Table of Contents
“The Simpsons” are renowned for their remarkable track record in humorously “forecasting” future events, alongside their portrayal of cannabis in a positive light within their episodes.
Since its debut on December 17, 1989, “The Simpsons” has become an iconic fixture in American television, amassing an impressive total of 760 episodes. This extraordinary feat has earned the show multiple records: it is not only the longest-running American animated series but also holds the title for the longest-running American sitcom and the longest-running American scripted primetime television series, both in terms of seasons and individual episodes. The show’s enduring charm in holding the public’s attention through the amusing and occasionally chaotic escapades of its slightly dysfunctional but lovable family speaks volumes about its lasting allure.
To maintain this high level of engagement with its audience, the creators of “The Simpsons” often reveal behind-the-scenes information, including on-set dramas and fortunate breaks that the creators experienced during the show’s production. Additionally, they occasionally share hidden details or “Easter eggs” that viewers may have missed or that were omitted from the final cut, further enriching the viewing experience for dedicated fans.
An intriguing example of this comes from “Simpsons” writer Josh Weinstein, who disclosed a notable unused joke from the cartoon’s famous “Who Shot Mr. Burns?” two-part episode. This instance also showcases the show’s knack for tapping into future societal trends, such as the increasing acceptance and mainstreaming of cannabis.
Weinstein revealed in the script of the episode that “Simpsons” TV broadcaster Kent Brockman was intended to be depicted as a secret cannabis user. In the shared scene, police officers are seen investigating for clues at a crime scene, with Brockman reporting live. As the scene unfolds, sniffer dogs begin to converge upon Brockman, subtly suggesting he might have illegal substances.
The script describes a humorous moment where Brockman, realizing the dogs’ interest in him, hurriedly takes out a bag of medicinal herbs and stuffs it into his mouth to conceal it. With his mouth still full, he awkwardly addresses Chief Wiggum, asking, “Anything else, Chief?” This scripted interaction, although not making it to the final episode, reflects the show’s often playful and satirical approach to contemporary issues, including the evolving perception of cannabis use.
In essence, “The Simpsons” has not only been a source of entertainment but also a reflective mirror of societal changes and attitudes. The show’s longevity and success are attributed to its clever writing, cultural relevance, and the creators’ willingness to share insights and hidden aspects of the show, which continue to captivate and engage audiences worldwide.
Behind the Scenes of ‘The Simpsons’: Editing Choices and Societal Commentary
Josh Weinstein, reflecting on the omitted joke from “The Simpsons,” provided insights on his social media post regarding the practical reasons behind its exclusion. He suggested that the joke involving Kent Brockman and a certain controversial substance was probably left out due to the episode’s time constraints. “Who Shot Mr. Burns?” was packed with numerous plot elements and side jokes, necessitating tough editing choices. Weinstein’s comments offer a window into the detailed editing process that shapes each episode, striking a balance between humor, storyline progression, and timing.
Additionally, Weinstein’s interactions with fans highlighted various character interpretations. When a user humorously remarked that Kent Brockman seemed more akin to a character who would indulge in cocaine, Weinstein agreed, illustrating the show’s complex character development and the range of interpretations from both fans and creators of the Springfield inhabitants.
“The Simpsons” has a history of integrating sophisticated humor about a certain controversial herb into its narrative, echoing broader societal attitudes. In the 2005 episode “Midnight Rx,” the show presciently predicted Canada’s legalization ahead of the United States, marking a significant point in global attitudes towards this herb.
Furthermore, the 2002 episode “Weekend at Burnsies” is remembered for its audacious exploration of the topic, centering around Homer Simpson obtaining a prescription for this herb. This episode, replete with related humor, stands out for its satirical and comedic handling of the subject, subtly addressing the changing legal and cultural landscape.
These instances highlight “The Simpsons” not just as an entertainment medium but also as a cultural commentator, often mirroring and anticipating shifts in societal norms and legal frameworks. The series’ engagement with such a contentious topic showcases its capability to tackle current issues with both humor and depth.
In summary, the inclusion of humor around this herb in “The Simpsons” underscores the show’s continued relevance and its creators’ ability to adapt to and reflect contemporary social issues. This aspect of the show’s writing ranges from light-hearted jests to profound commentaries on notable societal transformations. As “The Simpsons” evolves, its interaction with such themes remains a crucial element of its charm and success.
