Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for The Simpsons season 36, episode 13, “The Last Man Expanding”
In the latest episode of The Simpsons, titled “The Last Man Expanding,” Homer contemplates using a parody of the weight-loss drug Ozempic. This episode draws striking parallels to a plot from another adult animated series, South Park. Throughout its lengthy run, The Simpsons has faced occasional accusations of mirroring themes and gags from shows such as Family Guy and Bob’s Burgers, but the unprecedented success and cultural significance of The Simpsons — celebrated as the longest-running scripted primetime series in American television history — have mitigated any serious backlash over these comparisons. For many viewers and creators, references to this iconic series are more likely viewed as a respectful homage rather than outright theft.
South Park, in particular, maintains a unique relationship with The Simpsons, often recognizing the influence the earlier show has had on its own creation. Despite recent shifts in focus, such as sidelining Bart Simpson in this season, The Simpsons still shares thematic similarities with South Park’s premise of featuring a mischief-making child. The respect towards The Simpsons remains palpable within South Park, and this episode builds on their shared comedic DNA.
The Simpsons Season 36 Episode 13 and Its South Park Inspiration
Parental Figures Utilizing Ozempic Amidst Local Shortages
Over two decades ago, South Park acknowledged its affiliation with The Simpsons through the episode titled “Simpsons Already Did It.” This long-standing interaction has set the stage for the recent episode of The Simpsons mirroring plot elements of South Park’s 2024 feature-length special, The End of Obesity, where Randy Marsh, Stan’s father, adopts the contentious drug Ozempic.
In “The Last Man Expanding,” Homer Simpson is nudged by Marge and Bart to try a similar medication named “Othinkquik,” linked to potential health benefits. Both episodes offer a critical view of the divisive nature of such medications and their implications within the American healthcare system. However, while The Simpsons addressed a mystery surrounding Homer in an earlier episode, its treatment of this storyline was not as intense or committed as that of South Park.
Unique Spins on South Park’s Ozempic Narrative in The Simpsons
A Weight-Loss Journey That Doesn’t Transpire
Despite close calls, Homer never actually administers the Othinkquik in “The Last Man Expanding.”In contrast, Randy’s interactions with Ozempic take a more graphic approach in South Park, as he actively engages with the drug. Furthermore, a notable contrast lies in how Homer’s first attempt at injection is hilariously thwarted by Marge, while Randy embarks on a wildly outrageous journey involving a group of mothers robbing pharmacies for Ozempic, ultimately clashing with sugary cereal mascots attempting to sabotage this venture.
This illustrates that while both shows explore a similar theme, The Simpsons season 36 preserves its distinctive comedic style without heavily borrowing from South Park.
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