Could "The Critic" Be The Next Classic Animated Comeback?

Adult animation is having a serious nostalgia moment. With The Simpsons, Family Guy, Bob’s Burgers, and American Dad! all scoring four-season renewals through 2029, it’s clear that animated comedies have incredible staying power. But amidst these giants, a cult favorite might be gearing up for a return: The Critic.

Comedian Jon Lovitz recently revealed that he and Al Jean—one of The Simpsons’ original minds—are actively developing a revival of The Critic, the short-lived but beloved 1994–95 animated series which ran for 13 episodes on ABC and later Fox. The show had Lovitz voice movie reviewer Jay Sherman which was a sendup of Siskel & Ebert. Lovitz teased the development on social media, saying, “You keep telling me you want it back... Well, now, creator Al Jean is on board!”

Though The Critic only aired 13 episodes over two seasons, it left a lasting impression. Its sharp satire of Hollywood, offbeat characters, and memorable catchphrases (who could forget “It stinks!”) gave it a loyal fanbase. It also stood apart by grounding its absurdities in a real-feeling New York City, offering a different tone than the surreal towns of Springfield or Quahog.

The timing couldn’t be better. Series like Futurama, Beavis and Butt-Head, Clone High, and King of the Hill are all getting new life in the streaming era. Even American Dad! is returning to Fox after a long stint on TBS. This renaissance of adult animation, combined with streaming platforms’ appetite for familiar IP, could make The Critic ripe for a comeback.

As today’s entertainment landscape becomes increasingly self-referential and dominated by online personalities, TikTok trends, and YouTube stars, a rebooted The Critic could hit a whole new generation with its sharp, comedic lens on pop culture. If the revival materializes, Jay Sherman’s return could be both timely and hilarious.

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Source: Hollywood Reporter

Photo Credit: Fox