A large, tilted yellow rectangle takes up the middle of the frame, showcasing the core Simpson family—Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Maggie—running and falling in mid-air below the iconic white, stylized "The Simpsons" logo. A pink frosted donut floats near Homer.

Movies & Shows

Meet 19 Essential Characters From The Simpsons

by Explore Disney+ Contributor

August 2, 2026

Get to know the Simpson family, Springfield standouts, and the voices behind these beloved characters, then watch them in action on Disney+

For more than three decades and 800 episodes, The Simpsons has blended its trademark razor-sharp humor with heart and feeling. The animated show is packed with eclectic personalities from the Simpsons family to Mr. Burns, Chief Wiggum, and even Sideshow Bob. Together, they make up one of television's most iconic casts. Read on for a character-by-character guide to the family, friends, villains, and fan favorites who keep the show so endlessly watchable.

The Simpsons Family Members

Meet the beloved family at the core of the record-breaking show. With new Disney+ exclusive specials out this summer, there’s never been a better time to catch up on everything The Simpsons.

Bart Simpson

This character is Bart Simpson from the animated series The Simpsons. He is shown holding his signature green skateboard.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Bartholomew JoJo “Bart” Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Bart is a mischievous prankster who loves causing trouble and is rarely seen without his skateboard or slingshot. But beneath his signature rebellion lies a kid who occasionally shows surprising depth and always keeps Springfield on its toes.

Who voices Bart Simpson?

Nancy Cartwright voices Bart.

Stream must-see Bart episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Grampa Simpson

This is a detailed illustration of Abraham "Grampa" Simpson from the animated series The Simpsons. He is shown wearing his signature light beige sweater and grey trousers.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Abraham “Abe” Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Grampa Abe doles out endless comedy with his wry anecdotes, wild exaggerations, and occasional bursts of wisdom. Nobody seems to know his age or where he's from, Grampa himself included, but he’s always ready with an entertaining story.

Who voices Abe Simpson?

Dan Castellaneta also voices Abe “Grampa” Simpson.

Stream must-see Grampa Abe episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Homer Simpson

This is a digital illustration of Homer Simpson, the main protagonist of the American animated sitcom The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Homer Jay Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Meet the man who puts the "d'oh!" in donuts! Homer can be the family's biggest problem (almost never on purpose) but he's also its beating heart. Unfortunately, chaos follows Homer wherever he goes from Moe’s to work at the nuclear plant, and even into outer space. But through it all Homer’s emotional outbursts are some of the sweetest and most iconic in the series.

Who voices Homer Simpson?

Dan Castellaneta voices Homer Simpson.

Stream must-see Homer episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Lisa Simpson

This image depicts Lisa Simpson from the animated series The Simpsons. She is holding her black cat, Snowball II, who is a prominent pet in the show.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Lisa Marie Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Middle child Lisa is a saxophone-playing prodigy, known for her brains, integrity, and compassion. She always stands up for what she believes in and her kindness and intelligence shine through everything she does. 

Who voices Lisa Simpson?

Yeardley Smith voices Lisa Simpson.

Stream must-see Lisa episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Maggie Simpson

The Image shows Maggie Simpson, the youngest child of Homer and Marge from the animated television series The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Margaret Lenny “Maggie” Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Maggie Simpson may be the youngest Simpson, but don't underestimate her. Her bravery and intelligence beyond her years lands her in some pretty wacky scenarios, like taking on Mr. Burns and a gang of mobsters, pacifier and all.

Who voices Maggie Simpson?

Nancy Cartwright voices Maggie.

Stream must-see Maggie episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Marge Simpson

This image depicts Marge Simpson, the matriarch of the Simpson family from the long-running animated sitcom The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Marjorie “Marge” Bouvier Simpson

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Every family needs someone organized to hold things together and that's where the blue-haired matriarch Marge Simpson comes in. Her endless patience and compassion make her a great mom and a grounding presence that balances out her husband's antics.

Who voices Marge Simpson?

Julie Kavner voices Marge Simpson.

Stream must-see Marge episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Patty & Selma Bouvier

This image features Patty and Selma Bouvier from The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full names: Patricia “Patty” Maleficent Bouvier and Selma Bouvier

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Marge's chain-smoking twin sisters, Patty and Selma, are sharp, witty, and sarcastic. And they can’t stand Homer, so there’s always tension worth watching when they’re around.

Who voices Patty and Selma Bouvier?

