The Simpsons is an American animated sitcom created by Matt Groening and developed by Groening, James L. Brooks and Sam Simon for the Fox Broadcasting Company. It is a satirical depiction of American life, epitomized by the Simpson family, which consists of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. The Simpsons received widespread acclaim throughout its early seasons in the 1990s, which are generally considered its "golden age" Since its debut on December 17, 1989, 797 episodes have been broadcast.