Hit & Run Returns for The Simpsons Sequel?

The buzz surrounding Disney’s D23 expo has already begun, spilling out not just major film announcements, but some deeply nostalgic and highly anticipated news concerning the beloved animated family, The Simpsons.

Among the highlights emerging from the event was the announcement of a new cinematic venture. A sequel titled The New Simpsons Movie has been scheduled for release in cinemas on September 3rd, 2027. Adding to the celebratory mood, a cleverly designed logo, apparently recreating Homer’s iconic garden hedge meme, was spotted at the expo, immediately injecting a dose of playful nostalgia into the announcements.

But the excitement didn’t stop there. Creator Matt Groening also addressed the enduring legacy of the franchise by teasing a possible return for one of its most cherished ancillary creations: the cult-classic open-world game, The Simpsons: Hit and Run.

When asked if another iteration of the game would ever materialize, Groening offered a response that hinted at a long-held desire. He suggested that the original game is indeed coming back in some form, though showrunner Matt Selman stepped in with a cautious “or not,” leaving fans to ponder the exact timeline.

The path to reopening this gaming world has been complex. For years, the game navigated a complicated chain of ownership—originally published by Vivendi, then acquired by Activision, and subsequently by Microsoft, all while Disney retained ownership of the core Simpsons intellectual property. The precise legal hurdles that would need to be cleared for any external party to gain approval remain unknown.

Meanwhile, Groening also engaged in a broader discussion about the future of the television series itself. When pressed about rumors suggesting an ending at the 40-season mark, Groening dismissed the notion with characteristic enthusiasm. He stressed that there is simply no end in sight for the show, stating, “we’re never going to end, come on!”.

The conversation also touched upon recent comments made by Bart voice actor Nancy Cartwright regarding potential series conclusions. While fan speculation often swirls about where the show might stop, Groening’s firm stance underscores the enduring commitment to continuing the story of Springfield.