TV News

published : 2023-11-14

Homer Simpson's Controversial Joke Sparks Outrage in 'The Simpsons'

Fans divided as the beloved character refuses to stop strangling Bart

Homer Simpson playfully strangling Bart against a backdrop of Springfield, taken with an iPhone 11 Pro

In a shocking twist in the long-running animated series, 'The Simpsons,' Homer Simpson's controversial joke has sparked outrage among fans. The iconic character, known for his humorous antics, has faced calls to end his recurring gag of strangling his son Bart.

The show, currently in its 35th season, has been renewed for an impressive 33rd and 34th season, dismissing rumors of any major changes. James L. Brooks, the acclaimed developer and producer of 'The Simpsons,' firmly declared that nothing would be altered regarding Homer's parenting style.

Despite the evolving social climate and the rise of woke culture, Homer's physical interaction with Bart is set to continue. Brooks adamantly stated, 'Don't think for a second we're changing anything. Nothing's getting tamed. He'll continue to be loved by his father in a specific way.'

James L. Brooks, creator of 'The Simpsons,' confidently addressing the controversy, captured with a Nikon D850

The controversy arose after a recent episode hinted at a potential change in Homer's behavior. In 'McMansion & Wife,' the third episode of the 35th season, the Simpsons family meets their new neighbor, Thayer Blackburn. As Homer shares a firm handshake with Blackburn, he playfully jokes about his dark comedic history.

The notion that times have changed and the show should adapt to a more sensitive approach has divided fans. Social media platforms have become a battleground for discussions on whether 'The Simpsons' is succumbing to woke culture or preserving its original humor.

To address the outrage, Matt Groening, the creator of the show, responded with a new illustration. In this illustration, Homer is depicted strangling Bart, accompanied by a speech bubble saying, 'Why you little clickbaiting-!!'. Groening's artwork reaffirms the show's commitment to its iconic dynamic.

A lively discussion on social media platforms about 'The Simpsons' and woke culture, portrayed through a collage of tweets and comments, photographed with a Canon EOS R

While fans continue to debate the appropriateness of the long-standing joke, Homer Simpson remains tight-lipped. In a clever post on a popular social media platform, he humorously quips, 'Homer Simpson was unavailable for comment as he was busy strangling Bart.'

Despite the controversy, 'The Simpsons' is undeniably a cultural phenomenon. It recently topped Rolling Stone's list of 100 best sitcoms of all time, showcasing its enduring appeal and popularity.

As viewers wait in suspense for future episodes, it remains to be seen how 'The Simpsons' will navigate the delicate balance between maintaining its comedic roots and addressing current societal sensitivities. One thing is certain: 'The Simpsons' continues to captivate and divide audiences with its bold storytelling.