Klaus is an animated holiday movie that tells the origin story of Santa Claus. Directed by Sergio Pablos, the creator of Despicable Me, the Netflix original blends traditional animation with a fresh narrative approach.
Set in the grim and feuding town of Smeerensburg, the film tells the story of Jesper, an exiled postal worker, and his unlikely partnership with Klaus, a reclusive toymaker, to restore joy to the community.
The movie's compelling storyline and breathtaking visuals earned widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, humor, and craftsmanship. However, the movie's success is equally credited to its stellar voice cast, featuring talents like J.K. Simmons, Jason Schwartzman, Rashida Jones, and others.
J.K. Simmons, Rashida Jones, and other voice actors of Klaus
1) Jason Schwartzman as Jesper Johanssen
Jason Schwartzman voices Jesper, a spoiled Royal Postal Academy student sent to Smeerensburg as punishment for his incompetence. Jesper begins as a selfish, entitled individual but transforms into a compassionate hero through his journey. Schwartzman’s witty and dynamic performance captures the character's evolution beautifully.
Schwartzman, known for his collaborations with director Wes Anderson, has carved a niche in quirky and offbeat roles. He starred in Rushmore, The Darjeeling Limited, and The Grand Budapest Hotel. Beyond acting, Schwartzman is also a talented musician, contributing to the indie music scene with his band Coconut Records.
2) J.K. Simmons as Klaus
J.K. Simmons lends his commanding voice to Klaus, a solitary carpenter with a mysterious past. Klaus’s toys and eventual bond with Jesper become the foundation for the Christmas tradition.
Simmons is best known for his Oscar-winning performance in Whiplash, where he played a fiercely intense music teacher. Fans may recognize him as J. Jonah Jameson from Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man trilogy and the MCU.
3) Rashida Jones as Alva
Rashida Jones plays Alva, a disillusioned teacher-turned-fishmonger in Smeerensburg. Initially bitter about the town’s grim outlook, she finds renewed purpose when Jesper enlists her help to teach children to read and write letters to Klaus.
A versatile actress, Jones is best known for her roles as Ann Perkins in Parks and Recreation and Karen Filippelli in The Office. She also co-wrote Toy Story 4 and has received praise for her work as a producer on documentaries like Quincy, which chronicles her father, Quincy Jones’ life.
4) Norm Macdonald as Mogens
The late Norm Macdonald voices Mogens, the sarcastic ferryman who becomes Jesper’s reluctant ally. Mogens adds comic relief to the film with his sharp one-liners and dry humor.
A former Saturday Night Live cast member, Macdonald was celebrated for his deadpan delivery and stand-up comedy. He starred in Norm Macdonald Has a Show and voiced roles in animated series like Mike Tyson Mysteries. Mogens in Klaus was one of Macdonald’s final performances, showcasing his comedic timing.
5) Joan Cusack as Mrs. Krum
Joan Cusack voices Mrs. Krum, the matriarch of one of the feuding clans in Smeerensburg. Determined to maintain the town’s hostility, Mrs. Krum opposes Jesper and Klaus’s efforts to spread goodwill.
With a career spanning decades, Cusack is known for her roles in Working Girl and The Perks of Being a Wallflower. She also played Sheila Gallagher in Shameless and voiced Jessie in Pixar’s Toy Story series.
6) Will Sasso as Mr. Ellingboe
Will Sasso portrays Mr. Ellingboe, the head of the rival clan Krums. Like Mrs. Krum, he’s intent on preserving the town’s division but finds himself outwitted by Jesper’s schemes.
Sasso rose to fame as a cast member on MADtv, where he showcased his flair for impersonations and slapstick humor. He later appeared in The Three Stooges and Less Than Perfect.
The film also features a talented ensemble of voice actors, including Brad Abrell, Catherine Cavadini, and Alyson Reed, who bring the background characters of Smeerensburg to life. Interested viewers can watch Klaus on Netflix.