The animation world has been absolute fire this year, with things especially dope for Disney. But not everything is coming up cartoon roses.
From a beloved VO artist veteran hanging up the mic, to an exciting spin-off of a mega franchise, here’s the latest news from the animation industry.
Pamela Hayden Retires From “The Simpsons”
After almost 35 seasons and nearly 700 episodes, Pamela Hayden will no longer be voicing Bart Simpson’s dorky friend Milhouse from the longest-running animated show, “The Simpsons.” The performer has gone on record stating that she is looking “to pursue other creative outlets,” but she will forever remain thankful for the big-nosed character.
“The time has come for me to hang up my microphone, but how do I say goodbye to The Simpsons?……not easily,” Hayden said in a statement. “It’s been an honour and a joy to have worked on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show, and to give voice to Milhouse.”
Hayden moving on from the longest-running animated show is a massive blow in terms of the cast, as she also voiced Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders, Janey, Malibu Stacy, and numerous other minor characters in the franchise. Following the news, members of the show’s creative team voiced their concerns, especially the show’s creator, Matt Groening.
“Bart needed someone to talk to in the school cafeteria. We named him Milhouse because that was the most unfortunate name a kid could have,” Groening said in a press release. “Pamela gave us tons of laughs with Milhouse, the hapless kid with the biggest nose in Springfield. She made Milhouse hilarious and real, and we will miss her.”
Fox has confirmed that they will be recasting Milhouse and Hayden’s various characters in the near future. Until then, we get to enjoy Hayden’s final appearance as Milhouse Van Houten in the upcoming episode “Treehouse of Horror Presents: Simpson Wicked This Way Comes”.
Hayden added in her farewell: “Here’s to everyone who made this terrific ride I’ve been on possible. Thanks for 35 years!! Be well and happy. My best to you all. P.S. I’ll always have a special place in my heart for that blue-haired 10-year-old boy with glasses.”
“Inside Out” Spin Off Series: Dream Productions
This year’s “Inside Out 2” is easily the most successful film to have come out of Disney in its history. What’s more, it’s 2024’s most popular movie.
So to capitalise on its success, Disney will be releasing a limited-time spin-off series from the world of “Inside Out” titled “Dream Productions.” Coming to Disney+ next month, this four-episode series will delve deeper into Riley’s mind and provide a behind-the-scenes-like look at how her dreams are made.
“Dream Productions” features the voice of Paula Pell as Paula Persimmon, a decorated dream director who is being pressured to release more and more successful dreams. Accompanying her will be Richard Ayoade’s Xeni, a daydream director who wants to move up to the world of nighttime dreams but has that artistic arrogance.
As evident from the trailers alone, “Dream Productions” is shaping up to be a mockumentary-style meta-satire of Hollywood moviemaking. Interestingly enough, this series is set before the events of “Inside Out 2,” which makes total sense considering what transpires in the film.
The show is written and directed by Mike Jones, known for his work in “Incredibles 2,” and “Elemental.” Jaclyn Simon will be producing the show, and Nami Melumad will compose the soundtrack. Furthermore, joining them will be Amy Poehler, Liza Lapira, Tony Hale, Lewis Black, and Phyllis Smith, who will be reprising their roles as the main five emotions that we know and love.
Sources: The Guardian, Comicbook, Entertainment Weekly [1], [2]
