Hank Azaria, born on April 25, 1964, is an American actor, comedian, and voice artist who has built an impressive career in Hollywood. Known primarily for his voice work on The Simpsons, he has voiced iconic characters like Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, and Apu Nahasapeemapetilon. His contributions to the world of entertainment go far beyond animation, as he has also appeared in hit films and TV shows, including Friends and The Birdcage.
As of 2024, Hank Azaria’s career spans decades, with countless roles in film, television, and voice acting. His work has not only brought him critical acclaim, but also substantial financial success, with a net worth estimated at around $70 million.
Key Takeaways
- Hank Azaria is best known for his work on The Simpsons, where he voices numerous characters.
- His career highlights include roles in hit TV shows like Friends and movies like The Birdcage.
- Azaria has an estimated net worth of $70 million in 2024.
- He is an Emmy Award-winning voice actor and comedian with immense talent and versatility.
Hank Azaria and The Simpsons
Hank Azaria’s most recognizable work is on The Simpsons, which began airing in 1989. He has voiced numerous beloved characters on the show, including Moe Szyslak, the gruff bartender; Chief Wiggum, the bumbling police chief; and Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the convenience store owner. These characters have become part of television history, thanks to Azaria’s incredible range and talent.
Azaria joined The Simpsons cast early in the show’s run, with his first major role being Moe Szyslak. His ability to create distinct voices and personalities for multiple characters quickly set him apart as a voice-acting legend. Over the years, he has received several Emmy Awards for his work on the show.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Hank Azaria |
| Born | April 25, 1964, Queens, New York |
| Net Worth in 2024 | Estimated $70 million |
| Famous for | Voicing characters on The Simpsons |
| First Major Role on TV | Moe Szyslak on The Simpsons |
| Awards | 4 Primetime Emmy Awards |
| Key Movie Role | Agador Spartacus in The Birdcage |
| TV Appearances | Friends as David, the scientist |
Hank Azaria in Friends
Hank Azaria had a memorable role on Friends, playing David, a quirky scientist and love interest of Phoebe Buffay. Although Azaria originally auditioned for the role of Joey Tribbiani, he later landed the part of David. While his role was not as frequent as others, his character left a lasting impression on fans of the show. His comedic timing and the lovable awkwardness of David made him a fan favorite, especially during his on-and-off romance with Phoebe.
Hank Azaria’s Movies and Filmography
Azaria’s career is not just limited to television; he has also appeared in a variety of movies across different genres. One of his most iconic roles is in The Birdcage (1996), where he played Agador Spartacus, a flamboyant and comedic housekeeper. His portrayal earned rave reviews and became one of his most beloved characters outside of The Simpsons.
Other notable films include Quiz Show (1994), where Azaria proved he could handle serious, dramatic roles, and comedies like Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004), where he showed his comedic flair. His filmography also includes roles in The Smurfs and Godzilla.
Hank Azaria’s Voices on The Simpsons
As one of the main voice actors on The Simpsons, Azaria’s versatility shines through the many characters he portrays. Some of his most iconic characters include:
- Moe Szyslak: The grumpy bartender at Moe’s Tavern.
- Chief Wiggum: Springfield’s bumbling police chief.
- Apu Nahasapeemapetilon: The hardworking convenience store owner.
- Comic Book Guy: The sarcastic, nerdy comic book store owner.
- Professor Frink: A nerdy scientist with a love for technology.
- Kirk Van Houten: Milhouse’s insecure father.
- Duffman: The over-the-top beer mascot.
Each character Azaria voices brings something unique to the show, demonstrating his incredible range as a voice artist.
Hank Azaria’s Net Worth
As of 2024, Hank Azaria has an estimated net worth of $70 million. His wealth comes primarily from his long-standing work on The Simpsons, where he has been a key player for over three decades. Additionally, his roles in popular TV shows and films, as well as various voice acting gigs, have contributed significantly to his financial success. His ability to switch between voice acting, television, and film roles has made him one of the most versatile actors in the industry.
Hank Azaria in The Birdcage
Azaria’s role in The Birdcage as Agador Spartacus is one of his most memorable movie performances. The film, directed by Mike Nichols, is a comedy about a gay couple who own a nightclub. Azaria’s character, Agador, is their flamboyant housekeeper with a thick accent and eccentric behavior. His performance added comedic relief to an already humorous movie, making him a standout in the ensemble cast.
Hank Azaria’s Filmography
Hank Azaria’s filmography is vast and varied, ranging from comedies to dramas. Some of his notable television shows and movies include:
- Television: The Simpsons, Friends, Brockmire.
- Movies: The Birdcage, Quiz Show, Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story, The Smurfs.
Azaria’s ability to handle both comedic and dramatic roles has made him one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood. Whether he’s voicing animated characters or acting in live-action roles, his performances consistently captivate audiences.
FAQs
What is Hank Azaria’s most famous role?
Hank Azaria is most famous for his voice work on The Simpsons, where he voices several iconic characters, including Moe Szyslak and Chief Wiggum.
How much is Hank Azaria’s net worth in 2024?
As of 2024, Hank Azaria’s net worth is estimated to be around $70 million, largely thanks to his long-term work on The Simpsons and various film and television projects.
Which character did Hank Azaria play in Friends?
In Friends, Hank Azaria played David, a lovable scientist who had a romantic relationship with Phoebe Buffay.
What are some of Hank Azaria’s most famous movies?
Some of Hank Azaria’s notable films include The Birdcage (1996), Quiz Show (1994), Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story (2004), and The Smurfs (2011).
How many characters does Hank Azaria voice on The Simpsons?
Hank Azaria voices several characters on The Simpsons, including Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, Comic Book Guy, Professor Frink, and many others.
Has Hank Azaria won any awards?
Yes, Hank Azaria has won four Primetime Emmy Awards for his work on The Simpsons and continues to be celebrated for his contributions to television and voice acting.