The Perfect Live-Action Cast: Unveiling the Ultimate Line-Up of Actors for All 17 Main Characters in The Simpsons
A brilliant ensemble!
Summary
A live-action reboot of
The Simpsons
would be perfectly timed as other childhood cartoons have been given the same treatment.
The dream cast for a live-action
The
Simpsons
includes talented actors like Danny McBride, Kate McKinnon, and Jim Carrey.
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The potential for an exciting and uproarious film arises from the fact that each actor possesses qualities that perfectly align with the characters they would portray. Consequently, The Simpsons, a well-known and adored animated TV series, presents an opportunity to create a live-action reboot with an all-star cast comprising of the finest actors in Hollywood. With its status as the longest-running program in television history, this sitcom, which revolves around a working-class family in Springfield, U.S.A., has deeply ingrained itself into American pop culture. Just like beloved characters from Disney, Star Wars, or Marvel, The Simpsons continues to enjoy immense popularity and a dedicated fan base.
Live-action movie reboots of beloved childhood cartoons, such as The Transformers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Disney animated films, have become immensely popular. Joining this trend is The Simpsons, one of the few remaining iconic cartoons yet to be transformed into a live-action spectacle. With an impressive 34 seasons and a previous animated movie filled with countless pop-culture references and nearly one thousand celebrity cameos, now is the perfect time for another cinematic adventure. And behold, the dream cast for this upcoming film:
17 Homer Simpson - Danny McBride
Homer Simpson is far more than just a dimwitted individual with exaggeratedly selfish reactions. In addition to that, Homer can also display thoughtfulness, cleverness, a desire to impress others, and a willingness to take responsibility for his mistakes, especially when he lets down Marge and the children. While there are definitely other actors who could potentially resemble Homer more closely, Danny McBride would be the ideal candidate to fully embody all of the character's qualities. McBride's performances in fictional roles like Kenny Powers, Rick Mitchell, and Jesse Gemstone each showcase a different facet of Homer Simpson. If McBride were to draw from these three remarkable characters to bring Homer to life, it would undoubtedly be an astounding comedic accomplishment.
16 Marge Simpson - Kate McKinnon
Kate McKinnon, an exceptionally versatile comedic actress in the industry, would be an ideal choice to portray Marge Simpson, the blue-haired matriarch of The Simpsons. Her recent portrayal as the hilarious Weird Barbie in the Barbie movie, along with her iconic performances as an array of comedic characters on Saturday Night Live, demonstrate her ability to capture Marge's distinctively raspy voice, dry humor, fashionable style, and unwavering determination to keep her family out of trouble. Additionally, McKinnon shares a comedic style akin to Danny McBride, suggesting the potential for outstanding chemistry if she were to play Marge alongside his Homer. Moreover, McKinnon is already familiar with The Simpsons, having previously appeared as Hettie Mae Boggs in the season 27 episode, "Gal of Constant Sorrow."
15 Bart Simpson - Hank Greenspan
Casting the role of Bart, the mischievous son in The Simpson's, requires an actor who can bring wit and charm to the character, rather than being a source of annoyance that viewers come to dislike. One potential candidate for this role could be Hank Greenspan, a young teenage actor known for playing the main character, Grover Johnson, on The Neighborhood. Grover is a kind, creative, and precocious child who generally makes good choices, but occasionally finds himself caught up in amusing yet minor mischief. Greenspan's charmingly smug smile and mischievous glint in his eye, often exhibited to avoid getting in trouble, could be traits he could embody while portraying everyone's favorite rebellious kid.
14 Lisa Simpson - McKenna Grace
13 Grandpa Simpson - Lewis Black
McKenna Grace has impressed both film critics and audiences with her performance as Phoebe Spengler, the granddaughter of Egon, in the 2021 comedy Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Similar to Lisa Simpson, Phoebe shares a love for reading and science, and possesses a sarcastic demeanor. They both play a crucial role as the moral compass within their families, fearlessly challenging misguided adults. To transform Phoebe into a live-action Lisa, McKenna Grace would simply infuse her character with Lisa's cheerful optimism and penchant for delivering gloomy speeches, while also trading in a particle thrower for a saxophone.
