gaming•Sun, August 16, 2026•4 min read

Is The Simpsons: Hit & Run Returning? Matt Groening Drops a Major Hint

During a recent D23 Expo panel, The Simpsons creator Matt Groening suggested that the cult-classic game 'The Simpsons: Hit & Run' is returning. While official confirmation is pending, the comment has sparked intense speculation among fans waiting for a revival.

A Slip of the Tongue at D23

For over two decades, fans of *The Simpsons: Hit & Run* have clamored for a sequel or a modern remake of the 2003 open-world classic. Now, those hopes have been reignited by none other than the show’s creator, Matt Groening. During a panel at the Disney D23 Expo, Groening was asked about the potential for a return of the beloved title. His response was as unexpected as it was exciting: 'I think the original game is coming back in some form.'

The comment caught attendees and the panel host off guard. Almost immediately, current showrunner Matt Selman attempted to temper the excitement by quickly adding, '...or not.' The swift backtrack has led many to speculate that Groening may have accidentally revealed a secret project that wasn't quite ready for public announcement.

The original 2003 'The Simpsons: Hit & Run' remains a fan-favorite title.

Why 'Hit & Run' Remains a Legend

Often described as a family-friendly take on the *Grand Theft Auto* formula, *The Simpsons: Hit & Run* captured the humor and chaos of the series perfectly. Since its launch, it has achieved cult status, with fans regularly calling for a remaster. However, the path to a revival has been fraught with complications, primarily regarding licensing and rights.

The game was developed by Radical Entertainment and originally published by Vivendi.
A sequel was once in the works at Radical but was scrapped after the publisher declined further projects.
Current showrunner Matt Selman has previously expressed interest in a remake but cited significant licensing hurdles.

I don't know [if] I'm speaking out of turn, I think the original game is coming back in some form.
— Matt Groening

What This Means for the Future

While Groening’s comments are the strongest sign yet that something is brewing, they are not an official confirmation from a game publisher. The licensing situation surrounding *The Simpsons* video games remains complex, and until a developer or publisher makes an official announcement, fans are left to wait. However, with the IP now under the Disney umbrella, the possibility of a modern revisit to Springfield seems more plausible than ever.

Key Takeaways

Matt Groening hinted at a return for 'The Simpsons: Hit & Run' at the D23 Expo.
Current showrunner Matt Selman attempted to walk back the comment immediately.
The game has been a massive cult success since its 2003 release.
Previous attempts at sequels were blocked by publisher licensing issues.
No official confirmation from a studio has been released to date.

FAQ

Is a remake of The Simpsons: Hit & Run officially confirmed?

No. While Matt Groening suggested it is returning, there has been no formal announcement from a game studio or publisher.

Why hasn't there been a sequel yet?

Development hurdles, specifically regarding complex licensing agreements, have prevented previous attempts at a sequel or remaster.

What did Matt Selman say about a potential game?

Matt Selman previously mentioned that while he is interested in a remake, there are significant licensing roadblocks to overcome.

Who owns The Simpsons game rights now?

With the acquisition of 20th Century Fox, Disney currently owns the rights to The Simpsons franchise.