Long-running animated series ‘The Simpsons’ has permanently killed off Alice Glick, a recurring character for over three decades. The announcement came in the recent Season 37 episode titled “Sashes to Sashes,” which aired on November 16, 2025. Alice Glick served as Springfield’s First Church organist since her introduction in 1991. The show confirmed her death occurred abruptly during a church service led by Reverend Lovejoy.
Details of Alice Glick’s On-Screen Passing
The episode begins with Reverend Lovejoy delivering a sermon. He recites, “And Moses raised his staff unto the sky, and the Lord sent forth a mighty tempest that thundered like,” just before the pipe organ’s loud blast cuts him off. The reverend speaks over the noise, asking, “Oh, come on now, Alice, that’s a bit much. Alice?” This moment quickly turns sombre as viewers see Alice slumped over the organ keys, lifeless with her tongue out and eyes fixed. The show’s abrupt scene left viewers stunned by the unexpected nature of the character’s death.
A still of Alice Glick’s on-screen death
Historical Context and Voice Acting
Alice Glick first appeared in the Season 2 episode “Three Men and a Comic Book,” which aired in 1991. Initially voiced by Cloris Leachman, the role passed to Tress MacNeille after Leachman’s death in 2021. This is not the character’s first on-screen death; she died previously during Season 23 after an attack by a robotic seal, though fans largely viewed that storyline as non-canonical since she appeared alive in subsequent episodes.
Official Confirmation of Permanent Death
Co-executive producer Tim Long confirmed the finality of Alice Glick’s death. He told Entertainment Weekly, “In a sense, Alice the organist will live forever, through the beautiful music she made. But in another, more important sense, yep, she’s dead as a doornail.” This statement clarifies that the show intends for this death to be a permanent exit for the character.
Alice Glick dies after 35 years of entertainment
Fan Reactions and Online Discussions
The news of Alice Glick’s permanent death has sparked significant discussion among fans. Some expressed confusion, recalling Alice’s earlier death scenes and questioning the continuity of her survival until now. Comments on social media highlighted the show’s decision to follow through permanently this time. One viewer wrote, “This is the second time she’s died,” while another noted, “This time her second death seems to be the main focus of an episode, so this should be permanent.”
Comparison with Other Character Exits
The Simpsons has a history of writing out characters following the death of their voice actors or creative decisions. Bart’s teacher Edna Krabappel was removed after Marcia Wallace’s passing in 2013. More recently, the character Larry the Barfly was killed off in 2024. Tim Long explained that Larry’s death was meant to highlight dignity and worth in everyday characters. The permanent removal of Alice Glick aligns with this trend of giving significant weight to character exits.
Larry the Barfly was killed off in 2024
Legacy of Alice Glick in The Simpsons
Alice Glick’s presence in Springfield spanned 35 seasons. Her role as the church organist made her a familiar figure in many episodes. Her death marks the end of one of the more enduring background characters on the show. Through the music she played and her place in numerous storylines, Alice’s legacy remains a part of The Simpsons’ extensive narrative.
The Show’s Approach to Canon and Storytelling
The Simpsons often toys with continuity, sometimes creating storylines that are not strictly canonical. Alice’s previous death was seen by many fans as one such instance. However, this latest development indicates a firm commitment to this event as canon. The series continues to evolve, balancing humour with moments of seriousness in its long history.
Also Read: Marge Simpson’s Future Farewell Sparks Nostalgia and Reignites The Simpsons’ Cultural Relevance
The Episode’s Impact Within the Season
“Sashes to Sashes,” the episode revealing Alice’s death, stands as a notable moment in Season 37. It follows the show’s recent thematic choices that incorporate flash-forwards and character deaths, such as Marge’s death in a flash-forward episode from Season 36. This approach demonstrates the show’s willingness to explore bold narrative changes.
Conclusion
The Simpsons has decisively closed the chapter on Alice Glick, a character who has been with the series since 1991. The permanent nature of her death is unprecedented for this particular character. Co-executive producer Tim Long’s comments reinforce that this is an important shift in the series’ storytelling. Fans may mourn this loss but can look back on Alice’s contribution to the show with respect. The franchise continues to balance longevity with narrative progression in its celebrated run over the past 35 years.
This moment marks a new era for The Simpsons as it navigates changes in character continuity and explores fresh narrative directions in its latest season.
