The season 36 finale of the American iconic animated series "The Simpsons" ends with a development hinting at the death of matriarch Marge Simpson, leading to shock and controversy among fans.
According to the American entertainment media Vulture on the 26th (local time), the episode aired on the 24th titled "Estranger Things" features the series' unique "future jump" format, briefly showing Marge's funeral scene. Consequently, fans are divided on whether Marge has actually died.
The episode begins with a scene where the youngest daughter Maggie is given a spacesuit featuring the character "Itchy & Scratchy," as Bart and Lisa argue, calling it "a cartoon for babies," illustrating the disconnection within the family. Marge highlights the importance of bonds by saying to her children, "Your father and I won’t always be here. You have to become someone each other can rely on later," but the children ignore this and continue to grow apart.
Subsequently, a montage scene plays a parody of the musical piece from Disney's "Toy Story 2" as Marge’s death and funeral are depicted. Her husband Homer is seen shedding tears at her grave, and the narration presents, "Can you believe Marge passed away before Homer?" stirring viewers' emotions.
In the final scene, Marge appears in heaven, kissing Ringo Starr. The episode concludes with the line, "You can marry someone else in heaven."
However, discussions among fans continue on whether this development reflects actual settings or emphasizes humor and satirical elements. The production team has previously showcased several episodes set in the future, some of which contained contradictory content. In season 27's episode "The Marge-ian Chronicles" aired in 2016, Marge and Lisa were shown living together on Mars even 35 years later.
The production team has yet to release an official stance on Marge's life or death, and with confirmation of an extension to season 40, the future of the character remains open.