Yeardley Smith is a name that has echoed through pop culture for decades, thanks to her unforgettable role as the voice of Lisa Simpson on the iconic animated series The Simpsons. With a career spanning theater, film, television, writing, and podcasting, Smith is a multifaceted artist whose influence reaches far beyond Springfield.

Quick Bio

Early Life and Background

Born on July 3, 1964, in Paris, France, Yeardley Smith was raised in Washington, D.C., after her family relocated when she was just two years old. Her father, Joseph Smith, was a journalist for United Press International and later became the first obituary editor for The Washington Post. Her mother, Martha Mayor, worked as a paper conservator at the Smithsonian Institution. Growing up in an intellectually rich environment, Smith developed a passion for acting early on, performing in school plays and community theater.

Start in Acting and Career Beginnings

Smith’s professional journey began in theater. After graduating from drama school in 1982, she moved to New York City and made her Broadway debut in Tom Stoppard’s The Real Thing (1984), sharing the stage with Jeremy Irons and Glenn Close. Her film debut came in Heaven Help Us (1985), followed by memorable roles in The Legend of Billie Jean and Maximum Overdrive. These early performances showcased her distinctive voice and quirky charm, setting the stage for her future success.

Breakthrough with The Simpsons

In 1987, Smith auditioned for The Tracey Ullman Show, initially aiming for the role of Bart Simpson. Her voice was deemed too high-pitched for Bart, but it was perfect for Lisa Simpson, the intelligent and socially conscious middle child. When The Simpsons spun off into its own series in 1989, Smith’s portrayal of Lisa became her defining role. She won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1992 for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance, and her work has helped make The Simpsons the longest-running sitcom in American television history.

Other Television and Film Roles

While The Simpsons remains her most famous role, Smith has appeared in numerous other projects. She starred in Herman’s Head (1991–1994) and had recurring roles in Dharma & Greg and Dead Like Me. Her film credits include City Slickers, Just Write, Toys, and As Good as It Gets, where she played Jackie Simpson alongside Jack Nicholson. These roles highlighted her versatility and comedic timing, earning her recognition beyond animation.

Stage Work and Writing

In 2004, Smith returned to her theatrical roots with a one-woman show titled More, performed at the Union Square Theatre in New York. The autobiographical piece explored her personal struggles and triumphs, offering audiences a deeper look into her life. She also authored a children’s book, I, Lorelei (2009), which received praise for its emotional depth and relatable storytelling.

Age and Physical Appearance

As of 2025, Yeardley Smith is 61 years old. She stands at 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) and weighs approximately 49 kg (108 lbs). Her slim build, blue eyes, and dark brown hair complement her distinctive voice, which has remained largely unchanged since childhood. Despite her fame, she is rarely recognized in public, a fact she embraces for the privacy it affords.

Personal Life and Relationships

Smith’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. She was previously married to Christopher Grove (1990–1992) and Daniel Erickson (2002–2008). In 2022, she married Dan Grice, a retired detective she met during a Simpsons event in Oregon. Their relationship blossomed from a chance encounter into a deep partnership, and they now co-host the podcast Small Town Dicks together.

Podcasting and New Ventures

Smith’s true-crime podcast, Small Town Dicks, has become a major success. Co-hosted with her husband Dan and his twin brother Dave, the show explores real cases from small-town America. It has won multiple awards, including Best Documentary Podcast at the Women in Podcasting Awards. The podcast showcases Smith’s storytelling skills and commitment to justice.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

With an estimated net worth of $85–90 million, Smith is among the highest-paid voice actors in the world. She reportedly earns $300,000 per episode of The Simpsons, totaling around $7 million per season. Her wealth has allowed her to invest in real estate and launch ventures like her women’s shoe line, Marchez Vous, in 2011. Despite her success, she remains grounded and focused on creative fulfillment.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Smith is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, gender equality, and mental health awareness. She has donated generously to organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and the Grameen Foundation, including a $1.4 million contribution to support microfinance initiatives5. She’s also been open about her struggles with bulimia, using her platform to promote self-acceptance and healing.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Yeardley Smith’s portrayal of Lisa Simpson has left an indelible mark on pop culture. Lisa’s intelligence, compassion, and moral clarity have inspired generations of viewers. Smith’s dedication to the character—even advocating for what Lisa would or wouldn’t say—reflects her deep connection to the role. Her influence extends beyond animation, making her a role model for aspiring artists and activists alike.

Conclusion

Yeardley Smith is more than just the voice of Lisa Simpson—she’s a trailblazing actress, writer, podcaster, and philanthropist. Her journey from a shy child in Washington, D.C., to a cultural icon is a testament to resilience, talent, and authenticity. Whether through her voice, her words, or her actions, Smith continues to inspire and entertain, proving that true artistry knows no bounds.

FAQs

When and where was Yeardley Smith born?
She was born on July 3, 1964, in Paris, France.

What is Yeardley Smith best known for?
She’s widely recognized as the voice of Lisa Simpson on The Simpsons.

Has Yeardley Smith won any awards?
Yes, she won a Primetime Emmy Award in 1992 for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance.

Is Yeardley Smith married?
She is currently married to Dan Grice, a retired detective, since 2022.

What other shows has she appeared in?
She starred in Herman’s Head and had roles in Dharma & Greg, Dead Like Me, and As Good as It Gets.

Q: Does Yeardley Smith have children?
No, she does not have any children.

What is her net worth?
Her estimated net worth is between $85–90 million, largely from her work on The Simpsons.

What are her other creative projects?
She wrote a children’s book titled I, Lorelei and performed a one-woman show called More.

What podcast does she host?
She co-hosts Small Town Dicks, a true-crime podcast with her husband and his brother.

What causes does she support?
She advocates for mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and education, and has donated to the Human Rights Campaign.

For More Updates Visit: Hollywood Magazine