: The series officially premiered on December 17, 1989 , with the episode "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" .
: The show was initially intended to debut earlier in 1989 with the episode "Some Enchanted Evening," but severe animation quality issues forced a delay. The SimpsonsTV Show | 1989
: It was the first animated sitcom to air in primetime since The Flintstones in the 1960s. Production Origins : The series officially premiered on December 17,
: The original cast established in 1989 included Dan Castellaneta (Homer), Julie Kavner (Marge), Nancy Cartwright (Bart), and Yeardley Smith (Lisa). Cultural Impact in 1989 Production Origins : The original cast established in
The show immediately stood out for its edgy, satirical take on American life. By the end of its first year, The Simpsons had become a ratings hit and a cultural phenomenon , leading to a massive wave of "Bartmania" merchandise that included the famous catchphrase, "Don't have a cow, man!".