It was just announced that we will see the return of the ever popular Futurama series for the second time in history. The series was created by Simpsons co-creator Matt Groening and David X. Cohen. The story set in the 31st century where we see the adventures of the Planet Express crew which includes Fry, Bender, Leela, Dr. Zoidberg, Any Wong, Professor Farnsworth and more. Think the hilarious comedy you get from The Simpsons but set in space.
The series originally aired on FOX from 1999 – 2003 for four seasons with four direct-to-video films until it was miraculously revived in 2008 on Comedy Central from 2008 – 2013 for an additional three seasons before officially ending. The last time we saw them was in a crossover with The Simpsons called “Simpsorama” in 2014.
The series is set to return on Hulu in 2023 with a number of the original creators and actors returning. Well… all but one major voice.
Voice actor John DiMaggio, known for roles such as Marcus Fenix in the Gears of War series, Jake the Dog from Adventure Time, Schnitzel from Chowder etc., is also the voice of the popular Futurama character Bender the Robot is apparently not riding along the reboot train as he and Hulu have yet to reach an agreement meaning that the character may end up being removed if a deal cannot be made.
John took to twitter highlighting that he currently isn’t apart of the revival and sharing fan outrage over the potential recast:
CHEESE IT!!!!
— John DiMaggio (@TheJohnDiMaggio) February 10, 2022
Futurama fans threaten to ‘boycott’ new revival series over recasting of Bender https://t.co/47JJmFSyLo
Livid. That’s how it’s spelled, pally… 😂😂😂🤘 https://t.co/6AM1Ef1Nuy
— John DiMaggio (@TheJohnDiMaggio) February 10, 2022
Thanks for the concern and the props, everyone. I really appreciate it. Don’t worry, I’ll keep you posted, but until then… CHEESE IT! #bendergate
— John DiMaggio (@TheJohnDiMaggio) February 10, 2022
Hopefully in the future a deal can be made as his voice and character are iconic with the series. Finding a suitable replacement will be very difficult and will most likely not be accepted by fans.
The series is set to return in 2023 with a total of 20 episodes with possible future episodes to come if the revival is well received.Â
Source: Variety
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