Celebrated voice actress Nancy Cartwright, best known for her portrayal of Bart Simpson, has revealed that her iconic character often finds his way into her day-to-day life. Speaking recently on the podcast “Inside of You” with Michael Rosenbaum, the 68-year-old actress shared her experiences of spontaneously slipping into Bart’s voice even outside of recording sessions.
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Cartwright, who has been the voice of Bart for over 38 years, indicated that the distinct voice comes so naturally to her that it feels effortless. When Rosenbaum queried her about whether she ever catches herself using the character’s voice in everyday situations, she replied, “Sometimes I can’t resist, and I do have to kind of throw him in there. It’s so easy to do.” This casual ease has become a hallmark of her long-standing career with the beloved animated series.
In a separate segment of her own podcast, “Simpsons Declassified,” Cartwright discussed an amusing encounter that highlights the unexpected recognition she receives as Bart Simpson. While on a flight to London, a flight attendant approached her with the hope of having Cartwright make a special announcement in character.
The actress shared that upon being asked, “are you the voice of Bart Simpson?” she excitedly confirmed her identity. The flight attendant explained that the pilots onboard were huge fans and requested her to announce their landing in character. Cartwright, keen to oblige, took the microphone in the cockpit and delivered her lines as Bart, humouring the passengers with a playful touch.
“I said something like [in the voice of Bart Simpson] ‘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,’” she recounted, much to the delight of those on board.
The journey that led Cartwright to this unique opportunity began in 1987 when she initially auditioned for the role of Lisa Simpson, Bart’s sister. However, in a last-minute decision, she opted to audition instead for Bart. This choice ultimately shaped her career and granted her a lasting iconic status within the animated realm.
As the voice behind Bart, Cartwright has played a vital role in establishing the character as a pop culture icon. The irreverent antics and catchphrases of Bart Simpson have not only entertained audiences but also resonated with multiple generations, cementing the character’s place in television history.
Cartwright’s commitment to the character goes beyond mere performance; she often reflects on the personal connection she feels to Bart. The character embodies the spirit of mischief and rebellion, qualities that undoubtedly appeal to many viewers. Her ability to bring Bart to life with such authenticity has left an indelible mark on fans and the animation industry alike.
As discussions about the future of “The Simpsons” continue, Cartwright remains an integral part of its legacy. Her dedication to her craft is evident, and her perspective on both her character and her experiences has entertained players on and off the screen for decades. The continuation of such iconic voices serves as a reminder of the influence animated characters can have on pop culture and individual lives.
With plans for new episodes still in the works, it’ll be exciting to see how Bart Simpson—and Nancy Cartwright—will evolve in the years to come.