The executive producer of [c]The Simpsons[/c], Al Jean, says the show is not endorsing same-sex marriage. He points out that not all of the characters in the show support the legalization and that that many of those who do just hope it will bring in tourist dollars $$.
In the episode, the town creates a tourism advertisement with the lines:
Gay-o, it's ok-o Tie the knot and spend your dough Gay-o, come and stay-o Visit our Web site for further info.
Some Christian conservatives say the show is yet another example of how [c]Hollywood [/c] has become increasingly disconnected from average Americans.
I think television is becoming obsessed with homosexuality, says Robert Knight of Concerned Women for America. In fact, I wouldn't put it past people to dig up reruns of 'Happy Days' and have the Fonz come out as gay.
This, however, is not your average skirmish in the culture wars. While some Christian conservatives are upset, there's less criticism this time. In part, that's because [c]The Simpsons[/c] unlike SpongeBob Squarepants and Postcards from Buster is not aimed directly at children .
For me I think that our society is letting more and more controversial things squeak by the radar. I mean there once was a time that nudity was only shown in R rated movies. Now you can see a girl topless if your 13. So why not let a cartoon address gay marriage rights....hey it was going to happen sooner or later.
