“The Simpsons” to Recast Milhouse After Pamela Hayden Retires After 35 Years

It’s official: The Simpsons is gearing up for some major changes. Longtime voice actor Pamela Hayden, known for bringing Milhouse Van Houten and other Springfield favorites to life, is retiring after an incredible 35-year run. With Hayden’s exit, the iconic animated sitcom is moving forward with plans to recast her beloved characters, including Milhouse, Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, and more.

Fans will see Hayden’s final performance in this weekend’s Season 36 episode, Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes. But what’s next for these classic characters? According to Deadline, The Simpsons has already begun the recasting process, though it remains unclear if one actor will take on all of Hayden’s roles or if the parts will be split among multiple performers.

Milhouse Van Houten is one of The Simpsons’ most recognizable voices, and fans are understandably nervous about the change. As a central part of the show’s humor and heart, Milhouse’s quirky charm has been a staple since Hayden first voiced the character in early Butterfinger commercials before the series officially launched in 1989.

Pamela Hayden’s retirement marks a significant shift, but it’s not the first time The Simpsons has had to recast key characters. Voice actor changes have happened before, from Grey DeLisle stepping in for the late Russi Taylor’s roles (like Martin Prince and Sherri and Terri) to Kevin Michael Richardson taking over Dr. Julius Hibbert in 2021. Each transition has been seamless, and producers are confident the same will be true for Milhouse and the rest of Hayden’s roles.

Reflecting on her departure, Hayden shared, “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.”

With Hayden’s departure, The Simpsons team is committed to ensuring that her characters remain a vital part of the series. Showrunner Matt Selman has stated there are no plans to retire Milhouse or other key roles, signaling that Springfield will continue to thrive even amid change.

Recasting is nothing new for The Simpsons, and fans are optimistic the transition will uphold the show’s legacy. Whether Milhouse and his signature voice get a fresh twist or a near-perfect match, it’s clear the character’s presence will remain as strong as ever.