The debate over whether to watch anime with English dubbing or original Japanese audio (with subtitles) is a never-ending one. Many Japanese anime, like the popular Dragon Ball series, eventually get English dubs. Considering both the original Japanese and English voice actors have worked on these characters for years, it’s a good time to look at where the English dub actually improved the story of Goku and the Z-Fighters.
7.) Goku Goes Super Saiyan 3 For The First Time
Sean Schemmel, the English voice of Son Goku, has always faced stiff competition from Masako Nozawa, the original Japanese voice actress who started in 1986. Nozawa’s performance is excellent, but Schemmel has shared stories about the physical toll of recording Goku’s intense fights – he sometimes even passed out in the booth! This seems especially believable when considering the iconic Super Saiyan 3 transformation, where Goku dramatically showcases his training with a prolonged, furious display. Schemmel perfectly captures that raw power and rage, bringing the transformation to life.
6.) “I Will Not Let You Destroy My World!”
Sean Schemmel’s delivery of the powerful line, “I will not let you destroy my world!” in Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods is considered one of the most iconic moments in the entire series. The line, shouted during Goku’s battle with the God of Destruction, Beerus, became a rallying cry as Goku transformed into a Super Saiyan. Similar to his work on the Super Saiyan 3 transformation, Sean’s dedication to the character and his commitment – even at the expense of his voice – have established him as a major talent in the anime voice acting world.
5.) Vegeta’s Pride
Similar to the friendly rivalry between Sean Schemmel and Masako Nozawa, English voice actor Chris Sabat faced tough competition from Ryo Horikawa, the original voice of Vegeta. Horikawa usually outperformed Sabat, but Sabat’s portrayal of “Majin Vegeta” is arguably better. You can really feel the mix of anger and sorrow in Sabat’s performance, particularly when Vegeta talks about how Earth “corrupted” him with a family and feelings of love. It was a close call, as both actors delivered excellent performances, but we’d give a slight advantage to Chris Sabat in this instance.
4.) Mr. Satan Pleads With Earth
Turning Mr. Satan, also known as Hercule, into a believable hero is a tough task, especially since he’s usually played for laughs. However, the Majin Buu Saga requires him to step up and save the world in a way that not even Goku or Vegeta could. Voice actor Chris Rager skillfully portrays a wide range of emotions – from sadness and humor to pure frustration – in Mr. Satan’s heartfelt pleas, ultimately giving the character more depth and making him surprisingly compelling.
3.) Vegeta Fights Recoome
Okay, here’s where things get interesting. When it comes to Vegeta’s rage during his fight with Recoome, Chris Sabat does a good job, but Brian Drummond really takes the cake. Before Funimation redubbed Dragon Ball Z, “The Ocean Group” did the voices, and Drummond was the original Vegeta. His screams while powering up and fighting Recoome were incredible – I can only imagine they nearly shook the recording studio! Even though the Ocean Dub had some pretty heavy censorship early on, it didn’t hold Drummond back at all. He delivered a phenomenal performance.
2.) Trunks During The Cell Saga
Though Takeishi Kusao did a good job voicing Trunks in the original Japanese version, Eric Vale’s performance as Future Trunks in the English dub of Dragon Ball Z was truly exceptional. Throughout Trunks’ introduction, Vale skillfully conveyed a range of emotions – anger, sadness, and shock – as he dealt with being in the past. Standout moments include Trunks’ desperate attempt to eliminate Androids 17 and 18 after they’re activated, and his efforts to prevent his father, Vegeta, from destroying Earth during his fateful battle with Cell.
1.) Dameon Clarke’s Cell
When it comes to English dubs of Dragon Ball, Dameon Clarke’s portrayal of Cell stands out. He brought incredible energy and a regal quality to the character, easily surpassing the original Japanese performance. Clarke excelled in every scene, whether Cell was calmly speaking or powerfully unleashing an attack. Combined with the iconic “Cell theme” created by Funimation, his version of Dr. Gero’s creation is unforgettable, which makes it disappointing that the recent Cell Max form didn’t have any dialogue.
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2025-12-07 00:10