The Simpsons Gets First Hour-Long Special Episode in January 2017

When you're on the air for twenty-eight seasons, there isn't a lot of room for "first ever" moments left, but The Simpsons is getting their first ever hour-long episode this season. Set to air in January 2017, the special was announced at FOX's TCA presentation. Keegan-Michael Key, who seems to be everywhere right now, and Taraji P. Henson, who stars as Cookie on Empire, will both guest-star on the episode.

The special is called "The Great Phatsby" and sees Mr. Burns at the center of the story, when he's conned by a music mogul and goes bankrupt. Burns turns to Homer and Bart to help him get revenge on the mogul, and is joined by Praline (Henson), the mogul's ex-wife and Key's character Jazzy James, a rapper.

The traditional b-story of the episode will be split as well to help fill an hour of story-telling, with Lisa, Smithers, and Marge each getting their own stories in the hour. Lisa has a new suitor, and he has lost of money, Smithers has his own "perilous journey," and Marge tries for a new work venture, opening a boutique store.

"I just pray it won't be the last thing people see before a Trump inauguration," executive producer Al Jean said during the announcement.

Key has been a guest voice on several animated series, including FOX's Bob's Burgers and American Dad! Amy Schumer was also announced as a guest voice on The Simpsons season 28, as part of an all-Sunday event. The hit comedian will be a guest voice on all of FOX's animated series in one night, voicing different characters in each.

The Simpsons returns Sunday September 25, 2016 at 8pm on FOX.