Joel Heyman

Joel Heyman (born June 27, 1976) is an American actor, voice actor, writer, and producer. He is best known as a co‑founder of the production company Rooster Teeth Productions and for providing the voice of the character Michael J. in the studio’s long‑running machinima series Red vs. Blue (2003–2018). Heyman also voiced several other supporting characters in the series, including Sick and several background soldiers.

Early life and education
Heyman was born in the United States. He attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he studied film and developed an interest in digital media and animation.

Career

• Rooster Teeth: In 2003, Heyman co‑founded Rooster Teeth Productions alongside Burnie Burns, Matt Hullum, Gus Sorola, and others. The company initially produced Red vs. Blue, a comedy series that used the Halo video‑game engine for its animation. Heyman's portrayal of Michael J., a sarcastic and often misanthropic soldier, became a central element of the series’ early popularity.

• Other Rooster Teeth projects: Heyman contributed voice work and writing to several additional Rooster Teeth productions, including The Strangerhood (a machinima series based on The Sims), Immersion (a reality‑show format series), and the feature film Lazer Team (2015), in which he appeared as a minor character.

• Departure from Rooster Teeth: In 2020, Heyman and Rooster Teeth announced a mutual separation; he subsequently pursued independent creative projects and podcasting.

Personal life
Heyman is married and has spoken publicly about his support for various charitable causes, including veterans’ organizations.

Filmography (selected)

Recognition
Heyman's work on Red vs. Blue contributed to the series receiving multiple awards, including several Streamy Awards for Best Comedy Series and Best Acting. His performances have been cited as instrumental in establishing Rooster Teeth’s early fanbase.