In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with Lenore Zann, the iconic voice of Rogue, for a conversation that goes far beyond animation. Lenore opens up about what still makes Rogue such a layered and powerful character, how she approached returning for X-Men '97, and why bringing Rogue into Marvel Rivals still feels true to the version fans have loved for decades. The conversation also explores Lenore's memoir A Rogue's Tale, her work in Canadian politics, the fight against environmental racism, and the deeper emotional themes inside Rogue's story that continue to connect with fans.
Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Welcome and introducing Lenore Zann
00:55 How politics added even more sass to Rogue
01:30 What makes Rogue such a compelling and layered character
03:56 Lenore's acting philosophy and why voice acting starts with acting
06:32 Becoming the voice fans still hear when they read Rogue
07:09 Rogue's trauma, Gambit, Magneto, and the emotional weight of X-Men '97
10:22 Bringing Rogue into Marvel Rivals and adding new personality to the role
12:35 Why Rogue could be one of the best leaders in the X-Men
14:33 Rogue as a role model for women, LGBTQ fans, and anyone feeling othered
18:41 Lenore's political work and helping bring attention to environmental racism
20:49 A Rogue's Tale, audiobooks, mythology, and the power of storytelling
24:41 Lightning round begins with dream roles and future acting goals
26:52 The director's note Lenore will never forget
32:39 The role she wishes more fans would ask about
34:06 New music, film development, and an animated project based on her father's books
35:51 Comic cons, cosplay, and wrapping up with Lenore
Key Takeaways:
Lenore sees Rogue as powerful because she balances strength, vulnerability, loyalty, and pain.
Her approach to voice work is rooted in full performance, not just reading lines.
Rogue's decisions in X-Men '97 make more sense when viewed through trauma and grief.
Marvel Rivals gave Lenore room to bring even more of her own personality into Rogue.
Lenore believes Rogue's greatest strength as a leader is compassion and self-sacrifice.
The conversation tied Rogue's story to real-world themes like identity, acceptance, grief, and justice.
Lenore's activism and political work show how her values carry beyond the booth and onto a larger stage.
A Rogue's Tale adds even more depth to her journey as an artist, survivor, and storyteller.
Memorable Quotes:
"Voice acting is acting."
"I've been living in your head rent free for 30 years."
"Some things are deeper than skin."
"There ain't no cure for who you are."
"Worst case scenario, I can do whatever I need to do to make it work."
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Also mentioned in this episode: A Rogue's Tale, X-Men '97, Marvel Rivals, and Lenore Zann's work in Canadian politics.
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