Jodie Foster, a devoted admirer of 'The Simpsons,' recently shared her experience portraying Maggie Simpson, expressing immense surprise at the extensive dialogue she was given. Foster recounted her long-standing affection for the animated series, stating she "watched it every Sunday," a fact she believes the show's creators may not have realized initially.
The acclaimed actress described her excitement when offered the role of Maggie, a character typically known for her silence. She was particularly struck by the profound monologue crafted for Maggie in the season 20 episode, "Four Great Women and a Manicure." This segment, a parody of Ayn Rand's 'The Fountainhead,' featured Maggie eloquently defending her architectural creations in a daycare setting, culminating in the memorable line, "These are my terms, I do not care to play by any others. And now, if the court will allow me, it's nap time."
Throughout its history, Maggie Simpson has rarely spoken, with notable exceptions including brief utterances by Carol Kane and Elizabeth Taylor in earlier seasons, and Nancy Cartwright's single word in 'The Simpsons Movie.' The character has also had various guest voices in non-canon "Treehouse of Horror" episodes, including James Earl Jones and Lindsay Lohan. Foster's portrayal stands out for its unexpected depth, offering a unique and powerful moment in the show's extensive run.
This episode highlights the profound impact that even a silent character can have when given a voice, especially when that voice conveys a message of individuality and self-expression. Maggie's monologue, delivered by Jodie Foster, transcends its comedic context to inspire viewers to embrace their authentic selves and stand firm in their convictions, regardless of external pressures.