At the end of Season 36 of The Simpsons, "Estranger Things," the series jumped ahead decades into the future to see what life might be like 35 years down the road for the Simpson family. Here, both Bart and Lisa are shown as adults. Bart runs a retirement home, and Lisa is the commissioner of the NBA.
But the most emotional moment came when the future version of the Simpsons revealed that Marge Simpson has died in this timeline. This is the first time in the show’s history that they have shown the death of a major character in the core family—even if only in a possible future.
While the specific details or time of Marge's death is not shown the episode does strongly showcase how Marge's absence affected the family. Homer is now much older and is living in a care home - he's seen as tired and struggling. Lisa and Bart, who have drifted apart are united once again by a heartfelt video message from Marge - a reminder of their family and some emotion that leads to the siblings and father being brought back together.
Although the emotional twist shocked many viewers, it is important to remember that this storyline exists in the realm of a possible future. Marge is still very much alive in the current timeline of The Simpsons. The Simpsons is frequently in alternate realities, alternate timelines, and goes outside of time. This episode once again follows that theme.
Co-showrunner of The Simpsons, Matt Selman explained that the episode was just a way to think about the future, not an indication that Marge would be leaving the series. Enjoy Marge in many future episodes, as The Simpsons has already been renewed for a Season 37.
Fan reactions have been mixed. Some liked the mature and emotional depth to the character, while others were sad or upset that such a beloved character was presented as 'gone'—even if only as a vision of the future. No matter how you feel—and many of you likely feel multiple, contradictory things—the episode encouraged important conversations on family, growing older, and the long-run nature of the show, itself.
Marge's story isn't done; The Simpsons is still going strong in its 37th season and beyond, and the series is still committed to humor while weaving in emotionally resonant moments to keep fans engaged for over 30 years.
Image Source: cbc.ca
