Out of D'oh? Will The Simpsons End Because of Money?!

Longest-running sitcom ever could pack it in after its 23rd season if its "financial model" doesn't change, Fox says

By Natalie Finn Oct 04, 2011 8:20 PMTags
THE SIMPSONSFox

Springfield somehow has avoided a Homer Simpson-induced nuclear meltdown all these years, but is the town about to fall victim to a financial collapse?

Ay caramba!

Fox said Tuesday that it loves The Simpsons as much as anybody, but that the current cost of production is unfeasible into the future. After 23 seasons, the Emmy-winning sitcom the longest-running scripted show of all time.

"Twenty-three seasons in, The Simpsons is as creatively vibrant as ever and beloved by millions around the world," a rep for 20th Century Fox said in a statement to E! News.

"We believe this brilliant series can and should continue, but we cannot produce future seasons under its current financial model. We are hopeful that we can reach an agreement with the voice cast that allows The Simpsons to go on entertaining audiences with original episodes for many years to come."

In other words: Who wants a massive pay cut?!

The Daily Beast has reported that execs are looking to cut talent salaries by as much as 45 percent moving forward—and informed the cast (original members, all) of the plan just last night.

The multitasking principal castmembers—Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Yeardley Smith, Nancy Cartwright, Harry Shearer and Hank Azaria—each pull in a reported $8 million a year, but have been looking to get syndication money and a cut of the proceeds from the many tentacles of The Simpsons franchise, such as merchandise and theme park attractions.

Show creator Matt Groening and James L. Brooks already have lucrative syndication deals and they would continue to reap the benefits of The Simpsons' record-breaking haul long after they stop producing new episodes.

As Monty Burns would say, excellent.