Creator of the Simpsons, Matt Groening was in Cannes today together with executive producer Al Jean, celebrating twenty years of the series. We met them at the Carlton where they were relaxed, funny, and looking forward to the future.

Asked what they have learned over the twenty years, they both mentioned what a huge surprise it was to them that the show has been such a success worldwide. Al laughs, "If I had known it was going to be this successful I would have taken a vacation before the show started, because I haven't had time to take one since!"

The show is known for having famous guests: is there anyone they wanted to get but were refused? Matt says, "We like to see refusals as temporary, so we don't make them public because we hope the people involved will change their minds." Al would like to see a current or past president of the USA appear as guest, but despite assurances that they would not make fun of them, none has agreed. "We even promised to be nice to Nixon!"

Turning to their target audience, Matt explains that they originally aimed the show at adults, but the kids quickly got to appreciate their output. "I don't feel the entire audience must get every joke." They do regret the way kids in the US are somehow forced to be adults too soon.

Asked about the beginning of "The Simpsons", Matt thinks back to the original 15 second slots on the Tracey Ullman show. He recalls being offered a chance to do a couple of specials and insisting on doing a full series. "I think we have managed to keep the continuity of the characters because we have had pretty much the same team since the beginning. That said, I don't think I am indispensable."

How many times has Matt been asked why the characters are yellow? As ever he gives a polite reply, explaining that he thought pink was too clichéd for these characters, and how when they tried yellow it just seemed to be perfect. He particularly likes the fact that "The Simpsons" is instantly recognisable even just glancing at the screen.

He loves the French dubbing. "I first met those guys at a festival in Switzerland, and they are my favourite Simpson's dubbing voices. They crease me up!"

Matt's father is part of the inspiration for Homer. Indeed this is his own first name. But Matt is quick to add that there is a good deal of input from other TV dads he knows.

Is the series going to come to a close someday? Given the fact that the ratings continue to grow - no plans to end it. Although Al says when the time does come, he has thought of a brilliant final show.

And what of Rupert Murdoch and the Fox organisation? Is there any interference with editorial matters? After all, Bart has criticised Murdoch in a few episodes. "The only time they got mad at us was when we criticised a product that was marketed by one of our advertisers."

Our final question was to ask each man "What is the episode you are most proud of?" In keeping with their energy and enthusiasm, they both think the best ones are yet to come! However when pushed, Al selected the "Simpsons Movie", and Matt went for any episode with Sideshow Bob. "I just love all those situations."