Drake Bell stands among Nickelodeon’s brightest stars. He first drew attention on the beloved series Drake & Josh, and since then he has kept a busy pace across television, music, and voice work. Canadian audiences may recognize his voice as Peter Parker and Spider-Man in Ultimate Spider-Man, which aired on Teletoon, and this holiday season he returns to screen fame in Nickelodeon’s A Fairly Odd Christmas special. Bell has built a varied career and often speaks about his fondness for Canada, a place he treats as a second home. This interview shines a light on his craft, his music, and the warmth he feels toward Canada, a reminder that North American audiences are central to his work across screen and stage.
The interviewer asks how Bell brings his own twist to the role of Spider-Man. Bell explains that his approach centers on the voice he remembers hearing in his mind when he reads the comics, letting that inner sense guide the performance while staying true to the character’s energy. The aim is to honor Spider-Man’s legacy while infusing a bit of Bell’s own personality to connect with contemporary audiences across the United States and Canada.
When asked about his favourite episode to voice, Bell says he loves the team-up episodes, especially those where Spider-Man teams up with another hero. The dynamic with Captain America stands out for him, as the duo brings a mix of wit, bravado, and teamwork that fans remember fondly.
Fans still recall Bell most for Drake & Josh. A comeback for that character seems unlikely, though not impossible. He notes that there was a two-year gap before the Christmas special revived that world, and he would happily revisit the role if the opportunity ever arose because it was an incredible experience and a cherished part of his career.
Bell is close with former costars Josh Peck and Miranda Cosgrove. He describes their relationship as a real family where great work happens when people feel trusted and connected. There are moments of disagreement, but those tensions are part of strong collaboration, and they always circle back to compatibility and mutual respect.
How have you changed over the years? Bell says he has grown taller, but he remains essentially the same kid from Orange County at heart, carrying the same curiosity and drive that pushed him into show business in the first place.
Are you still making music? Bell reveals he is working on a new record with Bryan Setzer, someone he regards as a true idol and one of the greatest guitar players of all time. Setzer will executive produce the album. The project nods to Bell’s lifelong love of 40s, 50s, and 60s music, envisioning a full record rooted in rockabilly, swing, and big band. He jokes that it will feel like traveling back in time, with Nashville set to host some of the recording sessions.
Bell has continued his charity work with the Thirst Project, a cause he deeply values. He credits his involvement to a friend named Seth, whom he met years ago and who helped him see how impactful such efforts can be. The connection remains strong, and his support continues to grow with each project and event.
What upcoming project excites him the most? He just shot A Fairly Odd Parents Christmas movie in Canada and has spent the last three years in Vancouver, filming three different movies. He loves returning to Vancouver, calling it a second home due to the people, the scenery, and the overall vibe. Whenever a project lands in Vancouver, he’s eager to be there and soak in the city’s unique energy.
Readers are invited to catch ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN on Teletoon on Fridays at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT to see Bell reprise his Spider-Man role. (Source: 2024 North American interview)