Jon Lovitz and Al Jean, the duo behind the 1990s animated sitcom The Critic, are actively exploring the possibility of reviving the cult-favorite series. Lovitz, who voiced the sharp-tongued film critic Jay Sherman, has been vocal about his desire to bring back the show, and recent social media activity suggests that creator Al Jean is now on board.
Premiering in 1994, The Critic followed Sherman, a New York-based TV movie critic known for his biting reviews on his show Coming Attractions. Despite its short two-season run—airing 23 episodes across ABC and Fox—the series earned a loyal fanbase and critical praise for its satirical take on Hollywood. Lovitz recently shared Jean’s post on X, which asked fans: “Just curious … how many would like to see The Critic, with Jon Lovitz return?” The response was overwhelmingly positive, prompting Lovitz to urge fans to share the post widely. “Critic Fans!!!! You keep telling me you want it back. I’ve been trying for years! Well, now, creator Al Jean is on board!!!” wrote Lovitz. He added, “If you want it back, we need your help! Please like this post and spread the word! So we can show the studio how many people want it!”
Critic Fans!!!!
You keep telling me you want it back.
I’ve been trying for years!
Well, now, creator Al Jean is on board!!!
If you want it back, we need your help!
Please like this post and spread the word! So we can show the studio, how many people want it! pic.twitter.com/OD7KdzDkAE
— Jon Lovitz (@realjonlovitz) March 28, 2025
The campaign appears to be gaining traction. As of now, Lovitz’s post has garnered 1.6 million views and over 11,000 shares, signaling strong interest from fans eager for a reboot.
Jean and co-creator Mike Reiss originally developed The Critic after their success with The Simpsons. While it never achieved the same level of cultural impact as its predecessor, the series is remembered fondly for its clever parodies of popular films and Lovitz’s standout performance. Critics at the time praised its wit; People Magazine called it “slyly amusing” for its Hollywood satire, while Roger Ebert famously reviewed it as “smart” and relatable due to Sherman’s ordinary appearance and intellect.
If revived, The Critic would likely need updates to reflect today’s media landscape. Sherman’s TV review show format could be reimagined to incorporate modern platforms like YouTube or TikTok, allowing him to critique viral trends alongside blockbuster movies. While no official deal has been announced, Lovitz and Jean’s efforts may yet convince Fox—or another studio—to greenlight new episodes.
For those interested in revisiting the original series, The Critic is currently available to stream for free on Tubi. Fans can only hope that this renewed enthusiasm will lead to Sherman’s return to lampooning Hollywood once again.
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