Why You May Recognize the Voice Behind Korra in ‘The Legend of Korra’

Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra have finally hit Netflix, leaving fans of the Nickelodeon shows with hours worth of binge-able content. The first series follows Air Nomad and playful Aang on a journey to master all four elements. The latter follows headstrong and combat-ready Korra on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment, as she battles foes who threaten society. 

Though The Legend of Korra is an animated series, the voice actor behind the lead character has made a handful of on-screen appearances in various TV shows. Thus, her voice may sound familiar depending on the shows you have watched in the past. Janet Varney voices Korra, and she has starred in multiple productions since lending her voice to the Nickelodeon original. 

Janet Varney starred in ‘You’re the Worst’ from 2014 to 2019 

You’re the Worst was an FX series that ran from 2014 until 2019. Created by Stephen Falk, the sitcom followed two individuals struggling with life and love, and it was a modern look at what it means to be happy. Yet, the show focused on two people who hadn’t quite knacked that happiness thing. 

Janet Varney starred alongside Chris Geere, Aya Cash, Desmin Borges, and more throughout the show. She appeared in a total of 28 episodes as Becca Barbara. She played the ex-girlfriend of the main character Jimmy Shive-Overly. 

Janet Varney starred in ‘Stan Against Evil’ and ‘Take My Wife’ from 2016 to 2018

Stan Against Evil followed an aging police sheriff who joins, albeit reluctantly, an alliance with a new sheriff — Evie Barret  — to battle villainous demons who are haunting their small town in New Hampshire. Janet Varney played the main character, Barret, acting alongside John C. McGinley, Deborah Baker Jr., and Nate Mooney. 

Take My Wife focused on the real-life couple Cameron Esposito and Rhea Butcher, who share life as stand-up comedians. They try to balance work, romance, and more through it all. Janet Varney portrayed Melina Marquez in 5 episodes. 

While the above shows remain some of Varney’s memorable appearances, other well-known performances include her run in Fortune Rookie as Tiny Janet, as well as Grip and Electric as Rebecca. 

Varney is set to star in an upcoming TV production titled Country Comfort, which is currently in pre-production. Country Comfort will follow an aspiring young country singer (portrayed by Katharine McPhee) who finds the band she needs upon taking a job as a nanny for a musically-inclined household. Shiloh Verrico and Eric Balfour will also star in the upcoming series.