Nancy Cartwright, the iconic voice behind Bart Simpson, has revealed her belief that The Simpsons may conclude sooner than fans anticipate. During a recent appearance on Michael Rosenbaum's podcast, Inside of You, Cartwright suggested that the long-running animated series could wrap up after its 40th season, which would place the finale around spring 2029. This revelation comes as a surprise to many, given the show's enduring popularity and its status as the longest-running animated sitcom in television history.
A Surprising Prediction from a Voice Acting Legend
When Rosenbaum asked Cartwright how many more seasons she thinks the show will air, she responded succinctly, “40 [seasons].” When pressed if she truly believed the show would stop at 40, she affirmed, “Yeah.” Asked if she was “sure,” she clarified, “It’s my opinion.” While her prediction is speculative, it aligns with the show's current renewal status, which guarantees new episodes through the 2028-29 broadcast season.
Despite her forecast, Cartwright expressed enthusiasm for continuing her role as Bart if the showrunners decide to extend the series. She told Rosenbaum, “Yeah, we’ll keep going then,” and when asked if she would continue as long as producers wanted, she replied, “Absolutely.” This indicates that any potential ending would be a creative decision rather than a lack of willingness from the cast.
Showrunner's Perspective on a Finale
Matt Selman, the showrunner, has previously indicated that he does not envision a traditional, emotionally charged series finale for The Simpsons. In fact, the show has already parodied the concept of a finale in the season 36 premiere, titled “Bart’s Birthday,” which satirized various ways the series could conclude. Selman explained, “We did a series finale in the middle of the show that made fun of all the ideas of wrapping everything up or ending.” This playful approach suggests that the creative team may prefer to keep the show open-ended rather than deliver a definitive conclusion.
Recent Milestones and Future Projects
The Simpsons has achieved remarkable longevity, with over 800 episodes across 37 seasons. Earlier this year, the show retired the character Duffman in an episode titled “Seperance,” which was inspired by the TV series Severance. This marked a significant moment for fans, as Duffman had been a recurring character for nearly 30 years.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate the release of a second Simpsons movie, scheduled to hit cinemas next year. This will be the first film since The Simpsons Movie in 2007, which grossed over $536 million worldwide. The upcoming movie is expected to generate significant excitement and could potentially influence the show's future direction.
Impact and Legacy
If Cartwright's prediction proves accurate, The Simpsons would conclude with 40 seasons, a remarkable achievement that solidifies its place in television history. The show's influence on pop culture is undeniable, from catchphrases to guest stars, and its ability to satirize current events has kept it relevant for decades. While the end may be in sight, the legacy of The Simpsons will undoubtedly endure, and fans can look forward to enjoying new episodes until then.
