The iconic animated sitcom The Simpsons has been entertaining audiences for over 35 years, but there have been plenty of rumors that this long-running show may be ending soon! But one recent episode revealed a truth.
A Fakeout Finale
In season 36, episode 1, titled "Bart's Birthday," the writers created an AI-generated finale! What happens in the story? The entire town of Springfield had a huge change with its citizens losing all their over-the-top traits and identities that make them so endearing. Fortunately, it's all a fakeout because it looks like Bart stops the program and ends the AI created world, letting audiences know that there is a lot more life and plenty more adventures to share with this family.
The Simpsons Producer Speaks Out
In an exclusive interview, Al Jean, a producer, let everyone know his intentions. He and writer Jessica Conrad hoped the episode was more of a message.
- To put an end to questions about whether The Simpsons is really coming to an end
- The pair aimed for the episode to bring a funny satirical look at some series finales that fell short in meeting their audiences' hopes and needs!
Jean stated the show wasn't coming to a close "as far as I know", and released it as the premiere episode of the new season.
The Long Run Of The Simpsons
The Simpsons first appeared on December 17, 1989, making this show last way over 35 years and that's created a huge amount of episodes! There are over 750 episodes! The show expanded its fanbase! They aren't only loved for the television series! but through:
- a movie
- comic books
- theme park rides
- video games
ending this extremely well-loved franchise would certAInly make fans around the world unhappy!
Future of The Simpsons
While The Simpsons has been renewed until season 36 and it's currently airing. There are still some issues!
- The series has seen declining ratings
- Viewership dropped significantly
- From nearly 15 million viewers, to only 2 million viewers.
- Streaming services appear to have affected viewership in ways the producers never predicted
But what's more noteworthy is that The Simpsons seems to endure as there hasn't been any indication of cancellation.
Fox doesn't want to hint at ending the show anytime soon and the producers hope to continue for some additional years!
Simpsons Ending Denial Analyzed
What was initially an attempt to satisfy audiences who want to know if it's time for a finale or closure. This long running animated series hasn't seen its end as there's even an anticipation for additional seasons and the creative team continue to add amazing new episodes.
Although, what is certAIn, and something audiences are fully aware of is that shows get canceled! There might even be moments where this might happen even for some beloved shows. It’s still somewhat surprising to many as some shows had already come to an end. This includes those well known shows:
- Curb Your Enthusiasm
- Young Sheldon
But that really does leave us to question and hope this beloved franchise goes on as The Simpsons is one of the best and longest running animated series and sitcoms in American history! If you have a favorite show, you don't want it to be canceled.
Although, it’s obvious that The Simpsons is one of the shows that's had to adapt. Even with the declines that some have mentioned about their success and even how streaming has changed audiences' television consumption, it hasn't been canceled yet. If you have been watching the show since its inception back in 1987, the initial shorts in "The Tracey Ullman Show,", and for some time after in 1989, be sure to celebrate this beloved American animated television program, featuring The Simpson family, whose story lives on through the many, many decades! With Fox still airing this great program for several years after several recent seasons.
