The following contains mild spoilers for The Simpsons season 36 episode 5, “Treehouse of Horror XXXV,” now streaming on HuluA recurring guest actor onThe Simpsons’has become crucial to the show, and his role in the show’sVenomparody proves it. While most of Springfield is voiced by the show’s cast of Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Harry Shearer, and Hank Azaria, other actors like Maggie Roswell have brought their own consistent vibes to the show. This is on top of the impressive legacy of deceased actors like Phil Hartman, Marcia Wallace and Russi Taylor, who brought an indeniable character to Springfield andthe Simpsons family tree.
A frequent guest star in recent seasons of the show has become a crucial figure within the show’s ecosystem, playing a number of minor roles while taking over some long-standing ones in the process. This actor is central toseason 36’s “Treehouse of Horror XXXV,“providing the voice for the show’s parody ofVenomin the segment “Denim.” It’s a great little showcase for the actor, and highlights why he’s such a good fit forThe Simpsons.
Kevin Michael Richards Has Become A Crucial Simpsons Actor
Kevin Michael Richards Has Become One OfThe Simpsons' Best Guest Stars
Kevin Michael Richards has become one ofThe Simpsons' most potent secret weapons, with the frequent guest actor fitting in perfectly toThe Simpsons' style of comedy and storytelling. A gifted voice actor who has appeared in several other shows and films, Kevin Michael Richardson made his debut onThe Simpsonsin season 21’s “Homer the Whopper.” He’s subsequently appeared in several other episodes of the show, often in minor roles or as throwaway characters. Richardson has the natural gravitas and comedic timing to fit neatly intoThe Simpsons' comedic rhythm, making him ideal for those smaller roles.
The Simpsons Season 36 Brings Back A Surprising Romance From 19 Years Ago
The Simpsons season 36 brought back a long-forgotten romance from almost two decades ago and, in the process, illustrated the show’s secret weapon.
However, Richards has proven capable of working perfectly alongside established stars of the show, such as his surprisingly three-dimensional role as Jay G in season 28’s two-parter, “The Great Phatsby.” In season 32, he even took on the role ofDr. Julius Hibbert, making him a genuine fixture of the show. With the voice cast aging and modern trends in animation evolving, having a black actor like Kevin Michael Richards on hand gives the show a more authentic voice that also works perfectly in the show.
The Simpsons' Venom Parody Proves How Good Richards Fits Into The Show
“Denim” Proves How Adaptable Kevin Michael Richards Has Become OnThe Simpsons
Richards highlighted all his skills in “Denim,” the season 36 parody ofVenom. In the “Treehouse of Horror” segment, Richards plays an alien life-form that bonds to Homer and becomes his “jeans.” The segment requires Richards to match the cartoonishly deep voice of the symbiote from the Tom Hardy films, which he manages to do without losing the comedic edge that makes his performances often so memorable.It’s a very silly character, and one that Richards plays with absolute sincerity.
It’s this surprising edge that really elevates the character beyond a surface-level parody of the superhero franchise. Richards gives Denim the right amount of genuine emotion in his connection to Homer and rage at Marge, setting up an understated ending where the pair just sit around on the couch and talk. The delicate balance between ridiculously silly and earnestly human is at the core ofThe Simpsonsas a franchise, andit’s a balancing act that Richards is able to successfully pull off. It’s great proof that Kevin Michael Richards is ideal as a recurring voice actor inThe Simpsons.
The Simpsons
Cast
The Simpsons is an animated series set in the fictional town of Springfield, following the daily lives of the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Premiering in 1989, the show is renowned for its satirical commentary on politics, media, and American culture, featuring numerous celebrity guest appearances.
