Homer will continue strangling Bart after all, Simpsons producer confirms

The Simpsons co-creator James L. Brooks has confirmed Homer Simpson will continue to strangle his son, Bart, despite times changing.

The Simpsons is one of the longest-running comedy franchises of all time, spanning TV, film, and incredible video games, when you think of television’s favourite family a multitude of laughs and gags will likely pop into your head. There are the opening credits that change every episode, Homer Simpson’s love, or obsession, with doughnuts and Duff beer, and of course, him strangling his son Bart when he’s annoyed with him.

Take a look at the trailer for the 35th season of The Simpsons, airing right now

However, the latter joke was feared to be lost for good, as Homer hasn’t laid a finger on his son since the show’s 31st season, which aired between 2019 and 2020.

Later in the 35th season, Homer introduces himself to a new character, who comments on the father’s firm handshake. Homer then turns to his wife Marge and says "See, Marge, strangling the boy paid off," Homer says to his wife … Just kidding, I don't do that anymore. Times have changed."

After this seemingly throwaway line, many fans were concerned one of the show’s longest-running jokes was finally over.

Luckily, the show’s co-creator James L. Brooks has since responded to the concern, confirming poor Bart will continue to be strangled whether times have changed or not.

Brooks stated: “Don’t think for a second we’re changing anything.”

The co-creator went on to say: “Nothing's getting tamed. Nothing, nothing, nothing … He'll continue to be strangled—[if] you want to use that awful term for it. He'll continue to be loved by his father in a specific way.”

The Simpsons is currently in the middle of its 35th season and shows no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Around 755 episodes of the sitcom have aired since its debut in 1990, and it continues to be one of the most popular animated comedies of all time.