As Rick and Morty Season 7 premieres, loyalists and newbies alike were curious about the show’s direction. With Justin Roiland no longer part of the series, a crucial void had to be filled. However, despite some early concerns, the new voices have breathed fresh life into beloved characters. The audience has come to realize that it’s not always about who is behind the characters, but the essence they bring to the table.
Why Justin Roiland’s Departure Was a Significant Talking Point
The recent firing of Justin Roiland, the co-creator and significant voice actor of the show, set off a series of questions. His departure, spurred by accusations including a domestic violence allegation from 2020 and other subsequent allegations, made fans anxious. This was mainly due to Roiland’s pivotal role in voicing several of the show’s beloved characters, from Rick and Morty themselves to minor yet memorable characters like Mr. Poopybutthole. His departure led to speculation: Would the show continue with its original goal of 10 seasons? Moreover, Roiland’s voice work seemed irreplaceable, which added to the growing concerns.
The Challenge and Triumph of Recasting
The arduous task of finding voice replacements fell on Dan Harmon and showrunner Scott Marder. After listening to thousands of auditions, the duo eventually found their new Rick, Morty, and Mr. Poopybutthole in Ian Cardoni, Harry Belden, and John Allen, respectively. The show’s producers chose not to reveal these names until the premiere, a strategic move to minimize potential backlash from a sometimes over-critical fanbase.
Initial Hesitation and the Proving Ground
When the trailer for the seventh season was first unveiled, some fans felt that the new Morty seemed somewhat subdued and that the new Rick missed some familiar notes. It’s essential to understand that replicating the unique flair and tone Roiland brought to the characters is a challenge. Still, the real test was always going to be the full episodes, not just snippets in a trailer. As the first episode “How Poopy Got His Poop Back” aired on October 15, it was clear that most worries were unwarranted. The replacements had not just captured the spirit of the characters but also added their unique touch.
What’s Different, Yet Familiar?
The new voices for Rick and Morty have been brilliantly executed. The intonations, idiosyncrasies, enunciation, and timing mirror the essence of the characters that fans have grown to love. Allen’s rendition of Mr. Poopybutthole is commendable, as is Belden’s portrayal of Morty’s typical anxiety and nervousness. Cardoni, as Rick, maintains the character’s signature sarcasm and cynicism, making fans feel right at home.
The Path Forward
The slight nuances in the new voices can be seen as an asset, hinting at potential future storylines. For example, Belden’s Morty, with his subtly changing voice, perfectly encapsulates a teenager’s journey through puberty. Cardoni’s slightly deeper voice for Rick offers an exciting prospect for differentiating between the regular Rick and the potentially darker Evil Rick (or Rick Prime).
The show’s capacity for evolution is evident. Even the omission of Harmon’s name from the opening credits suggests that Rick and Morty’s essence isn’t tied to its creators but to the characters and the stories themselves. By moving forward with new voices, the show offers fresh potential and promises continuity in delivering the humor and depth that have made it a staple in animated entertainment.
the new rick & morty voices are TRASH 😭pic.twitter.com/XBxu3JH4R5
— Let's Get Wasted (@letsgetwasted__) October 16, 2023
Conclusion
Rick and Morty’s new chapter, marked by fresh voices and a perspective unhindered by its past, is a testament to the show’s resilience. It’s evident that the series is more than capable of weathering changes and emerging stronger. As the show continues its run on Adult Swim every Sunday at 11:00 p.m. ET, fans can be confident in its commitment to quality, innovation, and sheer entertainment value.
