The Simpsons set for record 22-year run

The Simpsons is set to become the longest-running prime time series in U.S. TV history with a 22-year run.

Fox announced Thursday that the animated show, now in its 20th season, would be renewed for two more years.

The previous record was set by Gunsmoke, which ran on CBS for 20 years, ending in 1975.

NBC criminal drama Law and Order is in its 19th season.

The Simpsons was first shown in December 1989 and its 21st season begins in September.

By the time Homer, Bart, Marge, Lisaand Maggie end the 2010-11 season, The Simpsons will have aired 493 episodes.

The often controversial and groundbreaking series has won 24 Emmy Awards, 23 Annie Awards, four Genesis Awards and a Peabody Award.