The Simpsons has revealed that Homer will no longer strangle his son Bart in future episodes, causing a divide among fans.
According to TMZ, the change occurs in Season 35, Episode 3, ‘McMansion & Wife.’
During the episode, Homer greets his new neighbors with a handshake, saying, “See, Marge, strangling the boy paid off.” He said … “Just kidding, I don’t do that anymore. Times have changed.”
Fans of the show believe that the scene was a signal from Disney, the current owner of ‘The Simpsons,’ that the long-standing gag of Homer strangling Bart was being retired.
This isn’t the first time Homer has hinted at the change. In season 22, ‘The Simpsons’ had previously considered Homer changing and not strangling Bart, when Homer went to therapy to address their relationship.
In recent seasons, Homer has occasionally strangled Bart, with the last instance occurring in 2019/2020. Now, it appears the creators are signaling that this gag is officially over.
As for the fans, some say the show has gone “woke” while others are praising the change as it relates to child abuse.
