Los Angeles, CA – Pamela Hayden, the voice behind the beloved The Simpsons character Milhouse Van Houten, has announced her retirement from the iconic animated series after 35 years.

Hayden, 70, has been part of the show since its debut in 1989 and has contributed to nearly 700 episodes. In a statement released on Wednesday, she said, “The time has come for me to hang up my microphone. It’s been an honor and a joy to work on such a funny, witty, and groundbreaking show.”

Milhouse, the bespectacled best friend of Bart Simpson, is one of the series’ most popular recurring characters. Known for his timid personality and resilience, he has become a fan favorite over the decades. Producers confirmed that the role will be recast in the coming months.

Hayden also voiced several other characters on The Simpsons, including Rod and Todd Flanders, Jimbo Jones, Janey Powell, and Sarah Wiggum.

Reflecting on her career, Hayden noted the lasting impact of her work. “People are always saying what a nerd [Milhouse] is, but one thing I love about him is he’s always getting knocked down and keeps getting up. I love the little guy. It’s a wonderful analogy for life,” she said in a video marking her departure.

Tribute from the Creator

Matt Groening, the creator of The Simpsons, paid tribute to Hayden’s contributions, saying, “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.”

The Sidemen, a powerhouse group of British YouTube creators, have announced a major shift in their content strategy, moving their reality series Inside to Netflix after reaching what they describe as “the limit” of YouTube’s potential.

The group, which includes renowned personalities like KSI, revealed that the second season of Inside will premiere on Netflix next year. Additionally, Netflix will produce a U.S. version of the series, marking a significant expansion for the Sidemen brand.

Known for their humor, creativity, and camaraderie, the Sidemen have amassed over 146 million subscribers across their YouTube channels since launching in the early 2010s. Originally focused on gaming content, they have since diversified into comedy sketches, travel challenges, podcasts, and even a dating show.

The reality series Inside, which debuted on YouTube in June, became an instant hit, with the opening episode garnering 14 million views. The show follows 10 influencers confined to a house for a week, competing for a prize of up to £1 million.

Its success caught Netflix’s attention, leading to the commission of both a second UK season and a U.S. adaptation. Both versions will air exclusively on Netflix, marking a departure from the group’s traditional platform.

The Sidemen, now backed by a production team of over 100 members, view the move as an opportunity to expand their creative vision. “We’ve always tried to push boundaries, and this feels like the next big step,” said member Vik.

Family, friends, and One Direction stars gathered in Buckinghamshire to honor Liam Payne at an emotional funeral on Wednesday, over a month after the singer’s untimely passing at 31.

The private service took place at St. Mary’s Church in Amersham, north-west of London. Payne’s former bandmates Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik joined mourners, including his girlfriend Kate Cassidy, ex-partner Cheryl, and their son Bear.

A white horse-drawn hearse adorned with floral tributes spelling “Son” and “Daddy” brought Payne’s coffin to the church. Other tributes included a 10-pin bowling-themed arrangement, reflecting one of his favorite pastimes.

Following the service, pallbearers carried the coffin from the church as Payne’s parents, Cheryl, and other close family members followed. Among the attendees were Cheryl’s Girls Aloud bandmates Kimberley Walsh and Nicola Roberts, as well as Simon Cowell, who signed One Direction to his label.

The heartfelt ceremony also drew appearances from notable personalities, including James Corden, Marvin and Rochelle Humes, Scott Mills, and Adrian Chiles.

Despite Payne’s global fame, fans largely respected the privacy of the occasion, heeding reminders on social media that “memorials are for fans, funerals are for family.” Only a small number of locals and well-wishers gathered outside the church.

Payne, who resided in nearby Chalfont St. Giles, was remembered for his warmth and talent. His passing has deeply affected his family, bandmates, and fans worldwide, marking the loss of a beloved figure in music.