Turnaround time for 'The Simpsons' has treated fans to the knowledge that season 26 premiere "Clown in the Dumps" would feature the death of a major recurring character for the long-running animation series, a deadly prospect made all the more ominous by the episode's title. Now, as the first photos of the Krusty-centric 'Simpsons' premiere emerge, FOX realllllly wants us to think Bart's favorite clown is the beloved "Clown in the Dumps."

While we've known for some time that Homer's health will end up in question during the September 28 premiere of "Clown in the Dumps," the latest photos from installment strongly seem to hint that Krusty may be the one moving on to new phase his life (perhaps quite literally). Descriptions point to Krusty retiring after a roast, while the photos show what appear to be Bart in shock at the TV, Homer and Lisa at a Jewish funeral, and Krusty in an apparent Heaven:

The town of Springfield is shocked when Krusty announces his plans to retire from show business in the all-new “Clown in the Dumps” milestone season 26 premiere episode.

Lisa tries to protect her dad from hurting himself but Homer is less than cooperative in the all-new “Clown in the Dumps” milestone season 26 premiere episode.

Krusty's decision to retire after he’s offended by a comedy cable channel roast of him, has dire consequences for one citizen of Springfield in the all-new “Clown in the Dumps” milestone season 26 premiere episode.

Granted, the images and description seemingly paint Krusty as an obvious red herring for the big character death, though we at least know that the Springfield citizen in question has been voiced by an Emmy-winner, awards of which Dan Castellaneta has won several. Whoever doesn't make it through the premiere at least, the coming weeks will at least lift our spirits with 'Futurama' guest stars Billy West, John DiMaggio, Katey Sagal, Phil LaMarr, Lauren Tom, Maurice LaMarche, and Tress MacNeille reprising their 31st century roles for "Simpsorama."

We've included the full set of photos from 'The Simpsons' deathly season 26 premiere below, but what do you think? If not Krusty, which "Clown in the Dumps" do you think will bite the bullet when America (and FXX)'s favorite family returns on September 28?

The Simpsons Season 26 Premiere Photos Krusty Clown in the Dumps
FOX
loading...
The Simpsons Season 26 Premiere Photos Krusty Clown in the Dumps
FOX
loading...
The Simpsons Season 26 Premiere Photos Krusty Clown in the Dumps
FOX
loading...
The Simpsons Season 26 Premiere Photos Krusty Clown in the Dumps
FOX
loading...

More From ScreenCrush