10 Futurama Secrets You Never Knew
5. Zapp Brannigan Was Originally Written For Phil Hartman
Sadly, a more tragic fact now.
Two of the greatest side characters in The Simpsons are Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz, both of whom were voiced by the late Phil Hartman. Hartman was a key member of Saturday Night Live throughout the nineties, and starred in numerous films.
Known for his dry delivery and impressions, Hartman had stolen several episodes on The Simpsons and so creator Matt Groening was determined to have him involved in his next show, which of course went on to be Futurama. Groening specifically wrote the part of Zapp Brannigan for Hartman, with the actor preparing to voice the character in 1998.
Tragically, Hartman was murdered by his wife that same year. The part of Brannigan then went to Fry voice actor Billy West, who channelled the late comedian's voice in his portrayal.