Charlie Adler

What is your name and your current occupation?
Charlie Adler. I am currently an actor… Animation/Stage/TV/Film Voice Director /Casting Director.
What are some of the crazier jobs you had before getting into animation?
Cocktail waiter at Studio 54 when it first opened in the ’70’s.. Nude Model at Art Students League (to pay for my classes) Baker of Bread and Quiche w/ illegal substances for a whore house in NYC.

 

What are some of your favorite projects you’re proud to have been a part of?
Cow and Chicken,My short film(co wrote w/ David Feiss and Michael Ryan) ( I play a 14 year old girl suspected of being a lesbian).Am very proud of Directing all Klasky Csupo Franchises.Starring on B’way and National tour of Torch Song Trilogy. THAT was climbing Mt, Everest!

 

How did you become interested in animation?
I never really was interested in animation...it found me and it was LOVE at first sight. I never knew that I could use all my skill in one place!!!!!

 

Where are you from and how did you get into the animation business?
I am from NY. Came to LA after touring Torch Song and had only My Little Pony Special under my belt which I I had done in NY.
Animation was not my primary goal .TV and Film was. But it took me.. DAMN !Ain’t I lucky? Amazing to be used and working for decades.. No one cares if my ass is dragging on the floor!

 

What’s a typical day like for you with regards to your job?
Manic,thrilling,fun…. .irritating,exhilarating,challenging,EXTREME.
http://www.viddler.com/v/62548198

What part of your job do you like best? Why?
I like all parts. I love to work and whatever is in front of me gets my full attention and effort.

 

What part of your job do you like least?Why?
Minutia and people who live in it.  I love anything that is expansive not contracting ., Minutia contracts.

 

What is the most difficult part for you about being in the business?
There is nothing anymore that really gets inside me enough to qualify as “most difficult”….. maybe staying relevant.

 

What kind of technology do you work with on a daily basis?
As little as possible.. My toaster is a challenge.

 

In your travels, have you had any brushes with animation greatness?
Of course I have. I think that I have worked with some of the most gifted people in “The Business” in animation.!!!! I think the actors are amazing and courageous and fearless and exciting and thrilling. Does working with great idiots count as well?

Describe a tough situation you had in life.
Which one?I lost everything I had and loved in the mid ’80’s and have been thrown on many a stove since … and after my ass healed…I have been very grateful( in hindsight) for the strengthening and insight it brought.Life is complicated and thrilling and great if you don’t weaken!

 

Any side projects you’re working on you’d like to share details of?
It’s all one long day and usually full. I love my work but love my personal life and home and friends and family and dogs more… Oh and I paint.

Is there any advice you can give for an aspiring animation student or artist trying to break into the business?
Do your best with integrity and hold onto yourself. If you please everyone … you’re an idiot.