The voice behind one of The Simpsons’ most memorable characters has decided to retire after contributing to the show since its inception.
The series has been on air for such a long time that it’s difficult to picture certain characters without their distinctive voices—after all, what would Homer Simpson be without his signature ‘D’oh’?
Over the past 35 years, we’ve become accustomed to hearing voice actors portray numerous characters. Now, one of the show’s longest-serving cast members is leaving The Simpsons’ recording studio.
Though Pamela Hayden’s face may not be widely recognized, her characters certainly are.
Throughout her tenure on The Simpsons, Hayden has voiced Springfield’s resident bully, Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, and most famously, Milhouse Van Houten, Bart’s perpetually struggling best friend.
While her portrayal of Flanders might not give it away, Jimbo’s voice should be a hint—as Milhouse and Jimbo do have a similar sound… at least to some people.
Nonetheless, the voice actor is now stepping down from her roles, which have spanned five decades.
Hayden’s retirement was revealed on the official The Simpsons Instagram account, accompanied by a tribute montage showcasing some of her most memorable Milhouse moments.
The caption stated: “Thank you for 35 years of Milhouse and so many more, Pamela Hayden.”
It was also confirmed that her final appearance will be in the upcoming episode, Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes, scheduled to air on Sunday (November 24).
“The time has come for me to hang up my microphone, but how do I say goodbye to The Simpsons?……not easily,” Hayden expressed in a statement.
“It’s been an honor and a joy to work on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show, and to voice Milhouse and Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, Malibu Stacy, and many others.
“I’ll always hold a special place in my heart for that blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses.”
Fans have taken to Twitter to express their shared sadness, with one user saying: “My childhood goats getting old.”
Another tweeted: “What an end to a beautiful era.”
A third wrote: “Thank you, Pamela Hayden, for 35 incredible years of bringing depth and humor to Springfield! Your contributions to The Simpsons will forever be cherished.”
A fourth added: “I will miss her voice on the show (yes I still watch the simpsons lol).”