**Nancy Cartwright: The Voice Behind Bart Simpson Reflects on a Career Spanning Nearly Four Decades**
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Nancy Cartwright, celebrated for her role as the voice of Bart Simpson, has been bringing the mischievous ten-year-old to life for over 38 years. At 68 years of age, she continues to be an icon in the entertainment industry. Recently, during an episode of her podcast, “Simpsons Declassified,” she sat down with Joe Mantegna, who is known for voicing Fat Tony, one of the show’s memorable characters. In their engaging conversation, Cartwright shared anecdotes about her experiences as the voice of one of television’s most famous animated characters.
One notable story recounted by Cartwright occurred during a flight to London. In this instance, she encountered a flight attendant who recognised her voice. “Sorry to interrupt you, Ms Cartwright, but are you the voice of Bart Simpson?” the attendant inquired. Cartwright confirmed her identity, setting the stage for a unique request that showcased the far-reaching impact of her character.
The flight attendant informed Cartwright that both pilots aboard the aircraft were ardent fans of “The Simpsons.” They requested if she could make an announcement from the cockpit in her Bart Simpson voice. Without hesitation, Cartwright agreed. Reflecting on the moment, she described entering the cockpit, shaking hands with the pilots, and taking hold of the microphone.
In her iconic Bart voice, she announced to the passengers, “Ladies and gentlemen, this is Bart Simpson speaking. I’m the copilot here and I just wanted to let you know we will be landing in Japan in about 15 minutes, so buckle your seatbelts.” This lighthearted interaction perfectly illustrates the lasting impact her character has had, not just within the confines of television, but in real-world settings as well.
Cartwright’s journey with “The Simpsons” began when she auditioned for the role of Lisa Simpson. At a celebration for the show’s 800th episode earlier this year at The Fonda Theater in Hollywood, she recalled how her understanding of Bart’s character ultimately led her to win the role. “When I learned that Bart was a school-hating underachiever and proud of it, I thought, ‘Wait a minute, that’s more interesting,’” she said. This revelation led to her immediate casting as the iconic character.
Over the years, Cartwright’s portrayal of Bart Simpson has garnered her immense recognition and numerous fans worldwide. Her voice has become synonymous with the character, and she frequently receives requests for Bart’s signature catchphrases and words of mischief from fans around the world. Her ability to tap into Bart’s personality has resonated with audiences, making her a beloved figure not only in animation but in popular culture as a whole.
In a further discussion about celebrity encounters, Cartwright recounted another surprising incident. While on a train in South Africa, she was recognised by a young boy who connected her voice to Bart Simpson. Such experiences highlight how her work transcends geographical boundaries, reaching fans no matter where they are.
As an actress, Cartwright has maintained a remarkable and enduring career, and her experience is a testament to the power of voice acting. With a wealth of stories and a role that continues to evolve, Nancy Cartwright remains a fascinating figure in the world of entertainment. Her reflections on her time as Bart Simpson offer a glimpse into the life of someone whose voice has shaped a generation’s view of animated storytelling.
The legacy of “The Simpsons” continues, and with it, Cartwright’s significant contributions as the voice behind one of its most iconic characters will be celebrated for years to come. While the series may have started more than three decades ago, the impact of her performance as Bart Simpson remains as palpable as ever, reminding audiences of the joyful, irreverent spirit Bart embodies.