Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for The Simpsons season 36, episode 8, “Convenience Airways.”
The long-running animated series, The Simpsons, recently hinted at a devastating development in season 36 that may foreshadow an impending character death. Despite the show’s renewal for season 37 yet to be announced, it is experiencing a resurgence in acclaim, rebounding from its creative slump around season 32. Critics are praising the series more than ever, with creators like Super Eyepatch Wolf asserting that The Simpsons is “Good again,” largely thanks to its willingness to take creative risks.
Even though the characters in The Simpsons remain perpetually youthful, the show has been increasingly adept at shaking up its long-standing conventions. For instance, the premiere of season 36 featured an unconventional “series finale” twist, threatening to alter the show’s established reality. Similarly, episode 6 of the same season showcased an anthology format with 13 unique stories. The season’s second Treehouse of Horror episode, titled “Treehouse of Horror Presents Simpsons Wicked This Way Comes,” also embraced risk by adapting lesser-known works of famed author Ray Bradbury while airing in November.
Significant Implications Regarding Marge’s Mother in Season 36
Marge Discussion of Her Mother’s Hospice Care in Episode 8
These bold narrative choices culminated in a compelling episode 8, part of season 36 titled “Convenience Airways.” Told through a series of flashbacks, the episode showcases Marge and Homer testifying before Congress following an incident involving the titular airline. Contrary to initial perceptions, Homer’s actions become less sinister as the episode progresses, revealing unexpected twists, including a subtly delivered line that may hint at future developments.
In a poignant moment, the episode uncovers Marge’s struggles with her mother’s declining health, as Marge cautions Homer against misbehaving during their flight. This revelation nods to the show’s earlier Thanksgiving-themed episodes, portraying the Simpsons at their most dysfunctional while trying to reach Marge’s family reunion. Marge expresses her concerns, indicating that Homer’s bad behavior could lead to uncomfortable holiday gatherings centered around convincing her mother about the benefits of hospice care.
Rare Mentions of Marge’s Mother, Jacqueline
Unclear Age of Jackie Bouvier
The potential end-of-life scenario for Marge’s mother is striking, particularly given The Simpsons’ tendency to treat character ages inconsistently. If one considers Marge and Homer’s age as suggested by Homer’s driver’s license seen in season 4, episode 16 (“Duffless”), it may imply a birth in the late ‘50s or early ‘60s. However, it has become increasingly challenging to pinpoint the ages of characters like Jackie Bouvier, Marge’s mother, due to the show’s fluid timeline.
While Jackie is sparingly referenced, her character seemed to mirror Abe Simpson’s age in the episode “Lady Bouvier’s Lover” from season 5, episode 21. Despite attempts to establish a timeline, the show’s depiction often leaves much to be desired in clarity. In season 33’s premiere, Marge and Homer were shown as high school classmates in 1999, while in season 36, episode 4, Homer was humorously depicted as a child in 1982. Such ambiguities raise questions about Marge’s family history and her mother’s age, particularly since deeper explorations of Jackie have been minimal.
A Possible Major Death Twist in Season 36
The Impending Death of Marge’s Mother
With the changing creative approach in The Simpsons, the show has become more comfortable with the concept of permanently killing off recurring characters. Notable deaths, such as Larry the Barfly and Nick the Realtor in recent seasons, have elevated the stakes within the narrative. Given the infrequent appearances of Jacqueline Bouvier, her death could deliver significant emotional weight to the storyline, serving as a dramatic progression following the events of “Convenience Airways.”
Jacqueline’s potential demise would certainly rise to the level of a shocking moment in season 36, especially within a show known for its humorous take on dramatic themes. Such an event could provide an opportunity for The Simpsons to delve deeper into Marge’s character, much like what made season 35 a high point. The ominous reference to hospice care during episode 8 effectively foreshadows this possible development, paving the way for more profound character exploration.
Catch new episodes of The Simpsons airing Sundays at 8 PM on Fox.
Sources: YouTube, Screen Rant
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