Jennifer Tilly Continues to Profit from 'The Simpsons'

The well-known actress and star of 'The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,' Jennifer Tilly, continues to receive financial benefits from her past marriage to Sam Simon, a co-creator of 'The Simpsons.'

During a candid moment on a recent episode of 'RHOBH,' Tilly reflected on the enduring process of overcoming a divorce.

She mentioned that despite the challenges, there is one key advantage she appreciates.

Tilly shared, 'My former spouse was Sam Simon, who helped develop 'The Simpsons.' We were married for seven years and had been together for a decade. Upon our separation, I obtained a portion of 'The Simpsons' as part of our divorce settlement, which turned out to be quite lucrative as the show's success has far exceeded expectations.'

In her words, Tilly expressed gratitude, saying, 'Every day, I silently thank Sam.'

A Lucrative Separation

The couple's marriage spanned from 1984 to 1991, during which 'The Simpsons,' conceptualized with James L. Brooks and Matt Groening, made its debut on Fox in 1989.

Now entering its 36th season, the legendary animated show continues to be a prominent feature on Fox and in syndication, known for its notable guest appearances and uncanny predictions of real-world events.

Sam Simon's Legacy

Though Simon distanced himself from 'The Simpsons' in 1993, he had secured a substantial agreement that ensured earnings from royalties and syndication rights. In a 2007 '60 Minutes' interview, Simon remarked that he earned more than $10 million each year from the show.

Simon observed, 'I felt undercompensated and unrecognized during my time with the series. Now, the situation seems reversed, with my contribution perhaps overstated and the financial gains extravagant.'

Before passing away due to colorectal cancer in 2015, Simon chose to donate his entire wealth to charitable causes.

Tilly's Career and Involvement with RHOBH

Jennifer Tilly, renowned for her Academy Award-nominated performance in 'Bullets Over Broadway' and her iconic role as Tiffany Valentine in the 'Chucky' series, formally joined 'RHOBH' as a 'Friend' in its 14th season after earlier appearances.

Aside from contributing her voice to a 2012 episode of 'The Simpsons,' Tilly has not been creatively involved with the show. She mentioned in a 2021 podcast interview with Los Angeles Magazine's 'The Originals' that she acquires about one-thirds of Simon's ongoing profits from 'The Simpsons.'

Tilly humorously reflected, 'I used to act in various films to fix a leaking roof or plumbing issues, but now I no longer have those concerns.'