the simpsons

The Simpsons has visited just about every nook and cranny of pop culture in its near-30 years, though a long-abandoned episode concept saw the late Prince putting in a particularly meta appearance. Now, Simpsons boss Al Jean shares the tribute episode that might have been, as well what caused the revered artist to decline.

The Simpsons obliquely anticipating future events has become a common phenomenon, though never quite so regrettably as a 2000 episode that referenced “President Trump” in our future. Now, writer Dan Greaney looks back on the unfortunate premonition, noting the line was intended to envision an America that “went as bad as it possibly could.”

Twenty-seven seasons in, The Simpsons still needs to stay topical, an especially difficult feat given the animation process’ long lead time. Well, consider The Simpsons more relevant than ever, up to the moment even, as May will see the long-running FOX staple experimenting with a live segment.

It wouldn't be the first time that 'The Simpsons' eerily referenced the future.

Despite failing to outlive its progenitor, Futurama joined the ranks of Matt Groening’s iconic animated works to follow The Simpsons, and Netflix may have given both another sibling. Reports confirm Groening is readying a new animated series for Netflix, though the concept remains under lock and key.

Having survived its latest challenge to eternal status quo by way of Sunday’s Girls-y premiere, The Simpsons seem poised for fewer head-turning changes this fall. That is, until Waylon Smithers finally, and officially comes out of the closet to all, while an even bigger surprise may lie ahead beyond Season 30.

We've been following one of America's favorite animated families for 26 years now. We know pretty much all there is to know about them....except for one major detail: What state do The Simpsons live in?