Critical Role Cast and Characters Guide: All the Heroes Across Three Campaigns

… and The Legend of Vox Machina

Critical Role has become a landmark in the world of Dungeons & Dragons, with its core cast of talented voice actors breathing life into sprawling narratives that have captivated audiences worldwide. Their compelling storytelling and unforgettable characters have transformed tabletop gaming into a cultural sensation. This guide introduces you to the core cast of Critical Role, delving into their various characters across all three campaigns and their roles in the animated series, The Legend of Vox Machina.

The success of Critical Role redefined D&D’s place in popular culture, highlighting the vast potential for role-playing games to weave complex, character-driven plots resonant with viewers. The show’s blend of drama, humor, and immersive storytelling, alongside its talented cast, has elevated the significance and widespread appreciation for tabletop gaming.

As Critical Role’s influence continues to grow, it expands the scope and depth of the role-playing genre, inspiring a new generation of gamers, creators, and storytellers. The core cast’s dynamic interplay and vibrant character portrayals serve as a testament to the enduring power of collaborative storytelling.

Meet the Critical Role Cast

At the heart of Critical Role is a cast of dedicated individuals, each bringing their unique craft and creative flair to the table. These actors, directors, and creators collectively craft a rich tapestry of storytelling, breathing life into characters and narratives that captivate fans around the world. Their roles extend beyond players, as they contribute diverse skills that enhance every aspect of Critical Role’s productions.

Cast Members and Roles

This table introduces the core cast members, highlighting their roles within Critical Role productions and their significant contributions outside of character roleplay.

Each member brings unique talents and insights that enhance both the show and the broader Critical Role brand, crafting an experience that is as innovative as it is engaging.

Matthew Mercer – The Dungeon Master

Matthew Mercer serves as the Dungeon Master for all Critical Role campaigns, his masterful storytelling and world-building setting a high standard for DMs everywhere. His influence as a storyteller has not only defined Critical Role’s adventures but also inspired countless gamers to explore the limitless potential of role-playing.

With a background as a renowned voice actor, Mercer has lent his talents to countless characters across games and animation. Alongside his role as Chief Creative Officer, he crafted the vibrant setting of Exandria and contributed to the design of the Tal’Dorei Campaign Setting book, expanding the rich lore that has become integral to Critical Role’s universe.

Key NPCs Played by Mercer

Mercer also voices a variety of beloved NPCs, several of whom appear in The Legend of Vox Machina.

• Shaun Gilmore – Charismatic human sorcerer and magical merchant.
• Allura Vysoren – Powerful wizard and major quest-giver.
• Lady Kima – Heroic halfling paladin and Vox Machina ally.

These characters add depth to the campaigns, often guiding the main story arcs and providing players with critical narrative direction.

Laura Bailey – The Voice of Many Heroes

Laura Bailey, a BAFTA-winning voice actor, brings her extensive talent to Critical Role’s campaigns, crafting a diverse range of characters that showcase her adaptability and creativity. Known for her work in video games and animation, Bailey infuses her characters with depth and personality, weaving intricate stories that resonate with audiences.

Bailey’s versatility as a player allows her to transition seamlessly between classes and races across campaigns, exploring different archetypes with each new character. Her reputation for collecting and using special dice adds a quirky charm to her gameplay, enhancing the immersive experience for both her fellow cast members and fans.

Characters Played by Laura Bailey

Bailey’s main characters in each campaign are distinct, marked by their unique personalities and special abilities.

• Vex’ahlia (Campaign 1) – Half-elf ranger with a close bond to her pet bear, Trinket.
• Jester Lavorre (Campaign 2) – Tiefling cleric with a mischievous personality and healing magic.
• Imogen Temult (Campaign 3) – Human sorcerer with psionic powers and a mysterious past.

Bailey’s adaptability and creative approach continually breathe life into each character, enriching the campaign with her compelling role-playing.

Taliesin Jaffe – The Storyteller of Conflicted Souls

Taliesin Jaffe began his career as a young actor before transitioning into voice acting and role-playing, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to Critical Role. Known for crafting characters with deep, often troubled backstories, Jaffe is unafraid to sacrifice his creations for dramatic effect, infusing the campaign with tension and emotion.

