Over the years, The Simpsons has always stood out for its amusing and witty characters, but over the years, fans have been building up on the theory that The Simpsons has been able to predict a few instances from reality. The show’s ability to predict real-life events long before they unfold has been highlighted a few times. Whether political surprises or pop culture moments and viral news, the show has seemingly reduced the difference between reality and cinema on more than a few occasions.
Here are a few predictions that came true:
Donald Trump as President – Predicted in 2000
Long before the 2016 election, The Simpsons aired an episode called Bart to the Future, which showcased a sardonic take on Trump’s early political ambitions. While the idea seemed far-fetched at the time, few would have thought that it would become a reality. Of course, when Trump came into power, the episode was highlighted, and viewers were stunned to behold the prediction turning true.
Nobel Prize Prediction
In a 2010 episode named Elementary Musical, The Simpsons casually included a joke where Milhouse placed a bet on the Finnish economist Bengt R. Holmstrom winning the Nobel Peace Prize in Economics. At that time, the inclusion was passed on, but in 2016 it was again highlighted when Holmstrom was actually awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. This was another moment when the fans were shocked by the show’s clairvoyance.
Disney Acquires Fox – Predicted way before it happened
In a 1998 episode When You Dish Upon a Star, The Simpsons included a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it gag show sign that read: “20th Century Fox, a Division of Walt Disney and Co.” Although at the time it was meant as a playful jab, the joke turned true when Disney actually acquired 21st Century Fox in a massive $52 billion deal announced in 2017 and finalized in 2019. Hence, the show was able to predict a major shift in the entertainment industry.
Beatles Fan Surprise
A 1991 episode Brush with Greatness, Marge reminisces about mailing a portrait to Ringo Starr and eventually getting a reply years later. In an unexpected real-life twist, Paul McCartney responded in 2024 to a fan video sent six decades earlier. The long delay again diminished the difference between reality and the show, leaving the fans fascinated.
The show’s mix of cultural commentary and uncanny foresight into the future gives it the ability to look beyond it to the future.
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