'Simpsons' Creators Parody Media Coverage over Homer No Longer Strangling Bart; Abuse Prevention Group Applauds Show's Decision

Simpsons' animated retort to widespread coverage follows recent episode where Homer Simpson jokes about not strangling Bart anymore, a decision praised by Prevent Child Abuse America for demonstrating responsible parenting to viewers.

The Simpsons' crew and creator Matt Groening humorously responded to media coverage over the decision to stop depicting Homer Simpson strangling his son, Bart, a gag that had been part of the show's running jokes.
In a recent episode, 'McMansion & Wife,' Homer quips about not strangling Bart anymore, inciting various reactions online – with viewers either applauding the decision or lamenting the change as a sign of the times.
This change was actually hinted in a 2011 Christmas episode where it was revealed that the act of strangulation was made illegal in Springfield due to a law named after Homer.
Dr. Melissa Merrick, CEO and President of Prevent Child Abuse America, praised The Simpsons' decision to stop the strangling joke, stating that it demonstrates positive childrearing to its viewers and influences the narrative around child abuse.
The Simpsons, which has been renewed through to the 2024-2025 TV season, has used the strangle gag in more than 140 episodes involving different characters, not just Homer and Bart.