Meet The Stars Zookeeper Cast And Their Memorable Roles

Howard Cosell

2 min read

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28-03-2025

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The 2011 film Zookeeper offered a lighthearted escape with its talking animals and charming storyline. While the plot may be familiar, the cast brought a unique blend of humor and heart to the characters. Let's revisit some of the key players and their memorable contributions.

Kevin James as Griffin Keyes

Kevin James, known for his comedic roles in films like Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Grown Ups, took center stage as Griffin Keyes, the dedicated but somewhat hapless zookeeper. James's affable nature perfectly suited the character's earnest attempts to improve his life and connect with the animals in his care. His performance anchored the film, providing a relatable core amidst the fantastical elements.

Rosario Dawson as Kate

Rosario Dawson, a versatile actress with credits spanning diverse genres, played Kate, Griffin's love interest. Dawson brought a grounded sensibility and playful chemistry to her role, providing a counterpoint to the often chaotic interactions between Griffin and the talking animals. Her character served as a realistic element within the fantastical setting, representing a grounded perspective amidst the animal antics.

The Voice Cast: A Menagerie of Talent

The true stars of Zookeeper, however, may be the talking animals. This ensemble voice cast brought a significant amount of star power and comedic talent:

• Sylvester Stallone as Bernie the Gorilla: Stallone, known for his action roles, lent his gravelly voice to the gruff but ultimately lovable Bernie. The unexpected pairing of Stallone's tough-guy persona with the character of a gorilla added a layer of humorous contrast.
• Adam Sandler as Donkey: Sandler, a frequent collaborator with James, provided the voice of the cynical yet ultimately caring donkey. Sandler's comedic timing and delivery were perfectly suited to the donkey's witty, sarcastic remarks.
• Nick Nolte as the Lion: Nolte's distinctive voice added gravitas and a touch of world-weariness to the character of the lion, creating a memorable portrayal.
• Sherri Shepherd as Janet the Elephant: Shepherd's comedic expertise brought a warm and relatable quality to the voice of Janet, the elephant.
• Faizon Love as Barry the Cheetah: Love's energetic and humorous performance as the voice of Barry added to the film's energetic and comedic tone.

Beyond these key players, the supporting cast contributed significantly to the overall success of the film. The interplay between the human and animal characters, made vibrant through the performances of the whole cast, contributed to the film's enduring appeal. The diverse casting choices reflected a commitment to bringing a variety of perspectives and comedic styles to the screen.

A Lasting Impression

Zookeeper ultimately succeeded because of the combined talents of its cast. From Kevin James' relatable performance to the impressive voice work of its animal actors, the film provided viewers with a charming and funny experience. The film's memorable characters remain a testament to the power of a well-cast ensemble.