The Simpsons showrunner Al Jean steps down as showrunner of the cult series more than 20 years later, and his next projects could include a revival of the beloved animated sitcom The Critic.
“Oh, there are many reasons that make sense. I have other non-Simpsons stuff in the works, including something with Jon Lovitz,” Jean said. Cracked about why he left.
After Gene detailed his reasons for leaving, Cracked asked if Lovitz's project could be a revival of The Critic.
“It was definitely discussed,” Jean said. “I'll just say that there's really only one obstacle. John is ready for this. Maurice LaMarche is ready for this. Mike Reiss too. I can't say exactly what that obstacle is, but there is one thing standing in the way.”
The Critic ran from 1994 to 1995 and featured Lovitz as the voice of a New York City film critic named Jay Sherman. It was canceled after just two seasons, although several short webisodes were produced in 2000–2001. Jay Sherman also made several appearances on The Simpsons. Mike Reiss co-created the show (along with Jean), and Maurice LaMarche voiced several characters.
“I hope so too,” Jean added about the obstacle overcome. “On my part, I did everything I could to make it work,” Jean added.
“Thanks for watching @TheSimpsons tonight… next week I'll be showing the final episode (at least for now) although as always I'm still excited about working on the show. 11/2 episodes from a brilliant new director and writer who I'm never happy with,” Jean tweeted in October. He remains on the show as a consulting producer.
As for the future of The Simpsons, second film announced in September, and is now in its 37th season.
If you like to binge watch, check out our review of 25 best episodes of the simpsons of all times.
