LOS ANGELES – Fans of The Simpsons received sad news at the start of 2026 as longtime character Barry Duffman retired from the show. The announcement came in a Severance-themed episode aired on Sunday, January 4.
Duffman, the iconic Duff Beer mascot, has been part of the series for nearly three decades. In the episode, he confirmed his retirement, saying, “The Duff Corporation has retired that character forever. All the old forms of advertising are now passé.” The show highlighted that modern audiences no longer connect with traditional mascots and jingles.
Viewers saw glimpses of Duffman later in the episode, but notably without his famous uniform, emphasizing the end of an era. Fans immediately took to social media to share their reactions and pay tribute to the beloved character.
Barry Duffman first appeared in the 1997 episode “The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson” and quickly became a fan favorite. His energetic and comedic persona added charm to The Simpsons, making him a recurring and memorable figure across multiple seasons.
This retirement follows a similar decision by the show two months earlier, when another long-standing character, First Church Organist Alice Glick, was also retired after more than 34 years on the series. These changes mark a shift in the show’s focus as it adapts to new audiences and storytelling styles.
Experts note that character retirements in long-running series like The Simpsons are often challenging for fans, but they also allow writers to explore fresh narratives and introduce new personalities. While Duffman’s absence will be felt, the show continues to evolve while maintaining its cultural relevance.
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The Simpsons remains one of television’s most enduring animated series, known for blending humor, satire, and social commentary. Barry Duffman’s retirement is a milestone in the show’s history, highlighting its ability to honor legacy while moving forward.
