Nancy Cartwright, who voices Bart Simpson, has said she believes The Simpsons will end after its 40th season, although she stressed that this is only her personal opinion. If correct, it would mark the conclusion of one of television’s longest-running and most influential animated series, which has been on air since 1989.

Fox renewed the programme through Season 40 last year, with Season 38 due to begin next month and Season 40 expected in 2028. Cartwright said she would be happy to continue as long as the cast and crew remained able to work, while a sequel to The Simpsons Movie is still scheduled for release on 23 July 2027.