In a significant move for the long-running animated series, The Simpsons has permanently retired its beloved Duff Beer mascot, Duffman, bringing an end to the character's nearly three-decade run. The superhero spokesperson made his final bow in the show's 37th season, marking a notable shift for the series' extensive cast of characters.
The Final "Oh Yeah!"
The character's last appearance came in the Season 37 episode titled Separation, which parodies the Apple TV+ series Severance. The episode, which aired on Sunday, featured Barry Duffman entering the Simpson family home to deliver the news directly to Homer, Marge, and their children—and, by extension, to the audience. Speaking in his trademark third-person style, the spokesman revealed that The Duff Corporation had retired the character "forever."
He lamented that traditional advertising methods like corporate spokesmen, print ads, and TV spots were now passé, noting that "today's kids can't even sing the jingles." His final utterance of his iconic catchphrase, "Oh yeah!", served as a farewell to fans after his first appearance in the 1997 episode The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson.
Duffman's Departure and a Changing Springfield
Voiced by veteran actor Hank Azaria, Duffman was instantly recognisable by his red cape, utility belt stocked with Duff beer cans, and his exaggerated, over-the-top persona. In his final storyline, he attempted to recruit Homer into a mysterious corporation known as EOD before ultimately deprogramming himself and shedding the Duffman identity for good. He appeared in civilian clothes, having seemingly hung up his cape permanently.
This exit follows a pattern of the series writing out long-standing minor characters. It comes less than two months after the death of Alice Glick, the First Church organist, who had been a recurring figure for 35 seasons. Other characters like Larry the Barfly have also been written out in recent years, indicating a conscious effort to streamline the show's vast ensemble.
Fan Debate and the Future of The Simpsons
These changes occur against a backdrop of ongoing debate among fans regarding the show's direction and future. Criticism often oscillates between frustration over the elimination of minor characters and concern that the series continues indefinitely while the core voice cast audibly ages. The show also stirred controversy in June 2025 with a flash-forward depicting the death of Marge Simpson, though this was not part of the main timeline.
While the series has culled some characters, it has also revived others, such as Jacques, the French bowler voiced by Albert Brooks. Since its debut in 1989, Matt Groening's show has aired more than 800 episodes across 37 seasons, constantly evolving to reflect—and satirise—changing times. The retirement of Duffman, a symbol of brash 90s-era consumerism, seems a pointed commentary on the shifting landscape of advertising and nostalgia itself.
