Credit: Disney / Fox BroadcastingDisney has been on a roll lately, making daring choices that reshape both its movies and theme parks. From introducing entirely new lands to reviving beloved classics, the company continues to expand its influence.
Yet, in the middle of all these headline-grabbing changes, one huge move slipped almost entirely under the radar. Disney has quietly taken a step that could bring The Simpsons—one of the most recognizable and longest-running animated shows in history—into its parks in a very real way.
If you missed it, you’re not alone. The news wasn’t splashed across press releases or flashy announcements. But make no mistake—this is the start of something major, and it could completely change the guest experience at Disney parks worldwide.
The Simpsons’ Lasting Impact
First airing in 1989, The Simpsons quickly evolved from a quirky prime-time cartoon to a cultural powerhouse. With more than 30 seasons, countless quotable lines, and a reputation for satirizing American life, the show has become a cornerstone of modern television. Its characters—Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie—are instantly recognizable around the globe.
Because of that, The Simpsons has always felt like a perfect fit for theme parks. The exaggerated humor, the iconic Springfield setting, and the endless supply of gags practically beg to be turned into immersive attractions. And while Disney has only recently gained the ability to consider such a move, fans already know what’s possible thanks to another theme park giant.
Universal’s Springfield Success
If you’ve been to Universal Studios Florida or Hollywood, then you’ve seen how The Simpsons can come to life in a park setting. Universal created “Springfield: Home of the Simpsons,” a themed land where guests can enjoy quirky shops, carnival-style rides, and food offerings straight out of the show.
The land’s crown jewel is The Simpsons Ride, a motion simulator that sends visitors on a chaotic adventure with the family. But it doesn’t stop there. Guests can grab a giant pink Lard Lad Donut, chow down at Krusty Burger, and wash it down with a cold Duff Beer at Moe’s Tavern. The experience feels like stepping right into the cartoon, with humor and sight gags packed into every corner.
Universal’s version of Springfield proves that The Simpsons can thrive as an immersive theme park property. But that arrangement has a clock ticking on it—and Disney is watching closely.
Disney Acquires the Rights
When Disney purchased Fox in 2019, it gained control of a vast library of film and TV properties. Among the biggest prizes in that deal was The Simpsons. On television and streaming, Disney has already made good use of the franchise—every episode is now available on Disney+. But the theme park rights are a little more complicated.
Universal’s existing deal with Fox allowed them to use The Simpsons in their parks, even after Disney acquired the brand. That licensing agreement isn’t indefinite, though. Most industry insiders expect the deal to expire around 2027 or 2028. Once that happens, Disney will finally have complete freedom to integrate The Simpsons into its own parks without restrictions.
In other words, Disney is playing the long game. The company already owns the rights. It’s simply a matter of waiting for the Universal contract to run its course. And when it does, things could get very interesting.
The Simpsons on the Big Screen—Again
Another signal that Disney is preparing to give The Simpsons more prominence comes from Hollywood itself. A second Simpsons movie is set to release in 2027, lining up perfectly with the expected end of Universal’s theme park rights.
This is no coincidence. Disney knows how to time its moves, and the film could serve as the perfect launchpad for park-based attractions. Just as Pixar movies often inspire rides and shows across Disney parks, a brand-new Simpsons film would give the company fresh material to work with. It’s a natural setup for Disney to weave Springfield into its park storytelling finally.
What Could The Simpsons Look Like at Disney?
So what would The Simpsons at Disney actually look like? Fans can only speculate, but the possibilities are exciting. Imagine a fully immersive Springfield land, complete with rides, eateries, and shops that capture the show’s unique humor and charm.
A dark ride could send guests through the family’s home on Evergreen Terrace as chaos unfolds around them. A spinning coaster themed to Itchy and Scratchy could provide thrills with slapstick flair. A meet-and-greet with costumed Simpsons characters can provide families with unforgettable photo opportunities.
The food offerings practically write themselves: oversized donuts, Krusty-brand fast food, Duff Beer, and maybe even a Squishee stand at the Kwik-E-Mart. Merchandise could include everything from Bart’s skateboard to “Don’t Have a Cow, Man!” T-shirts. Disney has mastered the art of creating themed shopping experiences, and The Simpsons provides endless opportunities.
And of course, knowing The Simpsons, it’s almost guaranteed the franchise would include self-aware humor at Disney’s expense. Off-brand Mickey Mouse mascots wandering Springfield, sly references to corporate synergy, and tongue-in-cheek jabs at the company’s strict park rules all seem inevitable. Fans would expect nothing less.
The Future of Springfield at Disney
The timelines align too neatly to ignore. Universal’s license is believed to expire in the late 2020s, while Disney already holds the rights. A new movie is scheduled to be released in theaters in 2027. All the pieces are falling into place for Disney to finally bring The Simpsons into its theme parks in a big way.
For fans, it could mark the beginning of a new era. Disney has always leaned heavily on its own iconic characters, but expanding into satire with The Simpsons would show just how diverse the company’s storytelling has become. It wouldn’t just be about princesses, superheroes, and Jedi anymore—it would be about America’s most famous animated family joining the Disney legacy.
A Crossover Unlike Any Other
Disney isn’t broadcasting this move loudly yet, but the signs are all there. By 2027 or 2028, the gates could open for The Simpsons to make their long-awaited debut in Disney parks. From rides to food stands to satirical humor aimed at Disney itself, the possibilities are endless—and fans are already buzzing about what might come next.
For now, all we can do is watch and wait. But make no mistake: Disney has started setting the stage for Springfield to join its magical world. When the time comes, it won’t just be a quiet addition. It will be one of the biggest pop-culture crossovers that theme parks have ever seen.