Is 'The Simpsons: Hit & Run' Finally Returning? Matt Groening Teases Remake — But Showrunner Claps Back

Gamer nostalgia went into overdrive this past weekend at Disney’s D23 event in Anaheim, California. *The Simpsons* creator Matt Groening sent pop-culture obsessives into a frenzy when he hinted that the legendary 2003 console title *The Simpsons: Hit & Run* might actually be making a comeback. During a franchise panel, the veteran animator boldly teased that the beloved open-world game is currently slated to return "in some form." However, before fans could even start looking for their old controllers, current showrunner Matt Selman stepped in to immediately pump the brakes on the hype train. Selman instantly undercut the creator's optimistic tease by dryly adding, "...or not." The hilarious reality check left attendees wondering whether a genuine revival is actually brewing behind closed doors or if Groening was simply indulging in a bit of wishful thinking on stage.

Is The Simpsons Hit and Run coming back Originally dropping back in 2003 for the PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, original Xbox, and PC, *Hit & Run* quickly solidified its place in pop-culture history. Essentially a family-friendly, Springfield-centric take on *Grand Theft Auto*, the title became an instant cult classic thanks to its snappy comedic writing, endless Easter eggs, and delightfully chaotic driving mechanics. For over two decades, devoted fans have begged studio executives to remaster or reboot the nostalgic masterpiece. While the game has remained locked in gaming limbo since the mid-2000s, Groening's brief comment marks the first time anyone from the core creative team has publicly teased a potential resurrection.

BUZZBEAT

Why was The Simpsons Hit and Run so popular Part of the game's enduring legacy stems from how authentically it captured the golden era of the animated series. Players could race around Springfield as Homer, Bart, Lisa, Marge, and Apu, causing endless property damage while uncovering an alien conspiracy involving Buzz Cola and glowing green cameras. Whether Selman's skeptical comment was a genuine denial or merely a joke to cover up an unannounced project remains to be seen. But one thing is undeniably clear: if Hollywood ever decides to greenlight a modern remake, the internet is more than ready to jump back into Bart's rocket car.