Justin Roiland: Justin Roiland, the creative force behind some of the most absurd and entertaining shows, has carved a niche for himself in the world of animation and comedy. While many fans are familiar with his work, there are some lesser-known facets of his life that add an extra layer of intrigue. Let’s dive into 13 uncommon facts about the man who brought us the eccentric worlds of “Rick and Morty” and “Solar Opposites.”
1. Childhood Cartoon Passion:
As a child, Roiland had an early fascination with cartoons. Growing up in Manteca, California, he immersed himself in the animated world, developing a keen interest in drawing and storytelling that would later become the foundation of his career.
2. Fish Center Live:
Roiland is not just an animator; he’s also the co-creator of “Fish Center Live,” an unconventional web series that features live footage of fish swimming in a tank. The show combines humor, games, and quirky commentary, showcasing Roiland’s penchant for the unconventional.
3. Failed Animated Pitches:
Before achieving widespread success with “Rick and Morty,” Roiland faced numerous rejections for his animated pitches. One of his rejected projects was “Dog World,” a show centered around a boy living in a world inhabited by anthropomorphic dogs. These setbacks, however, only fueled his determination.
4. Voices of the Multiverse:
Roiland is the voice behind both Rick and Morty in the hit animated series. What many might not know is that he improvises most of his lines, contributing to the show’s unique and unpredictable dialogue. His ability to seamlessly switch between the two characters has become a hallmark of the series.
5. VR Enthusiast:
Beyond the realm of animation, Roiland is an avid virtual reality (VR) enthusiast. He co-founded Squanch Games, a VR game development studio. The studio’s projects, like “Accounting” and “Trover Saves the Universe,” reflect Roiland’s quirky sense of humor and innovative approach to storytelling in the VR space.
6. Award-Winning Shorts:
Before achieving fame with “Rick and Morty,” Roiland created several animated shorts. One of his earliest works, “The Real Animated Adventures of Doc and Mharti,” served as the prototype for “Rick and Morty” and earned Roiland recognition for his unique comedic style.
7. Harmonious Collaboration:
Roiland’s collaboration with Dan Harmon, the co-creator of “Rick and Morty,” has been a key factor in the show’s success. The two have a dynamic working relationship, with Roiland’s spontaneity balancing Harmon’s structured approach, resulting in the show’s distinct blend of chaos and coherence.
8. Comedy School Dropout:
Despite his success in the world of comedy, Roiland dropped out of the California Institute of the Arts, known for its prestigious animation program. His decision to pursue his creative instincts outside the confines of formal education ultimately shaped his unconventional and unapologetic comedic style.
9. “Rick and Morty” Origins:
The concept for “Rick and Morty” was born out of a parody of “Back to the Future” called “The Real Animated Adventures of Doc and Mharti.” Adult Swim recognized the potential in Roiland’s unique take on sci-fi and comedy, leading to the development of the beloved series we know today.
10. Alien Invasion in “Solar Opposites”:
In addition to “Rick and Morty,” Roiland co-created another animated series, “Solar Opposites,” which explores the lives of aliens who seek refuge on Earth. The show offers a different comedic flavor while retaining Roiland’s signature wit and satirical commentary.
11. Nihilistic Humor:
Roiland’s comedic style often delves into nihilism, existentialism, and absurdism. This dark and philosophical humor, showcased prominently in “Rick and Morty,” adds depth to the series and resonates with viewers who appreciate the blend of comedy and introspection.
12. Venture into Music:
Roiland has ventured into the music scene with the release of his album “Bushworld Adventures Soundtrack.” The album features tracks inspired by the “Bushworld Adventures” episode of “Rick and Morty,” showcasing Roiland’s versatility across different creative mediums.
13. Legal Battles Over “Rick and Morty”:
Roiland and Harmon faced legal challenges during the early days of “Rick and Morty.” The show’s original title, “The Real Animated Adventures of Doc and Mharti,” led to a dispute with the creators of “Back to the Future.” Ultimately, the title was changed, and the legal issues were resolved, allowing the show to flourish.
In the quirky and unpredictable universe of Justin Roiland, these uncommon facts offer a glimpse into the mind of a creative genius whose unconventional journey has left an indelible mark on the world of animation and comedy.
WRITTEN BY COLLINS