With “The Simpsons” coming up close to almost 800 episodes, one of the long-running character actors on the series, Pamela Hayden, who has given voice to Bart’s best friend Milhouse, along with many other characters, has opted to retire from her character voice work.

“The time has come for me to hang up my microphone, but how do I say goodbye to The Simpsons?……not easily. It’s been an honor and a joy to have worked on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show, and to give voice to Milhouse (and Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, Malibu Stacy, and many others),”

Milhouse first appeared in a Butterfinger commercial in 1989. Named for the former U.S. president Richard Milhous Nixon, The Simpsons Creator Matt Groening states, “Bart needed someone to talk to in the school cafeteria. We named him Milhouse because that was the most unfortunate name a kid could have.” It has also been noted that Milhouse is a favorite of the show’s writing staff because, according to Executive Producer Al Jean, “most of the writers are more like Milhouse than Bart.”

Matt Groening said in regards to her retirement:

“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,”

Executive Producer James L Brooks added:

“She is a model for having a great spirit for every cast she has been a part of. We will miss her.”

Showrunner/Executive Producer Matt Selman exclaims,

“Pamela’s talent and joy and love for her characters has added a magic to The Simpsons that will never be forgotten. Everything’s coming up Pamela!”

Pamala also added in the final statement:

“Here’s to everyone who made this terrific ride I’ve been on possible. Thanks for 35 years!! Be well and happy. My best to you all.  “P.S. I’ll always have a special place in my heart for that blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses.”

Her final performance will appear on a new episode of “The Simpsons”, which will air on Sunday, 24th November 2024, on FOX before being available to stream the next day on Hulu and Hulu On Disney+.  In this episode, a tattooed man at a mysterious night circus transports Lisa into three strange stories from the innocent 1950s, the chilling retro-present, and a brutalist future where prestige TV rules the world

You’ll find previous seasons of “The Simpsons” available to stream now on Disney+.

Roger’s Take:  With Pamela having worked on the show for over 700 episodes over 35 years, she’s certainly been committed, but ultimately, Father Time takes its toll, and hopefully, Pamela can have a lovely retirement.  It’ll be interesting how the team deals with the character moving forward.

What do you think of Pamela Hayden retiring?  Let me know on social media!

Roger Palmer

Roger has been a Disney fan since he was a kid and this interest has grown over the years. He has visited Disney Parks around the globe and has a vast collection of Disney movies and collectibles. He is the owner of What's On Disney Plus & DisKingdom. Email: Roger@WhatsOnDisneyPlus.com Twitter: Twitter.com/RogPalmerUK Facebook: Facebook.com/rogpalmeruk

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