As a longtime Simpsons enthusiast who has witnessed the evolution of this iconic show over the past three decades, I must say that the series has never shied away from tackling controversial or sensitive topics with a unique blend of humor and poignancy. The episode “Holidays of Future Passed” is no exception, as it delves into the tragic demise of Edna Krabappel, a character whose development and evolution I have followed closely over the years.
The Simpsons is one of the most popular animated comedies of all time and has lived through multiple decades now, some of which it even helped define. It makes sense, then, that there would be a few old jokes that do not land today. These are the times when a joke made enough sense when the episode was released, but the passage of time and real-life events can make things quite awkward.
In essence, The Simpsons is not only renowned for its lengthy run but also for its ability to seemingly predict the future. Humor based on real-life celebrities may become outdated over time, yet there are instances when a joke seems strikingly similar to actual events that unfold in a person’s life. Occasionally, the topic of a joke might even find itself entangled in real-life misfortunes years later. Even jokes about contemporary technology and trends can appear different to viewers with the benefit of hindsight.
10 Cypress Creek Elementary Proudly Advertising Its Website
Season 8, Episode 2 – “You Only Move Twice”
In “You Only Move Twice,” the family finds themselves relocating to peaceful Cyprus Creek following Homer’s job offer from the charming and likeable Hank Scorpio, who turns out to be a mastermind with ambitions of global conquest. Upon arrival, life at Cyprus Creek appears rosy and inviting, although Springfield isn’t exactly a shining example. However, as time passes, several family members start missing the comforts and familiarities of their old home.
The Digital Age Was Right Around the Corner
One indication of the progressive nature of Cypress Creek is that the local elementary school, Cypress Creek Elementary, boasts its own website, a feature that once seemed extraordinary when it was first depicted. However, with the widespread use of websites among schools today, it would be surprising if this particular one didn’t have one.
In today’s world, it’s not necessary for schools to promote their websites since many people would simply look one up by searching for it online with the school’s name. This observation is echoed by the show’s writers in the DVD commentary, noting that the joke about this topic has grown outdated.
9 John Travolta’s Failed Acting Career
Season 6, Episode 4 – “Itchy & Scratchy Land”
At “Itchy And Scratchy Land,” the Simpsons explore the theme park named after their favorite cartoon characters. Amusingly, Homer and Marge find themselves in a 1970s disco called “Itchy’s ’70s Disco.” To their astonishment, the decor and atmosphere perfectly encapsulated the vibe of the seventies, even featuring a bartender who bore a striking resemblance to John Travolta. Marge remarked that the bartender looked just like the actor. Suspiciously, the bartender repeated Marge’s comment, suggesting he might be John Travolta himself, having possibly left his acting career behind.
The Episode Didn’t Predict Pulp Fiction
During the early ’80s, Travolta’s acting career was revitalized with movies like Blow Out and Urban Cowboy. However, “Itchy And Scratchy Land” portrays him as a ’70s star exclusively. Interestingly, the episode was released in the same year that Travolta appeared in Pulp Fiction, which significantly boosted his career again. This led to roles in Get Shorty and Face/Off.
8 Lisa Saying People Wouldn’t Recognize Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Season 2, Episode 7 – “Bart vs. Thanksgiving”
In the opening scene of “‘Bart vs. Thanksgiving,’” Lisa creates a special centerpiece for the family’s Thanksgiving feast. Explaining this to Maggie, she shares that the piece is a tribute to significant women who contributed to America’s growth and development. She specifically mentions Georgia O’Keeffe, Susan B. Anthony, and Marjory Stoneman Douglas as three of these figures. Lisa notes that Marjory Stoneman Douglas may not be familiar to Maggie or the viewers, but praises her efforts in protecting the Everglades in Florida.
One Name Would Be Attached To a Real-Life Tragedy
During the broadcast, the scene underscores Lisa’s fastidiousness regarding her holiday endeavor, selecting numerous historical women. Regrettably, it was only after the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018 that most Americans became familiar with Marjory Stoneman Douglas’ name.
7 Chief Wiggum Calling Jared Fogle “Sexually Ambiguous”
Season 17, Episode 24 – “Treehouse of Horror XVI”
One of the yearly Halloween specials from “The Simpsons,” titled “Treehouse Of Horror XVI,” concludes with a tale where Springfield angers a witch, causing everyone to morph into their costumes. The town has conflicting emotions about this predicament. Some residents wish to revert back to their original selves, while others find enjoyment in their transformed appearances.
Wiggum Had a Poor Choice of Words Describing His Halloween Costume
Officer Wiggum dressed up like the guy from Subway commercials, Jared Fogle, who claims it leaves him moderately heavy and somewhat gender-neutral. From 2000 through the 2010s, Jared Fogle was a common face in ads for the sandwich chain, promoting it as a healthier option compared to other food companies. However, the remarks about Fogle’s sexuality became outdated, following an FBI investigation that led to his conviction on charges of child sex tourism and possession of child pornography.
6 Krusty Sending Flowers To Bea Arthur’s Grave
Season 6, Episode 15 – “Homie the Clown”
In the show titled “‘Homie the Clown,’“, Krusty’s reckless spending has landed him in hot water with the Springfield Mafia. To generate some cash, he establishes a clown college, and eventually persuades Homer to join. As time goes by, Homer winds up standing in for Krusty at various engagements.
