Pamela Hayden, veteran voice actor for 'The Simpsons' and the voice behind Milhouse, retires from her role
New York (AP) — Pamela Hayden, the seasoned voice behind Milhouse Van Houten—Bart Simpson’s decidedly uncool sidekick—bids farewell after a 35-year tenure of high-pitched lamentations. Hayden, now 70, lent her vocal prowess to characters like Milhouse, Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, and Malibu Stacy. She will make her final appearance on “The Simpsons” in a “Treehouse of Horror” episode airing November 24.
“Having been part of this witty, hilarious, and pioneering show has been a true privilege,” Hayden remarked in a statement.
“Pamela brought endless humor to Milhouse, the beleaguered child with Springfield’s most prominent nose. Her portrayal made Milhouse both comical and authentic, and her absence will be felt,” stated Matt Groening, the mastermind behind “The Simpsons.”
The search for new voices to fill her roles is underway.
Milhouse made his debut in a Butterfinger commercial back in 1989, his name drawing inspiration from former US president Richard Milhous Nixon. Groening chose it, noting it as “the most ill-fated name a kid could bear.”
The myopic Milhouse frequently became the target of ridicule, often tormented by Nelson. In one memorable episode, Bart consigned Milhouse to the America’s Most Wanted list, while in another, Milhouse bartered Bart’s soul with the comic book store clerk.
