The Simpsons Replaces Voice Actor After 35 Years
The Simpsons is undergoing a major change as one of its most long-serving voice actors officially steps down after 35 years. Pamela Hayden — who’s been with the show since the very first season and is best known as the voice of Milhouse Van Houten — has announced her retirement.
In November last year, the 71-year-old actress revealed she was retiring after voicing almost 700 episodes. In her farewell message to fans, she wrote: “The time has come for me to hang up my microphone, but how do I say goodbye to The Simpsons?… not easily.”
She expressed her gratitude for being part of the show and for voicing beloved characters such as Milhouse, Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, Malibu Stacy, and many more. As of now, Milhouse remains the only character of hers still awaiting a new voice actor.
Mo Collins Brings New Energy to Jimbo Jones in Season 36
While Milhouse’s new voice hasn’t been revealed yet, another of Hayden’s roles — Jimbo Jones — has officially been taken over by comedian Mo Collins, best known from MadTV and Parks and Recreation.
Collins made her debut as the rebellious sixth grader in episode 13 of Season 36, titled P.S. I Hate You, which aired in the U.S. on April 13. Despite the big shoes to fill, Collins was met with positive reactions from fans who praised her for capturing the essence of the purple-beanie-wearing troublemaker.
Fans shared their thoughts on social media, commenting:
- “Congratulations to Mo Collins!”
- “Best of luck, wear that beanie with pride.”
- “So glad they’re not writing Jimbo out of the series.”
Mo Collins: Nervous but Excited to Join the Cast
Mo Collins shared her excitement and nerves about joining The Simpsons through a heartfelt social media post:
“I will be taking over as the voice of Jimbo Jones! Pamela Hayden has retired and is now a legend. Big shoes to fill.”
She expressed her thrill upon receiving the script and hearing her voice in the animation tests:
“Getting that first script and seeing my name on it? Cool! Stepping into that massive studio? Cool! Hearing my voice to the animatics?!! So cool!”
Collins is no stranger to animation, having voiced characters in Family Guy, Paw Patrol, Spidey and His Amazing Friends, F Is for Family, and more.
She closed with excitement:
“My first episode airs this Sunday (gulp!!) I’m so happy to share this news with you!”
As of now, Milhouse is the only one of Hayden’s characters still without a confirmed replacement, while Rod Flanders has already been taken over by Chris Edgerly since last year.