The Simpsons emerged as a series of animated shorts on The Tracey Ullman Show in 1987 before graduating to their own series on December 17, 1989. While The Simpsons was born in the ‘80s, it’s been more closely associated with the ‘90s and the show has rarely embraced the inherent cheesiness of its parent decade…until now!
Animator Steve Cutts has delivered the ultimate Simpsons ‘80s tribute in the couch gag for this Sunday’s episode, “Teenage Mutant Milk-Caused Hurdles.” In under 90 seconds, Cutts mashes up The Simpsons with two of the top ‘80s dramas, Knight Rider and Miami Vice, to create the opening sequence of LA-Z Rider; a non-existent series that apparently explores the partnership between a cop and his couch!
Naturally, Homer Simpson has the leading role as Joe “Kaz” Kazinsky with Chaise Long as the strangely anthropomorphic couch. Homer’s good-natured neighbor Ned Flanders is reimagined as Kaz and Couch’s sinister nemesis, Fernando Whitmore. And in one of the best sight gags of the sequence, Fernando’s chest is covered with several of Flanders’ signature quotes.
Of course, it just wouldn’t be The Simpsons if Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie didn’t make an appearance as well. Several other Simpsons supporting characters also make cameos, including Patty and Selma, Sideshow Bob, Apu, Hans Moleman, Dr. Nick Riviera, Groundskeeper Willie, and Chief Wiggum.
What did you think about The Simpsons’ ‘80s inspired couch gag? And which decades would you like to see the show spoof in future couch gags? Share your thoughts below!
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Image Credit:Fox
