The Simpsons is the longest-running primetime scripted show in television history, with a legacy spanning over three decades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a cultural phenomenon, The Simpsons has been a constant source of entertainment and nostalgia for fans worldwide.
With its lovable characters, witty humor, and poignant themes, it's no wonder that The Simpsons has become an integral part of our shared pop culture experience. Here are 30 shocking facts that will blow your mind.
1. The Original Simpsons Pitch
The original Simpsons pitch was rejected by NBC, but Sam Simon, a writer and producer, saw the potential and pitched it to James L. Brooks, who eventually greenlit the project.
This chance encounter changed the course of television history, and the rest is history. The Simpsons has since become a cultural icon, entertaining and inspiring generations of fans.
2. Hidden Math Jokes
The Simpsons is filled with hidden math jokes, courtesy of writer David X. Cohen, who incorporates complex mathematical concepts into the show.
These Easter eggs are often hidden in the background or in character dialogue, making the show a treasure trove for math enthusiasts. From pi to calculus, The Simpsons has it all, making it a unique blend of humor and intelligence.
3. Real-Life Inspiration for Characters
Many Simpsons characters are inspired by real people, including Homer's character, which was based on Matt Groening's father.
Moe Szyslak was inspired by a bartender in Portland, while Chief Wiggum was based on a corrupt cop from the 1970s. These real-life inspirations add depth and nuance to the characters, making them more relatable and human.
4. The Simpsons Predicted Donald Trump
In a 2000 episode, The Simpsons predicted that Donald Trump would become the President of the United States.
The episode, titled "Bart to the Future," features a scene where Lisa becomes president and inherits a budget crisis from her predecessor, Donald Trump. This eerie prediction has become a viral sensation, leaving fans wondering if The Simpsons has a crystal ball.
5. Secret Formula for Duff Beer
The secret formula for Duff Beer is a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few people. The formula is reportedly stored in a safe deposit box, and only a handful of people have access to it.
This secrecy has become a running joke, with fans speculating about the ingredients and brewing process behind the iconic beer.
6. The Simpsons Has Its Own Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Simpsons has its own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to the show's enduring popularity and cultural significance. The star features the names of the main characters, as well as the show's creator, Matt Groening.
This recognition is a rare honor, reserved for the most iconic and influential figures in the entertainment industry.
7. Simpsons Characters Have Appeared in Over 20 Languages
Simpsons characters have appeared in over 20 languages, making it a truly global phenomenon. From Arabic to Swedish, the show has been dubbed or subtitled in numerous languages, allowing fans worldwide to enjoy the humor and satire.
This linguistic versatility has helped The Simpsons become a universal language, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.
8. Apu's Character Was Almost Cut
Apu's character was almost cut from the show due to concerns about stereotyping. However, Hank Azaria's portrayal of the lovable convenience store owner won over the writers, and Apu has since become a fan favorite.
This near-miss has become a fascinating footnote in the show's history, highlighting the complexities of representation and character development.
9. The Simpsons Has Won Over 30 Emmy Awards
The Simpsons has won over 30 Emmy Awards, a testament to the show's exceptional writing, animation, and voice acting.
The show has been recognized for its outstanding achievement in various categories, including comedy writing, animation, and voice-over performance. This impressive haul of awards is a reflection of the show's consistent excellence and dedication to quality.
10. The Simpsons Has a "Treehouse of Horror" Tradition
The Simpsons has a "Treehouse of Horror" tradition, where the show's writers and animators create a special Halloween-themed episode each year. These episodes often feature parodies of classic horror movies and TV shows, as well as original stories and characters.
This beloved tradition has become a staple of the show, offering fans a unique and exciting experience every Halloween season.
11. Maggie's Pacifier Is a Symbol of Peace
Maggie's pacifier is a symbol of peace and tranquility in The Simpsons universe. The pacifier has become an iconic prop, often used to calm the baby down in tense situations. This subtle detail has become a powerful symbol, highlighting the importance of peace and calm in a chaotic world.
12. The Simpsons Has Been Censored in Several Countries
The Simpsons has been censored in several countries due to its perceived offensiveness or satire. Episodes have been banned or edited in countries like China, Russia, and Iran, highlighting the show's ability to challenge social norms and push boundaries.
This censorship has become a testament to the show's fearless approach to comedy and its willingness to tackle tough subjects.
13. Dan Castellaneta Is a Punk Rock Fan
Dan Castellaneta, the voice of Homer, is a punk rock fan and has even performed with several punk bands. This unexpected hobby has influenced his approach to voicing Homer, adding a layer of edge and unpredictability to the character.
Castellaneta's punk rock background has become a fascinating aspect of his personality, reflecting his creative and rebellious spirit.
14. The Simpsons Has a Special "Some Enchanted Evening" Episode
The Simpsons has a special "Some Enchanted Evening" episode, which was originally intended to be the pilot episode.
However, the episode was deemed too dark and was eventually reworked and aired as part of the show's seventh season. This lost episode has become a cult classic, offering fans a glimpse into the show's early development and creative process.
15. The Simpsons' Duff Brewery Is Real
The Duff Brewery, the fictional brewery from The Simpsons, is actually a real-life brewery in Escondido, California. The brewery was opened in 2015 and offers a range of beers, including the iconic Duff Beer. Fans of the show can visit the brewery and take a tour, experiencing the magic of The Simpsons firsthand.
16. Homer's "D'oh!" Is a Trademarked Catchphrase
Homer's "D'oh!" is a trademarked catchphrase, owned by 20th Century Fox. The phrase has become synonymous with the show and has been used in various contexts, from advertising to everyday conversation.
