Full Breakdown
Nancy Cartwright Advocates for Human Voice Actors Over AI in The Simpsons
2/15/2026, 10:45:13 PM
Concerns Over AI Replacement in Voice Acting
Nancy Cartwright, the voice actress known for portraying Bart Simpson on the iconic animated series *The Simpsons* since its inception in 1989, has expressed her reservations about the potential use of artificial intelligence (AI) to replace human voice actors. Speaking at the celebration of the show's 800th episode, Cartwright emphasized her belief that AI lacks the emotional depth necessary for voice acting. “I think I would choose a successor [instead of AI], and I’ll tell you why — because AI has no heart and I think that’s a missing ingredient,” she stated.
The Emotional Connection of Voice Acting
Cartwright elaborated on her perspective, asserting that while AI-generated voices may closely mimic human tones, they cannot replicate the passion and emotional resonance that a human actor brings to their performance. “We’re spiritual beings, we can emote passion and uplift people and stuff. And I don’t know that a computer can do something like that,” she remarked. This sentiment reflects a broader concern within the creative community regarding the implications of AI in artistic roles.
Background of The Simpsons
*The Simpsons*, created by Matt Groening, debuted as a series of animated shorts on *The Tracey Ullman Show* in 1987 before becoming a standalone series on Fox. The show has since become a cultural phenomenon, currently in its 37th season, and is preparing for a new movie set to release on July 23, 2027. Cartwright's journey with the character of Bart began when she initially auditioned for the role of Lisa but switched to Bart at the last moment, leading to her immediate hiring by Groening.
Official Statements & Responses
Cartwright's comments come amid a growing trend in the entertainment industry where companies, including Disney, are exploring AI technologies for various applications. Following Disney's $1 billion deal with OpenAI for the generative AI app Sora, the company has taken a firm stance against unauthorized AI reproductions of its characters. This legal approach underscores the tension between technological advancements and traditional creative roles.
Criticism & Opposition
While Cartwright's views resonate with many in the creative sector, there are proponents of AI who argue that it can enhance the creative process rather than replace it. Some industry experts suggest that AI could be used as a tool to assist voice actors, potentially expanding creative possibilities rather than diminishing the role of human talent.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think I would choose a successor [instead of AI], and I’ll tell you why — because AI has no heart and I think that’s a missing ingredient,” — Nancy Cartwright, Voice Actress
- “We’re spiritual beings, we can emote passion and uplift people and stuff. And I don’t know that a computer can do something like that.” — Nancy Cartwright, Voice Actress
As the conversation around AI in creative fields continues, Cartwright's perspective highlights the ongoing debate about the value of human emotion and connection in artistic expression.
