Dana Snyder
Explore the life and work of Dana Snyder — American actor, comedian, and voice actor best known for roles like Master Shake, Granny Cuyler, Dr. Colosso, and more.
Introduction
Dana Snyder (born November 14, 1973) is an American actor, comedian, and voice performer. He is widely celebrated for his distinctive voice roles in animated series (especially on Adult Swim), bringing to life eccentric and memorable characters. His career spans voice acting, live-action appearances, theater, and podcasting. Although less known outside animation fandom, he has made an enduring mark on pop culture voice work.
Early Life and Education
Dana Snyder was born in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Las Vegas, Nevada.
He completed his secondary education at Las Vegas High School, graduating in 1992. Webster University in St. Louis, earning a BFA from the Conservatory of Theatre Arts in 1996.
As a young person, Snyder cited comedians and entertainers such as Don Rickles, Rip Taylor, and Phil Silvers among his influences, shaping his comedic sensibility.
Career and Achievements
Voice Acting Breakthroughs
Snyder is most known for his voice work in animation, particularly his starring role as Master Shake in Aqua Teen Hunger Force (Adult Swim).
Other notable voice roles include:
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Granny Cuyler in Squidbillies
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Gazpacho in Chowder
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Dr. Colosso in The Thundermans (Nickelodeon)
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Scratch in The Ghost and Molly McGee (Disney Channel)
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Baby Ball in Ballmastrz: 9009
He has also voiced recurring characters in shows like The Venture Bros., Code Monkeys, Fish Hooks, Pickle and Peanut, Jellystone!, Adventure Time, and more.
In feature films (often animated or direct-to-video), he has voiced roles such as Alistair in Open Season 3 Aqua Teen Forever: Plantasm.
Live-Action & Theatre Work
Though primarily known as a voice actor, Snyder has also appeared in live-action television and theater:
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He guest starred in shows like ER and Brothers & Sisters.
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In live-action series, he appeared in Saul of the Mole Men and Your Pretty Face Is Going to Hell.
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On stage, he has performed in regional theater productions. For instance, he played Max Bialystock in The Producers at Arrow Rock Lyceum Theatre and Riverside Theatre.
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He also toured with Aqua Teen Hunger Force Live! along with co-creator Dave Willis.
Podcasting & Other Media
Snyder has engaged in podcasting and online content:
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He co-hosted the podcast Ken P.D. Snydecast with Kenneth Plume (ran from 2006 to 2017).
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He also hosts or has co-hosted Dino & Dana’s Safe Space, a comedy talk podcast.
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More recently, he has co-hosted None of This Matters with rapper/voice actor mc chris, a weekly informal conversation over breakfast about pop culture and careers.
Personality & Style
Dana Snyder’s signature as a voice actor lies in his expressive, often exaggerated vocal choices, eccentric tone, and ability to breathe life into bizarre or comedic characters. His style embraces comedic timing, exaggeration, and voice flexibility.
He tends to revisit roles he’s comfortable with (e.g. Master Shake) but also explores new voice types and characters. His work exhibits a balance between comedic absurdity and nuanced characterization.
Off-screen, he engages with fans at conventions and through public media (podcasts, interviews). He also blends comedic insight with self-awareness, often reflecting on the boundaries and possibilities of voice acting.
Selected Quotes
Dana Snyder is not widely cited for "classic quotes" in the way some public figures are, but in interviews and to fans, some remarks reflect his humor and outlook. A few lines attributed to him include:
“I love being a part of Aqua Teen.” “I was not put on this earth to listen to meat!”
These lines reflect his playful, self-aware humor and connection to his iconic roles.
Lessons from Dana Snyder’s Career
From Snyder’s path, we can draw several takeaways:
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Niche specialization brings impact
Focusing on voice acting allowed him to become strongly associated with memorable characters rather than competing in overcrowded general acting. -
Versatility within a domain
Even though he works in animation, he diversifies: from adult animation to children’s shows, from comedic to weird roles. -
Persistence and longevity
His career has spanned decades (active since ~1998) — a testament to consistency in a tough industry. -
Embrace platforms & mediums
Beyond animation, he works in podcasts, live theater, and online media, diversifying how audiences can connect with him. -
Character loyalty & evolution
Returning to some characters while adding new ones helps both retain a fan base and expand creative range.
Conclusion
Dana Snyder is a veteran voice actor whose work has touched many animated series fans recognize. By infusing life into weird and whimsical characters, embracing humor, and sustaining a multi-decade career, he stands as a distinctive voice talent in the American animation landscape.