Teen Titans Go! Beast Boy Voice Actor FIRED by Warner Bros. After Revealing Parkinson's Diagnosis?
Greg Cipes possibly being fired by Warner Bros after a Parkinson's diagnosis has shocked fans of Teen Titans Go!, raising questions about discrimination in the voice acting industry. The longtime voice of Beast Boy revealed the news in a social media post, claiming the studio let him go just one day after he went public with his health condition. This development comes amid ongoing discussions about how Hollywood handles actors with chronic illnesses, and it's already sparking calls for accountability from Warner Bros. Discovery.
Here's the TLDR...
Greg Cipes claims firing tied to diagnosis: The actor says Warner Bros. terminated him on Valentine's Day, right after he shared his Parkinson's publicly, calling it "like a death" to him.
Over two decades as Beast Boy: Cipes has voiced the green shapeshifter since 2003 across multiple shows and films, making him a staple in DC animation.
Fan backlash erupts: Social media is flooded with outrage, with users labeling the move "disgusting" and "evil," while Cipes thanks supporters and hints at discrimination.
No official response yet: Warner Bros. has not commented, but fans are petitioning DC head James Gunn to reinstate the actor.
What Happened: Breaking Down the Situation
The story broke when fan account @gunnverse posted on Instagram about his abrupt dismissal from Warner Bros. Cipes alleged the firing came directly after his public disclosure of early-onset Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can impact speech over time.
"Warner Bros. literally fired me on Valentine's Day right after I publicly shared my Parkinson's diagnosis," Cipes said. "It's like a death to me that only the fans can bring back to life."
Cipes first went public with his diagnosis in a TikTok video around early 2025, channeling his positive energy through one of his famous characters to share the news. Reports indicate the announcement happened in February, with the firing occurring on February 14, 2025—Valentine's Day—aligning with his claim of it being "right after." However, Cipes continued some work post-diagnosis, even thanking the studio in an April 2025 social media update for keeping him employed "throughout all this Parkinson’s stuff." This suggests the full termination might have unfolded gradually, but Cipes now frames it as discriminatory, with a friend noting the studio tried to "steal his voice and replace him with a mimic."
Parkinson's, which Cipes described as a "healing journey" in his initial reveal, hasn't stopped him from advocating for awareness. In fact, he used Parkinson's Awareness Month in April to highlight his experience, emphasizing positivity and support from his Teen Titans co-stars like Tara Strong and Khary Payton. But the alleged firing has cast a shadow, with Cipes implying it stemmed from concerns over his condition affecting his performance—though no official reason has been given by Warner Bros.
Greg Cipes' Long History with Teen Titans and Beast Boy
Cipes has been synonymous with Beast Boy for over two decades, starting with the original Teen Titans animated series from 2003 to 2006. He brought the character's laid-back, animal-shifting vibe to life, making Beast Boy a fan favorite with his humor and heart. When the franchise rebooted as the more comedic Teen Titans Go! in 2013, Cipes reprised the role, voicing the character through hundreds of episodes until 2025. His work extended to films like Teen Titans: Trouble in Tokyo (2006) and Teen Titans Go! To the Movies (2018), as well as video games and spin-offs such as Young Justice (2019–2022) and Beast Boy: Lone Wolf.
Beyond just voicing, Cipes infused Beast Boy with his own personality—vegan, surfer-dude energy that resonated with kids and adults alike. "We are all Beast Boy," he posted recently, rallying fans amid the controversy. His dedication spanned 25 years, as he noted in past updates, making the firing feel like a personal betrayal to many.
Other Iconic Roles in Cipes' Career
While Beast Boy is his signature gig, Cipes' voice has shaped countless childhoods through other projects. He voiced Michelangelo in the 2012–2017 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series, capturing the pizza-loving turtle's fun-loving spirit. In the Ben 10 franchise, starting with Ben 10: Alien Force (2008–2010), he played Kevin Levin, evolving the character from villain to hero. Marvel fans know him as Iron Fist in Ultimate Spider-Man (2012–2017), while The Legend of Korra viewers remember his turn as Tu (2012–2014). Earlier roles include Chiro in Super Robot Monkey Team Hyperforce Go! (2004–2006), showcasing his range in action-packed animation.
Cipes is also a skin cancer survivor, adding layers to his resilience story. His diverse portfolio highlights why fans see him as irreplaceable—Parkinson's or not.
Reactions from Fans and the Industry
The news hit like a bombshell on social media, with fans venting frustration at Warner Bros. One user called it "evil," while another labeled the decision "disgusting wtf," pointing out Cipes' 20+ years of service. Videos compiling his roles went viral, reminding everyone how he "literally made an entire generation's childhood." Cipes himself responded graciously: "Thank you all for the love and support. It means the world to me."
Calls for investigation surfaced, with some suggesting a wrongful termination lawsuit. Fans even tagged DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn, urging him to intervene and "bring back" Cipes, given Gunn's oversight of DC projects. As of now, the hashtag #SaveBeastBoy is gaining traction, with animations and tributes pouring in.
Latest Updates on the Controversy
As of September 7, 2025, Warner Bros. Discovery has not issued a statement, though outlets like Deadline and Variety have reached out for comment. Cipes mentioned having to audition three times for his own role post-diagnosis, fueling speculation about bias. No legal action has been confirmed, but the story is evolving rapidly. Cipes continues to focus on healing, sharing updates and encouraging Parkinson's awareness.
People Also Ask
Who is Greg Cipes, and what is he known for?
Greg Cipes is a veteran voice actor best known for Beast Boy in the Teen Titans franchise. His career spans animation, with standout roles in TMNT and Ben 10.
What is Parkinson's disease, and how does it affect voice actors?
Parkinson's is a brain disorder causing tremors, stiffness, and speech changes. For voice actors like Cipes, it could impact vocal performance, but many continue working with management.
Has Warner Bros. responded to Greg Cipes' claims?
Not yet—representatives have been contacted, but no official word as of today.
Will Greg Cipes return as Beast Boy?
It's unclear, but fan pressure on James Gunn and DC could influence future projects. Cipes has expressed hope through fan support.
Hat Tips
DiscussingFilm on X: https://x.com/discussingfilm/status/1964792967870484954
Variety: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/teen-titans-greg-cipes-fired-warner-bros-parkinsons-1236511141/
TheWrap: https://www.thewrap.com/teen-titans-go-voice-actor-greg-cipes-fired-parkinsons-diagnosis/
CBR: https://www.cbr.com/teen-titans-go-star-greg-cipes-fired/
Bleeding Cool: https://bleedingcool.com/tv/teen-titans-go-actor-greg-cipes-fired-claims-parkinsons-was-reason/
Wikipedia on Greg Cipes: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Cipes