Here's news that will shake the cartoon world to its core. "Simpsons" executive producer Al Jean says that Mr. Burns' assistant Waylon Smithers will finally come out of the closet in the upcoming season.

In a recent interview, Jean said that, "In Springfield now, most people know he's gay, but obviously [his boss] Mr. Burns doesn't."

And in case you were even wondering, no, there will be no boss-employee romance. We deal with that in two episodes.

"We actually do a lot with Smithers this year...he gets fed up with Burns not appreciating him, and considers his options," says Jean.

The show's executive producer also revealed that he expects the show to end after its 30th season, but nothing is official yet. It's currently in its 27th season and has been renewed for the 28th season.

The new season of "The Simpsons" kicked off this past Sunday.

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