The Simpsons, the globally beloved animated show, shifts its UK broadcast to E4 from Channel 4 starting with its 32nd season, reflecting a broader entertainment strategy.
- The shift accompanies a renewed agreement between Channel 4 and Disney, allowing new episodes to debut on Disney+ before E4 broadcasts.
- E4’s alignment with younger audiences is part of Channel 4’s Fast Forward strategy to adapt to changing viewing habits.
- Hollyoaks previously made a similar move to E4, indicating a trend towards targeting younger viewers on this platform.
- The Simpsons’ partnership continues to expand the reach and introduce the series to new and existing fans in the UK and Ireland.
The much-loved series The Simpsons will be moving its UK broadcast home from Channel 4 to E4, starting with the airing of its thirty-second season in January 2025. This move is a part of a renewed collaboration between Channel 4 and Disney Entertainment, aimed at refreshing the show’s presence in the UK and Ireland. The agreement also stipulates that the latest episodes, starting from season 36, will premiere on Disney+ ahead of their airing on E4.
This strategic maneuver reflects Channel 4’s Fast Forward strategy which focuses on adapting to younger viewers’ preferences, who are more inclined to engage with digital and streaming content. Lime Pictures’ Hollyoaks made a similar transition to E4 earlier this year, highlighting a shift in channel demographics.
Disney+ has become the exclusive streaming home for the first 35 seasons of The Simpsons, including The Simpsons Movie and several shorts, offering viewers comprehensive access to the series’ extensive catalogue. This exclusive partnership underscores the evolving landscape of television where streaming services play a vital role in content delivery.
In addition to E4 broadcasts, Channel 4’s streaming platform will make new episodes available as boxsets shortly after their E4 debut, alongside selected episodes from previous seasons. This gives audiences flexibility in how they consume the show, aligning with modern viewing habits.
Polly Scates, Channel 4’s Head of Acquisitions, expressed enthusiasm for this evolving collaboration, emphasising its significance in sustaining The Simpsons’ iconic status in British television. Similarly, Dayna Donaldson from Disney highlighted the enduring appeal of The Simpsons and the strategic benefit of extending its reach through these new channels.
This collaborative effort by Channel 4 and Disney reflects the evolving broadcast strategies necessary to engage modern audiences.