Known for his fiery political tirades and hilarious portrayal of irate characters in comedy routines and on screen, Lewis Black would be the perfect fit to play Homer's father, Abe Simpson. With his natural ability to embody the role of an elderly man who angrily waves his cane and shouts at everything, Black would seamlessly step into the shoes of this iconic character. However, to truly embody the live-action version of The Simpson's beloved grandfather, Black would also need to master the art of spinning long-winded, inaccurate tales only to forget their point, much like Abe. Given Black's talent for mocking befuddled facial expressions, acquiring these attributes shouldn't be too much of a challenge for the comedian.
12 Ned Flanders - Jason Sudeikis
11 Principal Skinner - Eugene Levy
Some might argue that Jason Sudeikis' endearing and slightly cheesy character, Ted Lasso, bears a resemblance to Homer's neighbor and rival, Ned Flanders, but with a more laid-back and self-aware demeanor. In the season 3 premiere of Ted Lasso, Ted jokingly scolds the media for never mocking his appearance, saying, "I look like Ned Flanders cosplaying as Ned Flanders." Transitioning from Ted Lasso to Ned Flanders would be effortless for Jason Sudeikis, as he would only need to adopt a slightly sanctimonious attitude and sprinkle in a few "Howdily-doodily, neighbor?" catchphrases. He could even continue wearing his signature dress shirt and sweater combination.
Eugene Levy's expertise lies in his portrayal of anxious and easily flustered characters in positions of authority. By casting him as the incapable Principal Seymour Skinner, opportunities arise for this legendary comedian and actor to create unforgettable scenes. Observing Levy as Skinner, constantly worrying, scheming, and enduring numerous comedic mishaps while attempting to maintain control over Bart and the other students at Springfield Elementary, would undoubtedly provide pure amusement. Additionally, by skillfully integrating a somber aspect of Skinner's narrative, specifically his post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from the Vietnam War, Levy's ability to blend drama and comedy could elicit a greater sense of empathy toward a character who is often portrayed as the antagonist.
10 Milhouse - Iain Armitage
Iain Armitage's portrayal of Milhouse, Bart's best friend, in the upcoming project is a logical choice due to his breakout performance as the young Sheldon Cooper on the show Young Sheldon. Armitage brilliantly embodies the titular character, who is a child prodigy version of Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory. Both Sheldon and Milhouse face similar challenges, as they are often targeted for their passion for science and mathematics and struggle to fit in among their peers. Although young Sheldon's persona as a gifted child contrasts with Milhouse's naivety, Armitage should have no trouble adapting, especially with his distinctive blue hair and thick-rimmed glasses, which instantly resemble the character.
9 Mr. Burns - Gary Oldman
Renowned actor, Gary Oldman, has gained acclaim for his portrayal of captivating antagonists throughout his extensive career. Many of his memorable characters have exhibited a chilling and calculating demeanor akin to Count Dracula, while others have provided an intriguing blend of humor and villainy, such as Jean-Baptiste Emanuel Zorg in The Fifth Element.
Introducing the character of Charles Montgomery Burns, the wealthiest and most formidable resident of Springfield, would serve as a fitting addition to Oldman's repertoire of grand and cunning roles. This connection holds particular significance as Mr. Burns famously portrayed Gary Oldman's Dracula in the unforgettable Treehouse of Horror IV episode.
8 Smithers - Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Jesse Tyler Ferguson has already made his mark on television by creating the iconic gay character, Mitchell Pritchett, in Modern Family. However, he now has the opportunity to bring another memorable gay sitcom character to life as Waylon Smithers, the devoted personal assistant to Mr. Burns. Similar to Mitch, Smithers is characterized as being low-key, mild-mannered, uptight, sensitive, and occasionally socially awkward. Nevertheless, taking on the role of Smithers would be an intriguing departure for Ferguson, as this character secretly admires and longs for Mr. Burns' reciprocated love. With his extensive experience in film, television, and theater, it is easy to envision Jesse Tyler Ferguson flawlessly delivering a live-action rendition of Smithers' heartfelt tribute song to Mr. Burns in season 4.
7 Krusty the Clown - Jim Carrey
It seems like the obvious choice to cast Jim Carrey, a popular slapstick comedian and actor, as the troubled Krusty the Clown. Watching Carrey jump around in clown makeup during a popular Springfield children's show one minute, and then seeing him stand behind a Krusty Burger in the rain, smoking a cigarette and reflecting on his problems, perfectly aligns with his unique performing style. By portraying Krusty, Carrey will not only entertain the audience but also provide a thought-provoking commentary on the benefits of retirement over burning out. It's possible that a live-action portrayal of Krusty could be the role Carrey was destined to play all along.
