Aurora Student Lands Role of Nemo in 'Finding Dory'

Photo courtesy of Pixar

When Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” was released in 2003, it garnered rave reviews and a hefty box office take. Now, more than 10 years after its release, a sequel is planned and one of its stars was found in Aurora.

Sixth-grade Still Middle School student Hayden Rolence will be voicing the role of Nemo, a clownfish who was searching for his dad the last time we saw him.

Rolence, now 11, was actually cast in the film two years ago, but was unable to say anything about his role until now. In fact, the family still isn’t saying much due to contractual reasons. According to the Chicago Tribune, the family will only confirm that Rolence is indeed the voice of Nemo.

While details of “Finding Dory” have been kept under wraps, it will reportedly take place six months after the events of “Finding Nemo” and focus on Dory’s search for her family. Dory will be voiced by Ellen DeGeneres, who also did the character’s voice in “Finding Nemo.”

Alexander Gould, the original voice for Nemo, has obviously aged out of the role. Aside from Nemo, Gould is best known for playing Shane, the troubled younger brother on Showtime’s “Weeds.”

“Finding Dory” is scheduled for release June 17, 2016. Other actors involved include Eugene Levy, Albert Brooks, Diane Keaton and Ed O’Neill.