“Is Seymour Butz here? Anyone? I want to see more, Butz!” This iconic prank call might ring a bell if you’re a fan of “The Simpsons,” and it’s all thanks to the unforgettable character Moe Szyslak. For over three decades, Moe has been a staple of the series, running his infamous Moe’s Tavern and unwittingly falling prey to Bart Simpson’s notorious phone gags. But there’s an intriguing tidbit about Moe that might just surprise you—his voice draws inspiration from none other than legendary actor Al Pacino.
The Man Behind Moe’s Gravelly Tone
In a candid GQ interview, Hank Azaria—the talent behind Moe’s voice—shared, “Moe is sort of a peculiar twist on a young Al Pacino, with a bit more gravel in the voice.” Azaria’s vocal range doesn’t stop at Moe; he also breathes life into characters like Chief Wiggum, Comic Book Guy, Snake, and Professor Frink.
Azaria opened up to Awards Daily about the unique challenge of voicing multiple characters: “It’s quite the adventure. When Chief Wiggum converses with Moe, I switch between them. Thanks to the magic of editing, it all comes together seamlessly. Sometimes, it feels like a one-man show, with me voicing a dialogue with myself.”
A Shift in Voice Casting Philosophy
The voice actor’s repertoire once included Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the Kwik-E-Mart proprietor. However, in 2020, Azaria stepped back from the role, a collective decision that marked a turning point. Reflecting on the change, he expressed a desire to listen and learn from the Indian community’s perspective on the portrayal.
Azaria emphasized the importance of diversity in the creative process: “I’m eager to see Indian and South Asian writers contribute their voices to the narrative, including decisions about vocal representation.”
Following this, Azaria also retired from voicing characters like Carl Carlson and Officer Lou, aligning with “The Simpsons” producers’ commitment to having characters of color voiced by actors who share those backgrounds.
This fascinating behind-the-scenes look at “The Simpsons” reveals the thoughtful considerations that go into creating such a beloved and enduring show. As the series continues to evolve, it remains a testament to the power of inclusive storytelling and the impact of iconic voices like Hank Azaria’s.
Featured image credit: FOX Broadcasting Company