The Simpsons have been entertaining families on FOX for 25 years, and through the history of the series many have wondered where the "real Springfield" is on the map. The series even pokes fun at the discussion on a couple occasions, acknowledging what millions of Simpsons faithful want to know. In an interview with Smithsonian Magazine, creator Matt Groening finally reveals the true location of the famed TV Springfield.

In the interview, Groening reveals numerous facts about the show including how his life inspired many show characters, and even the basis of the fictional town. According to the interview, Homer is named after Groening's father, but little more inspiration was drawn from his dad for the character. Groening even goes as far as to say his dad isn't much of a doughnut fan.

As far as the discussion of what town inspired the Springfield of the show, Groening says he gets asked this question all the time. He said he would hate to ruin it for fans, saying "Whenever people say it’s Springfield, Ohio, or Springfield, Massachusetts, or Springfield, wherever, I always go, 'Yup, that’s right.'"

Groening grew up in Portland, Oregon, which has a neighboring town named Springfield. He explains how these factors came into play in creating the Springfield of the Simpsons:

Springfield was named after Springfield, Oregon. The only reason is that when I was a kid, the TV show “Father Knows Best” took place in the town of Springfield, and I was thrilled because I imagined that it was the town next to Portland, my hometown. When I grew up, I realized it was just a fictitious name. I also figured out that Springfield was one of the most common names for a city in the U.S. In anticipation of the success of the show, I thought, “This will be cool; everyone will think it’s their Springfield.” And they do.

There it is, the mystery is finally solved; and I always thought it was Springfield, Minnesota!

 

 

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