Pamela Hayden, Iconic ‘Simpsons’ Voice Behind Milhouse, Bids Farewell to Her Mic

NEW YORK (AP) — After an impressive 35-year journey, voice actor Pamela Hayden, known for giving life to Milhouse Van Houten—Bart Simpson’s somewhat unfortunate friend—has announced her departure from “The Simpsons.” The 70-year-old actress will bid farewell during a “Treehouse of Horror” episode airing on November 24.

Hayden’s portrayal extended beyond Milhouse; she voiced several beloved characters, including Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, and Malibu Stacy. Reflecting on her time with the iconic series, she expressed, “It’s been an honor and a joy to have worked on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show.”

Matt Groening, the creator of “The Simpsons,” praised Hayden’s contributions, stating, “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 dearly.”

Milhouse made his debut in a Butterfinger commercial back in 1989, with his name a nod to former U.S. President Richard Milhous Nixon. Groening humorously chose this name for his character, seeing it as the “most unfortunate” name imaginable for a kid.

Often overshadowed by his friends, Milhouse, who is notably nearsighted, frequently became the target of jokes and teasing from characters like Nelson. In a memorable storyline, Bart once got Milhouse put on America’s Most Wanted list, while in another, he traded Bart’s soul to a comic book store proprietor.

As “The Simpsons” prepares for this transition, casting for Hayden’s characters is already underway, ensuring that the legacy of Milhouse and the others will continue on the beloved show.