‘The Simpsons’ takes down ‘Gunsmoke’
“Why does the show endure?” comedy writer Mike Reiss asks of “The Simpsons,” the show he used to run, in his forthcoming book “Springfield Confidential.” “Because it’s based on two fundamental principles: family and folly.”
With that in mind, it only seems fitting that “The Simpsons” draws upon both principles to dramatize its act of taking down “Gunsmoke” as the new sheriff of television. On Sunday night, “The Simpsons” passed the classic midcentury Western by airing show No. 636 — the most scripted episodes aired by any prime-time series in TV history.
In a new video to mark the moment, “Gunsmoke’s” Marshal Matt Dillon challenges Maggie Simpson to a duel. “Can’t let you do it,” the 6-foot-7 lawman intones to baby Maggie. “Can’t let you break my record.” But there’s no pacifying Maggie, who’s faster on the draw.
The video then parodies the opening to “Gunsmoke” (1955-1975), from cameo-style images to musical theme.
So what does “Simpsons” executive producer Matt Selman think of the TV-history showdown?
“I say reboot ‘Gunsmoke’ and keep TV’s hottest rivalry going strong,” Selman tells the Washington Post, holstered tongue in cheek.
“The Simpsons” is in its recordsetting 29th season, and has been renewed to return for its 30th.
“The record-holder for most seasons was of course ‘Gunsmoke’ at 20,” “Simpsons” producer David Silverman tells the Post. “Once we broke that, I had a feeling we would go to at least 30 seasons. And I was looking towards breaking the 635 (episode) mark — it seemed a strong possibility.
So how much longer can “The Simpsons” go on?
“The day people all over the world start treating each other with love, respect and intelligence,” Reiss writes.
“I hope that day never comes.”