The long-running animated television show The Simpsons, that most quintessentially American of TV shows, is currently finishing up its 36th season. It’s not just the fans that love it – it’s been renewed for a striking 40th season! This milestone places The Simpsons in rarefied company with such legendary non-prime-time programs as Saturday Night Live and Meet the Press. It serves as a testament to the show’s ongoing relevance and cultural impact.
In their introduction, the makers of The Simpsons demonstrate a profound commitment to their decades-old establishment. Because they are never done inventing, they’re never done adapting. Under the direction of their current showrunner Matt Selman, they tackle bigger, format-defying, and emotionally impactful narratives. This evolution is a testament to the healthy desire to ensure the series remains fresh while continuing the strong legacy this series has built.
One of the show’s most recognizable voices, Harry Shearer, lends his talents to a multitude of major supporting characters, including Mr. Burns, Principal Skinner, and Ned Flanders. Shearer’s style, like his voice, has changed significantly as he’s grown older. Like the characters he brings to life, his craft has deepened and matured. In the same way, Julie Kavner, who is the voice of Marge Simpson, will turn 75 this year. With Marge’s character too, her interpretation has naturally changed over the decades, with her voice growing increasingly raspier and scratchier as time has gone on. Even with these changes in the character’s voice actors, Marge Simpson will continue to eternally be on the verge of 40 in the series.
As The Simpsons continues to makes its way through the decades, the producers have often flirted with the concept of a finale. No real plans for that kind of ending exist just yet. The recent season premiere even featured a satirical take on a series finale, hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, wherein Bart Simpson humorously remains perpetually 11 years old.
With compelling storylines and artistic animation, the show makes learning about these histories fun and engaging. One such technique is flash-forwards to a future where Marge Simpson is dead. This heartbreaking idea builds a larger and larger rift between the adult Bart and his sister, Lisa. It raises interesting considerations related to family values and personal development.
Additionally, as mentioned above, The Simpsons has taken major steps toward diversifying its character voices. Pamela Hayden, the longtime voice of Milhouse, that’s who. In her absence, however, new talents have come into their own on the cast, proving just how agile the show can be in the face of such drastic upheaval.
The series has taken a deliberately inflammatory approach to its flashbacks. Homer and Marge Simpson continue to appear ageless as they navigate various life events over the decades. This subtle contrasting section of the episode further demonstrates the show’s self-aware charm, keeping within their trademark juxtaposed style.
The long-running success of The Simpsons largely rests on its unique success at appealing to audiences of all ages and generations. Even approaching its 40th season the show continues to tackle timely issues and changes in character development. Importantly, it delightfully doesn’t abandon its comedic origins on such a journey.