"The Simpsons" just made one of its biggest changes in decades. After 35 years, Pamela Hayden, the voice behind Milhouse Van Houten, stepped away from the show. She first brought Milhouse to life in 1989 and kept him going strong for over three decades.
Hayden’s final episode, “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” aired in November 2024.
However, Hayden didn’t just voice Bart’s awkward best friend. She also played Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey Powell, and Sarah Wiggum. Her impact on "The Simpsons" was massive.
In her goodbye message, she called Milhouse "the blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses" and said he would always hold a place in her heart. After so many years, her exit hit longtime fans hard.
Kelly Macleod Steps Into the Booth
Singer and musician Kelly Macleod is the new voice of Milhouse. She made her first appearance in the Season 36 finale, “Estranger Things,” which aired on May 18, 2025. It was a small debut, but it marked a big change for "The Simpsons."
The Simpsons / IG / New Milhouse voice actor Macleod isn’t new to the show. She popped up back in 2022 to sing in the episode “Bart the Cool Kid.”
Outside of "The Simpsons," she is known for her work with the bands Private Life and The Sweet Potatoes. Her music background gives her a unique edge, and the showrunners are excited to see what she brings to Milhouse next.
A Soft Launch for the New Milhouse
In the season finale, Milhouse didn’t say much. Macleod’s first line came in a scene showing Bart, Lisa, and Milhouse as adults. It was short, but fans still noticed the shift in voice. Since the characters were older in the scene, the slightly different tone fit the moment.
However, the episode wasn’t about Milhouse. The plot focused on Bart and Lisa growing apart after giving up their Itchy & Scratchy ritual. Milhouse only popped in briefly. So, Macleod's full take on the role is still under wraps.
Singer Kelly Macleod Is the New Milhouse!
Kelly Macleod will be back for Season 37. She is officially "The Simpsons" Milhouse now, and the writers are building more scenes to showcase her version of the character.
The Simpsons / IG / According to the producers, Kelly Macleod wants to stay true to what fans love about Milhouse while adding her own personality.
Pamela Hayden gave her blessing and some advice. She told Macleod not to copy her voice but to bring something real to the character. That is exactly what Macleod plans to do.
The show is also continuing with other recasts. For example, comedian Mo Collins now voices Jimbo Jones, another Hayden character.
Saying Goodbye to Hayden
Creator Matt Groening gave Hayden a warm sendoff. He joked that Milhouse has “the most unfortunate name a kid could have.” But said Hayden made him funny, lovable, and real. That is a huge legacy for anyone to follow.
Hayden’s decision to retire wasn’t sudden. After decades of work, she felt it was time. Fans were sad to see her go, but many are curious about what Macleod will bring. So far, reactions have been mixed but hopeful. People love Milhouse and want to see him handled with care.
However, this isn’t the first time "The Simpsons" has changed its voice cast. Over the years, the show has seen several shifts, especially in the last decade. But this one hits harder. Milhouse has been a key part of Bart’s world since day one. His awkward charm, nerdy confidence, and loyalty made him a fan favorite.