In this special episode of This Dude Started Something, we sit down with childhood icon and Hollywood veteran Alexander Gould, best known as the voice of Nemo in Finding Nemo and Shane Botwin in Weeds. From the moment his voice echoed through minivans, living rooms, and theaters worldwide, Alexander became a part of millions of childhoods. But what happens after you grow up from being one of the most famous animated characters of all time?
Alexander takes us on a deep dive into his early start in Hollywood, reminiscing about his experience auditioning for Finding Nemo at just five years old and the long three-year process of recording the movie. He shares behind-the-scenes insights into how Pixar animated the film around his voice, how he recorded his lines alone without ever meeting his co-stars in the studio, and the unexpected call that led him to land the role of a lifetime.
We also explore his time on Weeds, where he played Shane Botwin for eight years, growing up alongside his character in one of television’s most daring and darkly comedic dramas. Alexander reflects on the challenges and perks of being a child actor, the reality of being recognized in public, and how his experiences shaped his outlook on Hollywood, fame, and life itself.
But where is Nemo now? Alexander has since pivoted from acting full-time to working as a software engineer and entrepreneur, founding a company that uses tech to track security guards and even developing his own Minecraft-inspired space game. We discuss how he transitioned from philosophy major to coder, his thoughts on AI in Hollywood, and whether he would ever return to acting full-time—or even voice an adult Nemo in a potential Finding Nemo 3.
Of course, we couldn’t let Alexander go without having some fun—so we put our acting skills to the test and re-enact a brand-new Finding Nemo scene, complete with an AI-generated script!
This episode is packed with laughs, nostalgia, and incredible insights. Whether you grew up watching Finding Nemo, binging Weeds, or are just curious about the life of a former child star turned tech entrepreneur, this one’s a must-listen!
🎤 Big thanks to Alexander Gould for joining us! Follow him on Instagram and keep up with his latest projects—whether in tech, acting, or the Minecraft-in-space game we’re all now waiting for!
🚀 Pixar, if you’re listening… It’s time for Finding Nemo 3! 🐠🎬
Insta: @alexandergouldreal
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