Back when they started on the Tracey Ullman show?
Well, the comic goes all the way back to college newspapers in the 80s. It was called “Life in Hell.”
I had a friend who was a big animation and Simpson’s fan and she told me it was coming. It was probably in 1989 or 1990.
I have watched a few episodes over the years. I never really cared enough to make a habit of it.
King of the Hill was my cup of tea. I miss Hank Hill.
Yes. and Ms. Ullman sued Fox and James L. Brooks, claiming she was owed a share of the profits. She lost.
On the other hand, Sam Simon was one of the show’s creators; he was forced out in a dispute with Brooks and Matt Groening after only four years. But under his deal, Simon collected about $10 million a year for the rest of his life (he passed away from cancer in 2015).
Lesson one in Hollywood: get your guarantees in writing, up front, and if they’re not honored, lawyer up. Apparently, Brooks, Groening and Fox were happy to pay up, since The Simpsons was such a gold mine. Main voice talents are still collecting $250,000. Per episode.