Troy Baker, renowned for his roles in Uncharted and The Last of Us, is set to star in another Naughty Dog title. Neil Druckmann confirmed Baker's leading role, revealing more about their enduring collaboration.
Troy Baker and Neil Druckmann: A Creative Partnership
Back at Naughty Dog
A November 25th GQ article confirmed Troy Baker's return to Naughty Dog for a leading role in an upcoming game. While details remain scarce, Druckmann's confirmation highlights the strong bond and mutual respect between them.
Baker's collaboration with Druckmann boasts a rich history, encompassing Baker's iconic portrayals of Joel in The Last of Us and Samuel Drake in Uncharted 4 and The Lost Legacy – projects largely helmed by Druckmann.
Their journey wasn't without its challenges. Initial creative differences regarding character portrayal led to friction. Baker's meticulous approach, often involving multiple takes, initially clashed with Druckmann's vision. Druckmann's intervention, emphasizing trust and the director's ultimate vision, ultimately shaped their collaborative process.
Despite early hurdles, a strong friendship developed, leading to Baker's involvement in numerous Naughty Dog projects. While Druckmann describes Baker as a "demanding actor," he lauds Baker's performance in The Last of Us Part II, stating, "Troy pushes boundaries, often surpassing my expectations."
Although specifics about the new game remain undisclosed, fans eagerly anticipate Baker's contribution.
Baker's Extensive Voice Acting Career
Troy Baker's acclaim extends far beyond Joel and Sam. His extensive repertoire includes memorable roles in numerous video games and animated series. Notable examples include Higgs Monaghan in Death Stranding, Indiana Jones in the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny game, Schneizel el Britannia in Code Geass, and various roles in Naruto: Shippuden and Transformers: EarthSpark. His voice acting credits also span popular shows like Scooby Doo, Ben 10, Family Guy, and Rick and Morty.
Baker's exceptional talent has garnered numerous nominations and awards, including a Spike Video Game Award for Best Voice Actor (2013) for his work in The Last of Us. His achievements firmly establish him as a leading figure in the voice acting industry.