FOX To Keep The Simpsons Even After Disney Merger?
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The mammoth, industry-shaking Disney/Fox merger is set to go through, which will see the Mouse House gaining ownership of 20th Century Fox's film and TV assets, including The Simpsons.
It's a little crazy to think that Disney will soon own the biggest animated series of all time, but as far as Fox are concerned, it won't mean the show is going anywhere. They're determined to keep The Simpsons on the network, as CEOs Dana Walden and Gary Newman explained on the Television Critics Association tour:
“You know what? Simpsons is so much a part of the brand,” Walden said. “There’s been such an incredible halo effect of that show and the other animated series that are on our Sunday night. There are no plans for them to go anywhere other than Fox. There’s so much upside and benefit to having a great Emmy Award-winning, smart, provocative, quality show, that there’s no consideration of not ordering more.”
Newman added: "There is no difference between The Simpsons on Fox and The Big Bang Theory on CBS. The Simpsons is so associated with Fox. I feel confident that Disney and Fox are going to find a way to both have an interest in that show, and I anticipate it continuing to stay on the Fox network.”
With Disney launching their own streaming service, and undoubtedly having their own plans for a number of Fox properties, then there is the chance that The Simpsons could be moved to a new home, but it's clear Fox won't be giving it up without a fight.