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15 Celebrity Cameos in Kids’ Shows You Probably Missed

These surprising celebrity appearances in kids’ shows likely slipped past you while you were focused on the cartoons.

  • Chris Graciano
  • 4 min read
15 Celebrity Cameos in Kids’ Shows You Probably Missed
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Celebrities have a knack for sneaking into children’s shows. They often come in the form of voice cameos or quick guest spots. These famous faces added a little extra magic to shows meant for kids. Here are 15 celebrity cameos in kids’ shows you might never have realized were there.

1. Britney Spears in The Rugrats (2001)

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Pop princess Britney Spears lent her voice for a quick cameo in a Rugrats episode where the babies attend her concert. Her appearance was short, but her animated version was instantly recognizable.

2. Robin Williams in SpongeBob SquarePants (2001)

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Williams briefly voiced a goofy, over-the-top seahorse vendor in an early SpongeBob episode. His signature humor and rapid-fire delivery made the character unforgettable to adults paying attention.

3. Elijah Wood in Yo Gabba Gabba! (2007)

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The Lord of the Rings star taught kids “The Dancey Dance” in one of the most whimsical segments on the show. His playful energy fit right in with the surreal, colorful world.

4. Michael Jackson in The Simpsons (1991)

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Jackson voiced Leon Kompowsky, a man in a mental hospital who believed he was Michael Jackson. While the episode is technically for older kids, many grew up watching The Simpsons without realizing the King of Pop was behind that voice.

5. Justin Timberlake in Sesame Street (2003)

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Timberlake appeared in a musical segment alongside Elmo, singing about healthy habits in a catchy tune. The boy-band heartthrob made the skit fun for both kids and their parents.

6. Katy Perry in Sesame Street (2010)

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Perry sang a playful duet with Elmo called “Hot and Cold,” parodying her hit song. The playful performance sparked mild controversy for her outfit, but kids were none the wiser.

7. Whoopi Goldberg in Dora the Explorer (2009)

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Whoopi provided the voice of a mischievous witch during a magical adventure episode. Her iconic voice added gravitas to the character, though most kids never knew they were listening to an EGOT winner.

8. David Bowie in SpongeBob SquarePants (2007)

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Bowie voiced Lord Royal Highness in the TV movie Atlantis SquarePantis. His calm, otherworldly delivery gave the episode an extra layer of coolness.

9. Ed Sheeran in The Simpsons (2018)

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Sheeran appeared as a charming musician named Brendan in the Simpsons episode “Haw-Haw Land.” His character played piano and became Lisa’s brief crush.

10. CeeLo Green in Teen Titans Go! (2014)

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The singer appeared as himself, performing a song that hyped up the young superheroes. His vibrant personality fit perfectly into the show’s chaotic energy.

11. Shaquille O’Neal in Static Shock (2002)

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Shaq showed up as himself, teaming up with the young hero in an episode about community and teamwork. His larger-than-life persona translated perfectly into animation.

12. Taylor Swift in The Lorax (2012)

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While not a TV series, Swift voiced Audrey in this family-friendly film based on the Dr. Seuss classic. Many viewers didn’t realize it was her because the role wasn’t musically focused.

13. Steve Irwin in The Wild Thornberrys (2000)

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The beloved “Crocodile Hunter” appeared as himself in an episode where the Thornberrys visit Australia. His enthusiasm for wildlife translated perfectly to animation.

14. Gilbert Gottfried in Fairly OddParents (2002)

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Gottfried voiced a sarcastic talking parrot in one of the show’s wildest episodes. His unmistakable voice gave the character an extra punch of comedy.

15. Mark Hamill in Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005)

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Hamill, best known as Luke Skywalker, voiced the terrifying Fire Lord Ozai. Most kids didn’t catch that the ultimate Star Wars hero was now the ultimate villain in a cartoon.

Written by: Chris Graciano

Chris has always had a vivid imagination, turning childhood daydreams into short stories and later, scripts for films. His passion for storytelling eventually led him to content writing, where he’s spent over four years blending creativity with a practical approach. Outside of work, Chris enjoys rewatching favorites like How I Met Your Mother and The Office, and you’ll often find him in the kitchen cooking or perfecting his coffee brew.

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