The Simpsons Reaches 800-Episode Milestone

Showrunner discusses show's longevity, uncanny predictions, and plans for the future.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The iconic animated series 'The Simpsons' is celebrating a major milestone, airing its 800th episode this Sunday on Fox. Showrunner Matt Selman, who has been with the show for over 20 years, reflects on the show's longevity, its uncanny ability to predict future events, and the creative freedom the team has enjoyed. Selman notes that despite the show's 'freaky' predictions, like the Disney/Fox merger and the Trump presidency, he never feared cancellation, and credits the show's steady ratings and new generations of fans discovering it on Disney+ for its continued success.

Why it matters

The Simpsons is the longest-running American sitcom, animated series, and primetime scripted series, making its 800th episode a significant achievement in television history. The show's ability to foresee major events has also captivated audiences and sparked discussions about the nature of reality, while its longevity and creative freedom serve as a testament to the enduring appeal and cultural impact of the series.

The details

The 800th episode of The Simpsons will feature the family taking a trip to Philadelphia and include a parody of the HBO Max medical drama 'The Pitt' featuring actor Noah Wyle. Showrunner Matt Selman, who has been with the show since 1997, says the network has not imposed many creative restrictions, allowing the team to push boundaries within the show's signature style, which he describes as not as 'in-your-face and dark and smart and funny and brilliant' as shows like South Park.

  • The Simpsons first premiered in 1989.
  • The show is airing its 800th episode on Sunday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Matt Selman

The showrunner of The Simpsons, who has been with the show for over 20 years since 1997, starting as a writer and later becoming an executive producer and showrunner.

Dan Castellaneta

The voice actor who portrays the character of Homer Simpson.

Julie Kavner

The voice actress who portrays the character of Marge Simpson.

Yeardley Smith

The voice actress who portrays the character of Lisa Simpson.

Nancy Cartwright

The voice actress who portrays the character of Bart Simpson.

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What they’re saying

“There was never a point where I went to bed thinking, 'The show is probably going to end. We're going to have to pack it up and clean all the crap out of our offices.'”

— Matt Selman, Showrunner (Page Six)

“It's unnerving. It sort of makes you think maybe we live in a simulation, or something like that.”

— Matt Selman, Showrunner (Page Six)

“Although the coincidences that we did happen to predict are pretty freaky.”

— Matt Selman, Showrunner (Page Six)

What’s next

The Simpsons team is aiming to reach 1,000 episodes, which Selman says would be a 'good clean ending' for the long-running series, though the decision may ultimately be 'above his pay grade'.

The takeaway

The Simpsons' remarkable 800-episode milestone and its uncanny ability to predict future events have solidified its status as a cultural phenomenon and a testament to the enduring power of quality, creative storytelling in television. The show's longevity and creative freedom serve as an inspiration for the entertainment industry, demonstrating that with a dedicated team and a loyal fanbase, even the most iconic series can continue to thrive and evolve over decades.