No…”The Simpsons” Did NOT Predict 9/11

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The Simpsons is a long-running animated television show known for its satirical portrayal of American life and culture during which time it has aired over 700 episodes and become a cultural phenomenon of its own volition. Despite airing its first episode in 1989, the show has been credited with predicting a number of real-life events, including the coronavirus pandemic and the U.S. Capitol riot. One event that has garnered particular attention is the show’s alleged prediction of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

In the episode “The City of New York vs. Homer Simpson,” which aired in 1997, there is a scene in which the World Trade Center towers are shown with the words “New York City” spelled out between them. Some have pointed to this scene as evidence that the show predicted the attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001.

However, it is important to note that the show’s writers and producers have stated that the scene was not meant to be a prediction of the attacks. In an interview with The New York Times, showrunner Al Jean stated that the scene was simply meant to be a joke about the size and importance of the city. The show’s creator, Matt Groening, has stated that the episode was written and produced well before the attacks occurred and that any similarities between the show and the events of 9/11 are purely coincidental. And now Josh Weinstein has to dispel this myth when a Twitter user posed the very same question. His response…again…just a coincidence.

It is not uncommon for people to see patterns and connections where none exist, especially in hindsight. The Simpsons has been a cultural touchstone for decades and has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories and alleged predictions. However, it is important to approach these claims with critical thinking and skepticism, as there is often little evidence to support them.

While it is certainly possible that the show may have included references or jokes that could be interpreted as predictions after the fact, it is important to remember that the writers and producers have consistently denied any intention to predict real-life events. The show is known for its clever and often satirical portrayal of current events and societal issues, but it should not be taken as a literal source of information or prediction.

The Simpsons will return with new episodes in February 2023 on FOX.

The longest-running primetime scripted show in television history, THE SIMPSONS exploded into popular culture in 1989 and has remained one of the most groundbreaking and innovative entertainment franchises, recognizable throughout the world. HOMER (Dan Castellaneta), MARGE (Julie Kavner), BART (Nancy Cartwright), LISA (Yeardley Smith) and MAGGIE are instantly identifiable television icons. Rounding out this cast of characters are many beloved Springfield residents, including tavern proprietor MOE SZYSLAK (Hank Azaria) and nuclear power plant owner MR. BURNS (Harry Shearer). The Emmy Award-, Annie Award- and Peabody Award-winning animated comedy will begin its 34th season this year. In the premiere, Homer is desperate to prove he’s not dumb and sets out to solve the case of the tortoise missing from the zoo. Season 34 also will feature a double dose of “Treehouse of Horror” episodes, marking the first time in the show’s history there have been two “Treehouse”-branded episodes in a single Halloween. One of this fall’s two “Treehouse of Horror” episodes will be a full-length parody of “It,” with Krusty the Clown playing Pennywise, the evil clown character. Guest voice appearances this season include Simu Liu, Anna Faris, John Roberts as BOB’S BURGERS’ Linda Belcher, and Melissa McCarthy, who will play Homer’s rival for Grampa’s love.

THE SIMPSONS is a Gracie Films Production in association with 20th Television. James L. Brooks, Matt Groening, Al Jean and Matt Selman are the executive producers. The Gracie Films Worldwide Brand Division develops and produces the licensed content for the series.

 

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