It don't matter if you're black or white...
or yellow.
Though it's been mentioned by some in this week of intense mourning for Michael Jackson, the classic 1991 episode of The Simpsons in which Jackson guest-starred has taken a backseat to the many reminiscences of his appearances on TV -- from his iconic Thriller videos to his infamous moon-walking performance at the 1983 "Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow" anniversary celebration.
But now, those who have wanted to relive his guest-voicing appearance on The Simpsons will get their chance this Sunday night on Fox (July 5, 8 p.m.). It's a rarity for network TV: A prime-time showcase for a TV show that is nearly 18 years old. Fox had to arrange special permission to show the episode, since the broadcast rights to episodes this old are tied up in syndication agreements with local stations. Still, based on the outpouring of grief over Jackson's death, the arrangements were made and the episode is on the schedule.
Titled "Stark Raving Dad," the show first aired on Sept. 19, 1991 -- the premiere episode of The Simpsons' third season. In it, Homer wears a shirt, accidentally dyed pink, to work at the nuclear plant, where everyone else wears white. Homer's boss, Mr. Burns, interprets Homer's flamboyant attire as an act of non-conformity so alarming that Burns has Homer committed to a mental institution. There, Homer rooms with a hulking fellow patient – a gentle giant who believes he is Michael Jackson and even speaks with his voice. Homer, clueless as usual, has never heard of Michael Jackson, so for all he knows or cares, this guy might as well be the gloved one.
It's a sweet, touching episode of The Simpsons -- one of the series' all-time best actually -- written by Al Jean, who now runs the show. Jackson's role is anything but fleeting -- he appears throughout most of the episode, and even performs two songs. He sings one to Homer, a ballad adapted from his own song for the rat movie, Ben, and another one to Lisa, a birthday tribute supposedly composed by "Michael" and Bart (audio below).
For some reason, Jackson's not credited at the end of the show. Instead, his role is credited to a "John Jay Smith," a moniker that turns out to be fictitious since it was confirmed years ago that the voice was definitely Jackson's own. This is a very special episode -- enjoy it.
More Michael: TV.com Top Ten: MJ's Best and Worst TV Moments
Comments (20)
indeed
billpetridis you said as far as abuse goes that nothing ever stuck?The man was accused of kid touching more than once and he had a carnival in his back yard filled with rides,animals and cotton candy.Seems like at least a couple of those things would throw up some red flags.Im not doubting that michael was abused as a child by his father because there would have to be a reason for a man to grow up and turn out the way that michael did.
Awww this episode is one of my favorites
Was quite surprised to see this air last night. Good job, Fox
I watched this episode again today. RIP MJ.
Hope Michael jackson will be happy in the heaven, But I saw his wife's Rosen`s profile on milllionaire personals site """"" Richpassion.com """""" just now. I am curious what kind of relationship she is looking for on that site???
Michael was a genius that was abused and misunderstood. We've lost one of the most talented people to walk this Earth. Regarding abuse, nothing ever stuck and I think you could safely say that a lot of the parent were chasing cash.
Its always a sad thing when someone dies but has everyone in the damn world forgotten that Big mike jackson was possibly messing around with kids?I dont wanna be a jerk and trash someone that has recently died but it just seems like no one really cares anymore that he might have been a kid toucher.Anyways i liked this episode of the simpsons and have no problem with them replaying it.I guess in a way im just tired of all the michael jackson coverage and would like to see the media move on.
I know what you mean Abiteddyluv. It is sad to think that the only reason people mentioned Michael recently is because he died - it is the same thing with the album sales. Michael died thinking he needed to proove to the world that he still had what it takes (hence the concerts he was planning)- but all he really needed to do was die to get noticed again. Even if you aren't a fan - I think you can still see what a sad story it is.
Yeah, that was me saxyroro. I'm just saying that i bet they're hanging their heads in shame because of the numerous cheap shots they took at Michael Jackson before he died.
A poster below mentioned South Park and Family Guy. Omg thank god they're not in season it could be bad. I'm sure they'll get their shot.
I'll definately be watching this! It's sad because I was thinking, no-one who's bought Thriller, or watched one of his interviews in the last few days would have ever thought about him this past week - including me :(. I mean everyone's missing him, but would we have appreciated him if he were here right now?
Even though the actual vocal artist for the song "Happy Birthday Lisa" is Kipp Lennan (an impersonator - and not Michael) - the song itself was actually written by a one "W.A. Mozart" (alias: Michael Jackson)! Michael was also integral in penning Bart's famous hit "Do The Bartman".
why does everybody like him so much hes stupid and sounded like he never went through puberty
why does everybody like him so much hes stupid and sounded like he never went through puberty
why does everybody like him so much hes stupid and sounded like he never went through puberty
his name is Jackson not Jacko!
What a brilliant choice to honor this icon. For once a cartoon reveres Michael Jackson rather than poking fun at him (*cough* Family Guy and South Park).
I'll certainly tune in.
I think I remember that being a great episode.
Whilst MJ provided the speaking voice of the character, it was actually Kipp Lennon, an impersonator, who provided the singing voice. So this clip's kind of irrlevant...