THERE IS RENEWED optimism that a deal on pay cuts can be reached to avoid The Simpsons shutting down after 23 seasons next year. But even if a deal is reached, there is likely to be only one more season commissioned, according to reports in the US.

Entertainment Weekly reports that some, but not all, producers of the hit sitcom have agreed with the studio, 20th Century Fox Television, to take a pay cut in order for the series to continue.

There had been doubts about whether ‘The Simpsons’ would last beyond its current 23rd season because of a dispute between the actors who voice the show’s characters and the studio which was demanding the actors take a 45 per cent pay cut. However, the actors were only prepared to take a 30 per cent cut.

Now Entertainment Weekly cites sources on both sides saying they’re confident a deal can be reached.

But, the Calgary Herald cites one Fox executive as saying that even if terms are reached, network executives only want one more additional season, saying that the show is no longer profitable for them.

Even so, news that the record-breaking show could now be saved, even if only for one more season, would prompt only one response from fans:

Read: Is the end nigh in Springfield? Money dispute could end The Simpsons >