This iconic catchphrase has become an integral part of popular culture, reflecting the show's influence on language and humor.
17. The Simpsons Has a Secret Easter Egg in Every Episode
The Simpsons have a secret Easter egg in every episode, hidden by the show's animators and writers. These Easter eggs can range from references to classic movies and TV shows to inside jokes and hidden messages.
Fans of the show have made it a challenge to find these Easter eggs, making every episode a fun and exciting adventure.
18. Marge's Hair Is a Separate Character
Marge's hair is a separate character in The Simpsons universe, with its own distinct personality and quirks. The hair has been designed to be a character in its own right, with its own animation and movements.
This attention to detail has become a hallmark of the show, reflecting the creators' commitment to crafting a rich and immersive world.
19. The Simpsons' Theme Song Is Based on a Classical Piece
The Simpsons' theme song is based on a classical piece, "Rock and Roll, Part 2" by Gary Glitter. The theme song has become an iconic part of the show, with its catchy melody and energetic rhythm. This clever reference to classical music has added a layer of sophistication and depth to the show's soundtrack.
20. Apu's Accent Is Based on a Real Person
Apu's accent is based on a real person, a convenience store owner in Los Angeles who inspired Hank Azaria's portrayal of the character. The accent has become a distinctive part of Apu's personality, adding to the character's charm and authenticity. This attention to detail has helped make Apu a beloved and memorable character.
21. The Simpsons' Animation Style Is Unique
The Simpsons' animation style is unique, with a distinctive blend of traditional and digital techniques. The show's animators use a combination of hand-drawn and computer-generated imagery to create the characters and environments, resulting in a distinctive and recognizable visual style.
This innovative approach to animation has become a hallmark of the show, setting it apart from other animated series.
22. The Simpsons Has Been Banned in China
The Simpsons has been banned in China due to an episode that features the Dalai Lama, which was deemed offensive by the Chinese government.
The ban has been in place since 2006, making it difficult for fans in China to access the show. This censorship has highlighted the show's willingness to tackle tough subjects and challenge social norms.
23. The Simpsons' Voice Actors Are Highly Paid
The Simpsons' voice actors are highly paid, with Dan Castellaneta and Julie Kavner earning over $300,000 per episode. The voice actors have become integral to the show's success, bringing the characters to life with their talents and dedication. This lucrative deal reflects the show's commitment to fair compensation for its talented cast.
24. The Simpsons' Writers Are Encouraged to Be Weird
The Simpsons' writers are encouraged to be weird and experiment with unusual ideas, resulting in some of the show's most iconic episodes.
The writers' room is known for its collaborative and supportive environment, where writers can share their craziest ideas and work together to bring them to life. This emphasis on creativity and experimentation has helped The Simpsons stay fresh and innovative over the years.
25. The Simpsons Has a Special "Couch Gag" Tradition
The Simpsons have a special "couch gag" tradition, where the opening credits feature a unique and often surreal sequence of the family sitting on the couch.
The couch gag has become a beloved part of the show, with fans eagerly anticipating each new episode to see what creative and humorous twist the animators have come up with.
26. The Simpsons' Characters Are Based on Real People
The Simpsons' characters are based on real people, with many of the main characters inspired by Matt Groening's family and friends.
Homer is based on Groening's father, while Marge is based on his mother. This personal touch has helped make the characters feel more realistic and relatable, adding depth and warmth to the show.
27. The Simpsons Has Won Over 100 Awards
The Simpsons has won over 100 awards, including Emmy Awards, Annie Awards, and Peabody Awards. The show has been recognized for its outstanding writing, animation, and voice acting, as well as its impact on popular culture.
This impressive haul of awards is a testament to the show's consistent excellence and dedication to quality.
28. The Simpsons' Duff Beer Is Available in Real Life
The Simpsons' Duff Beer is available in real life, with a range of beers and merchandise available for purchase.
Fans of the show can buy Duff Beer-themed merchandise, from t-shirts to beer glasses, and even visit the Duff Brewery in Escondido, California. This unique opportunity has allowed fans to experience the world of The Simpsons in a whole new way.
29. The Simpsons' Characters Have Been Used in Psychology Studies
The Simpsons' characters have been used in psychology studies, with researchers using the show to explore topics such as attachment theory and social learning.
The show's characters and storylines have been analyzed and interpreted in various psychological contexts, providing insights into human behavior and development. This unexpected application of The Simpsons has highlighted the show's versatility and depth.
30. The Simpsons' Final Episode Is Already Written
The Simpsons' final episode is already written, with Matt Groening having penned the final script in 1998. However, the show has continued to be renewed, and it's unclear when the final episode will actually air.
This secrecy has added to the show's mystique, leaving fans wondering what the future holds for The Simpsons and its beloved characters.
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Anne Kostick has been Editor-in-Chief since September 2007. Previously, Anne was a principal at Foxpath IND, a publishing, consulting and editorial services company specializing in the transition to and from traditional content publishing and online content management, development and publishing. Her clients included trade book publishers, technology and financial services Web sites, and arts and cultural institutions. Previously, she worked as Licensing and Product Development Director, Senior Acquisitions Editor and Director of Electronic Publishing for Workman Publishing, and as Senior Acquisitions Editor for Harry N. Abrams/Stewart, Tabori & Chang. In the online world she worked as Director of Content Development for Vitaminshoppe.com. Anne has a B.A. in Greek and Latin, with a minor in Theater, from Beloit College. She is the author of several books for children, as well as a definitive collection of jokes.