Will Arnett Reveals the Role That Changed His Life Forever
Will Arnett opens up about his most meaningful performance, reflecting on his journey from comedy to drama and why voicing Batman in The Lego Movie franchise stands out as his all-time favorite role.
After three decades in the entertainment industry, Will Arnett has seen his share of highs and lows. Recently, he found himself in the spotlight for a Golden Globe nomination—not for a blockbuster film or hit TV show, but for his podcast, SmartLess, which he co-hosts with his ex-wife, Amy Poehler, and Jason Bateman. Despite the unusual circumstances, Arnett embraces the recognition, proud of the work he’s done on the show. But that’s not the only reason he’s celebrating. His latest film, Is This Thing On?, directed by Bradley Cooper, has earned him some of the best reviews of his career. In the movie, Arnett plays a struggling father navigating divorce who turns to stand-up comedy as a way to cope. The project marks a reunion with Cooper, whom he met through Poehler back in 2003, and critics have praised both Arnett’s dramatic turn and Cooper’s direction.
Comedy Roots and Animated Success
Arnett’s career has been defined by his versatility, moving seamlessly between television and film, and between comedy and drama. Over the past twenty years, he’s become a familiar face in mainstream comedy, but he’s also made a name for himself in family- friendly movies that appeal to all ages. He voiced characters in animated hits like 2007’s Ratatouille—a film many consider Pixar ’s finest—and 2022’s Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers, which featured creative input from the Lonely Island team. Yet, it ’s his work in The Lego Movie series that truly stands out. Arnett brought Batman to life in the 2014 original, its 2019 sequel, and the 2017 spin-off, The Lego Batman Movie.
Finding Meaning in the Cape and Cowl
Despite memorable roles in acclaimed series like Bojack Horseman and Arrested Development, Arnett points to his portrayal of Batman as the highlight of his career.
“I have never ranked my own roles before, but it feels right to place these three films at No 1. I did not realize what an impact Batman was going to have on my life. The character comes loaded with a bunch of preconceived notions, because he is Batman. He is a superhero with no super powers, so he has got to be quite confident. He’s an orphan and an only child, with incredible financial resources to do whatever he wants, and that has got to make him quite selfish. I liked the idea that he does not know how to be part of a team.”
His take on the iconic hero resonated with audiences and critics alike, adding depth and humor to a character often portrayed as brooding and solitary.
Box Office Triumphs and Personal Reflections
The first Lego Movie was a surprise smash, featuring stars like Will Ferrell, Chris Pratt, and Elizabeth Banks. It grossed nearly $500 million worldwide and even earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song with “Everything is Awesome.” The success led to the Batman-centered spin-off, which brought in $312 million on an $80 million budget and featured Zach Galifianakis and Michael Cera. Arnett relished the chance to dig deeper into Batman’s psyche.
“It was fun taking things further in The Lego Batman Movie, to really get into what drove him. You know, witnessing his parents’ murder, being raised in this incredible mansion, and becoming this night-stalking vigilante who saves the world from terrible criminals, but then comes home and eats a heated-up dinner on his own. What does that do to you?”
For Arnett, voicing Batman wasn’t just another job—it was a role that left a lasting mark on his life and career.