Matt Groening – Biography, Net Worth, and Shows in 2025

Matt Groening is an American cartoonist, animator, writer, and producer who created some of the most beloved animated series in television history. Born Matthew Abram Groening on February 15, 1954, in Portland, Oregon, he is best known for The Simpsons, Futurama, Disenchantment, and the comic strip Life in Hell. His surname is pronounced “GRAY-ning” (rhymes with “raining”), a detail that is often mispronounced by casual fans. As of 2025, Groening is 71 years old.

Groening’s career began in the late 1970s when he moved to Los Angeles and started drawing Life in Hell, a weekly comic strip that eventually caught the attention of television producers. That led to The Simpsons, which premiered in 1989 and became the longest-running prime-time scripted series in U.S. history. Over the decades, Groening has expanded his creative universe with futuristic sci-fi, medieval fantasy, and a variety of merchandise that has made him a household name.

Despite his public success, Groening keeps his personal life largely private. He has been married twice, has children from both marriages, and continues to work on new seasons of Futurama under a deal with Disney. The following sections answer the most common questions about his life, career, and net worth.

Who Are the Key People in Matt Groening’s Personal Life?

Matt Groening at a Glance

Key Insights About Matt Groening

• Groening’s net worth is primarily driven by the massive syndication success of The Simpsons.
• Despite a public divorce, he maintains a private personal life with his second wife, artist Agustina Picasso.
• His surname (GRAY-ning) is frequently mispronounced as “Groan-ing” by non-fans.
• Groening named his two sons after characters from his own shows — Homer and Abe.
• The Simpsons was the first animated series to win a Peabody Award.

Key Facts About Matt Groening

What Are Matt Groening’s Most Famous Creations?

What shows did Matt Groening create?

Groening created The Simpsons (1989–present), Futurama (1999–2003, 2008–2013, 2023–present), and Disenchantment (2018–2023). The Simpsons remains the longest-running prime-time scripted series in U.S. television history. Futurama, co-created with David X. Cohen, has been revived multiple times and continues on Hulu.

What books did Matt Groening write?

He has written several companion books tied to The Simpsons, including The Simpsons: A Complete Guide to Our Favorite Family and various Simpsons Comics compilations. He also published collections of his early comic strip Life in Hell, which are available through major booksellers like Britannica.

What Are the Most Searched Facts About Matt Groening?

What is Matt Groening’s net worth?

As of 2025, estimates of Matt Groening’s net worth vary widely, ranging from $500 million to $600 million. The bulk of his wealth comes from the syndication, licensing, and merchandise of The Simpsons. Forbes has included him in lists of highest-earning entertainers, but exact figures are not publicly disclosed and should be treated as speculative.

How do you pronounce ‘Groening’?

As noted above, it is “GRAY-ning.” The correct pronunciation is confirmed by Wikipedia and multiple interviews. The common mispronunciation “Groan-ing” is widespread but incorrect.

What’s Next for Matt Groening?

Groening’s Futurama revival continues on Hulu with new seasons. He has a multi-show deal with Disney, but as of 2025, no new series has been announced. His focus remains on existing projects and occasional public appearances.

How Did Matt Groening’s Career Progress Over Time?

1. 1954 – Born in Portland, Oregon.
2. 1977 – Launches Life in Hell comic strip.
3. 1986 – Marries Deborah Caplan.
4. 1989 – Premiere of The Simpsons on Fox.
5. 1999 – Divorce from Caplan finalized.
6. 1999 – Premiere of Futurama.
7. 2001 – Birth of son Homer.
8. 2003 – Birth of son Abe.
9. 2011 – Marries Agustina Picasso.
10. 2018 – Premiere of Disenchantment.

What We Know vs. What Is Unclear

What Is the Broader Context of Matt Groening’s Work?

Groening revolutionized prime-time animation by creating a satirical family sitcom that appealed to both children and adults. The Simpsons broke ground by using animation for mature themes, paving the way for shows like South Park and Family Guy. His works often reflect his upbringing in Portland and his love for science fiction (Futurama) and fantasy (Disenchantment).

Groening’s influence extends beyond television. His Life in Hell comics and Simpsons merchandise have shaped pop culture for decades. The Oregon Encyclopedia notes that his family history, particularly his father Homer Groening, directly inspired characters and storylines in The Simpsons. For more on influential entertainers, read our Spike Lee – Biography, Net Worth, Best Movies and Knicks.

What Do Sources and Quotes Reveal About Matt Groening?

“I always thought that the best way to tell a story is through animation because you can do anything.”

— Interview with The Guardian (circa 2010)

“The Simpsons is a show about a family that loves each other, even if they drive each other crazy.”

— Matt Groening, various press releases

For a comprehensive biography, see Oregon Encyclopedia and IMDb. The official Simpsons site also provides updates on new episodes and merchandise.

What’s Next for Matt Groening?

Groening remains active in the entertainment industry. The Futurama revival continues to produce new seasons on Hulu, and his multi-show deal with Disney keeps the door open for future projects. While no new series has been announced as of 2025, fans can expect his signature blend of satire and heart to continue. For more on influential entertainers, read our Dave Chappelle – Biography, Net Worth and 2025 Tour Updates.

Frequently Asked Questions