In a monumental move that solidifies Fox’s position as the home of adult animation, the network has announced four-season renewals for its flagship animated series – The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Bob’s Burgers – while also confirming American Dad‘s official return to Fox after nearly a decade on TBS. This unprecedented commitment ensures these cultural touchstones will remain on air through at least the 2027-2028 television season.
Historic Renewals Cement Animation Legacy
The four-season orders represent one of the most substantial renewal packages in television history, particularly for The Simpsons, which will now extend its record as the longest-running scripted primetime series to an astonishing 39 seasons. The landmark deal means:
- The Simpsons will reach season 38
- Family Guy will continue through season 26
- Bob’s Burgers will progress to season 18
- American Dad returns for its 20th season on Fox
“This is about preserving an institution,” said Fox Entertainment President Michael Thorn. “These shows don’t just define our network – they’ve shaped television comedy for generations. Securing their future allows us to maintain Sunday nights as the home for groundbreaking animation.”
Why This Unprecedented Move Matters
The sweeping renewals come at a pivotal moment for linear television, demonstrating Fox’s confidence in animation as both a ratings driver and valuable IP. Industry analysts highlight several strategic advantages:
- Production Stability – Multi-season deals allow for long-term planning and cost efficiencies
- Streaming Value – These shows remain top performers on Hulu and Disney+
- Generational Appeal – Maintains Fox’s connection with both legacy and new viewers
- Brand Identity – Solidifies Fox’s Sunday night “Animation Domination” as must-watch TV
American Dad Comes Home**
In a surprising twist, American Dad will return to Fox after spending nine seasons on TBS. The homecoming marks a full-circle moment for the Seth MacFarlane-created series that originally debuted on Fox in 2005 alongside Family Guy.
“Bringing Stan Smith and the gang back to Fox just felt right,” said executive producer Matt Weitzman. “There’s something poetic about reuniting the whole animated family under one roof.”
The move follows Warner Bros. Discovery’s restructuring of TBS’s original programming strategy, creating an opportunity for Fox to reclaim one of its most beloved properties.
What to Expect From the New Seasons
Showrunners have teased exciting developments for each series:
The Simpsons (Season 35-38)
- More ambitious “event” episodes following the success of Treehouse of Horror XXXIV
- Continued exploration of serialized storytelling
- Potential new cast members as original voices age
Family Guy (Season 23-26)
- Fresh takes on Peter Griffin’s misadventures
- More cutaway gags and celebrity cameos
- Possible spinoff development
Bob’s Burgers (Season 15-18)
- Expansion of the Belcher family universe
- More musical episodes following the success of the 2022 movie
- Potential crossovers with other Fox animated series
American Dad (Season 20)
- Return to classic Fox-era humor
- New CIA missions for Stan
- More Roger the Alien’s outrageous personas
The Business Behind the Laughs
These renewals represent a significant financial commitment from Fox, with industry sources estimating the total production budget across all four shows could exceed $500 million. However, the investment is justified by:
- Syndication Value: These series generate billions in global licensing revenue
- Merchandising: Continued strong sales of toys, apparel, and collectibles
- Theme Park Presence: Popular attractions at Universal Studios and other parks
- Cultural Capital: Maintaining relevance in the streaming era
Animation’s Bright Future on Fox
The network is clearly betting big on animation as its programming cornerstone. Beyond these renewals, Fox has several new animated projects in development, including:
- Krapopolis from Dan Harmon
- Grimsburg starring Jon Hamm
- Universal Basic Guys from Solar Opposites creators
“This isn’t just about preserving our legacy – it’s about building for the future,” Thorn added. “Animation remains one of the most potent forms of storytelling, and we’re committed to being its home.”
Fan Reactions and Industry Impact
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and sparked celebration among animation fans. Social media erupted with reactions:
- “35 more years of The Simpsons? I guess I’ll need to update my will!” – @SimpsonsFan1989
- “Bringing American Dad back to Fox is the best news since they uncanceled Family Guy” – @RogerTheAlien
- “Bob’s Burgers getting the long-term commitment it deserves!” – @BurgerOfTheDay
The renewals also send a strong message to competitors about Fox’s programming strategy at a time when many networks are scaling back on scripted content.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Animation Domination
With these shows secured through 2028, Fox has effectively locked in its Sunday night lineup for the next half-decade. The move ensures stability for:
- Voice Actors – Providing job security for hundreds of performers
- Animation Studios – Guaranteeing years of work for production teams
- Advertisers – Maintaining a reliable platform for reaching adult audiences
- Fans – Knowing their favorite shows aren’t going anywhere
As television continues to evolve in the streaming era, Fox’s massive commitment to these animated institutions proves that traditional broadcast networks can still make bold, long-term bets on proven franchises.
Which show are you most excited to see continue? Sound off in the comments!