Super fans of The Simpsons were up in arms this week when a surprise “final episode” of the hit series was aired.
Viewers were startled when the long-running animated series started its latest episode with the words ‘series finale’ on the title card - wondering if it was the end of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Maggie and friends.
The episode was then hosted by an animated version of writer Conan O’Brien, who said at the start: “It’s such an honour to be with you all for the series finale of The Simpsons... Well, it’s true. Fox has decided to end The Simpsons. This show was such a special part of my early career, so being here means the world to me.”
Viewers took to social media to share their concern that this had been kept secret and it was the end for our favourite animated family.
But despite some confusion among viewers, the episode was actually a parody of what makes an effective finale, and imagined what the perfect ending could look like using a storyline generated by AI. O’Brien revealed the episode was created using AI and involved different moments that tried to wrap up the show.
The episode recreated final shots of famous other shows including The Sopranos, Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones.
The show has long been said to predict future events, including World Cup finals and even the Coronavirus outbreak.
The AI ending was aired amid speculation that the series is preparing to end with its 36th season.
Many have said that the sitcom has outstayed its welcome, and no longer matches the quality upheld from its so-called golden era – from season three to nine.
One viewer said they believed it was the reason for the prank finale, writing: “I love how 20th Century Fox/Disney responded to people complaining about how The Simpsons should end and make a parody of a series finale.”
Fox is yet to renew the show for a 37th season.
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