Summary
The voice of Korvo in Solar Opposites was changed after Justin Roiland was dismissed from the show and replaced by Dan Stevens.
Producer Sydney Ryan states that to avoid the show sounding like a cover song, they intentionally chose not to match the previous voice. The show incorporated the voice change into its premise, playfully addressing it with the aliens' ray guns. This approach successfully maintained the character's humor and emotional aspects.
During an interview with ComicBook.com, producer Sydney Ryan provided insight into the voice change for Korvo in season 4 of Solar Opposites. Ryan expressed that the show intentionally avoided mimicking the previous voice, as it would feel like a mere imitation. Instead, the animated series embraced its unique premise and allowed for an in-universe explanation to accommodate the voice change. Ryan's explanation is as follows:
How Solar Opposites Season 4 Explains Korvo's Voice Change
Instead of matching the previous voice, we were keen on avoiding any resemblance to a cover song. Solar is a show where unexpected things can occur, and since the aliens already possess ray guns capable of various feats, we found it amusing to utilize this in-show technique to justify the voice change. Despite this significant shift, our intention was to retain the humor and emotional depth that we have cultivated for Korvo throughout the years. Collaborating closely with our casting team, we carefully reviewed numerous auditions and had the privilege of meeting some incredibly talented actors.
Solar Opposites season 4 takes on the recast head-on. After being struck in the neck by a dart, Korvo receives a direct hit from a voice changer ray. This moment serves as the catalyst for change, but the series doesn't just stop there and offer a mere explanation for the switch. The Hulu show takes it a step further, with Korvo, now voiced by Stevens, fearlessly acknowledging the casting shift in a powerful exchange of dialogue.
"This is what my voice sounds like now," declares Korvo in season 4 of Solar Opposites. He urges those around him to move past any initial shock or discomfort caused by the change. The scene toes the line between in-show humor, with Korvo joking about his voice sounding different in flashbacks, and possibly addressing the audience, who may be uncertain how to react to the new voice.
In reviews of Solar Opposites season 4, Stevens' voice acting has garnered praise. Critics have highlighted his seamless integration into the show, while others have credited his presence for enhancing the comedic elements of the animated series. Recasting can pose challenges, but in a fantastical sci-fi setting like the Hulu series, the concept allows for adaptability.
Source: ComicBook.com