**Iconic Animation Memorabilia Set for Auction: A Look at the Legacy of ‘The Simpsons’**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Simsons-script-auction-070726-e842d967899f4e518ed09670b317fb3a.jpg)
A remarkable event is on the horizon for animation enthusiasts as Propstore announces its Animation Art Live Auction, scheduled for July 8-9. The auction promises to unveil nearly 700 original pieces of artwork, including production cels, storyboards, and background drawings from some of the most beloved animated films and television series, notably *The Simpsons*.
Russell Singler, Propstore’s Animation Art Expert, recently spoke with *PEOPLE* regarding the upcoming auction and highlighted the significance of *The Simpsons*, which has captured audiences since its debut in 1989. Singler expressed, “This series has evolved beyond a simple cultural phenomenon to something that resonates globally. The breadth of representation in our auction, from original storyboards to production scripts, reflects this enduring impact.”
Among the treasures available at the auction is a production script from the classic *Simpsons* episode “Stark Raving Dad,” which features the voice of the late pop icon Michael Jackson. Singler noted the rarity of the production cels, particularly a striking setup featuring Homer Simpson alongside Leon Kompowsky, the character voiced by Jackson. Interestingly, this episode has not been aired in years, following its withdrawal from broadcast after the controversial 2019 documentary *Leaving Neverland* raised serious allegations against the singer.
“Even though the episode has been retracted, its legacy continues through these artefacts,” Singler remarked. He elaborated on the episode’s unforgettable storyline, where Bart Simpson mistakenly turns his father’s white shirts pink. The chaos that ensues ultimately lands Bart in a mental institution, where he meets a character voiced by Jackson, who introduces himself in a voice eerily similar to the singer’s own.
The episode features a song written by Jackson titled “Lisa, It’s Your Birthday,” a catchy tune that has left a lasting mark on the series. Despite not being officially credited, Jackson’s vocal talents contributed to the episode’s unique flair, raising questions at the time about whether the character’s voice was that of the King of Pop himself or a talented impersonator.
Singler remarked on the enthusiasm surrounding the auction, particularly from collectors who grew up with *The Simpsons*. “We are seeing interest from Generation X and millennials who want to own a piece of their childhood,” he said. “Many are prepared to invest in art that signifies their nostalgia. It reflects a cultural heritage similar to how previous generations have valued vintage Disney memorabilia.”
The ongoing appreciation for animated works is indicative of a growing trend where collectors strive to preserve creative legacies. Singler shared, “Collecting is about continuity. As I curated this auction, my focus was to create a broad representation of animation history, ensuring that pieces from various stages of evolution are included.”
With bidding starting each day at 3 PM BST, online participants from around the world will have the chance to engage in this unique auction. Interested bidders can secure participation through online, absentee, or telephone bids.
The Propstore Animation Art Live Auction promises to be an unforgettable event, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of animated storytelling that has defined popular culture for decades. For collectors, fans, and those simply captivated by the legacy of *The Simpsons*, this auction marks a significant opportunity to own a piece of nostalgia intertwined with the very fabric of animation history.
As the auction date approaches, registration is now open, and a full catalogue of items is available for prospective bidders to explore. While the eventual fate of *The Simpsons* continues to be a subject of discussion, the auction serves as a poignant reminder of the series’ enduring legacy and the powerful impact it has had on audiences worldwide.