Jaffe’s ability to delve into dark and intricate character narratives adds a layer of complexity to each campaign, challenging both his fellow players and the storyline itself. His commitment to authentic storytelling is evident in the characters he pioneers, each with their inner conflicts and motivations.

Characters Played by Taliesin Jaffe

Jaffe’s characters are renowned for their complexity and unique abilities, each leaving a lasting impact on the narrative.

• Percival de Rolo (Campaign 1) – Human gunslinger and nobleman seeking vengeance.
• Mollymauk Tealeaf (Campaign 2) – Tiefling blood hunter with a mysterious past.
• Caduceus Clay (Campaign 2) – Peace-loving firbolg cleric with a connection to nature.

Jaffe’s narrative depth and willingness to explore complex themes enrich each campaign, drawing audiences into the multifaceted worlds he creates.

Ashley Johnson – A Hero in Many Forms

Ashley Johnson, acclaimed actress and President of the Critical Role Foundation, brings her talents to role-playing with a commitment to crafting memorable and often quirky characters. Despite a busy acting schedule during the early campaigns, Johnson’s dedication to her roles has consistently stood out.

Johnson infuses her characters with heart and moral depth, often stepping into roles of healers or heroes with a strong ethical compass. Her dedication to role-play and storytelling, even amidst a hectic career, showcases her versatility and passion for the art form.

Characters Played by Ashley Johnson

Johnson’s characters often take on the roles of healers and heroes through their moral direction and vivid personalities.

• Pike Trickfoot (Campaign 1) – Gnome cleric of Sarenrae and healer of the group.
• Yasha Nydoorin (Campaign 2) – Aasimar barbarian with a tragic past and fierce loyalty.
• Fearne Calloway (Campaign 3) – Firbolg druid with a mischievous side and a knack for shapeshifting.

Her dedication to character development is a testament to her versatile role-playing and storytelling.

Liam O’Brien – The Depth of Drama

Liam O’Brien, a well-respected voice actor and writer, excels in creating characters with intricate inner lives, often propelled by loss or the quest for redemption. His background across games, animation, and anime enriches his storytelling within Critical Role, where his detailed portrayals bring depth and emotion to each campaign.

In crafting multifaceted characters, O’Brien invites audiences on journeys rich with emotional complexity, exploring themes of struggle and transformation. His commitment to character development and story immersion anchors the narrative in poignant, relatable human experiences.

Characters Played by Liam O’Brien

Every character O’Brien creates is marked by compelling motivation and an intricate backstory.

• Vax’ildan (Campaign 1) – Half-elf rogue and twin to Vex, seeking meaning in life.
• Caleb Widogast (Campaign 2) – Human wizard haunted by his past and seeking redemption.
• Orym (Campaign 3) – Halfling fighter known for his loyalty and leadership.

O’Brien’s commitment to layered storytelling and emotional depth enriches the campaigns, providing audiences with evocative narrative arcs.

Marisha Ray – The Strategic Creative

Marisha Ray, formerly the Creative Director at Geek & Sundry and now the Creative Director at Critical Role Productions, crafts dynamic characters with an insightful eye for strategy and narrative depth. Her ability to weave personal missions and broader goals into her roles creates compelling storylines and robust character arcs.

Ray’s dedication to character development shines through in her complex, evolving roles, often embarking on personal quests that align with the campaign’s larger narrative. Her work exemplifies her talent for balancing strategic gameplay and emotional storytelling.

Characters Played by Marisha Ray

Ray’s characters are notable for their unique contributions and dynamic personalities within each campaign.

• Keyleth (Campaign 1) – Half-elf druid on a journey to complete the Aramenté, a rite of passage.
• Beauregard Lionett (Campaign 2) – Human monk with a troubled past, known for her fierce loyalty.
• Laudna (Campaign 3) – Undead warlock with an eerie yet joyful demeanor.

Her dedication to detailed character arcs has resulted in the evolution of rich storylines, compounded over multiple campaigns.

