Though he’ll forever be remembered for his Emmy-nominated portrayal of the know-it-all postman Cliff Clavin on the beloved NBC sitcom Cheers (1982–1993), John Ratzenberger has carved out a rich and varied career across all corners of the entertainment industry. Long before and well after Cheers, he established himself as a dependable character actor, appearing in iconic films like Superman: The Movie and The Empire Strikes Back. Unlike many of his co-stars on Cheers, Ratzenberger consistently remained in the spotlight, whether stepping behind the camera as a television director or lending his unmistakable voice to a host of memorable animated characters.
Perhaps best known for his role as Hamm the piggy bank in the Toy Story franchise, Ratzenberger became a staple of Pixar’s ensemble casts, bringing life to characters in other critically acclaimed films such as Finding Nemo (2003), Ratatouille (2007), and Up (2009). His versatility extended beyond animation, with regular appearances in live-action television and film, proving his enduring appeal.
In a surprising but welcome twist, Ratzenberger showcased yet another side of his talents when he joined the cast of Dancing with the Stars (ABC, 2005– ) after a last-minute opening arose due to Vincent Pastore’s withdrawal. With his trademark charm and unexpected agility, he charmed audiences once again, reinforcing the fact that John Ratzenberger is far more than just Cliff Clavin—he’s a multi-talented entertainer who continues to leave his mark on both stage and screen.
When it comes to John Ratzenberger’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Toy Story 2 (1999) as his standout performance—quite possibly his highest rated movie. It’s no surprise, really, considering the massive acclaim the film received and John Ratzenberger’s memorable voice role that added charm to the beloved Pixar classic. On the other end of the spectrum, John Ratzenberger also appeared in House II: The Second Story (1987), a film that didn’t resonate as well with audiences or reviewers, making it one of his lowest rated movies. While John Ratzenberger has built a diverse career over the decades, these two films represent the highs and lows in terms of critical reception. Whether you’re revisiting classics or exploring deeper cuts, John Ratzenberger’s contributions remain a notable part of cinema history.