The Simpsonsshowrunner Matt Selman gives a candid response on the two conditions that would lead to the end of the long-running animated series.The Simpsonsrecently toyed with the idea of a series finale, though it was really just a sendup of the way that some of the most famous and infamous finales of recent years tend to feel the need to end on a grandiose and conclusive note that is sometimes at odds with the tone of the series overall. This played out with Bart Simpson actively pushing back against the perfect ending.
Selman, who has been withThe Simpsonssince 1997, toldPEOPLEthat there are two conditions that could conceivably bring the animated staple to an end.The first is if the show runs its natural course. The second would be if one of the primary cast members dies, likely meaning Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith, Hank Azaria, and Harry Shearer. Addressing the latter possibility of a main voice actor passing away, Selman says:
That I’m in super denial about. I don’t think about it, so I’m just going to not think about that. But certainly, it’s just if the show ever does a last episode.
Selman, who has been withThe Simpsonsfor 27 seasons, also talks in the quote below about what his ideal series finale would be if that ever happened and again about howthe dysfunctional family comedy needed to end on a regular note and avoid breaking the established rhythms of the series:
I just hope it’s just a regular episode with no Winky Winky stuff at all. Just a great family story, just like a classic story that’s just funny and involves the whole family and doesn’t feel like it needs to wrap up anything or change anything or tie anything up or be magic or talk to the audience directly.
What Selman’s Comments Mean For The Simpsons
The Show Won’t Go On Forever
The discussion about endingThe Simpsonswould likely extend to include major executives at Fox, Disney, as well as show creator Matt Groening and long-time producers like Al Jean. But if it is the case that everyone agrees that the show shouldn’t live on beyond the death of a main actor, then an actual series finale could be looming in the distance.
6 The Simpsons Episodes That Would’ve Worked As The Series Finale
The Simpsons season 36 episode 1 revealed itself to be the series finale, but many other episodes would have provided the show with a perfect ending.
The Simpsonsseason 40 is just four years away, which is a milestone that has been teased as a possible ending pointby those involved with the series. It could serve as a lengthy celebration of the show and its massive influence across pop culture. It would also allow the beloved titular family to bow without a larger sense of sadness attached to the series' legacy.
Our Take On Selman’s Comments About The Simpsons Ending
Hopefully, He’s Right
An argument can be made that there’s too much resistance to recasting characters on shows, particularly supporting players. But withThe Simpsonscast, they are a huge part of what makes the series as iconic as it is. Selman is right that, as sad as it is to think about, the story shouldn’t continue without them. But as of right now at least, the Fox stalwart is going strong.
Source:PEOPLE
The Simpsons
“The Simpsons” is a legendary American animated franchise that debuted in 1987 as short segments onThe Tracey Ullman Showbefore becoming a standalone series in 1989. The show follows the Simpson family—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie—who live in the fictional town of Springfield. The franchise is renowned for its satirical and humorous take on various aspects of American culture, society, and the human condition. Over the years, “The Simpsons” has expanded into films, video games, comic books, and theme park attractions, becoming a cornerstone of popular culture.
