Los Angeles, California – After lending her voice to beloved characters on “The Simpsons” for over three decades, veteran voice actor Pamela Hayden has announced her retirement from the iconic animated series. Fox confirmed Hayden’s departure on Wednesday, revealing that her final episode will air on Sunday. Throughout her impressive 35-year career on the show, Hayden brought to life a variety of characters, including Milhouse, Jimbo Jones, and many others.
Hayden made her debut on “The Simpsons” during its premiere season in 1989, appearing in nearly 700 episodes over the years. Among her various roles, Milhouse Van Houten stood out as her “main guy,” a character she cherished for his resilience despite often being labeled a nerd. Hayden shared her decision to retire on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the love and support from fans.
Aside from her work on “The Simpsons,” Hayden has also contributed her voice to spinoff video games, the franchise’s 2007 feature film, as well as other animated series like “Lloyd in Space,” “Hey Arnold!” and “Turbo Teen.” Her departure from the show has left a void that series creator Matt Groening acknowledged, praising Hayden’s memorable performances and noting that she will always hold a special place in the hearts of fans for her portrayal of the blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses.
As Hayden prepares to bid farewell to Springfield, the show’s team is set to begin the search for her replacement in the near future. Her final appearance will be in the annual “Treehouse of Horror” Halloween-themed episode airing on Sunday, titled “Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes.” The episode will follow Lisa Simpson as she embarks on a mysterious journey through three distinct stories set in different time periods.
Hayden’s retirement marks the end of an era for “The Simpsons,” as fans and colleagues alike reflect on her immense contributions to the long-running series. Her dedication to bringing characters to life through her voice has left an indelible mark on the world of animation, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.