Aflac finds duck voice that fits the bill

The Aflac Duck has his quack back.

On April 26, 2011, the Georgia-based insurance company chose Minnesota radio executive Dan McKeague as the new voice for its duck, which is featured in ads and other Aflac promotions. Aflac sells supplemental health insurance and life insurance.

McKeague was chosen from among more than 12,500 people who auditioned in person and online. He replaces actor Gilbert Gottfried, who was booted after making insensitive remarks on Twitter about the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. Alfac is a major insurer in Japan.

McKeague, 36, is sales manager for two radio stations in Minneapolis and has done voiceover work. He lives in Hugo, Minn., a Minneapolis suburb. McKeague submitted his Aflac audition online.

“I have long admired people who can act and make the most of their voice and have tried to emulate them,” McKeague said in a statement issued by Aflac.

Experts reviewed the more than 12,500 entries before trimming the list to 20 finalists, each of whom was called back for a second audition. The 20 finalists then were whittled down to eight.

“Dan impressed us with his vocal range and acting ability,” Michael Zuna, Aflac’s senior vice president and chief marketing officer, said in a statement.

Since 2000, the Aflac Duck has appeared in 52 TV ads and numerous radio ads.