The Simpsons, the iconic animated series that has been a staple of television for over three decades, shocked fans in its season 36 finale, “Estranger Things,” which aired on May 18, 2025. The episode appeared to kill off one of its most beloved characters, Marge Simpson, voiced by Julie Kavner. But before fans start mourning the loss of the blue-haired matriarch, let’s unpack what really happened and whether Marge is truly gone for good.
A Flash-Forward Farewell
In “Estranger Things,” Marge’s death is depicted in a flash-forward storyline set 35 years into the future. The episode begins with Bart and Lisa bonding over The Itchy & Scratchy Show, only to discover it’s now targeted at babies, prompting them to watch different shows separately. This shift worries Marge, who fears her children will grow apart. In an emotional moment, she tearfully pleads with them, saying, “Your father and I won’t be around forever. When you get older, you’ll need to lean on each other. Whatever you do, don’t drift apart. You share a journey with your siblings that no one else will ever understand. You must never, ever, ever take that for granted.”
The narrative then jumps forward 35 years, accompanied by a haunting Sarah McLachlan song that reveals the siblings didn’t heed Marge’s advice, and “their relationship died.” The song also discloses that Marge passed away before Homer, with her tombstone reading “beloved wife, mother, pork-chop seasoner.” In this future, Lisa has risen to become the commissioner of the NBA (the women’s league, formerly the WNBA, with the men’s league renamed the MNBA). Meanwhile, Bart is scamming senior citizens out of their Social Security checks and neglecting to pay for Homer’s care in a retirement home, contrary to Lisa’s assumptions.
A Message from Beyond
The episode takes a poignant turn when Lisa discovers a video message from Marge, intended to be viewed after her death. In it, Marge expresses her hopes for her children, including that Maggie achieved her dream of becoming a farm equipment auctioneer (which Lisa confirms). Marge reiterates her plea to Bart and Lisa: “Many years ago, I told you both to lean on each other and not drift apart. My dearest hope is that you’re looking out for each other and sharing a lifelong journey together.”
This message becomes the catalyst for Bart and Lisa to reconnect. They embark on a “kick-ass rescue mission” to save Homer, who has been shipped off to Florida—now a “maximum-security prison for old folks.” Their adventure culminates in a heartwarming moment as they bond over a reboot of The Itchy & Scratchy Show, fulfilling Marge’s wish for their sibling bond to endure.
Marge in Heaven with Ringo Starr
The episode concludes with a whimsical scene of Marge in heaven, alongside Beatles legend Ringo Starr. “I’m just so happy my kids are close again,” she says from the clouds, before adding with a playful smirk, “I’m just so glad we’re allowed to marry different people in heaven.” The two share a kiss and head off to enjoy a shrimp tower, leaving viewers with a bittersweet yet humorous send-off.
What Does This Mean for Marge’s Future?
Given that Marge’s death occurs in a flash-forward, it’s unlikely to affect the show’s present-day continuity. The Simpsons has been renewed through its landmark 40th season, and Marge, as a cornerstone of the series, is expected to remain a central figure in Springfield. The show has a history of using non-canonical or alternate-timeline storylines, such as “Treehouse of Horror” episodes, to explore dramatic scenarios without permanent consequences. Marge’s “death” appears to be a narrative device to emphasize the importance of family bonds, rather than a permanent exit.
Why This Episode Matters
“Estranger Things” showcases The Simpsons’ ability to balance its signature humor with heartfelt storytelling. By placing Marge’s death in a distant future, the show delivers an emotional gut-punch while preserving its core cast for future episodes. The episode also highlights the enduring theme of family unity, a recurring motif in the series, wrapped in its trademark absurdity (Florida as a prison for seniors? Classic Simpsons).
For fans eager to revisit this episode or catch up on the series, The Simpsons is available for streaming on Hulu and Disney+. Whether you’re a longtime viewer or a newcomer, “Estranger Things” is a testament to the show’s ability to keep audiences laughing, crying, and speculating after 36 seasons.
So, did The Simpsons kill off Marge Simpson? Technically, yes—but only in a far-off future that doesn’t disrupt the Springfield we know and love. Rest assured, Marge will continue to season her pork chops and keep the Simpson family together for seasons to come.
