Kudos have to be given to the film’s animation and design team, as well as the voice behind Paddington Bear, Ben Whishaw. The actor, who you might recognize as Q from the Daniel Craig-led “007” films, looks absolutely nothing like the film’s cute lil’ star. In part, this is because he stands at 5 feet, 9 inches tall, which is considerably taller than the relatively short bear. Though Whishaw has a number of intriguing roles under his belt, it’s fair to say that headlining “Paddington” is his most iconic gig. His contributions to the franchise are even more impressive considering he wasn’t the original actor to land the role.
Colin Firth of “Mama Mia!” and “Love Actually” fame was first brought on board to voice the bear. Unfortunately, Firth and director Paul King came to the conclusion that the actor didn’t have the right voice for the child-like bear, and the decision was made to recast the character. Things ultimately worked out, as Whishaw has received tons of praise for breathing life into the quirky oddball. With two films and an animated series under his belt, the actor is now unable to escape the role — and he’s glad that he can’t. “[I]t’s a massive part of my life now. And I do love it,” he told GQ. “It’s another thing that I never imagined I would be doing. But it is a real pleasure.” Now, all eyes are on “Paddington 3,” which takes place in the bear’s homeland of Peru.
Obsessed with the marmalade-loving bear? Check out these fun “Paddington” facts to get your paws into!
