The last episode of Futurama, titled “Meanwhile,” aired on September 4, 2013, concluding the series’ seventh broadcast season and seemingly its final run. While the future of Futurama has been anything but certain, its legacy as a groundbreaking animated sitcom remains firmly cemented in popular culture.
A Farewell (For Now?): The 2013 Finale
The cancellation of Futurama has become something of a recurring theme. After its initial run on Fox, which ended in 2003, the series was resurrected for four direct-to-DVD movies that were later broken up into a fifth season on Comedy Central. Then, after two more seasons, Comedy Central decided to end the show again. “Meanwhile,” the final episode of that run, is a poignant and beautifully executed conclusion. It focuses on Fry and Leela, presenting a romantic and sentimental ending that provided closure for many fans. The episode centers around Fry’s attempt to propose to Leela, complicated by Professor Farnsworth’s invention that allows one to jump backward in time by ten seconds. The resulting time paradoxes and emotional rollercoaster lead to a deeply satisfying and bittersweet resolution. For a long time, “Meanwhile” felt like a genuine goodbye.
The Significance of “Meanwhile”
Unlike some series finales that are rushed or feel disconnected from the rest of the show, “Meanwhile” felt like a carefully considered ending. It allowed for character growth, offered a sense of resolution to the central romance, and even provided a touch of the show’s trademark dark humor. It perfectly encapsulated everything that made Futurama special, leaving viewers both satisfied and wanting more. The fact that many considered it a fitting end contributed to the surprise and excitement surrounding its unexpected revival.
The Return from the Dead (Again!): 2023 and Beyond
In February 2022, Hulu announced that it had ordered 20 new episodes of Futurama. This announcement sent waves of excitement through the Futurama fanbase, who had largely given up hope for another revival. The revival premiered on Hulu in July 2023, marking yet another chapter in the show’s tumultuous history.
The 2023 Reboot: A New Beginning?
The Hulu revival brought back the original voice cast, including Billy West, Katey Sagal, and John DiMaggio, ensuring continuity with the previous seasons. The new episodes tackle contemporary issues while maintaining the show’s signature blend of satire, science fiction, and heart. While initial reviews were mixed, the revival has been praised for its commitment to the original spirit of the show and its willingness to explore new storylines and character dynamics.
So, is it really the end?
The first ten episodes of the Hulu reboot have aired, concluding with the episode The Prince and the Product. Whether or not Hulu will order a further season is currently undetermined. Until we learn more, for now, the last episode of Futurama is considered to be September 25th, 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Futurama’s Endings
Here are some frequently asked questions related to Futurama’s multiple endings and its overall fate:
FAQ 1: How many times has Futurama been canceled?
Futurama has been “canceled” multiple times. First by Fox in 2003, then later by Comedy Central in 2013. The Hulu revival represents a third lease on life for the series, demonstrating its enduring popularity and the dedication of its fanbase.
FAQ 2: Why was Futurama originally canceled by Fox?
Futurama was canceled by Fox primarily due to scheduling conflicts and low ratings during its initial run. Fox frequently moved the show’s timeslot, making it difficult for viewers to find it consistently. Additionally, the network reportedly didn’t fully appreciate the show’s unique humor and sophisticated writing.
FAQ 3: What led to Futurama’s revival on Comedy Central?
The success of the Futurama DVDs and the strong support from fans led to Comedy Central’s decision to revive the series. The network recognized the potential for a dedicated audience and offered the show a new home, proving that a passionate fanbase can significantly impact a show’s fate.
FAQ 4: Was the Hulu revival a continuation of the Comedy Central run?
Yes, the Hulu revival is a direct continuation of the series that ended on Comedy Central. The new episodes feature the same characters, voice cast, and overall tone as the previous seasons, ensuring a seamless transition for viewers.
FAQ 5: Who are the main voice actors in Futurama?
The main voice actors in Futurama include:
- Billy West: Fry, Professor Farnsworth, Dr. Zoidberg, Zapp Brannigan
- Katey Sagal: Leela
- John DiMaggio: Bender
FAQ 6: Is the original voice cast involved in the Hulu revival?
Yes, all the main voice actors, including Billy West, Katey Sagal, and John DiMaggio, returned for the Hulu revival. This was a significant factor in maintaining the show’s authenticity and appeal. Initially there were some contract negotiations regarding DiMaggio’s return as Bender, however, these were eventually resolved.
FAQ 7: What is Futurama known for?
Futurama is known for its clever writing, sharp satire, and blend of science fiction and humor. It also features well-developed characters and explores themes of love, friendship, and existentialism, making it a truly unique and engaging animated series.
FAQ 8: Where can I watch Futurama episodes?
Futurama episodes are available on various streaming platforms, including Hulu, and sometimes on other services depending on your region. You may also be able to purchase episodes or seasons on digital storefronts like Amazon Prime Video or Google Play.
FAQ 9: What is the timeline of Futurama seasons and revivals?
Here’s a breakdown of the Futurama timeline:
- Seasons 1-4: Fox (1999-2003)
- Direct-to-DVD Movies: Bender’s Big Score, The Beast with a Billion Backs, Bender’s Game, Into the Wild Green Yonder (2007-2009)
- Seasons 5-7 (Comedy Central): These were the DVD movies re-cut into seasons, followed by two original seasons. (2008-2013)
- Season 8 (Hulu): 2023
FAQ 10: Are there any Futurama movies I should watch?
Absolutely! The four direct-to-DVD movies are considered essential viewing for any Futurama fan. They tell a connected story and provide a satisfying continuation of the series after its initial cancellation. In particular, Bender’s Big Score is often cited as a fan favorite.
FAQ 11: What makes Futurama stand out from other animated sitcoms?
Futurama stands out due to its unique blend of science fiction, satire, and heartfelt character development. It tackles complex themes and uses its futuristic setting to explore social commentary in a clever and engaging way. The show’s writers are known for their attention to detail and their ability to create a world that is both imaginative and relatable.
FAQ 12: Is there any chance of Futurama being revived again in the future?
Given Futurama’s history, it’s difficult to say for sure. The show has a proven track record of coming back from the dead, so it’s certainly possible that it could be revived again in the future, especially if there is continued fan support and interest from streaming platforms. The uncertain future is ironically fitting, given the show’s themes of time travel and alternate realities.
In conclusion, while the most recent “last” episode of Futurama aired on September 25th, 2023, the show’s history suggests that this may not be the definitive end. The future remains open, and the possibility of further adventures with Fry, Leela, and Bender remains a tantalizing prospect for fans worldwide. Never say never when it comes to Futurama.