Pamela Hayden Bids Farewell to Milhouse After 35 Years on The Simpsons
In a significant development for the longest-running animated series in television history, veteran voice actress Pamela Hayden has announced her retirement from 'The Simpsons' after 35 years of voicing the beloved character Milhouse Van Houten, Bart Simpson's best friend.
Hayden, who joined the show during its inception in 1989, has been an integral part of The Simpsons' success, bringing to life not only Milhouse but also other recurring characters including Rod Flanders and Jimbo Jones. Her portrayal of the nearsighted, allergic-to-everything Milhouse has become iconic, helping to create one of animation's most endearing underdogs.
The actress's departure marks another significant change for the series, which has maintained remarkable consistency in its main voice cast over its three-and-a-half decades on air. The show's producers have confirmed that they will be recasting the role of Milhouse, though no replacement has been announced as of yet.
Throughout her tenure, Hayden's interpretation of Milhouse has given fans countless memorable moments, from his hopeless crush on Lisa Simpson to his famous catchphrases. Her contribution to the show has helped establish Milhouse as one of Springfield's most recognizable and quotable characters.
The Simpsons executive producer Matt Selman expressed gratitude for Hayden's decades of service to the show, stating that her portrayal of Milhouse has been instrumental in creating one of television's most enduring animated characters.
As The Simpsons continues into its 35th season, Hayden's retirement represents the end of an era for the groundbreaking series, though her legacy will live on through the countless episodes featuring her distinctive voice work.
