The Emotional Turn in The Simpsons Season 36 Finale
The popular animated series The Simpsons has once again captured the attention of its audience with a dramatic and unexpected turn in its latest season finale. Titled ‘Estranger Things,’ the episode aired on May 18 and is notable for revealing the death of one of the show’s most beloved characters, Marge Simpson, through a forward-looking flash of 35 years into the future.
How Did Marge Die?
The episode showcases a future where Marge is no longer alive, with her passing depicted at her tombstone during a memorial scene. Her children, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, are shown as adults dealing with her loss. Interestingly, Lisa becomes the commissioner of the NBA, while Bart runs an unlicensed old age home where Homer lives without Marge. The episode also features a heartfelt letter from Marge, expressing her hopes for her children to remain connected and cherish their bond.
In a touching moment, Lisa refers to her mother as ‘late mother’ and reflects on her doubts about surviving her husband, Homer. The episode ends with the siblings watching their favorite childhood show, ‘The Itchy & Scratchy Show,’ while Marge looks down from heaven, symbolizing her continued presence in their lives.
The Afterlife and Unexpected Marriages
Adding a humorous twist, the episode reveals that Marge has remarried Ringo Starr, the legendary drummer of The Beatles, in heaven. Ringo surprises her by joking about the upcoming Heaven buffet, and they share a tender moment, highlighting a playful take on their afterlife marriage. This unexpected development adds a layer of comedy and fantasy to the episode’s emotional narrative.
The revelation of Marge’s death has sparked widespread reactions among fans, with many expressing shock and sadness. On social media, viewers shared sentiments like ‘You just ruined my day’ and questioned why other characters like Patty or Selma were not chosen for such a fate. Some fans also compared this storyline to other adult animated series, noting the trend of killing off main characters to create shock value.
While some critics see this as a ways to redefine the show’s legacy, others believe it marks a shift away from the show’s traditional humor towards more profound storytelling. Despite mixed reactions, the series is set to continue with four more seasons, although with a reduced episode count, signaling a new phase in its long-running history.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for The Simpsons
This bold narrative choice illustrates that The Simpsons is not afraid to evolve and explore deeper emotional themes. As the series approaches its 40th anniversary, fans and critics alike are eager to see how these changes will influence its future. Whether viewed as a powerful storytelling device or a shocking stunt, Marge’s demise in the finale is undoubtedly a historic moment for this iconic series.
