Born on January 4, 1990, in Denville, New Jersey, Spencer Rothbell is a writer, voice actor, and story editor who has made significant contributions to these fields over the years. Best known for his work on Cartoon Network’s “Clarence,” Rothbell’s journey is one blend of creativity, adaptability, and a passion for storytelling.
Early Life and Education
Rothbell showed early interest in animation and storytelling while growing up in Denville. This passion led him to study at the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where he pursued studies in Experimental Animation. At CalArts, he engaged in various creative endeavors, including producing both humorous prank calls and serious artistic short films. Rothbell also expanded his horizons by taking improv classes with Chicago based group called “The ChuckCharlies.”
Career Beginnings
Rothbell’s professional journey in animation commenced with collaborative projects alongside friends. He contributed to short films, such as in the production of “Finding Ambrosia,” and creating animation segments for the music video “E.m-bed.de/d” by Yung Jake. Through these early experiences, he came to understand how animation is a collaborative process and the importance of versatility in creative roles.
Rise with “Clarence”
In 2013, Rothbell joined the team of “Clarence,” a Cartoon Network animated series about a spirited boy named Clarence and his friends. Rothbell initially served as a writer and storyboard artist, but his role expanded when the show’s original creator and voice actor, Skyler Page, left the project. Demonstrating remarkable adaptability, Rothbell assumed the titular role, becoming the voice of Clarence. His performance captured the character’s innocence and enthusiasm and proved popular with audiences. From 2014 to 2017, Rothbell was the Head of Story, directing all things narrative development and maintaining the show’s creative design.
Continued Contributions to Animation
After “Clarence” concluded in 2018, Rothbell continued to leave his mark on the animation industry. Serving as a writer and story editor for “Victor & Valentino,” a series exploring Mesoamerican folklore, he showed his ability to engage with diverse cultural stories. Rothbell also voiced various characters in different series, including “Twelve Forever” and “Boxtown,” further proving his versatility within the field.
Personal Reflections
Rothbell’s journey demonstrates how adaptability and passion can play a crucial role in the creative arts. His seamless transition from behind-the-scenes roles to voicing a beloved character highlights a willingness to embrace new challenges and opportunities. Colleagues have praised his upbeat disposition and dedication, with Cartoon Network PR noting: “Spencer Rothbell is the glue that has held the ‘Clarence’ show together over the last few years.”
Future Endeavors
As Rothbell continues to look for new projects and collaborations, his contributions to animation should inspire other aspiring creators. His varied career reflects a deep commitment to storytelling and a genuine enthusiasm for the art of animation.
