Caleb McLaughlin is stepping into a whole new arena — and this time, it’s animated.

The Stranger Things breakout star lends his voice to the underdog hero of Goat, Sony Pictures Animation’s latest family feature arriving in Philippine cinemas on 11 February.

In the all-animal sports comedy, McLaughlin plays Will Harris, a determined young goat chasing greatness in a game ruled by much bigger competitors.

Set in a world where roarball is the ultimate sport and towering athletes dominate the court, Goat centers on Will’s uphill climb to prove he belongs. Despite constant reminders that “smalls don’t ball,” the pint-sized dreamer refuses to back down from his goal of playing among the pros he idolizes.

For McLaughlin, the role hit close to home.

“Will is a hero in his own world,” said McLaughlin. “He’s got this bigger vision for himself and for the people he loves, and that’s what keeps him going. He’s inspired by the role models around him, and I totally connect to that idea of being on a personal quest with a lot of heart behind it.”

McLaughlin embraced the chance to shape Will’s personality beyond the script, adding playful touches in the recording booth.

“One of the most fun parts for me was finding Will’s signature moments — like his unique laugh or those improv bits that really capture his personality,” said McLaughlin. “I think everyone has their own version of that little signature quirk — their own goat ‘baa,’ if you will. Discovering Will’s personal touch really made those scenes enjoyable.”