While it was pretty much guessed from the start that one of the longest-running TV shows in history would not be taken down by a pay dispute, fans of The Simpsons can breathe a sigh of relief with the knowledge that the show has now been renewed for two more seasons, meaning that a 24th and 25th series of the show will be produced.

While host network Fox, who’s 20th Century Fox production label (and their plans for cutbacks) initiated the stand-off with the cast of the show, did not reveal what was agreed on between the two parties, they did announce the much-anticipated renewal on Friday.

Fox had previously said of their financial problems with the show: “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.”

The Simpsons executive producer Al Jean was pleased at the news that the series will now be on-air until at least 2014 (after first appearing as a short in 1987, and as a series of its own in 1989), but was quick to point out that this will not be the end of their long-standing run on prime-time TV.

Jean stated: “Our mood is elation. Believe me, we don’t look at this as these will definitely be the last two. We just want to keep fighting and go as long as we can. We really feel this isn’t an end but a beginning. It’s cliche, but it’s the truth.”

He added of the pay cut that the producers and voice actors have had to take (but agreed to): “They understand the world we live in is different in many ways from 2007 [the last contract renewal for show staff]. Everybody loves this show and realises it’s the greatest job in the world and they want to keep doing it.”

He summarised by tipping the animated show to reach 30 seasons before ending (and possibly enough material for a channel of its own), but some may have their sights on an even longer run. While the focus for fans right now will be the new annual Halloween episode on 30 October, how long will their interest be able to continue in the future?

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