The Iconic animated sitcom "The Simpsons" debuted on Fox 25 years ago, on December 17, 1989. "I knew 'The Simpsons' would be a success, but I did not expect it would be so long," creator Matt Groening said.

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© AP Photo / Bebeto Matthews
Since its debut on December 17, 1989, the show has broadcasted 561 episodes. The 26-th season began on September 28, 2014.

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© AP Photo / Fox
The 550-th episode of the series, ‘Brick Like Me’, aired on May 4, 2014. On this special episode, Homer awakes to a world where his family and all the Springfield residents are made of Lego bricks.

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"The Simpsons" is a satirical depiction of middle class American lifestyle.
Above: Groundskeeper Willie could look like that if Van Gogh worked on the series.
Above: Groundskeeper Willie could look like that if Van Gogh worked on the series.

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© East News / Frank Micelotta/PictureGroup
In February 2012, a bronze bust of Homer Simpson was set up in Los Angeles. Showrunner Matt Groening and producer James L. Brooks attended the ceremony.

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© East News / Frank Micelotta/PictureGroup
The popularity of the Simpsons has made it a billion-dollar merchandising industry. The family and supporting characters appear on a wide range of products – from T-shirts to posters.
Above: Matt Groening at Comic-Con in San Diego, 2012.
Above: Matt Groening at Comic-Con in San Diego, 2012.

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© East News / Darren Walsh/Chelsea
In January 2000, The Simpson family was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Above: Players of FC Chelsea with characters from "The Simpsons" show.
Above: Players of FC Chelsea with characters from "The Simpsons" show.

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© AP Photo / The Hollywood Bowl, Greg Grudt
"The Simpsons" have always been known for its guest star voice-over performances. Guest voices have come from a wide range of professions, including actors, politicians, athletes, artists and scientists.
Above: Conductor Thomas Wilkins in a Homer Simpson costume during the world premiere of "The Simpsons Take the Bowl" in Los Angeles, September 2014.
Above: Conductor Thomas Wilkins in a Homer Simpson costume during the world premiere of "The Simpsons Take the Bowl" in Los Angeles, September 2014.

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© East News / David Barton / limpfish.com
In a 1999 issue celebrating the 20th century’s greatest achievements in arts and entertainment, Time magazine named "The Simpsons" the century’s best television series.
Above: Apu Nahasapeemapetilon could look like that if he was painted by Salvador Dali.
Above: Apu Nahasapeemapetilon could look like that if he was painted by Salvador Dali.
