Boom Shakalaka! Tim Kitzrow’s Epic Journey in Gaming

Tim Kitzrow is an American voice actor, comedian, and TV host best known for his energetic and iconic commentary in the classic video game series, NBA Jam. Born on August 17, 1960, in Illinois, Kitzrow discovered his passion for entertainment at a young age.

In a panel at the 2023 Retro Game Con, Tim Kitzrow discussed his early career and the video game industry.

In the video, Tim Kitzrow discusses his early career and experiences in the gaming industry during a panel at the 2023 Retro Game Con. He shares insights into his journey as a voice actor, particularly his iconic role as the commentator in the NBA Jam series.

Throughout the panel, Kitzrow reflects on the evolution of the gaming industry and how it has shaped his career. He discusses the advancements in technology and the increasing importance of voice acting in modern video games. Kitzrow also shares anecdotes about his experiences working on various projects and collaborating with talented individuals in the industry. His passion for his craft and his appreciation for the gaming community shine through as he engages with the audience and answers their questions.

Early Career and NBA Jam Success

Kitzrow’s career began in the early 1990s when he started working as a voice actor for various commercials and video games. In 1993, he landed the role that would define his career – the commentator in the arcade version of NBA Jam. His enthusiastic delivery of phrases like “Boom Shakalaka!” and “He’s on fire!” became instant classics and helped propel the game to worldwide popularity.

The success of NBA Jam led to Kitzrow’s continued involvement in the series, including the console versions released for Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, and other platforms. His voice became synonymous with the franchise, and he reprised his role in subsequent releases, such as NBA Jam Tournament Edition and NBA Jam Extreme.

Apart from his work on NBA Jam, Kitzrow has lent his voice to numerous other video games, including Wayne Gretzky’s 3D Hockey, NHL Hitz Pro, MLB Slugfest 20-04, and Mutant Football League. His unique style and infectious enthusiasm have made him a sought-after talent in the gaming industry.

Beyond video games, Kitzrow has worked as a comedian, performing stand-up and improv comedy in clubs across the United States. He has also appeared in various television shows and movies, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.

Pop Culture Icon and Ongoing Legacy

Kitzrow’s impact on popular culture extends far beyond the realm of video games. His catchphrases from NBA Jam have been referenced and parodied in countless movies, TV shows, and online memes, cementing his status as a pop culture icon.

Today, Tim Kitzrow continues to work as a voice actor, comedian, and TV host, bringing his trademark energy and humor to every project he undertakes. His legacy as the voice behind one of the most beloved sports video games of all time remains a testament to his talent and the enduring popularity of NBA Jam.

Personal Pages:

• Tim Kitzrow’s Official Website: http://timkitzrow.com/
• Tim Kitzrow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tim_Kitzrow
• Tim Kitzrow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timkitzrow/

Tim Kitzrow’s iconic catchphrases from NBA Jam have been referenced and parodied in numerous movies, TV shows, and other forms of media over the years. Here are a few notable examples:

1. In the movie “Aliens in the Attic” (2009), one of the characters says “Boom Shakalaka!” while playing a video game.
2. The TV show “Parks and Recreation” referenced NBA Jam in the episode “Telethon” (2010), where character Tom Haverford exclaims, “Boom Shakalaka!” after making a basketball shot.
3. In the animated series “Regular Show,” the episode “Slam Dunk” (2011) features characters playing a game called “Dunk Tank,” with one of them saying, “Boom Shakalaka!” after scoring.
4. The popular sitcom “The Big Bang Theory” made a reference to NBA Jam in the episode “The Bat Jar Conjecture” (2008), where character Raj Koothrappali says, “He’s heating up!” while playing the game.
5. In the movie “Daddy’s Home” (2015), character Dusty Mayron (played by Mark Wahlberg) says “Boom Shakalaka!” while playing basketball with his son.
6. The animated series “Family Guy” parodied NBA Jam in the episode “Run, Chris, Run” (2016), where the characters play a game called “NBA Jams” and use phrases like “He’s on fire!”
7. In the movie “Pixels” (2015), which revolves around classic video games, NBA Jam and its catchphrases are referenced multiple times.

These examples demonstrate how Tim Kitzrow’s work on NBA Jam has transcended the realm of video games and become a part of popular culture, with his catchphrases being instantly recognizable and often used as a nostalgic nod to the classic game.