Julie Kavner voices both Patty and Selma Bouvier.

Stream must-see Patty and Selma Bouvier episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Santa’s Little Helper

This character is Santa's Little Helper, the beloved family dog from the animated series The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Santa’s Little Helper

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

The greyhound who first sprinted into our hearts in the first episode is a loyal companion and mischiefmaker. Santa’s Little Helper is a clever and faithful member of the family whose adventures add heart to many plots.

Who voices Santa’s Little Helper?

Voiced by Frank Welker in early seasons, Santa’s Little Helper has been performed by Dan Castellaneta since 1995. He even gives the dog a human voice in a few surreal moments.

Stream must-see Santa’s Little Helper episodes via The Simpsons Collection

The Simpsons Family Friends & Neighbors

Beyond 742 Evergreen Terrace lies a town of well-meaning characters, even if Homer doesn’t always see them that way.

Milhouse Van Houten

This image depicts the character Milhouse Van Houten from The Simpsons looking upset after dropping his ice cream.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Milhouse Mussolini Van Houten

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Bart’s best friend Milhouse is unlucky, awkward, and lost without his glasses. When he's not naively following Bart around, he's pining for his crush, Lisa. Milhouse is the epitome of the loveable underdog who tends to end up the butt of other kids’ jokes.

Who voices Milhouse Van Houten?

Kelly McLeod has voiced Milhouse since 2025 when Pamela Hayden retired from the job after 35 years. 

Stream must-see Milhouse Van Houten episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Moe Szyslak

This character is Moe Szyslak, the cynical bartender from The Simpsons. He is depicted wearing his signature blue shirt and dark green apron.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Moammar “Moe” Szyslak

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

More than just a cranky bartender, Moe is full of stories and is surprisingly vulnerable about his personal life. If there's one thing guaranteed to annoy him, it's Bart’s ridiculously silly prank calls.

Who voices Moe Szyslak?

Hank Azaria voices Moe Szyslak.

Stream must-see Moe Szyslak episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Ned Flanders

This image features the character Ned Flanders from The Simpsons, depicted with his signature mustache and spectacles. He is shown wearing a green sweater over a pink collared shirt, holding garden shears while smelling a pink flower.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Nedward “Ned” Flanders Jr.

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Ned is the Simpsons’ next-door neighbor and an unlikely yet loyal friend, even when Homer tests his patience. A fan favorite, his cheerful optimism and strong religious beliefs are central to his character.

Who voices Ned Flanders?

Harry Shearer voices Ned Flanders.

Stream must-see Ned Flanders episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Springfield Elementary Kids & Staff

These memorable characters from Springfield Elementary see Bart and Lisa at school almost every day.

Nelson Muntz

This is Nelson Muntz from The Simpsons, known as the school bully. He is depicted holding an egg, often associated with his mischievous nature.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Nelson Mandela Muntz

First appears in: “Bart the General” (Season 1, Episode 5, 1990).

Springfield Elementary’s notorious bully never misses a chance to let out a “Ha-ha!” He acts tough, but under the surface Nelson has a sensitive side.

Who voices Nelson Muntz?

Nancy Cartwright also voices Nelson Muntz.

Stream must-see Nelson Muntz episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Principal Skinner

This character is Seymour Skinner, also known as Principal Skinner, from the animated series The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Seymour Skinner

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Principal Skinner runs Springfield Elementary with military precision, even though it’s crumbling and short on resources. Outside of school, his complicated relationships and convoluted past only add to the challenges he faces.

Who voices Principal Skinner?

Harry Shearer also voices Principal Skinner.

Stream must-see Principal Skinner episodes via The Simpsons Collection

The Simpsons’ Most Notorious Villains & Antagonists

When these characters are around, life in Springfield gets a little more complicated.

Mr. Burns

This character is Charles Montgomery "Monty" Burns from the animated television series The Simpsons. He is depicted as the evil, greedy, and wealthy owner of the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Charles Montgomery Plantagenet Schicklgruber Burns

First appears in: “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (Season 1, Episode 1, 1989).

Mr. Burns is a ruthless mogul who owns the nuclear power plant where Homer works. Despite poor health, he’s always scheming and counts on his loyal aide, Waylon Smithers, for help.

Who voices Mr. Burns?

Harry Shearer also voices Mr. Burns.

