I’ve impersonated Boris Johnson in lots of radio adverts and for lots of different companies, but when I was contacted by the guys at Future Advocacy for this project, I knew that it was a bit special. It was to be a DeepFake Boris Johnson!
The brief was to impersonate Boris, but they wanted me to go into a studio in London to be filmed while performing the impression as they had to capture my exact mouth movements. The weren’t interested in capturing anything else, except my mouth!
The Process
A camera was positioned in the voiceover booth and I had to face it, while holding my script. Normally when I work on a celebrity impression, I try to capture all the facial expressions and mannerisms of a person in order to get as much detail of their personality as possible. However, for the DeepFake Boris Johnson my eye and facial movements were not relevant. When studying Boris, It’s interesting to note that he has a particular was of annunciating his “S’s” and when mimicking this, the mouth shape alters, so this was a great help in making the character real. I’ve also noticed that Boris has a slight underbite in his jaw, so his bottom teeth tend to protrude slightly. Again, highlighting this adds to the essence of his character and adds more detail.
We must have read the script 10 times, as the producers took notes on each take and we found that the one used had great spirit and captured Boris’ personality the best! I was also free to make a couple of silly noises and add some random latin at the end, so as as the piece progressed, the viewer would become aware that this may not be real!
DeepFake Boris Johnson
Here’s the final piece.
Behind The Scenes
While in the studio The BBC sent their own film crew to capture the whole process for the Victoria Derbyshire Program. It really is fascinating. Click on the image below to watch the incredible behind the scenes footage of how it was all created.
If you would like any more information about my Boris Johnson impression, or my impression or voiceover work in general, do get in touch and let me know how I can help.
FAQ About My Voiceover Services
Q: What am i getting for my money?
A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.
Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?
A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.
Q: How long will my voiceover take?
A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.
Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?
A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.
Q: Can I be directed during the recording?
A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.
Q: Do you charge for revisions?
A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.
Q: What are your charges?
A: If you are buying air time in the UK, then you will know the TVRs. When you give me that information, I’ll be happy to quote accurately for you. Any foreign TV commercials will be subject to the international rates on www.usefee.tv
Q: What are your payment terms?
A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment are on the bottom and as well as cheque and direct bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal.
In December 2019, after his stint as London Mayor, Boris Johnson secured his first full term as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Throughout his political career he has been without doubt the gift that keeps on giving, with his numerous political gaffs, amusing turn of phrases, random quotes in Latin and unconventional behaviour! Let’s not mention Brexit!
