Kelly Ward

Kelly Ward is an American actor, voice director, and writer whose career spans over four decades, beginning with his early television role in The Boy in the Plastic Bubble (1976). Born on November 17, 1956, in San Diego, California, he grew up in a family deeply rooted in local theater; his parents, Don and Bonnie Ward, were longtime contributors to the San Diego stage scene, and his brother Kirby Ward also pursued performing arts. Ward’s breakout moment arrived when a young John Travolta, impressed by Ward’s performance, helped secure him the role of Putzie, a charismatic T‑Bird in the iconic 1978 musical film Grease. This part, crafted especially for the movie, cemented Ward’s place in pop‑culture history and led to subsequent on‑screen appearances throughout the early 1980s, including guest spots on series such as MASH*, The Waltons, and Magnum, P.I.. While his on‑camera work tapered after 1983, his influence in the industry continued to expand behind the microphone and the storyboard.

In the years that followed, Ward transitioned to voice direction, becoming a trusted figure at Disney Television Animation. He directed beloved children's series like Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, and Star vs. the Forces of Evil, shaping the auditory experience for a new generation. Concurrently, he contributed as a writer to a wide array of animated projects, ranging from Voltron: The Third Dimension to Liberty's Kids, showcasing his versatile storytelling talent. Beyond studio work, Ward shares his expertise by teaching musical theatre at the University of Southern California, mentoring aspiring performers. Married to Annette Foster since 1977, he is a father of three, balancing his creative pursuits with family life.