NANCY CARTWRIGHT SAYS SIMPSONS MAY END AT SEASON 40

Nancy Cartwright, who has voiced Bart Simpson since the show's debut in 1987, stated that The Simpsons may conclude after its 40th season. Cartwright made the comments on Michael Rosenbaum's Inside of You podcast, describing the potential end point as her personal opinion. She indicated openness to continuing beyond season 40 if the cast and production team remained willing to do so.

The animated series has reached its 800th episode, which Cartwright described as extraordinary. Fox agreed last year to produce four additional seasons of the show. The 37th season finished airing in February, with the 38th season scheduled to premiere on Fox on 27 September. Cartwright also voices Nelson Muntz, Ralph Wiggum and Todd Flanders. A second Simpsons feature film is planned for release next year, nearly two decades after the 2007 film.

The show previously came close to cancellation in 2011, according to writer and producer Mike Reiss, due to budget concerns rather than ratings or quality issues. The franchise continues to generate commercial activity beyond the television series, with 20th Century Studios promoting the forthcoming film with imagery of Homer Simpson and a donut.