The Simpsons showrunner Matt Selman has said he would be "shocked" if Universal lost the rights to The Simpsons in its US theme parks.
Since Disney acquired The Simpsons in 2019 as part of the $71 billion deal for 21st Century Fox, fans of the show have wondered if the brand will be phased out of Universal parks and added to Disney's.
The Disney acquisition did not affect Fox's licensing agreement with Universal for exclusive rights to The Simpsons in its US parks, which is expected to end in 2027 or 2028.
Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando are home to immersive lands themed after The Simpsons, both based on the TV show's fictional town of Springfield.
Both lands include The Simpsons Ride, as well as themed retail at the Kwik-E-Mart, and F&B outlets including Krusty Burger, Lard Lad Donuts, Cletus' Chicken Shack, and Moe's Tavern.
Sellman, who has worked on the series since 1997 and was involved with The Simpsons Ride, told Entertainment Weekly: "I would personally be shocked if The Simpsons did not continue at Universal.
"I don't have any inside information, so I'm just a fan. This is not an official announcement. I'm not party to those negotiations."
The Simpsons in Disney parks?
He added: "The Simpsons Ride, even though its technology is 20 years old, is great. The in-line experience is funny. People ride it again and again.
"The Springfield food court is amazing. Cletus's fried chicken on the bone is so good. The Krusty Burger is so good. The branding and level of Springfield specificity is fantastic."
Sellman told the publication "it does not seem logical... that they could close that, or that they would be so shortsighted to do that".
Despite his comments, Disney is seemingly considering adding The Simpsons to its parks, as in January of this year, the company was asking guests if they would like to see the animated family in themed lands or attractions.
Images courtesy of Universal
