Arif Zahir Replaces Mike Henry as Cleveland in Family Guy

Season 19 marks a new beginning for Fox’s Family Guy. Arif Zahir is the new Cleveland Brown per The Hollywood Reporter!

Zahir replaces original Cleveland Brown voice actor Mike Henry. This summer, Henry voluntarily left the role he’s played for 20 years. His main reasoning for vacating is wanting a person of color to portray an animated character of color. This exact scenario took place over several shows this summer.

Henry’s last season as Cleveland begins this Sunday! Zahir begins his journey as the new Cleveland next year for Season 19, which is currently in pre-production. Zahir speaks on taking over for Henry. “Firstly, I’m eternally grateful to have received this once in a lifetime opportunity. When I heard that Mike Henry was stepping down from the role of Cleveland Brown — my favorite cartoon character of all time — I was shocked and saddened, assuming we’d never see him again. When I learned I would get to take over the role? Overabundant gratitude. To Mike, you created something truly special and I promise I will do my absolute best to honor your legacy.“

Arif Zahir comes from the world of Youtube. Millions of people follow his channel for his great impressions. Check out his impression of Cleveland Brown playing Call of Duty: Modern Warfare below!