Will Arnett
The actor who played Gob Bluth, the magician with a penchant for Europe's "The Final Countdown."
via Wikipedia: Will Arnett · see source
Will Arnett is the actor who portrayed George Oscar "Gob" Bluth II in the Fox/Netflix sitcom Arrested Development (2003–2006, 2013, 2018–2019). His performance earned him his first Emmy nomination in 2004. Arnett has described himself as an "actor first" rather than a comic, and his role on the show remains comedy. He has stated that his two favorite episodes of the series are "Pier Pressure" and "Afternoon Delight."
Quick Facts
- Birth name
- William Emerson Arnett
- Born
- 4 May 1970
- Birthplace
- Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Citizenship
- Canada, United States
- Occupation
- Actor
- comedian
- producer
- Years active
- 1994–present
- Partner
- Alessandra Brawn (2019–2024)
- Children
- 3
Lore & Background
In 2003, Arnett found mainstream success playing Gob Bluth in Arrested Development. The show was cancelled after three seasons due to low ratings, despite critical acclaim and a cult following. Arnett had become frustrated after four failed television pilots and had "swore off pilots" altogether, until his agent persuaded him to audition for this one. Prior to Arrested Development, he guest-starred in The Sopranos and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in 2002. Arnett's exposure on Arrested Development led to larger roles in feature films. He also played Max the Magician on Sesame Street, though there is no canon evidence that this was a specific nod to Gob Bluth. His distinctive gravelly voice has earned him voice-over work, including for CBS television promos, film trailers, and numerous advertisements.
Reader's Guide
Arnett's performance as Gob Bluth relied on physical comedy and his natural baritone voice. He has stated he "never considered himself a comic" and considers himself an "actor first." His two favorite episodes of the series are "Pier Pressure" and "Afternoon Delight," according to a 2006 interview with the Los Angeles Times. The character's use of Europe's "The Final Countdown" during magic shows became a signature element, later referenced when Arnett played Max the Magician on Sesame Street. Arnett's work on Arrested Development led to an Emmy-nominated recurring role as Devon Banks on 30 Rock (2007–2013), for which he received four Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series. He also co-starred in the NBC comedy series Up All Night, about a couple balancing home lives with their newborn child and work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Will Arnett's favorite episodes?
The actor has publicly identified "Pier Pressure" and "Afternoon Delight" as his top picks from the entire series. These choices highlight moments where Gob's storylines resonated most with him personally.
When did Will Arnett appear on the show?
He first appeared in the pilot and continued acting through the original seasons and subsequent revivals until 2019. His status as an alumni member covers all production periods of the sitcom.
More in Behind the Scenes & Production
Elsewhere in Arrested Development
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