In a delightful crossover moment, The Simpsons paid homage to the popular manga and anime series Death Note by featuring a character cameo in their 750th episode couch gag. Death Note, created by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide with its gripping narrative and distinct art style. The franchise has expanded beyond its original medium, encompassing a live-action Netflix film, a successful musical adaptation, and even an upcoming television series from the talented Duffer Brothers, known for their work on Stranger Things.
The Simpsons, an animated show with a rich history spanning decades, has never shied away from referencing pop culture, and Death Note has been no exception. In a previous Treehouse of Horror Special aired on Halloween, The Simpsons cleverly parodied Death Note, with Lisa portraying the brilliant protagonist Light Yagami and Bart taking on the mischievous role of Ryuk. The episode garnered significant attention and praise from fans, solidifying the show’s ability to seamlessly integrate itself with other beloved franchises.
Now, as The Simpsons celebrated its monumental 750th episode on May 21, 2023, viewers were treated to a visually captivating opening sequence that showcased the vast array of characters from the show’s extensive history. With a rapid succession of images, it becomes a challenge to spot specific cameos, but one character stood out among the animated crowd: Ryuk from Death Note. However, there was a twist. In keeping with The Simpsons’ tradition of playful irreverence, their depiction of Ryuk took on a Bart Simpson-inspired form, adding a delightful touch of humor to the cameo.
The inclusion of Ryuk in the opening gag serves as a testament to the impact and popularity of Death Note, even within the world of The Simpsons. While Ryuk’s appearance was relatively brief, the fact that he earned a spot among the vast roster of characters is a testament to the cross-cultural influence and recognition of both Death Note and The Simpsons. It also highlights the enduring appeal of animated villains, as other notorious characters like Bill Cipher from Gravity Falls can also be spotted in the opening credits, inviting fans to engage in a fun game of spotting references throughout the entire sequence.
The Simpsons, now in its impressive 34th season, has captivated audiences since its inception in 1989 under the creative vision of Matt Groening. Despite the ever-changing landscape of viewership, the series remains accessible through streaming platforms such as Disney+ and Hulu, allowing both longtime fans and newcomers to immerse themselves in the iconic world of Springfield. Similarly, Death Note, with its concise yet impactful single season, can be enjoyed by audiences on the popular anime streaming service, Crunchyroll.
As these two beloved franchises intersect in the Simpsons couch gag, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of animation and the joy it brings to fans across different genres and mediums. The Simpsons and Death Note, each with their unique legacies, continue to entertain and inspire audiences worldwide, solidifying their place in pop culture history.
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