Premiered in 1989, the long-running animated sitcom, The Simpsons, is currently making headlines for fast approaching the end of its milestone Season 35. However, despite reaching an astonishing 766 episodes, the animated series shows no signs of slowing down. Co-showrunner Al Jean and writer/producer Matt Selman even revealed their future plans for the show.
Although The Simpsons will be wrapping Season 35 within a few days, it’s been reported that the show has already been renewed for Season 36 arriving next year. With the next season, the series will eventually cross the 800-episode milestone. And yet it seems there’s no potential end of sight for those helming the show.
The Simpsons Co-Showrunner Al Jean Addressed the Future of the Show
Earning the reputation of the longest-running television series of all time, with 766 episodes, The Simpsons is set to mark the end of its 35th season. Focused on the eponymous family in the town of Springfield, the beloved animated series tells the story of the Simpson family and the residents of the typical American town.
However, despite its remarkable run since 1989 and reaching a mind-blowing milestone of 35 episodes, The Simpsons comes as an unstoppable force in the world of television. Without absolutely no plans to end the series, co-showrunner Al Jean discussed the future of the show, as they have already planned season 36.
Speaking with ScreenRant about the future of the series following the release of The Simpsons’ May the 12th Be With You special on Disney+, Al Jean revealed there’s still a bright future ahead of the long-running sitcom. With Season 36 bringing the series to its 800-episode milestone, Jean mentioned his hopes for The Simpsons to reach 1,000 episodes someday.
With the help of our animators, we had a full slate of shows this year, which looked terrific. We did have to just take a break for four months because of the strike, which I’m glad we did, that was what we should have done. But I think the show is in fantastic shape. I’m biased, but I think that the current episodes are, whether I work on one, a lot or not, are great. And I think that the future is bright, it’s gonna go to 800, and I hope 1000.
Not just co-showrunner Al Jean, but even writer/producer Matt Selman and FOX claimed to have similar plans for The Simpsons. With season 36 releasing in 2025, Fox CEO Rob Wade promised that the show would continue to have an important place in their broadcast schedule.
The Simpsons Producer Matt Selman Teased Infinite Number of Episodes
The beloved animated sitcom The Simpsons has consistently outlived predictions of its wrap-up, leaving fans and critics wondering if the iconic series will ever come to an end. Throughout its long-standing history, the show has faced numerous rumors and speculation about its conclusion. However, co-showrunner Al Jean and writer/producer Matt Selman seem to have different plans.
After Al Jean’s positive remarks about the strong future of the show, Matt Selman told Cartoon Base exclusively that the idea of a predetermined endpoint is nowhere in the conversation. Consistently dismissing the claims of The Simpsons’ end, Selman teased an infinite number of episodes while urging fans to not hold their breath against the end of the series.
If history has been any indication, all attempts to “predict” the end of The Simpsons have been way off. So, just to be safe, I’ll confidently say that The Simpsons will someday reach an infinite number of episodes.
CB Exclusive: 'THE SIMPSONS' showrunner Matt Selman doesn't expect the show to end anytime soon.
"If history has been any indication, all attempts to “predict” the end of The Simpsons have been way off. So just to be safe, I’ll confidently say that The Simpsons will someday… pic.twitter.com/p3JpTBQGoL
— Cartoon Base (@TheCartoonBase) May 18, 2024
Considering the long-running aspect of the show, fans have expressed their concerns regarding potential creative problems. But it seems The Simpsons remains committed to delivering fresh and innovative storylines. The show’s remarkable longevity can be attributed to its enduring popularity and ability to adapt to changing times. From memes to music, The Simpsons’ impact is undeniable, and its continued success is a testament to its timeless appeal.
The Simpsons is available on Channel 4.
