With 26 seasons under its belt and a groundbreaking 27th just starting, it seemed like “The Simpsons” would go on forever, but according to show runner Al Jean, that isn’t the case.
When asked by The Hollywood Reporter if he’d want to do more than 30 seasons, Jean cited that number as the likely end.
“It’s quite possible that we don’t have to go through the whole negotiation for 30. I wouldn’t be stunned if we stopped at [Season] 28, but my bet is on at least [Season] 30. But then you’d have to resign them again. If you made me pick one, I’d say the likeliest is ending after 30.”
The show is currently renewed through Season 28, but the cast reportedly is signed for options through Season 30. The Simpsons recently went through testy contract negotiations with the cast, almost losing star Harry Shearer. Plus, the show has had similar issues before, so it makes sense Jean wouldn’t want to go through that again.
“Simpsons” fans shouldn’t worry too much yet, though. Jean admits he has been wrong about the show before, adding, “I thought five seasons was good when I got there.”