In brief
Hayden reflects on her career and the enduring legacy of Milhouse, while producers seek a new voice.
Pamela Hayden, the talented voice actress behind the beloved Milhouse van Houten from The Simpsons, has officially announced her retirement from the iconic animated series. With a career spanning since 1989, Hayden has lent her voice to nearly 700 episodes of the show, making her a familiar presence for fans. The 70-year-old actress expressed her sentiment in a heartfelt statement, saying, "The time has come for me to hang up my microphone." She added, "It’s been an honor and a joy to have worked on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show... I’ll always have a special place in my heart for that blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses."Milhouse, who has been a recurring character for 35 years, is Bart Simpson's best friend and embodies traits of shyness and gullibility, often caught up in Bart's escapades and the target of bullies. Though Hayden has voiced several other characters, including Ned Flanders' sons and Chief Wiggum’s wife, she noted that Milhouse held a special significance for her. In her farewell video, she remarked on the character's resilience, stating, "People are always saying what a nerd he is, but one thing that I love about Milhouse is he’s always getting knocked down, but he keeps getting up. I love the little guy. It’s this wonderful analogy for life."The show's creator, Matt Groening, expressed his appreciation for Hayden's contributions, saying, "Pamela gave us tons of laughs with Milhouse, the hapless kid with the biggest nose in Springfield. She made Milhouse hilarious and real, and we will miss her." Milhouse’s name is famously rooted in history, said to be inspired by former U.S. President Richard Milhous Nixon. With producers now seeking a replacement for the voice of Milhouse, fans remain grateful for Hayden’s remarkable legacy in the world of Springfield.
