Since the show debuted in 1989, The Simpsons has been one of the most successful and enduring animation franchises in the world, with an impressive 30 seasons under its belt. And Disney -- who now owns the franchise thanks to its acquisition of 20th Century Fox -- seems to be aware of this, as a second movie, as well as spinoffs, could soon be on the way.
During The Simpsons first panel at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, longtime Executive Producer Al Jean, alongside the rest of the panelists, teased they had discussed the possibility of another big screen adventure for Springfield's first family, as well as ideas regarding possible spinoffs with Disney.
"I think Disney would be supportive of anything we wanted to do, maybe a crazy limited series with a side character or a movie that we surprised you with, they’ve been really creatively supportive and this is going to afford so many new ways to do the show than just the traditional format,” commented Executive Producer Matt Selman.
The first Simpsons movie, aptly titled The Simpsons Movie, was released on July 27, 2007. The film was a hit with both critics and audiences, raking in a global profit of $527.1 million at box offices around the world. A sequel has long been rumored and was even announced to be in development last August, though no further news regarding it has surfaced.
The Simpsons was created by Matt Groening and developed by James L. Brooks, Groening and Sam Simon. Brooks, Groening and Al Jean are executive producers of the series from Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Century Fox Television. The series returns on Fox for its 31st season on September 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
(via Variety)