6 Comic Book Guy - Kevin Smith
When audiences watch The Simpsons and see Comic Book Guy, they immediately associate him with one actor and filmmaker: Kevin Smith. With his passion for superhero movies, experience as a comic book writer, and ownership of a comic bookshop, Kevin Smith is the perfect fit to portray Comic Book Guy, also known as Jeff Albertson, the proprietor of Springfield's "The Android's Dungeon & Baseball Card Shop." Having been involved in numerous unrealized comic book projects, Smith often creates characters in his films who are enthusiastic comic book enthusiasts, delighting others with their knowledge and history of the genre. It would be absolutely "Worst...Ever!" to overlook the opportunity for the real Comic Book Guy to play the role of The Simpsons' Comic Book Guy.
5 Barney - Kenan Thompson
Kenan Thompson, the longest-serving cast member of Saturday Night Live, has the potential to add more humor and depth to the character of Barney Gumble, Homer's intoxicated companion in the live-action adaptation. Known for his ability to turn ordinary situations into comedic gold and create hilarious moments on the spot, Thompson can enhance Barney's portrayal as a troubled alcoholic wasting his life away at Moe's Bar. With his talent for celebrity impersonations and his ability to make people laugh with his facial expressions, the actor can bring authenticity to the character and showcase a side of Barney, whether drunk or sober, that resembles Kenan's popular SNL personas such as Diondre Cole, Darnell Hayes, Lorenzo McIntosh, and Reese De'What.
4 Moe - John C. Reilly
John C. Reilly is known for his versatile acting skills, often portraying characters who have faced adversity and neglect from others. From Amos "Mr. Cellophane" Hart to Reed Rothchild, Cal Naughton Jr., Dewey Cox, and "Wreck It" Ralph, Reilly has demonstrated his ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic roles. Given his striking resemblance to Moe Szyslak, the anguished bartender from The Simpsons, Reilly would be an excellent choice to expand his repertoire. With his signature curly hair and melancholic facial expressions, Reilly could bring out the darker aspects of Moe's life while also showcasing the character's relentless pursuit of a better existence. A portrayal of Moe in a live-action adaptation of The Simpsons could potentially become one of Reilly's most memorable comedic performances.
3 Groundskeeper Willie - Tony Curran
Tony Curran, a Scottish-born actor known for his portrayal of Vincent van Gogh in season 5 of the revived Doctor Who series, would be an excellent choice to portray Groundskeeper Willie, the Scottish janitor at Springfield Elementary. With an extensive background in drama, television, and film, Curran has delved into the realms of superheroes, science fiction, and fantasy, making a comedic live-action role a departure from his usual repertoire. It would undoubtedly be entertaining to witness Curran playfully mock his serious characters by embodying the gruff and cantankerous Willie, who alternates between being both a foe and an ally to Bart and Lisa Simpson.
2 Apu - Aasif Mandvi
Aasif Mandvi, the British-American actor and former correspondent on The Daily Show, has had notable roles in live-action adaptations of cartoons. Born in India and raised in England, Mandvi portrayed Mr. Aziz, the owner of a pizza shop, in Spider-Man 2 (2004) and Commander Zhao, the villain, in The Last Airbender (2010). Currently starring in the supernatural show Evil, Mandvi could bring a newfound authenticity to the character of Apu on The Simpsons, an aspect that has been lacking until now. With his extensive experience and Indian heritage, Mandvi's nuanced and realistic performance could potentially address the ongoing stereotype controversy surrounding Apu.
1 Mrs. Krabappel - Wanda Sykes
Comedy virtuoso Wanda Sykes is the perfect choice to portray the witty fourth-grade teacher Edna Krabappel. Renowned for her portrayal of bold, independent women in hit TV series like Curb Your Enthusiasm, Black-ish, and The Upshaws, Sykes' comedic style aligns seamlessly with Mrs. Krabappel's sharp sense of humor. By honing in on the character's vices as a smoker, drinker, and gambler in search of love, Sykes would bring uproarious laughter to audiences while upholding her strength and dignity as both a woman and an educator. Her portrayal would solidify her as a formidable adversary to Bart Simpson.