The Simpsons Set for China

LONDON: Through a deal with Twentieth Century Fox Television Distribution, Sohu Video has become the first Chinese home for the long-running animation series The Simpsons.

The multiyear deal between the two includes the Chinese premiere of season 26, which launches in the U.K. on September 28. This marks the first time in the series' 25-year history that The Simpsons is available throughout China, subtitled in Mandarin.

Dr. Charles Zhang, the chairman and CEO of Sohu.com, said: “Sohu is the pioneer in the industry that offers premium and licensed video programs to our audience in China. The introduction of The Simpsons, a household name in the U.S., will further enrich our users’ choice of the best American content when they come to our platform. This deal once again demonstrated our commitment in bringing the best experience to our users and tireless efforts to enhance our competitive edges in the industry.”

“The Simpsons is a unique television property, which has the ability to transcend worldwide cultural boundaries and has the capability to easily translate into any language,” said Mark Kaner, the president of Twentieth Century Fox Television Distribution. “We are excited to expand our existing and long standing partnership with Sohu to allow audiences in China to watch one of the greatest TV shows ever made.”

Al Jean, executive producer of The Simpsons, added, “Woo hoo! Now we can reveal Springfield is actually in Guangdong province.”