Convention - NYCC 2023 : Futurama Panel : Behind the Scenes of the Beloved Show's Resurgence

By Mulder, New York, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 12 october 2023

New York Comic Con 2023 witnessed the revival of the beloved animated series Futurama as the cast and crew gathered to discuss its journey from cancellation to its new life on Hulu. This beloved 20th-century creation, a futuristic comedy set in the 31st century, has been resurrected once again, defying the odds with a fresh lease on life. After multiple cancellations over the past two decades, Futurama found a new home on Hulu for its highly-anticipated eighth season. The latest season, often referred to as the eighth season in production and the eleventh season in broadcast order, premiered on July 24, 2023, after Hulu greenlit the project in February 2022. The return of all the main voice cast, including John DiMaggio (Bender), after some intense negotiations, excited fans and reignited their enthusiasm for the show.

The revival, which some fans have dubbed Hulurama, is far from a mere reboot. The show's enduring popularity can be attributed to its remarkable consistency and the emotional depth of its characters. The story follows Philip J. Fry, a 20th-century delivery boy cryogenically frozen until the year 3000 CE. His adventures with a quirky crew at the Planet Express company form the heart of the series, with the feisty one-eyed mutant Turanga Leela, the belligerent robot Bender, and the klutzy scientist Amy Wong as key characters. Claudia Katz, executive producer, highlighted the emotional cores of the show, pointing to an episode in the current season where Bender's feelings of being left out take center stage. Our characters don't really age, but some of our characters have evolved, she said. The extended runtime on Hulu allows for more character development, making the emotional moments resonate even more.

The show's blend of science fiction and humor, often inspired by Star Trek, has been a significant factor in its success. While a Star Trek crossover episode isn't in the cards, the current season will feature a Star Trek-inspired episode, written by David Goodman, the show's Star Trek-iest writer.Futurama has also navigated its way through the challenges of recent times, addressing scientific concepts rather than diving into political commentary. The show has managed to stay true to its sci-fi comedy roots, providing a respite from the real world's troubles. The move to Hulu has brought flexibility to the show's production, allowing for more extended and poignant moments, away from the constraints of traditional broadcast standards. The crew appreciates the chance to make viewers laugh one minute and tug at their heartstrings the next, akin to the '70s comedy M.A.S.H.

The future of Futurama remains uncertain, with Hulu promising a season twelve that could potentially be the series' final season. However, the decision may ultimately rest with the fans, who have remained devoted to the show through its many ups and downs. The long-awaited continuation of Futurama has once again found its place in the hearts of fans, and as they celebrate the show's resurgence, the future of the series remains as enigmatic as its characters' escapades in the 31st century.

Synopsis : 
Accidentally cryogenically frozen on December 31, 1999 while delivering a pizza, Fry awakens 1,000 years later in New York City. At the dawn of the year 3000, the world has changed, populated by robots and extraterrestrials. Fry meets up with one of his descendants, who hires him and his new friends, Leela and Bender, to work for Planet Express, a delivery company. Together, they face perilous and delirious missions in a most surprising world.

Futurama
Created by Matt Groening
Developed by Matt Groening, David X. Cohen
Voices of Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio, Tress MacNeille, Maurice LaMarche, Phil LaMarr, Lauren Tom, David Herman
Opening themeTheme from Futurama
Composer  : Christopher Tyng
Executive producers : Matt Groening, David X. Cohen, Ken Keeler, Claudia Katz
Producers : Lew Morton, J. Stewart Burns, Patric M. Verrone, Bill Odenkirk, Eric Kaplan, Michael Rowe, Brian J. Cowan, Jason Grode, Jane O'Brien, Lee Supercinski
Editors : Paul D. Calder, Danik Thomas, Chris Vallance
Production companies : The Curiosity Company, 20th Century Fox Television[a] (seasons 1–7), 20th Television Animation (season 8–present)
Original network : Fox (1999–2003), Comedy Central (2008–2013), Hulu (2023)
Original releaseMarch 28, 1999 – present
Running time : 22 minutes

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Photos : Boris Colletier / Mulderville