Mike Reiss, a longtime writer for “The Simpsons,” broke the bad news Tuesday: The “Springfield” where the long-running show is set is not Springfield, Mass. Reiss has a book out, “Springfield Confidential: Jokes, Secrets, and Outright Lies from a Lifetime Writing for The Simpsons.” He said that in the early days of the show, no one had any idea it would become a success — and that gave the writers a kind of freedom. (Fox via AP) (Associated Press) 
 
 This image released by Fox shows animated characters, from left, Bart, Homer, Maggie, Marge and Lisa from "The Simpsons," which will premiere its 30th season this fall.
– A veteran writer for The Simpsons says the show isn't based in Massachusetts despite several references to the state. The Boston Globe reports Mike Reiss recently sat down for a segment on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" to discuss the show and his new book, Springfield Confidential: Jokes, Secrets, and Outright Lies From a Lifetime Writing for The Simpsons. Reiss says the Springfield where the show is set is "nowhere." He explains the writers chose Springfield as a location because there are more than 40 cities and towns that share the name across the US, the AP reports. Fans have highlighted references to the Bay State in the show, including Mayor Quimby's New England accent. Reiss says he's proud of the success of the show, whose 30th season will premiere this fall.