Review: The Simpsons “Podcast News”

 

 

Overview:

True crime podcasts are becoming the latest craze in Springfield, leaving news anchor Kent Brockman feeling uncertain about his approach to journalism. But when a murder occurs on the shores of Springfield, Brockman sees his opportunity to start his own hit podcast.

Unfortunately for Grampa Simpsons, the missing woman is his new girlfriend, Vivienne St. Charmaine. The Simpson family struggle between their support of Grampa and the undeniable evidence stacking up against him.

 

Our Take:

Well, there is a lot to unpack for this episode, so we might as well get into it.

And what better place to start than the beginning.

The sixth episode of the 32nd season of The Simpsons is written by the legendary David X. Cohen. Cohen is known for some memorable episodes of the series way back in the 90s when he managed to scoop up a pair of Emmy Awards for his work. A few of his most memorable pieces include “The Itchy & Scratchy & Poochie Show”, “Much Apu About Nothing”, and the unforgettable “Citizen Kang” segment in “Treehouse of Horror VII”.

David X. Cohen later went on to become the head writer of Futurama. And much of that show’s success is owed to Cohen. Additionally, he went on to write for a third Matt Groening show, contributing a couple of scripts to Disenchantment.

“Podcast News” marks the first Simpsons script written by David X. Cohen in over 20 years. Needless to say that fans are excited. Cohen is a master writer for animated sitcoms and his return could help to solidify the resurgence of top-shelf content that The Simpsons have been establishing thus far this season.

Not to disappoint, Cohen delivered a relevant story that is uniquely entertaining.

The episode puts the spotlight on the growing craze of true crime podcasts. A craze that I am guilty of indulging in. Honestly, I cannot sleep anymore without listening to Karen Kilgariff’s raspy voice on My Favorite Murder. From experience, I can say that this episode managed to fully visualize the addictive nature of listening to man’s darkest crimes.

Making the episode even more enjoyable is the murder mystery theme. It is not the first time that the Simpsons have had to solve a crime. But the tone of this was much different, taking inspiration from real-life murders and creating a story worthy of many of the top podcasts.

The nature of the episode opened the doors for some great guest stars. Vivienne St. Charmaine was fittingly voiced by iconic actress Morgan Fairchild. 

Stellan Skarsgard makes an appearance as himself. And Simpsons writer/producer Christine Nangle made her vocal debut playing a popular podcaster.

However, the most exciting cameo of the episode was Yeardley Smith appearing as herself. The scene was shoehorned in and used as a plug for Smith’s own true-crime podcast, Small Town Dicks. However, there is likely no one more deserving of an appearance than the voice of Lisa Simpson.  

Yeardley Smith has been one of the biggest fans and spokespeople of the series since the very beginning. Whenever there is an event or panel for The Simpsons there is a great likelihood that Smith will not only be there but be moderating. She continues to connect with fans with the same grace as her character. You cannot help but appreciate her, and an appearance on the show as herself is a fitting nod.

Further to the name of stars, this episode was dedicated to the memory of Alex Trebek. The long-time Jeopardy host made a couple of appearances as himself throughout The Simpsons history and has remained a friend of the show.

With this much going on for one episode it is easy to get distracted from the story. Thankfully, this episode delivers on all fronts. Thus far, season 32 has been one great episode after another great episode. It is shaping up to be one of the best seasons in decades. And again, “Podcast News” helps to lift the quality level even higher.

The return of David X. Cohen exceeded the expectations. This episode told a unique story that did not feel like an homage to the heyday of The Simpsons. Rather, this was a fun adventure in Springfield equal to the prime 90s seasons. Not to mention the added production value and experience that has come over the last two decades.