The voice behind Arby's famous slogan "We have the meats!" is actor Ving Rhames. Rhames, known for his deep, commanding voice, has been the voice of Arby's commercials since 2014. His powerful delivery of the slogan has become synonymous with the brand, helping to make it instantly recognizable.
Ving Rhames is also known for his roles in films such as Pulp Fiction and the Mission: Impossible series, where he portrays the character Luther Stickell. His distinctive voice has made him a popular choice for commercial voiceovers.
Ving Rhames is an American actor known for his distinct, deep voice and powerful on-screen presence, and his role as the voice behind Arby’s iconic slogan, "We have the meats!" has made him a recognizable figure in commercial advertising.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ving Rhames was born Irving Rameses Rhames on May 12, 1959, in Harlem, New York City. Raised in a working-class family, Rhames grew up in a tough neighborhood, but he discovered a love for acting during his time at the High School of Performing Arts in Manhattan. His passion for the craft led him to attend the prestigious Juilliard School, where he studied drama, further honing his skills as an actor.
After graduating from Juilliard in the early 1980s, Rhames began his acting career in theater and television. His first significant roles were in off-Broadway productions, which opened the door to television appearances. His early TV roles included guest spots on shows like Miami Vice and Crime Story. He was building a reputation for his intense, dramatic performances, which would eventually lead him to more prominent roles in film.
Breakthrough Roles in Film
Rhames' breakthrough came in the 1990s with a series of high-profile roles in critically acclaimed films. One of his most memorable performances was as Marsellus Wallace, the gangster boss in Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction (1994). This role introduced him to a wider audience and showcased his talent for playing powerful, authoritative characters. His portrayal of Marsellus, a man of few words but immense presence, became iconic, especially with the famous line: "I'm gonna get medieval on your..." well, you know the rest.
In 1996, Rhames starred alongside Tom Cruise in Mission: Impossible as Luther Stickell, a tech-savvy, cool-headed member of the Impossible Missions Force. This role would become a recurring one, with Rhames reprising his role in nearly every film in the franchise. Luther Stickell became a fan favorite, and Rhames' chemistry with Tom Cruise brought a sense of camaraderie to the Mission: Impossible series.
Rhames has appeared in a wide range of genres, from action-packed films like Con Air (1997) and Out of Sight (1998) to more dramatic roles in films such as Bringing Out the Dead (1999), directed by Martin Scorsese. His versatility as an actor allowed him to play both the tough, intimidating figure and more emotionally nuanced roles with equal skill.
"We Have the Meats!" and Voice Acting
In 2014, Ving Rhames became the voice behind the Arby’s slogan, “We have the meats!” His deep, commanding voice perfectly complements the brand’s message of offering hearty, meat-filled sandwiches. The tagline, which became instantly recognizable, helped refresh Arby’s brand image and contributed to the fast-food chain’s resurgence in popularity.
Rhames’ delivery of the line, often booming with authority, has become a staple of Arby’s marketing. The campaign is known for its straightforward, unapologetic promotion of Arby’s meat-focused menu, and Rhames’ voice serves as the perfect embodiment of that boldness. His voice adds a sense of gravitas to the commercials, making even fast food sound grand and important. The slogan has been used in various creative ways, such as in advertisements featuring over-the-top food close-ups, emphasizing the size and variety of meats offered by Arby’s.
Beyond his work with Arby’s, Rhames has lent his voice to other projects, including voice acting roles in animated shows and films. His distinctive voice makes him a popular choice for roles that require a powerful, authoritative vocal presence.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Ving Rhames is a private person when it comes to his personal life, but he is known to be a family man. He has been married twice, and he has two children. Outside of acting, Rhames has been involved in various charitable causes and has spoken out about the importance of giving back to the community. He has donated to organizations focused on education and providing resources for underprivileged youth.
One notable example of Rhames' generosity occurred in 1998 when he won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television for his role in Don King: Only in America. In a surprising and heartfelt gesture, Rhames invited fellow nominee Jack Lemmon on stage and gave the award to him, stating that he felt Lemmon was more deserving. This act of humility and respect highlighted Rhames' character off-screen and earned him widespread praise.
Legacy and Ongoing Influence
Ving Rhames has built a lasting legacy in Hollywood, not only as a talented actor but also as a voice that has resonated with audiences across various media. His roles in films like Pulp Fiction and Mission: Impossible have cemented his status as a versatile actor capable of delivering both intensity and subtlety. Additionally, his work in the Arby’s commercials has given him a new level of recognition, particularly among audiences who may not be as familiar with his film work.
His voice has become a cultural marker, symbolizing strength, authority, and, of course, indulgence when it comes to food. The success of Arby’s “We have the meats!” campaign is a testament to Rhames’ ability to capture attention and deliver a message in a way that sticks with people.
Whether he’s voicing a fast-food commercial or portraying a character in an action-packed film, Ving Rhames has a commanding presence that few actors can match. His contributions to both the entertainment industry and advertising have left an indelible mark, and his work continues to entertain and influence audiences. As the voice of Arby’s, he has become part of the brand’s identity, elevating the way people perceive the fast-food chain.
In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, Ving Rhames stands as a reminder of the power of presence, both in physical performance and in voice. His ability to make even the simplest line, like "We have the meats!" memorable, is a testament to his immense talent.
No comments:
Post a Comment