Futurama is coming back for a third time over at Hulu.
The series, which was created by Matt Groening and David X. Cohen, first started out on Fox for four seasons in 1999. It eventually got revived by Comedy Central in 2008 for an additional three seasons. And now, Hulu has picked the show up for a revival, where it will get an initial 20 episodes. The show will also be produced in conjunction with 20th Century Television.
Original cast members Billy West, Katey Sagal, Tress MacNeille, Maurice LaMarche, Lauren Tom, Phil LaMarr and David Herman will all be returning. As of right now, however, John DiMaggio who voiced Bender is not expected to return. The show is currently in the process of attempting to recast the role, as his negotiations have come to a standstill. However, the show is hopeful he will change his mind and an agreement can be reached.
“I’m thrilled to have another chance to think about the future… or really anything other than the present,” said Cohen.
Groening adds, “It’s a true honor to announce the triumphant return of Futurama one more time before we get canceled abruptly again.”
“When presented with the opportunity to bring fans and viewers new episodes of Futurama, we couldn’t wait to dive in. This iconic series helped blaze the trail for the success of adult animation since its initial launch and we look forward to Matt & David continuing to pave the way and further establishing Hulu as the premiere destination for fans of the genre,” said Craig Erwich, President, Hulu Originals and ABC Entertainment.
“What I love about animation is that it’s possible for a successful show to take a pause and then resume years later, even on a different platform, and pick up right where it left off. Futurama is one of those shows. The excitement from Hulu about returning Matt and David’s genius creation for all-new episodes has been off the charts. I’m thrilled that this incredible team will get to tell more stories, and that our Planet Express crew will have more adventures together. It’s a win for the fans who have loved the show since the beginning, and for the ones who will now discover it for the very first time,” added Marci Proietto, Head of 20th Television Animation.