Fantasy RPG Random Tables Books
Make life as a Gamemaster easier.... If you play Dungeon & Dragons, Pathfinder, or other fantasy tabletop role-playing games, this RPG random tables book is full of encounters, NPCs, and more. Available as an eBook or in a classic print format. Either way, you'll have a wealth of adventure ideas at your fingertips.

Sam Riegel – The Master of Humor

Sam Riegel, an Emmy-winning voice actor and director, is known for his improvisational flair and comedic characters who bring levity to the campaign. His style capitalizes on humor and wit, creating characters that deliver joy and punctuate tense moments with laughter.

Riegel excels at weaving humor into game dynamics, crafting characters that are equally adept at cracking jokes and tackling heartfelt themes. His playful approach to role-playing sets the tone for narratives where laughter and emotion coexist seamlessly.

Characters Played by Sam Riegel

Riegel’s characters, often bards or inventors, bring humor and creativity to the group dynamic.

• Scanlan Shorthalt (Campaign 1) – Gnome bard known for his chaotic charm and musical antics.
• Nott the Brave (Campaign 2) – Goblin rogue with a tragic past and a strong bond to Caleb.
• F.C.G. (Campaign 3) – A mechanical cleric exploring life and consciousness.

Riegel’s adept handling of humor and heart has become a defining element of the Critical Role storytelling experience.

Travis Willingham – The Hype Man

Travis Willingham, CEO of Critical Role Productions, is renowned for his enthusiasm and supportive presence, playing roles that infuse each campaign with energy. His characters, often powerful warriors, bring unpredictability and excitement to the table, enhancing the narrative’s dynamism.

Willingham is known for playing roles that encompass strength and versatility, expertly tapping into instinctive improvisation that thrills audiences. His encouragement and charm underscore his leadership both within the campaign and at Critical Role Productions.

Fantasy RPG AI Generators with ChatGPT+

Make life as a Game Master easier.... If you play Dungeon & Dragons, Pathfinder, or other fantasy tabletop role-playing games, check out my DND AI backstory generator and other fine AI RPG tools at LitRPG Adventures Workshop today.

Characters Played by Travis Willingham

Willingham’s characters are varied, embodying elements of strength and versatility, with occasional mid-campaign switches.

• Grog Strongjaw (Campaign 1) – Goliath barbarian with a love for battle and ale.
• Fjord (Campaign 2) – Half-orc warlock with a mysterious connection to the sea.
• Chetney Pock O’Pea (Campaign 3) – Gnome rogue with a wild personality.

His roles, infused with humor and intensity, contribute layers of excitement and unpredictability to each narrative.

Other Critical Role Team Members

Beyond the core cast, a talented team supports Critical Role’s success behind the scenes, ensuring seamless production and expanded opportunities for creativity and growth. These key team members work tirelessly to enhance the brand and the content it creates.

Fantasy RPG Random Tables Books
Make life as a Gamemaster easier.... If you play Dungeon & Dragons, Pathfinder, or other fantasy tabletop role-playing games, this RPG random tables book is full of encounters, NPCs, and more. Available as an eBook or in a classic print format. Either way, you'll have a wealth of adventure ideas at your fingertips.

Core Team Members:

• Ed Lopez – Chief Operating Officer
• Rachel Romero – SVP of Marketing
• Ben Van Der Fluit – SVP of Business Development
• Dani Carr – Lore Keeper

The production team plays a pivotal role in shaping Critical Role’s success, their expertise propelling the brand and enriching content creation.

Where to Watch and Learn More

For fans eager to delve deeper into Critical Role’s universe, episodes are available for viewing on the official Critical Role YouTube channel and through twitch.tv/criticalrole. The animated series, The Legend of Vox Machina, brings beloved moments to life on Amazon Prime Video, expanding the adventures of the show’s memorable characters.

Critical Role’s social media channels and official website offer frequent updates and insights, exploring new adventures, character developments, and campaigns. Fans can anticipate an ever-growing array of content that highlights the magical storytelling and creativity inherent in Critical Role’s evolving saga.