Drake Bell recently talked to Marvel.com about the upcoming animated series Ultimate Spider-Man set to premiere on Disney XD.
Spider-Man’s had a number of animated incarnations over the years, but how would you describe the Peter Parker we meet in this series?
I like that in this one, he's a little closer to the original...a total science geek. So instead of the webs coming out of his wrists like some of the more recent [versions of Spider-Man], he actually builds a mechanism to shoot webbing. He's really inventive.
How familiar were you with Spider-Man before taking on this role?
Very! I always loved comic books when I was growing up, and Spider-Man was definitely a character I gravitated towards because I loved the story of an average teenager having super powers. Usually people my age were portrayed as the sidekick, but Spider-Man wasn't the sidekick--he was the hero!
Were there any particular comic series or stories you read in preparation for this role?
None specifically. I just went back and re-read a lot of the Spider Man comics I grew up on.
What have the recording sessions been like so far? What’s it been like collaborating with the rest of the cast and producers?
The sessions have been amazing. I've been able to work with some incredible voice talent, most of whom I grew up hearing in my favorite cartoons. Working with the writers, director, and producers has been very helpful with bringing the cartoon to life when you're just standing in a vocal booth.
What would you say is your favorite aspect of the series?
I'm just incredibly excited about seeing all the voices put to picture.
Which of Spider-Man’s powers would you most like to have in real life?
Definitely super strength! It would be nice to not worry about going to the gym anymore!
Ultimate Spider-Man is set to premiere in early 2012 on Disney XD with the voice talents of Drake Bell, Clark Gregg, J.K. Simmons, Chi McBride, Adrian Pasdar, and Stan Lee.