The Simpsons will shelve an early episode guest starring Michael Jackson
“Stark Raving Dad” will be removed from circulation following Leaving Neverland.
Back in 1991, The Simpsons kicked off its third season with an episode called "Stark Raving Dad." The premise revolved around Homer being institutionalized and sharing a cell with a character voiced by Michael Jackson. Now, following the reaction to Leaving Neverland— the HBO documentary which cast light on victims of Jackson's sexual abuse— the show is removing the episode from circulation and all streaming platforms.
“It feels clearly the only choice to make...the documentary gave evidence of monstrous behavior,” producer James L. Brooks told the Wall Street Journal. “This was a treasured episode. There are a lot of great memories we wrapped up in that one, and this certainly doesn’t allow them to remain.” The decision was reportedly made between Brooks, Matt Groening, and former show runner Al Jean.
In the wake of Leaving Neverland, which formally aired Sunday on HBO, the asking price for Neverland Ranch has reportedly dropped by over $69 million.