The casting of Hopper , the film 's villain , proved problematic . Lasseter 's top choice was Robert De Niro , who repeatedly turned the part down , as did a succession of other actors . Kevin Spacey met John Lasseter at the 1995 Academy Awards and Lasseter asked Spacey if he would be interested in doing the voice of Hopper . Spacey was delighted and signed on immediately
1995 Academy Awards
68th Academy Awards
A Bug's Life