Stream must-see Mr. Burns episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Sideshow Bob

This is a digital illustration of Sideshow Bob from The Simpsons, featuring his iconic spiky red hair. The character is dressed in his signature orange prison jumpsuit while calmly eating a slice of pie.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Robert “Bob” Onderdonk Terwilliger Jr.

First appears in: “The Telltale Head” (Season 1, Episode 8, 1990).

Sideshow Bob is a criminal mastermind with a flair for the dramatic. His vendetta against Bart fuels some of the show's best-known episodes, like the Hitchcock-inspired "Cape Feare" (Season 5, Episode 2).

Who voices Sideshow Bob?

Kelsey Grammer voices Sideshow Bob.

Stream must-see Sideshow Bob episodes via The Simpsons Collection

More Springfield Standouts & Fan Favorites

These oddballs and larger-than-life personalities are part of what makes the show special.

Chief Wiggum

This digital illustration features Chief Clancy Wiggum from The Simpsons, known as the lazy, doughnut-loving head of the Springfield Police Department. He is portrayed as a stereotypical incompetent officer, holding a gun used to impale a pink-frosted doughnut.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Clancy Wiggum

First appears in: “Homer’s Odyssey” (Season 1, Episode 3, 1990).

Bumbling Chief Wiggum has a questionable approach to enforcing the law. His one-liners keep fans laughing and he’s always thinking about his next donut.

Who voices Chief Wiggum?

Hank Azaria also voices Chief Wiggum.

Stream must-see Chief Wiggum episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Krusty the Clown

This illustration features Krusty the Clown from The Simpsons looking uncharacteristically contemplative. He is shown holding a half-eaten burger from his own fast-food chain, Krusty Burger.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Herschel Shmoikel Pinchas Yerucham Krustofsky

First appears in: “The Telltale Head” (Season 1, Episode 8, 1990).

Part children’s entertainer, part tragic figure, Krusty’s career is a satire of life in the spotlight. Lowbrow gags, shady deals, and big comebacks are all part of his act.

Who voices Krusty the Clown?

Dan Castellaneta also voices Krusty the Clown.

Stream must-see Krusty the Clown episodes via The Simpsons Collection

Waylon Smithers

This character is Waylon Smithers from the animated sitcom The Simpsons.
The Simpsons, Disney+

Full name: Waylon Joseph Smithers Jr.

First appears in: “Homer’s Odyssey” (Season 1, Episode 3, 1990).

Smithers is Mr. Burns' devoted assistant. Their classic villain and sidekick relationship comes with boardroom blunders, absurd power plays, and endless mayhem.

Who voices Waylon Smithers?

Harry Shearer also voices Waylon Smithers.

Stream must-see Smithers moments via The Simpsons Collection

The Simpsons Characters FAQ

Check out a few fun facts about the show’s cast and characters while you also get the scoop on how to watch the show, movie, and shorts on Disney+. 

How many characters are in The Simpsons?

The image shows a large group of characters from the animated television series The Simpsons walking together.
The Simpsons, Disney+

The show has over 100 named characters. There really isn’t a definitive number as Springfield keeps growing and evolving, with newcomers and celebrity cameos introduced every season.

Who voices the most characters on The Simpsons?

Three actors are the show’s biggest multi-character performers, contributing the voices for an almost unbelievable amount of characters. 

  • Dan Castellaneta voices some of the most iconic characters on the show, including Homer Simpson, Krusty the Clown, Grampa Simpson, Barney Gumble, Mayor Quimby, and Groundskeeper Willie. 

  • Hank Azaria voices hundreds of characters, including Moe Szyslak, Chief Wiggum, Professor Frink, Dr. Nick Riviera, and Comic Book Guy. 

  • Harry Shearer also voices a bunch of core characters, including Mr. Burns, Waylon Smithers, Kent Brockman, Ned Flanders, and Principal Skinner.

Which The Simpsons characters have been in the show since the beginning?

Patty and Selma, Mr. Burns, Ned Flanders, Bart, Grampa Simpson, Homer, Lisa, Maggie, Marge, Principal Skinner, Moe, Milhouse, and Santa’s Little Helper have been part of the show since the first episode, “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” (1989).

The Simpsons Collection On Disney+

The purple-themed graphic highlights iconic character silhouettes, including Marge on the left and Homer on the right.
The Simpsons, Disney+

The Simpsons Collection is streaming on Disney+, so it’s easy to  jump in and see your favorite Springfielders in action.

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