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JLS star Aston Merrygold is taking his career in a brand-new direction, he’s officially a Pixar voice actor. The singer-turned-presenter has been cast in the UK voice version of the upcoming animated sci-fi comedy Elio, set to hit cinemas on June 20.
He’ll voice a character named Aston, a cheeky nod to his real name, who works at Montez Air Force Base, the quirky launchpad for some cosmic chaos. The movie follows a 13-year-old boy accidentally launched into space and mistaken for an intergalactic ambassador. Now, American actress Zoe Saldaña is making her Pixar debut too, voicing Olga Solis, a devoted aunt desperate to bring her nephew home from his accidental space adventure.
But Aston’s part marks a major milestone: his first time in front of a Pixar crew. He responded with heartfelt excitement: “I’m so excited and beyond honoured to join the voice cast for the all-new original film from the iconic Animation Studio.” He also shared a sweet personal reason, adding, “Who isn’t a Pixar fan? It means everything to me that my kids will be able to hear their Dad’s voice on the big screen.”
Left to right: Brad Garrett, Shirley Henderson, Yonas Kibreab, Aston Merrygold and Jameela Jamil - Zoe Saldaña
The part isn’t just a cameo, it shows Merrygold’s evolving creative vision: from chart-topping pop star and TV presenter to respected family entertainment contributor. Fans will be able to spot his voice in key moments when his character reacts to UFO sightings, gives witty one-liners, or misinterprets mission orders at Montez Air Force Base.
The film’s official poster teases vibrant animation and comedic hijinks, hallmarks of Pixar’s reputation. With themes of bravery, identity, and cosmic absurdity, Elio looks primed to resonate with both kids and nostalgic adults.
Aston, who rose to fame on X Factor as part of JLS, went on to forge a successful television career with presenting roles and dance competitions. But as he told Parenting Today, “Becoming a dad reshaped everything. I wanted to create something my kids can look back on and say: ‘That’s Daddy up there with the animated aliens!’”
His family agrees, his wife, Sarah, reportedly cried tears of joy at his first recording session. And his children are already talking about seeing “Daddy’s voice in space!” Indeed, the countdown is on.
Catch Elio in UK cinemas from June 20. And be prepared, we might just see more of Aston’s voice in future animation projects after this stellar debut!
