LOS ANGELES — “The Simpsons” has reached a remarkable milestone with 800 episodes spanning 37 seasons. This iconic animated series, which began as shorts on “The Tracey Ullman Show” in 1987, has evolved into a cultural phenomenon that continues to engage audiences.
Reflecting on the series’ enduring appeal, executive producer Al Jean noted, “We’ve done 800 episodes, and I’m really glad we didn’t do a big overarching story.” He emphasized that the show’s format, which allows it to return to its roots at the end of every episode, has been critical to its longevity.
Current showrunner Matt Selman acknowledged the complexities of the characters’ long history. He posed a thought-provoking question regarding the emotional memory of the characters, considering the extensive events they’ve experienced throughout the series.
Show creator Matt Groening expressed a sense of achievement and ongoing perfectionism after nearly four decades of creation. He remarked on the continuous effort to refine the show’s artistic representation, aiming for a more cinematic perspective as they strive for improvement.
The 800th episode, titled “Irrational Treasure,” is set to air on Sunday on Fox, marking a significant event in the show’s long-running history.
Voice actress Nancy Cartwright originally auditioned for the role of Lisa Simpson but successfully convinced Groening to let her voice Bart instead. Cartwright reflected on the profound connection she has with the character, mentioning that many still do not realize a woman voices one of television’s most mischievous boys.
Lisa Simpson emerged as a standout character during early production when animator David Silverman proposed that she play the baritone saxophone, shaping her identity as the intellectual powerhouse of the family. This idea was embraced by the team, ultimately defining her unique role.
The show gained notoriety early on for its daring humor, particularly with the character Bart Simpson, who was considered controversial for American classrooms. Groening reveled in the controversy, acknowledging that it only bolstered the show’s popularity.
When Fox executives raised questions about the target audience, the creative team decisively chose to cater to adults. This decision allowed for a wider range of satirical humor that became a hallmark of the series.
Transitioning into the digital age, Groening noted that the character “Comic Book Guy” was created in response to online criticism. He expressed a mixed desire for constructive analysis but frustration towards the more superficial judgments often seen online.
Looking ahead, Groening humorously predicted that “The Simpsons” will persist for centuries, joking that fans would complain about a decline in quality long before that.
The show’s ability to seemingly predict future events has generated significant online discussion. Al Jean clarified that these instances are often coincidental rather than prophetic.
The inclusion of notable guest stars has become a key feature of the series, with appearances from icons like Michael Jackson and Lady Gaga. Groening shared an anecdote about Jackson’s unexpected phone call to secure a guest spot, a testament to the show’s allure.
With Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox, “The Simpsons” found a new platform on Disney+, enabling the series to reach younger audiences. This accessibility is seen as a significant win for the creators, allowing the show to remain relevant across generations.
Streaming has also provided creative freedom, allowing the team to explore stories without the constraints of commercial breaks. Groening acknowledged the flexibility that platforms like Disney provide, enabling them to experiment with longer formats.
Jean highlighted the personal connections that fans have formed with the show over the years, recognizing the impact it has had during difficult times in people’s lives. This emotional resonance was echoed by Silverman, who fulfilled a lifelong dream of contributing to a project that makes a meaningful difference to audiences.
With no end in sight, Jean confidently stated that the show would continue at least through Season 40. Groening also hinted at untold stories waiting to be explored, assuring fans that the creativity behind “The Simpsons” remains as dynamic as ever.