trolls cast not only broadened the film's appeal but also enriched its musical tapestry, making Trolls World Tour a celebration of musical diversity.

Trolls Band Together (2023): New Voices, Familiar Faces

The latest installment in the franchise, Trolls Band Together (2023), serves as the sequel to 2020's Trolls World Tour and the third film in the series. This threequel revolves around the reunion of Branch and his long-lost brothers, members of a boy band called BroZone, as they embark on a journey to save his brother, Floyd. Directed by Mike Mitchell once again, with Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger serving as writers based on a story by Erica Rivinoja, this film continues the tradition of vibrant animation and catchy tunes, powered by an evolving Trolls cast.

The film highlights the incredible returning cast, headlined by the beloved duo of Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, who continue to anchor the franchise with their fantastic performances as Poppy and Branch. However, Trolls Band Together also introduces a slew of new cast members, adding fresh voices and dynamics to the established world. This blend of familiar comfort and exciting new talent ensures the franchise remains engaging and relevant to its growing audience.

The New Additions to the Trolls Cast

Trolls Band Together significantly expands the family tree of Branch, introducing his siblings and other new characters, all voiced by prominent actors and musicians. This influx of new talent further diversifies the already impressive Trolls cast, promising new musical numbers and comedic interactions. According to various reports and IMDb, the new ensemble voice cast includes:

Troye Sivan as Floyd, Branch's brother whose capture kicks off the film's main plot. Sivan's vocal talent, both in acting and singing, is a significant addition.
Camila Cabello as Viva, a new character whose role is central to the adventure. Cabello's pop star status brings a fresh energy.
Eric André as John Dory, another of Branch's brothers and a member of BroZone.
Kid Cudi as Clay, another of Branch's brothers.
Daveed Diggs as Spruce, yet another of Branch's brothers.
Amy Schumer as Velvet, one of the film's new antagonists.
Andrew Rannells as Veneer, Velvet's brother and another antagonist.
RuPaul Charles as Miss Maxine, a glamorous and vibrant new character.
Zosia Mamet as Crimp, another new addition to the cast.

The inclusion of these popular actors and musicians not only adds star power but also ensures that the vocal performances are top-notch, enriching the storytelling and musical elements of Trolls Band Together. The custom marking animation to promote the film was even provided by Minimo VFX and Jellyfish Pictures, highlighting the attention to detail in every aspect of the production.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Minds Shaping the Trolls Universe

While the Trolls cast brings the characters to life, the magic truly begins with the visionary individuals working behind the scenes. The success of the Trolls franchise is a testament to the collaborative efforts of directors, writers, producers, composers, and animators who meticulously craft every detail. For the 2016 film, Mike Mitchell and Walt Dohrn directed, setting the whimsical tone and visual style. Mitchell returned to direct Trolls Band Together, ensuring a consistent creative vision across the series.

Directors: Mike Mitchell and Walt Dohrn (Trolls 2016), Mike Mitchell (Trolls Band Together 2023). Their leadership guides the entire production, from character animation to voice direction.
Writers: The screenplays for these films are crafted by talented writers who develop the compelling stories and witty dialogue. For Trolls (2016), the writing credits include Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger. For Trolls Band Together, Jonathan Aibel and Glenn Berger also served as writers, based on a story by Erica Rivinoja. Their ability to weave humor, heart, and adventure into a cohesive narrative is crucial.
Producers: The producers oversee the entire filmmaking process, ensuring the vision is realized within budget and schedule. Gina Shay has been a consistent producer across the franchise, playing a vital role in bringing these films to fruition.
Music by: The music is arguably the heart of the Trolls franchise. Justin Timberlake's role as executive music producer for the first film was instrumental in creating its chart-topping soundtrack. The composers and music supervisors work tirelessly to select and arrange the perfect songs, both original and jukebox hits, that define the films.
Casting by: The casting directors are unsung heroes, responsible for finding the perfect voices for each character. Their expertise in matching actors to roles is fundamental to the strength of the Trolls cast.

