voiceover DIRECTION

 

From pulling authentic performances out of non-actor celebrities to collaborating with some of the best voice talent in the industry, Jeff Howell is known for bringing out the best in every session. Top brands and entertainment heavyweights turn to Jeff when the performance has to land—because he knows how to speak the actor’s language, shape the read, and elevate the work.

‘Dream Crazy” Colin Kaepernick Nike Ad 2019 Voice Direction by Jeff Howell

What Is Voiceover Direction?

Voiceover direction is the art of guiding a voice actor to deliver a performance that matches the creative vision of a project. A skilled voice director understands pacing, tone, emotional arc, and the technical demands of every format — from a 30-second national commercial to a full-length dubbed feature film. Jeff brings over 30 years of experience to every session, working across commercials, promos, narration, animation, dubbing, and audiobooks.

Jeff's Approach to Voice Direction

Jeff's directing style is collaborative and actor-focused. Rather than line-reading or over-directing, he works to understand what a performer does naturally and shapes the read from there. Whether he's directing a seasoned voice actor on a network promo or coaching a first-time narrator through a long-form project, Jeff's goal is always the same: an authentic, compelling performance that serves the story.

His ability to direct across genres — from comedic animation to emotionally charged documentary narration — makes him one of the most versatile voice directors working in Los Angeles today.

Notable Voice Direction Credits

Jeff's voice direction credits span major networks, global streaming platforms, and award-winning campaigns:

  • Nike — Voice direction for the Emmy-winning "Dream Crazy" campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick (2018)

  • Fox Searchlight — Narration direction for feature film projects

  • The Smithsonian — Documentary narration direction

  • DIY Network / Travel Channel — Series narration direction

  • Netflix & HBO Max — Voice direction for over 25 international dubbing projects across Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Swedish, Polish, Finnish, Hebrew, and Dutch

  • Leonard Nimoy & John de Lancie — Directed immersive sci-fi audio novels

  • Stephen Fry — Direction for the autobiographical audiobook "Making History"

  • Animation — Directed the Emmy-winning "Wally's Opening Day"

Formats and Genres

Jeff directs across every major voiceover format:

  • National and regional commercials

  • Network and cable promos (CBS, FOX, Comedy Central, Food Network, A&E, National Geographic)

  • Documentary and long-form narration

  • Animation and video games

  • International dubbing (Netflix, HBO Max)

  • Audiobooks and audio dramas

  • IVR and telephony

Work with Jeff

Whether you're a production company looking for an experienced voice director, a brand that needs the performance to land on the first take, or a voice actor looking for expert direction on a personal project, Jeff is available for sessions in Los Angeles and remotely.

Contact Jeff