The iconic animated series, The Simpsons , has long been known for its uncanny ability to predict the future. One of the predictions that has recently been in the spotlight is about Kamala Harris, who is now running for president of the United States. Al Jean, screenwriter of The Simpsons , expressed pride in this prediction. This article will discuss Al Jean's reaction and how The Simpsons is often considered a modern Nostradamus.
Predictions That Come True
In the episode entitled “Bart to the Future” which aired in 2000, Lisa Simpson was depicted as the first female president of the United States. In this episode, Lisa wears a purple suit and a pearl necklace, which is very similar to the outfit that Kamala Harris wore when she was inaugurated as vice president in 2021. This prediction has become a hot topic of conversation again after Joe Biden announced that he would not run again in the presidential election 2024.
Al Jean's reaction
Al Jean, screenwriter of The Simpsons , expressed his pride in this prediction via social media. “I'm proud to be a part of @TheSimpsons 'prediction,'” Jean wrote, while sharing an image of Lisa and Harris wearing very similar outfits. Jean also added that this prediction is one of many that have come true in the long history of The Simpsons .
The Simpsons Prediction Method
But what actually happens behind the scenes? Is this just a coincidence or is there a certain method used by the writing team of "The Simpsons"? Executive producer Matt Selman has said that while there is method in their 'predictions', the biggest challenge is keeping the show fresh and relevant. Al Jean himself considers the similarity of their story to real life to be lucky. "If you write 700 episodes and you don't predict anything, then you're very bad," he said in an interview.
Another Prediction That Came True
Apart from predictions about Kamala Harris, The Simpsons has also predicted many other events that have come true. For example, in 2012, The Simpsons depicted Lady Gaga's 2017 Super Bowl halftime performance, including the glittering outfit she wore. They also predicted the outcome of the penultimate episode of Game of Thrones when parodying the show in 2017, two years before the episode aired.
Controversy Surrounding The Simpsons Predictions
Al Jean, screenwriter of The Simpsons , has a pretty clear view on the controversy surrounding the show's predictions. He often emphasized that many predictions that came true were the result of luck and a very large number of episodes.
Jean also stated that many predictions are based on social observations and ongoing trends. The writing team often observes technological developments and political events to create relevant and interesting stories. In several interviews, Jean emphasized that many predictions that appear accurate are actually coincidences. For example, the prediction of Donald Trump becoming president is considered an extraordinary example of coincidence.
To answer public questions, The Simpsons showrunner, Matt Selman, once stated that they would make a special episode explaining how they could predict the future. This episode is expected to provide a clearer explanation to the audience.
Conclusion
The Simpsons has become a cultural phenomenon that not only entertains, but also amazes audiences with its often accurate predictions of the future. Al Jean's reaction to predicting Kamala Harris for president shows how proud the team behind The Simpsons is of their work. While many of these predictions may just be coincidences, there's no denying that The Simpsons has left an indelible mark on television history and popular culture.
We may never know if "The Simpsons" really does have a crystal ball that predicts the future, but one thing is certain: they have given us many moments to laugh, think, and sometimes, be amazed. And for Al Jean and his team, that's more than enough reason to be proud.
