The Simpsons says goodbye to Homer's strangling of Bart
The Simpsons has announced that Homer Simpson no longer strangles his son Bart, a controversial gag that has been part of the show since 1989. The decision reflects the changing times and the show's sensitivity to social issues.
Homer Simpson says he no longer strangles Bart
One of the most iconic and controversial gags of The Simpsons has come to an end. Homer Simpson, the lovable but flawed father of the dysfunctional family, has announced that he has stopped strangling his son Bart, a prankster and troublemaker.
The revelation came in the third episode of the 35th season of the animated sitcom, which aired on October 22, 2023. The episode, titled "McMansion & Wife", featured Homer and Marge befriending a new neighbor, Thayer, who moved into a lavish house next door.
When Thayer complimented Homer on his firm handshake, Homer joked, "See, Marge, strangling the boy paid off." He then quickly added, "Just kidding. I don't do that anymore. Times have changed."
This was the first time Homer explicitly acknowledged that he has given up his violent habit of choking Bart, which has been a recurring joke since the show's debut in 1989. The gag, which usually involved Homer grabbing Bart by the neck and shouting "Why you little!", was meant to show Homer's frustration and anger at Bart's misbehavior and disrespect.
However, the gag also drew criticism from some viewers and commentators, who argued that it was a form of child abuse and domestic violence, and that it sent a wrong message to the audience, especially children. Some also pointed out that the gag was outdated and insensitive, given the social and cultural changes that have taken place over the years.
The Simpsons has addressed the issue of Homer's strangling in the past, but never in a definitive way. In the 22nd season episode "Love is a Many Strangled Thing", which aired in March 2011, Homer attended a fathering enrichment class, where he was strangled by a basketball player played by former NBA star Kareem Abdul Jabbar. The experience traumatized Homer and made him unable to strangle Bart anymore. However, this was only a temporary effect, as Homer resumed his old ways in later episodes.
The last time Homer strangled Bart was in the 31st season, which aired between 2019 and 2020. Since then, the gag has been noticeably absent from the show, indicating that the writers and producers have decided to phase it out. The recent episode confirmed this decision, as Homer declared that he has moved on from the senseless violence.
The Simpsons is known for its satire and humor, which often poke fun at various aspects of American society and culture. The show has also been praised for its longevity and relevance, as it has adapted to the changing times and trends. However, the show has also faced controversies and criticisms, such as the portrayal of Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, an Indian immigrant convenience store owner with a thick accent, who was voiced by Hank Azaria, a white actor. Azaria stepped down from the role in 2020, after a documentary called "The Problem with Apu" highlighted the negative stereotypes and impacts of the character.
The decision to retire the strangling gag is another example of how The Simpsons is trying to be more sensitive and responsible, while still maintaining its comedic edge and appeal. The reaction from the fans has been mixed, with some applauding the move and others lamenting the loss of a classic joke. However, most fans agree that The Simpsons is still one of the most influential and entertaining shows on television, and that Homer and Bart will always have a special bond, even without the choking.
Conclusion:
The Simpsons, the longest-running animated sitcom in history, has made a significant change in its humor and tone. Homer Simpson, the patriarch of the family, has stopped strangling his son Bart, a notorious prankster. The gag, which has been a staple of the show since its inception in 1989, has been criticized for being a form of child abuse and domestic violence. The show has confirmed that the gag is no longer part of its comedy, as Homer has evolved with the times. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from the fans, who have different opinions on the impact and legacy of the joke.