Disney legend Jim Cummings reveals behind-the-scenes secrets of voicing Winnie the Pooh, Tigger and Scar in The Lion King on This Is My Voice podcast.
If you’ve ever watched Saturday morning cartoons, chances are Jim Cummings was part of your childhood. The legendary voice actor behind Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Pete, Darkwing Duck, King Louie and even Scar’s singing voice in The Lion King has joined hosts Rachel Sallis and Eddie Bye for the season two premiere of This Is My Voice podcast, released today on the Auscast Network.
This special episode is more than just nostalgia. Cummings pulls back the curtain on how the most beloved characters in animation came to life, and the surprising stories that shaped his career.
The Lion King Bombshell
One of the most fascinating moments comes when Cummings reveals how he became part of The Lion King. Originally recommended by fellow voice legend Frank Welker, he landed the role of Ed the Hyena. But the real surprise was when producers asked him to step in for Jeremy Irons, who had strained his voice during recording.
That’s when Cummings delivered one of Disney’s most iconic villain performances – the singing sections of Be Prepared. “They asked if I’d take a swing at the villain song – and I couldn’t say no,” Cummings laughs. “That’s how I became Scar’s singing voice.”
It’s a story that proves sometimes the biggest roles happen by chance.
Winnie the Pooh’s Comfort for Kids
For millions, Cummings is the gentle, honey-loving Winnie the Pooh. But what many don’t realise is how much comfort that voice brought to children around the world.
Cummings shares stories of fans who grew up with difficult home lives, finding safety in the Disney Afternoon block of cartoons. “They’d come home, rewind the VHS, and watch Pooh and Tigger until their parents came home. For them, it was comfort food – a safe place to escape.”
It’s a reminder that behind every performance is more than entertainment – it’s connection, healing and joy.
The Legacy of a Legend
With a career spanning four decades, Cummings has voiced hundreds of characters for Disney, Warner Bros, Hanna-Barbera, and beyond. From Animaniacs and Tiny Toons to Darkwing Duck and Chip ’n Dale Rescue Rangers, his work has defined generations of animation.
Yet what shines through in this podcast is his humility and humour. He talks about friendships with other voice artists like Rob Paulsen, swapping roles with Frank Welker, and even the time Looney Tunes legend Mel Blanc gave him the ultimate compliment: “Tell the kid he’s got it.”
Listen Now
Whether you grew up quoting Tigger’s bounce, humming Darkwing Duck’s catchphrase, or singing along with Scar’s villainous anthem, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
