The Simpsons convinces fans that the series is coming to an end with an unexpected “series finale” episode

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The Simpsons Fans were extremely worried after the surprise broadcast of the “final” episode – but there was a big twist.

Viewers were somewhat taken aback when the 36th season of the long-running animated series, which has bizarrely predicted real-world events for more than three decades, began with an episode dubbed the “series finale.”

However, despite some confusion among viewers, the episode was actually a parody of what makes an effective finale and imagined what the perfect ending to one is The Simpsons would look – as written by AI.

Throughout the episode there were animated recreations of shows final footage including The sopranos, breaking Bad, game of Thrones And Consequence.

But when the title card first appeared on screen, announcing the premiere as a “series finale,” viewers quickly took to social media to share their surprise at what they thought was a well-kept secret.

“IS THIS REALLY THE FINALE OF THE SIMPSONS SERIES???” one asked, and another chimed in: “Wait, it's like it's not REAL The Simpsons Series finale is it!? WTF!”

Another viewer wrote on X/Twitter: “Am I really watching the series finale of?” The Simpsons? Wtf. I don’t remember that announcement.”

What confirmed this concern was the fact that the episode was hosted by an animated version of Conan O'Brien, who began by saying, “It's a great honor to be a part of the series finale The Simpsons…Well, it's true. Fox has decided to call it quits The Simpsons. This show was a very special part of my early career, so it means a lot to me to be here.”

To mark the feigned occasion, O'Brien then presented what he claimed were the original versions of the classic Simpsons Scenes that have aired since it began in 1989. The episode then offered some cliched ideas of how The Simpsons might end, including Principal Skinner's resignation, Moe's departure, and the death of Mr. Burns.

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The meta premiere comes amid speculation that the series could be gearing up for its actual finale. Many believe that the series has exceeded their expectations and no longer lives up to the quality of its so-called golden era – the third to ninth seasons.

One viewer speculated that this belief may have led the writers to start the new season with the final twist, writing, “I love how 20th Century Fox/Disney responded to people's complaints The Simpsons was supposed to end and be a parody of a series finale.”

It's worth noting that Fox has not yet renewed the series for a 37th season.

The Simpsons is available to stream on Disney+ in the UK.