Why Watch Season 18?
Don't let the Emmy fool you - "The Simpsons" is not the best cartoon still pumping out new episodes. The show has become stale, repetitive, and predictable, and there's no indication that this season will reverse the tides. So just what is the incentive to bolt to the television every Sunday at 8:00 yet again? The answer - as mundane as that routine may have become, you may not get many more opportunities to do so. This season of "The Simpsons" will feature its 400th episode, and by all accounts, its last major milestone. Although renewed past the movie release through a 19th season, Fox will undoubtedly revel at the opportunity to advertise 'the last season of "The Simpsons" ever!', and knowing television corporations as little as I do, all signs are pointing to a round number like season 20 to showcase the show's final 22-episode package. The series has long passed up a graceful exit from television, and the myth that Al Jean could reconstruct the shambles left behind from season 9-12 showrunner Mike Scully is all but forgotten, but with these pressures and expectations subsided, the last few seasons of "The Simpsons" has the privilege of being viewed for entertainment purposes only. Sure, devoted fans still hope the series will revert to some of its old habits, but unlike season 13 or 14, they are no longer anticipating a complete recovery, and ironically, that should work in the show's favour.
Until the television becomes replaced by the next form of visual entertainment, "The Simpsons" will continue to air in syndication. You'll memorize the punch lines, the plot turns, and your favourite gags for every episode, and while each rerun may still entertain, the show will slowly lose its element of surprise. Why run to your couch to catch the opening credits this year - because that excited anticipation of watching "The Simpsons", of forcing yourself to sit through the commercials to ensure you don't miss a single second, only happens on Sunday night. Continue to watch the show for the little throwaway gags that kept you a fan in the first place. Watch it because it's a guaranteed 30 minutes with at least one laugh. But most of all, watch it because when the Gracie Films lady tells you to "Shhh" for the last time, you'll be glad you didn't miss a second.
By Jason LevyLegal Notice and Disclaimer: "The Simpsons" TM and FOX and its related companies. All rights reserved. This site, its operators, and any content on this site relating to The Simpsons are not authorized by FOX.
