In a significant shift for UK television, The Simpsons is leaving its long-standing home on Channel 4 after 20 years. Starting January 2025, the globally beloved animated comedy will air on E4, marking the beginning of a renewed collaboration between Channel 4 and Disney Entertainment. This move is part of a strategic effort to adapt to evolving viewing habits and appeal to younger audiences.
Table of Contents
- New Seasons to Premiere on Disney+
- E4 to Air Season 32 in January 2025
- Exclusive Streaming Hub
- Strengthening a Historic Partnership
- A New Chapter for a Cultural Icon
New Seasons to Premiere on Disney+
As part of the renewed agreement, new seasons of The Simpsons will debut exclusively on Disney+ before being broadcast on E4 and made available for a limited time on Channel 4’s streaming platform. The latest season, season 36, is set to launch on Disney+ in spring 2025, followed by its terrestrial TV debut later in the year.
E4 to Air Season 32 in January 2025
The transition will kick off with season 32 of The Simpsons, which originally aired on Fox in the US during 2020/2021. The show will premiere on E4, Channel 4’s youth-oriented entertainment channel, as the new UK broadcast home for Springfield’s favorite family. Additionally, a selection of classic episodes will be available for streaming on Channel 4’s platform alongside the newly aired seasons.
Exclusive Streaming Hub
Disney+ remains the exclusive streaming platform for the complete back catalog of The Simpsons, including seasons 1–35, The Simpsons Movie, and various short films featuring the iconic characters. Fans can find the entire collection on the platform.
Strengthening a Historic Partnership
Polly Scates, Head of Acquisitions at Channel 4, emphasized the value of the partnership with Disney, saying:
“The Simpsons and Channel 4 have a historic relationship, and I’m delighted that we will continue to bring this much-loved and iconic series to our audience. In an evolving market, collaboration has never felt more important, and it’s been a pleasure working with Disney Entertainment to bring the latest seasons to UK viewers.“
Dayna Donaldson, Vice President of Content Sales for the UK and Nordics at The Walt Disney Company, echoed the sentiment, stating:
“The Simpsons stands the test of time, and they continue to be one of the most beloved and well-known families in the world. We are delighted that Channel 4, along with Disney+, will be bringing these larger-than-life characters and the comedy of Springfield to UK audiences, introducing the series to the next generation and new audiences for years to come.“
A New Chapter for a Cultural Icon
Debuting in 1989, The Simpsons is the longest-running primetime scripted show in television history and a cultural touchstone recognized globally. Its move to E4 signals a fresh chapter for UK audiences, blending traditional TV with modern streaming to ensure Springfield’s antics reach fans both old and new.
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