This intricate network of creative professionals ensures that every aspect of the Trolls films, from the vibrant animation to the compelling storytelling and the stellar voice performances, comes together seamlessly to create a truly enchanting experience for audiences worldwide. Their dedication and expertise are as vital as the voices themselves.

The Impact and Legacy of the Trolls Cast

The collective impact of the Trolls cast extends far beyond their individual performances; it has shaped the very identity and enduring legacy of the franchise. Their voices have become synonymous with the characters, making it almost impossible to imagine Poppy without Anna Kendrick's bubbly optimism or Branch without Justin Timberlake's evolving charm. This deep connection between actor and character is a hallmark of successful animated films and a testament to the casting directors' foresight.

The legacy of the Trolls cast is also evident in the widespread popularity of the films' music. With Timberlake at the helm of the soundtrack for the first film, the music became a character in itself, driving the narrative and providing memorable anthems. The voice actors' musical talents, particularly those of Kendrick and Timberlake, allowed for seamless integration of songs into the story, making the films feel like extended music videos in the best possible way. This musical prowess has led to multiple hit singles and soundtrack albums, further cementing the franchise's cultural footprint.

Moreover, the consistent quality of the voice acting across all three films has ensured that the characters remain relatable and beloved as the story evolves. The ability of the cast to convey complex emotions, even through animated forms, allows audiences to connect deeply with the Trolls' adventures and mishaps. This emotional resonance is a key factor in the franchise's longevity and its ability to consistently draw in new fans while retaining its loyal base. The strength of the Trolls cast is, without doubt, a cornerstone of the franchise's continued success and its lasting appeal in the landscape of animated cinema.

Why the Trolls Cast Resonates with Audiences

The profound connection audiences feel with the Trolls characters is largely attributable to the exceptional resonance of its voice cast. It's not merely about famous names lending their voices; it's about the perfect alignment of an actor's vocal qualities, personality, and musicality with the animated persona. Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake, for instance, don't just speak their lines; they embody Poppy and Branch, infusing them with genuine emotion, humor, and vulnerability that transcends the screen. Their singing voices, already well-known and loved, add an extra layer of authenticity and enjoyment to the musical numbers, making them instantly catchy and memorable.

Furthermore, the diverse array of supporting cast members, from comedic talents like James Corden and Kunal Nayyar to musical icons like Gwen Stefani and Mary J. Blige, ensures that every character, no matter how small, has a distinct and engaging voice. This variety prevents the soundscape from becoming monotonous and allows for a rich tapestry of interactions. Children are drawn to the characters' unique voices and expressions, while adults appreciate the nuanced performances and the clever comedic timing. The collective chemistry of the Trolls cast creates a vibrant, believable world that invites repeated viewings and fosters a deep affection for the Trolls and their adventures. It's this masterful blend of star power and genuine talent that makes the Trolls cast so incredibly effective and beloved by fans of all ages.

Exploring the Trolls Franchise: Beyond the Main Cast

While the stellar Trolls cast is undeniably a cornerstone of the franchise's success, the Trolls universe extends far beyond the voices behind the characters. The creative ingenuity that goes into every aspect of these films contributes significantly to their charm and widespread appeal. From the groundbreaking animation techniques that bring Troll Village to life with its tactile, fuzzy textures, to the intricate world-building that introduces diverse musical lands, every detail is meticulously crafted.

The franchise's success has also spawned a variety of spin-off media, including television series like Trolls: The Beat Goes On! and Trolls: TrollsTopia, which further explore the characters and their world with additional voice talent. These series provide an opportunity for deeper character development and introduce new adventures that complement the films. Furthermore, the Trolls brand has expanded into merchandise, live shows, and interactive experiences,

Trolls (2016) - Posters — The Movie Database (TMDB)

Trolls Band Together director and producer talk new characters, music

Trolls Movie Printables

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