The beloved animated series, The Simpsons, is transitioning from Channel 4 to E4, starting January 2025.
- Channel 4 and Disney Entertainment have renewed their collaboration, bringing new Simpsons’ episodes to UK and Ireland viewers.
- Season 36 episodes will debut on Disney+ before airing on E4 and Channel 4’s streaming platform.
- This shift aligns with Channel 4’s Fast Forward strategy, targeting younger audiences via broader access.
- Hollyoaks previously made a similar transition to E4, reflecting a strategic trend in programming shifts.
The Simpsons, an animated series that has captured the hearts of audiences since 1989, will be moving from its traditional Channel 4 slot to E4 with the start of season 32 in January 2025. This change is part of a renewed deal between Channel 4 and Disney Entertainment, aiming to keep the beloved series accessible to fans across the UK and Ireland.
Under the new agreement, viewers will get the chance to see the latest episodes of The Simpsons first on Disney+ with season 36 debuting exclusively on the platform in the spring of next year. Following this, the episodes will air on E4 and will later be available on Channel 4’s streaming service as boxsets for a limited period, offering a new way for fans to engage with the series.
The strategic move follows a generational shift in TV viewing habits identified by Channel 4’s Fast Forward strategy, which aims to reach younger viewers who prefer diverse viewing platforms. E4, known for its youth-led content, is an ideal new home for The Simpsons, much like Lime Pictures’ top-rated soap, Hollyoaks, which also moved to E4 permanently in September.
The Simpsons franchise, including full seasons from 1 to 35, The Simpsons Movie, and 10 shorts, will remain available on Disney+ as part of its exclusive collection. Polly Scates from Channel 4 highlighted the historic relationship with The Simpsons, expressing enthusiasm for continuing to provide this iconic series to audiences alongside Disney Entertainment.
Dayna Donaldson from The Walt Disney Company remarked on The Simpsons’ enduring global appeal, emphasizing the collaboration’s role in introducing these characters to new generations.
The Simpsons’ shift to E4 marks a significant step in adapting to evolving viewer preferences and media consumption habits.
