The Simpsons Bids Farewell to Duffman After Nearly Three Decades

8 January 2026 Television and Culture

A Springfield Icon Hangs Up His Cape

The Simpsons has retired an iconic character “forever” after nearly three decades on air. In the show’s latest episode ‘Seperance’ – a parody of Severance – it was confirmed that the man behind Duffman, Barry, had retired as the character, marking the end of an era for one of Springfield’s most recognisable figures. The announcement, made during the episode which aired on 5 January 2026, has left longtime fans mourning the loss of the beer-hawking superhero mascot.

The Character’s Legacy and Final Appearance

Voiced by Hank Azaria, Duffman gained recognition for his red cape, utility belt decorated with Duff beer cans, and exaggerated superhero persona. He first appeared in the 1997 episode The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson, quickly becoming a fan favourite with his catchphrase “Oh yeah!” and third-person self-references. Appearing in the Simpson household, Barry told the family: “The Duff Corporation has retired that character forever.” “All the old forms of advertising are now passé. Corporate spokesmen, print ads, TV spots — today’s kids can’t even sing the jingles.”

Context Behind the Retirement

The decision to retire Duffman comes as part of broader changes to The Simpsons’ roster of characters. Duffman’s exit comes just shy of two months after another long-time Simpsons character met a more tragic end. Alice Glick, the First Church organist and a recurring character for 35 seasons over 34 years, died during a sermon in a recent episode. Interestingly, Azaria revealed to Conan O’Brien in 2020 that he dreaded voicing Duffman. “I have to save Duffman for the end,” Azaria said. “I actually dread it. It’s like, ‘Oh no, I’ve got Duffman to do today.’ It actually does hurt.”

What This Means for Fans

By the end of the episode, he managed to deprogram himself from EOD, though returned to civilian life rather than take up the Duffman mantle once again. However, Because The Simpsons has a loose hold on its canon, the door is not fully closed in terms of seeing Duffman again in his old get-up. Sooner or later, the character can unexpectedly re-appear revisiting his old endeavor. For now, though, Duffman’s nearly 30-year run as Springfield’s most enthusiastic corporate spokesman has come to an end, leaving fans to reflect on the memorable moments he brought to the long-running animated series.