John Ratzenberger
John Ratzenberger
John Ratzenberger (born April 6, 1947) is an American actor, voice actor, and comedian, best known for his role as Cliff Clavin on the hit TV sitcom Cheers (1982–1993). Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Ratzenberger began his career in theater before moving to television. His portrayal of the lovable, know-it-all postal worker earned him widespread recognition and numerous awards. In addition to his work on Cheers, Ratzenberger became famous for his extensive voice work in Pixar films, voicing characters such as Hamm the piggy bank in Toy Story and P.T. Flea in A Bug's Life.
Ratzenberger's career spans various genres, including acting, directing, and producing. He has appeared in a wide range of films and TV shows, including roles in Supergirl (1984) and The Empire Strikes Back (1980), where he had a small but memorable role as a rebel soldier. His long association with Pixar films has made him a cherished figure in the animation industry, with his distinct voice becoming a signature element of the studio’s films. In addition to acting, Ratzenberger is passionate about entrepreneurship and homebuilding, having even hosted his own TV show, John Ratzenberger's Made in America.
A few of Ratzenberger's memorable quotes showcase his grounded yet humorous perspective on life. He once said, "The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do." Another of his popular quotes is, "If you want to be an actor, you have to work hard and never give up." These words reveal his determination and belief in the power of perseverance and the joy of defying expectations.