In a surprising yet exciting career development, Bronx rapper Ice Spice is set to make a splash in the world of animation with a role in the upcoming film The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants. Known for her hits like “Munch (Feelin’ U),” Ice Spice now brings her signature style to the animated screen, voicing a new character in one of the most beloved children’s franchises. It’s a bold move that reaffirms her versatility and widespread appeal.
Ice Spice Transitions Into Animation
This latest venture into animation marks another milestone for the Grammy-nominated artist, proving that her talents transcend music. Ice Spice lends her voice to a character portrayed as a ride attendant with a bright orange Afro—a nod to her own striking appearance. In the film’s newly released trailer, which tantalizes with its vibrant antics, fans get a brief tease of her character asserting authority with the memorable line: “Don’t make me call security.”
The Bronx native is no stranger to trying new things, having made her film debut earlier in the year alongside A$AP Rocky and Denzel Washington in the movie Highest 2 Lowest. But her involvement in The SpongeBob Movie isn’t just confined to voice acting; she’s also contributing a single titled “Big Guy” to the movie’s soundtrack, a move that combines her two loves—music and entertainment.
The Star-Studded Lineup
Ice Spice joins an impressive cast that includes comedy and film heavyweights like George Lopez, Regina Hall, and Sherry Cola. Directed by Derek Drymon, known for his work on the original SpongeBob SquarePants series, the film promises to be a seafaring comedy-adventure. According to the synopsis, audiences can look forward to seeing SpongeBob embark on a brave journey to prove himself to Mr. Krabs, guided by the ghost pirate, The Flying Dutchman.
For Ice Spice, being a part of such a longstanding and beloved franchise is a dream come true. She was quick to express her joy and enthusiasm about the project, telling NYLON, “I went to the studio and they had my cup of tea ready for me, and they were like, ‘These are your lines. This is your character.’ And I just fell in love.”
A Natural Cross-Over
The move by Ice Spice to venture into animation and film appears strategic and timely, with the industry increasingly embracing multifaceted artists. While several musicians have crossed over to the screen, including Queen Latifah and Will Smith, Ice Spice’s entry into the animated realm draws comparisons to fellow hip-hop artist Kid Cudi, who has found a secondary home in voice roles.
This multimedia approach not only broadens her audience but reinforces her brand in ways traditional music careers may not. As younger and more diverse voices infiltrate Hollywood’s realms, the casting of Ice Spice in such a lighthearted, family-friendly project underscores her growing mainstream appeal.
Looking Ahead
As the anticipation builds for the December 19 release of The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants, Ice Spice continues to keep her fans engaged with music releases, such as her latest track “Pretty Privilege.” This consistent flow of content ensures that she remains top of mind in the minds of her audience as she branches into new creative territories.
Ice Spice’s venture into animation is not just about expanding her horizons but about contributing to projects that resonate widely. Her work on the film is a testament to her artistic courage—a willingness to step beyond her comfort zone and embrace opportunities that challenge and delight her. As SpongeBob and friends prepare to sail into theaters, all eyes will reveal how this “Big Guy” of a project contributes to the continuing rise of Ice Spice.