What actor is the voice for Arby’s?
The unmistakable voice behind “We Have the Meats”
(By Carmichael Phillip)
The Voice Behind Arby’s: Ving Rhames
When you hear the booming declaration “We have the meats,” chances are you instantly recognize it as the slogan of Arby’s. That deep, commanding voice belongs to none other than actor Ving Rhames. Since 2014, Rhames has been the brand’s iconic voice, lending gravitas and personality to every commercial.
Ving Rhames, known for his powerful presence in film and television, has brought that same energy to Arby’s branding. His unique cadence and resonant tone give the commercials an authoritative, yet playful, feel—perfect for a fast-food chain that wants to emphasize bold flavors and hearty meals.
Who is Ving Rhames?
Born Irving Rameses Rhames on May 12, 1959, in Harlem, New York City, Ving Rhames rose from modest beginnings to become one of Hollywood’s most respected character actors. He studied drama at SUNY Purchase before transferring to the prestigious Juilliard School, where he honed his craft.
His breakout role came in 1994’s “Pulp Fiction” as Marsellus Wallace, the intimidating crime boss. From there, Rhames cemented himself as a force in Hollywood, appearing in Mission: Impossible films as Luther Stickell, and in dramas like Rosewood and Bringing Out the Dead.
While many know him from action-packed roles, his deep voice has been his trademark across industries, making him the perfect choice for voiceover work.
Arby’s Marketing Strategy: Why Ving Rhames?
Arby’s decision to hire Ving Rhames in 2014 was a strategic pivot. Prior to Rhames, the brand struggled to establish a distinct advertising voice in a crowded fast-food market. Rhames’ delivery transformed Arby’s commercials into instantly recognizable spots.
His deep baritone doesn’t just sell sandwiches—it conveys a sense of indulgence, boldness, and confidence. According to Arby’s executives, Rhames’ voice has helped boost brand recognition and sales, with “We have the meats” becoming one of the most memorable slogans in recent advertising history.
The Famous Slogan: “We Have the Meats”
Introduced in 2014, the slogan “We have the meats” quickly became synonymous with Arby’s. The line isn’t just about food—it’s about identity. By repeating it with Rhames’ powerful delivery, Arby’s carved out a niche as the go-to brand for hearty, meat-filled sandwiches.
The slogan is deliberately simple and direct, a reflection of Arby’s straightforward brand identity. And while the words themselves are memorable, it’s Ving Rhames’ booming voice that turned them into a cultural catchphrase.
Ving Rhames’ Other Voice Work
Although Arby’s commercials may be his most recognizable voiceover role, Ving Rhames has lent his voice to other projects as well. He has narrated documentaries, appeared in animated films, and provided voiceovers for television specials.
Rhames’ versatility as a performer allows him to shift from menacing tones to warm, inviting narrations. This flexibility explains why Arby’s branding feels both commanding and approachable—an art that only a seasoned actor like Rhames can master.
Impact on Pop Culture
The Arby’s commercials have transcended traditional advertising. Rhames’ line “We have the meats” has become a pop culture reference, often parodied in comedy shows, YouTube sketches, and even memes across social media.
This widespread recognition shows how powerful voice acting can be in advertising. Rhames doesn’t just represent a fast-food chain—he represents a cultural moment. His voice has become synonymous with indulgence, reinforcing Arby’s place in the competitive world of fast food.
The Longevity of the Campaign
Most advertising campaigns rotate voices or slogans every few years, but Arby’s has stuck with Rhames and the “We have the meats” line for over a decade. The consistency has been a key driver of brand identity.
By keeping the same voice, Arby’s ensures that consumers immediately recognize their commercials, regardless of the visuals. It’s a reminder that a single voice, when iconic enough, can sustain a long-term marketing strategy.
Why People Thought It Was James Earl Jones
Many viewers initially believed the Arby’s voice was legendary actor James Earl Jones, famous for voicing Darth Vader in Star Wars. The confusion makes sense—both Jones and Rhames share a deep, commanding baritone.
However, Arby’s later clarified that the voice was indeed Ving Rhames. This confusion actually worked in the brand’s favor, as it generated buzz and discussions online, further amplifying the campaign’s impact.
Conclusion: The Man Behind the Meats
At the heart of Arby’s successful branding lies one undeniable truth: Ving Rhames’ voice transformed the company’s advertising. His booming baritone and powerful presence turned “We have the meats” from a slogan into a cultural phenomenon.
While Rhames is an accomplished actor with a wide range of roles, his work with Arby’s demonstrates the power of voice in marketing. It proves that a single voice, when used effectively, can shape a brand’s identity, drive sales, and create lasting cultural impact.
Arby’s may serve sandwiches, but it’s Ving Rhames who truly delivers the flavor with every commercial.
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