The Simpsons reaches end of an era as major change announced

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy After 20 years, The Simpsons will no longer be shown on Channel 4 as the broadcaster opts to move the beloved animated show from its regular weekday slot. Explaining the decision, Polly Scates, Head of Acquisitions at Channel 4, said that the move was embracing the “generational shift that is taking place in TV viewing to reach younger viewers, who engage with both the popular entertainment channel E4 and streaming platforms.” “The Simpsons and Channel 4 have a historic relationship, and I’m delighted that we will continue to bring this much loved and iconic series to our audience.” “In an evolving market, collaboration has never felt more important, and it’s been a pleasure working with Disney Entertainment to bring the latest seasons to UK viewers, who can now watch the show on E4 and C4 Streaming once it has aired on Disney+.” open image in gallery It comes after voice actor Pamela Hayden announced her retirement from the hit Fox sitcom after 35 years. Hayden, who’s credited for featuring in nearly 700 episodes of the long-running animated series, is best known as the voice behind Bart Simpson’s bespectacled friend Milhouse Van Houten; however, she’s also played dozens of other characters, including Jimbo Jones, Rod Flanders and Malibu Stacy. Viewers were left somewhat startled as the long-running animated series’ 36th season was launched with an episode branded its “series finale”.