Pamela Hayden Retires from The Simpsons After 35 Years as Milhouse
Pamela Hayden, the voice actor known for Milhouse on The Simpsons, has announced her retirement after 35 years with the show. She mentioned in a statement, “The time has come for me to hang up my microphone.” Hayden, 70, expressed her gratitude for being part of the iconic series.
Hayden started voicing Milhouse Van Houten when The Simpsons premiered in 1989. She also voiced several characters, including Nick Flanders and Jimbo Jones. Milhouse, her most recognized character, became a favorite among fans. In a tribute video, she reflected on the joy of portraying Milhouse and recalled how fans often quoted his lines to her.
Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons, stated, “Pamela gave us tons of laughs with Milhouse,” adding that her performance made the character both funny and relatable.
What are some memorable moments Pamela Hayden had while voicing Milhouse on The Simpsons?
Interview with Pamela Hayden: A Farewell to Milhouse and The Simpsons
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Pamela. After 35 remarkable years voicing Milhouse Van Houten on The Simpsons, you’ve decided to retire. What led to this decision?
Pamela Hayden: Thank you for having me. The time has come for me to hang up my microphone. It’s bittersweet, really. After so many years, I’ve loved every moment I’ve spent with the characters and the crew, but I feel it’s time to explore new creative opportunities.
Interviewer: Milhouse has been an iconic character since the show’s premiere in 1989. What has been the most rewarding aspect of voicing him?
Pamela Hayden: Milhouse has brought me so much joy. One of the greatest rewards has been hearing fans quote his lines to me; it truly makes my day. I appreciate the connection I’ve built with viewers, knowing Milhouse has had an impact on their lives in some way.
Interviewer: Describe your thoughts on Milhouse’s personality. Why do you think he resonates so strongly with audiences?
Pamela Hayden: Milhouse is smart yet gullible, which makes him relatable. He reflects that underdog quality that many can identify with. I admire his resilience—he keeps getting up after being knocked down. I think audiences appreciate that vulnerability paired with humor.
Interviewer: Matt Groening said, “Pamela gave us tons of laughs with Milhouse.” How do you feel about his recognition of your work?
Pamela Hayden: It means the world to me. Matt’s words highlight the collaborative spirit of the show. I’m proud of the laughter we’ve created together and honored to have played a role in such a legendary series.
Interviewer: As you approach your final episode, “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” what emotions are you experiencing?
Pamela Hayden: I’m filled with nostalgia and gratitude. It’s hard to say goodbye, but I’m excited to see how the show continues to evolve. I know the team will find new voices to carry on these fantastic characters.
Interviewer: What’s next for you after retirement?
Pamela Hayden: I plan to take some time to explore other creative avenues—perhaps some writing or even diving into new projects that excite me. The world is vast, and I’m eager to rediscover my passions.
Interviewer: is there a message you’d like to share with your fans?
Pamela Hayden: I want to thank everyone who has supported me and loved Milhouse. Your laughter has sustained me, and I hope I’ve brought a little joy to your lives as well. Cheers to all the memories!
Milhouse, named after Richard Nixon, first appeared in a Butterfinger commercial and quickly became a vital character in the show. He is depicted as smart yet gullible, often influenced by Bart Simpson and bullied by his peers. Hayden praised Milhouse’s resilience, saying, “He keeps getting up after being knocked down.”
Hayden plans to retire to explore other creative opportunities. Her final episode, “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” will air on November 24. The show will begin searching for new actors to voice her characters.