Ever wondered who gave life to Sarah Lynn — one of the most emotional and complex characters in BoJack Horseman?
Her voice is instantly recognizable: playful, heartbreaking, and painfully human all at once. The person behind that unforgettable voice is Kristen Schaal, a brilliant comedian and actress whose quirky charm and emotional range made Sarah Lynn feel real.
Let’s dive into who Kristen Schaal is, how she became the voice of Sarah Lynn, and what makes her one of the most unique voice artists in Hollywood.
Background of BoJack Horseman and Sarah Lynn
BoJack Horseman, created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, ran on Netflix from 2014 to 2020 and became one of the most acclaimed adult animated series ever.
The show follows BoJack, a washed-up 90s sitcom star navigating depression, addiction, and the illusion of fame in a world of anthropomorphic animals.
Among its many layered characters, Sarah Lynn stood out. A former child actress turned troubled pop star, she represented the harsh reality of growing up too fast under the spotlight.
Her story drew parallels with real-life stars like Lindsay Lohan, Amanda Bynes, and Britney Spears — young talents crushed by fame’s pressure and a lack of guidance.
Sarah Lynn’s journey, from fame to tragedy, became one of the most powerful storylines in BoJack Horseman — and Kristen Schaal’s voice made it unforgettable.
Sarah Lynn Voice Actor – Who Played Sarah Lynn?
The talented Kristen Schaal is the voice behind Sarah Lynn.
Chosen personally by the show’s creator, Raphael Bob-Waksberg, Schaal captured every shade of Sarah Lynn’s character — from her childish charm to her adult despair.
Her ability to shift between lighthearted humor and deep emotional pain helped make Sarah Lynn one of BoJack Horseman’s most memorable figures.
Schaal gave Sarah Lynn a voice that sounded like someone who never truly grew up — innocent yet broken. Fans praised her for bringing raw authenticity to every scene.
Who Is Kristen Schaal?
Kristen Schaal is an American actress, comedian, writer, and voice artist known for her distinctive, high-pitched voice and offbeat humor.
She was born on January 24, 1978, in Longmont, Colorado. Married to comedy writer Rich Blomquist since 2012, she is also a proud mother to a daughter named Ruby.
Schaal’s unique comedic timing and voice acting talent have earned her recognition across TV, film, and animation. She’s best known for roles like:
- Louise Belcher in Bob’s Burgers
- Mabel Pines in Gravity Falls
- Mel in Flight of the Conchords
- Trixie in Toy Story 3
She also voiced characters in Despicable Me 2, Archer, The Last Man on Earth, and What We Do in the Shadows.
Beyond acting, Kristen Schaal’s life includes moments of vulnerability — she has openly discussed personal struggles, including health challenges during her work on Gravity Falls, which makes her story as authentic as the roles she plays.
Who Else Does Kristen Schaal Voice?
Kristen’s voice has become iconic in animation. Here are some of her most beloved characters:
- Louise Belcher – Bob’s Burgers
- Mabel Pines – Gravity Falls
- Trixie the Triceratops – Toy Story 3
- Jake Jr. – Adventure Time
- Carol Pilbasian – The Last Man on Earth
- The Guide – What We Do in the Shadows
- Tiffy – Archer
Her high-pitched yet expressive tone allows her to play both comic and emotional roles, often turning animated characters into household favorites.
How Kristen Schaal Became the “Queen of Quirky Voice Acting”
Kristen Schaal didn’t just become a voice actor — she redefined what one could be.
She brings humor, vulnerability, and sincerity into her performances, allowing her characters to feel layered and human.
Instead of hiding behind her voice, Schaal embraces her natural quirks, turning them into strengths.
Whether she’s portraying a mischievous kid like Louise Belcher or a heartbroken pop star like Sarah Lynn, her delivery always carries emotion and depth.
Her secret? She adds real feelings behind every funny line. That’s why even her comedic roles resonate with audiences — they feel authentic.
Kristen Schaal’s Movies and TV Appearances
Movies:
- A Walk in the Woods (2015) – Mary Ellen
- Despicable Me 2 (2013) – Shannon (voice)
- Toy Story 3 (2010) – Trixie (voice)
- Shrek Forever After (2010) – Pumpkin Witch / Palace Witch (voices)
- Bill & Ted Face the Music (2020) – Kelly
TV Shows:
- BoJack Horseman (2014–2020) – Sarah Lynn (voice)
- The Last Man on Earth (2015–2018) – Carol Pilbasian
- Gravity Falls (2012–2016) – Mabel Pines (voice)
- Bob’s Burgers (2011–present) – Louise Belcher (voice)
- Archer (2009–2021) – Tiffy (voice)
- What We Do in the Shadows (2019–present) – The Guide
- The Mysterious Benedict Society (2021–present) – Number Two
Her filmography shows her incredible range — from heartfelt to hilarious.
Bottom Line
Kristen Schaal’s portrayal of Sarah Lynn in BoJack Horseman remains one of the show’s emotional highlights. Her ability to balance innocence, humor, and heartbreak turned a tragic animated figure into a painfully real one.
Beyond Sarah Lynn, Schaal’s versatility and unmistakable voice have earned her a lasting legacy in the world of animation.
She’s not just a voice actress — she’s a storyteller whose sound makes characters unforgettable.
