A native of L.A., this rapper is known for his deep, gravelly voice and a unique ability to balance whimsy with menace—traits that have translated seamlessly into a successful second career as a character actor and voice talent in cartoons. Tone Loc first gained widespread attention in 1989 with the release of two top 40 singles: “Wild Thing” and “Funky Cold Medina.” These hits served as a launching pad, opening doors into both feature films and television.
He made his feature film debut with a musical cameo in The Adventures of Ford Fairlane (1990), a vehicle for Andrew “Dice” Clay. Tone Loc’s voice acting career took off in 1992 when he voiced a menacing giant lizard in the animated film FernGully: The Last Rainforest, and also brought to life Pee Wee, a sharp-tongued child in Bebe’s Kids. That same year, he took on the role of Ronnie Paxton, a local vigilante, in the Fox sitcom Roc.
Since then, Tone Loc has remained a familiar presence on screen, appearing in a wide range of films. His filmography includes a black Western (Posse), a romantic road drama (Poetic Justice), both released in 1993. He also appeared in the wildly popular comedy Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and the Disney film Blank Check, both in 1994, further showcasing his versatility across genres.
When it comes to Tone Loc’s film career, one standout moment definitely comes from his role in Titan A.E. (2000), which happens to be his highest rated movie by far. Fans and critics alike have shown a strong preference for this sci-fi animated feature, giving it solid acclaim over the years. On the other hand, Tone Loc’s lowest rated film is widely considered to be Car 54, Where Are You? (1994), a comedy that didn’t quite hit the mark with audiences. While Tone Loc has made appearances in various projects, it’s clear that Titan A.E. remains a highlight in his acting journey. Still, even with a few misses like Car 54, Tone Loc continues to be remembered for his unique contributions to film and music. Overall, Tone Loc’s impact on entertainment spans more than just music—his roles, especially in Tone Loc-approved favorites like Titan A.E., show a different side of his artistry.