The Simpsons Makes History with Deaf Voice Actors and the Use of ASL
The Simpsons’ Season 33 episode 17, titled “The Sound of Bleeding Gums” is noteworthy for using American Sign Language (ASL) and for its casting of Deaf actor John Autry II in order to voice the Deaf character Monk. Through this role, Autry has become the first Deaf performer to voice a character on the show.
The episode also features several other Deaf performers, such as comedian Kathy Buckley and 3 youngsters, Kaylee Arellano, Ian Mayorga, and Hazel Lopez from No Limits, a nonprofit organization devoted to deaf kids.
Use of ASL in the Episode
The creators likewise deserve credit for attempting to have characters with only four fingers communicate in ASL. This process must have been difficult to animate, which could explain why signing is only featured at the end of the episode. It’s a brief sequence, but it’s entertaining to see the characters attempt the nearly impossible task of signing while missing a fifth finger. Despite the fact that The Simpsons characters only have four fingers on each hand, the producers used two ASL consultants to ensure the accuracy of the ASL used in the episode.
Care for Deaf People and Deaf Culture
The Simpsons episode “The Sound of Bleeding Gums” demonstrates that the show’s creators are concerned with addressing real-life issues on the show, specially those which affects individuals from diverse communities such as the Deaf. For instance, to voice the Deaf character Monk they selected Deaf actor John Autry II, who gave an outstanding performance. Another thing is the script that was thoughtfully composed by Loni Steele Sosthand, whose brother was born Deaf. Additionally, details related to Deaf culture were carefully presented. At one point in the episode, Monk tells Lisa,“I’m not anybody’s cause,” reflecting how Deaf people actually feel. They do not want sympathy or assistance in doing things simply because they can’t hear. They believe they can do just about anything a hearing individual can.
A Bright Future for the Deaf in Entertainment
With CODA winning Best Picture and other awards at the 2022 Oscars, and “The Sound of Bleeding Gums” airing on The Simpsons, the Deaf community undoubtedly has a bright future in the entertainment industry, particularly in the field of animation.
The Deaf actor John Autry II provides a great source of inspiration for other aspiring Deaf and hard of hearing actors. His ability to land a starring role on The Simpsons despite being Deaf is inspiring to both the Deaf and hearing communities.
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