Metro Detroit voice actor turns a lifelong love of superheroes into a thriving career

Overview

Metro Detroit voice actor Mark Cooper turned a lifelong passion for superheroes into a growing career focused largely on voice acting—often recording from his home studio rather than appearing on camera. The segment highlights roles he’s voiced across superheroes and video game characters, including a recent part as Jet Boy, a 10-year-old superhero.

Cooper’s Approach to Voice Acting

Cooper explains that voiceover work is about bringing characters and art to life. He also says success comes from:

• Practice
• Learning to channel different inspirations
• Developing the ability to switch voice types

He notes that switching voice types can be surprisingly difficult—so much so that people in everyday settings sometimes mistake his real voice for his “work” voice.

Childhood Passion to Professional Work

The report presents Cooper’s enthusiasm and memorabilia as proof of how childhood interests shaped his professional path. Items mentioned include a Power Rangers helmet and other collectibles. While he was already a dedicated fan, he began pursuing the work only a few years ago.

The Changing Industry: AI Voices

The segment addresses how the industry is evolving, especially with AI-generated voices increasingly viewed as a threat to voice actors.

• Cooper confirms that AI has affected his gigs.
• It cites a National Association of Voice Actors survey indicating that about one in five voice actors say they’ve lost work to AI.

At the same time, the segment notes a complication: AI can also make voice access easier for non-professionals, potentially increasing competition and reducing the uniqueness of “organic” human-sounding performances.

Accessibility and Remote Recording

Finally, the segment emphasizes that voice acting is more accessible than ever. Many performers now work from home using simple setups, including using a smartphone microphone, reflecting how technology and remote recording have reshaped the profession.

Presenters/Contributors

• Faraz Javeed (7 News Detroit)
• Mark Cooper (voice actor)