TECUMSEH — A Lenawee County native is making waves in Hollywood. David VanTuyle, who grew up in Tecumseh, serves as co-head of story and storyboard artist for Disney’s newly released Zootopia 2.
He also unexpectedly became the voice of “Russ,” a walrus character drawing early fan attention.
VanTuyle originally recorded the voice only for internal screenings, assuming the role would later be filled by a professional actor. Studio leaders found his delivery effective and kept it in the final version.
When WLEN News asked him about his role, VanTuyle said, “Zootopia 2 was so much fun to make! I was a Co-head of story on the movie, and it’s been so fun to also get to play the role of Russ the Walrus. All my friends and family from Michigan have been texting me that their families have been saying “hey bub” all week! It’s really been so cool to see people’s reaction to it.”
His work on the film included developing scenes, guiding storyboard artists, and collaborating on creative concepts. VanTuyle has also contributed to major Disney projects, including Raya and the Last Dragon, Encanto, and Moana 2.