The Real Arthur Would Pass Away in 2009
One extravagant way Krusty’s spending has spiraled is by sending a thousand roses to the grave of the late actress Bea Arthur, famously known for her role in The Golden Girls as Dorothy Zbornak. However, his accountant, who verified the order was processed, attempted to inform him that the actress he had sent flowers to was still alive at the time, but was cut off mid-sentence. It’s hinted that Krusty has made similar gestures on more than one occasion. Regrettably, while Bea Arthur was indeed alive when the episode initially aired, the humor of this gesture faded after her passing in 2009.
5 The “Ode to Branson” Musical Number
Season 13, Episode 13 – “The Old Man and the Key”
“Grampa Simpson and Bart’s Adventure in Branson”
Even the Nick at Nite Joke Didn’t Age Well
Regrettably, several artists featured on the song have since passed away after its initial release, including Charlie Callas, Bonnie Franklin, and Bill Saluga in his “Ray Jay Johnson” character. It’s clear that the show was anticipating the longevity of the song, as evidenced by a joke where Grampa makes a reference to Tennessee Ernie Ford being deceased, causing him to disintegrate.
In a less serious moment, an episode of the show likens the town to a living version of Nick at Nite, which back then was famous for broadcasting sitcoms from previous eras. This is a nod to how several actors from those old days, some of whom even starred in the shows themselves, were part of it. However, in recent times, Nick at Nite has shifted its focus towards more modern television series.
4 Grampa Stealing Andy Griffith’s Heart Medicine
Season 5, Episode 14 – “Lisa vs. Malibu Stacy”
In the episode titled “Lisa vs. Malibu Stacy,” Grandpa Simpson encounters his admired character, Matlock, who seems to be portrayed by actor Andy Griffith. This encounter takes place at the launch of the Geriatric Medicine Center. The scene unfolds in a way that mimics the play “Bye Bye Birdie,” with all elderly individuals acting like hysterical teenagers, eager for a piece of their idol. Regrettably, seeing Matlock stirs up thoughts about his own life span within Grandpa Simpson.
The Real Matlock Would Die of a Heart Attack
Grampa’s friend Jasper observes that Abe appears distressed, mentioning that Abe had desired to meet Matlock and had even taken his heart medication. As an ambulance goes by them, it suggests Abe may have caused harm or death to someone. It’s important to note that the actor who played Matlock, Andy Griffith, passed away in 2012 from what was presumed to be a heart attack. Additionally, this entire scene makes Grampa contemplate his own impending mortality.
3 The “Gator Baiter” Getting Attacked Onscreen
Season 15, Episode 8 – “Marge vs. Singles, Seniors, Childless Couples and Teens and Gays”
In “Marge vs. Singles, Seniors, Childless Couples and Teens and Gays,” I often find myself drawn to a captivating documentary series called “The Gator Baiter.” The host experienced an unfortunate encounter with a saltwater crocodile, getting bitten. Just as I was about to witness the thrilling feeding frenzy, my sister Lisa swiftly changed the channel. By the time I managed to switch it back, it seemed that the host had met an untimely end, dismembered and possibly deceased, leaving me reminiscing about the gripping scene I missed.
Irwin Would Lose His Life to a Stingray Attack
The cartoon series Bart enjoys is a humorous imitation of “The Crocodile Hunter,” featuring a host modeled after Steve Irwin, a renowned conservationist and media figure. Unfortunately, Irwin’s life ended prematurely, following an encounter with a short-tail stingray during filming that resulted in a fatal chest injury. At the time, it was widely believed that this tragic event was the first instance of a human death due to a stingray recorded on video.
2 Edna’s Future Death
Season 23, Episode 9 – “Holidays of Future Passed”
In the episode titled “Holidays of Future Passed,” we catch a peek at what lies ahead for The Simpsons family, as their children have grown and even had kids of their own. In this alternate future, Ned Flanders makes an appearance and discloses that Homer inadvertently took the life of Edna Krabappel, whom he married following Maude’s demise several seasons ago. Struggling to find love again after parting ways, Ned shares that he eventually tied the knot with Maude’s spirit.
Edna Was Retired After Marcia Wallace’s Passing
When the episode first aired, the humorous reference to Edna’s demise was intended to suggest a recurring pattern, given that Homer played a role in Maude’s passing as well. However, the notion of Edna’s departure took on a more somber tone when Marcia Wallace, the actress who portrayed her, passed away in 2013. This tragic event led to the permanent retirement of the character, with Edna succumbing shortly after her marriage to Ned.
1 The “Tower 1” Line During the Simpsons’ Visit To NYC
Season 9, Episode 1 – “The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson”
“Homer Simpson vs. The City of New York”
The Episode Ended Up Banned By BBC Two
The Twin Towers play a significant role in this episode and serve as the basis for several humorous moments. One such joke involves characters yelling at each other from between the towers, with one character remarking that Tower 1 houses all the annoying people. However, many of these jokes have lost their appeal over time and may be uncomfortable or difficult to watch for some viewers following the tragic events of September 11, 2001.
Significantly, the broadcast version of this episode has been altered for syndication, specifically by deleting sequences that contained references to the World Trade Center. Initially, BBC Two chose not to air this episode, but subsequently, alternative versions appeared on various British television channels.
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2024-09-01 02:32