The Simpsons, after 34 years, is changing its approach to violence. Specifically, the character of Homer will no longer strangle his son, Bart. This shift was noticed in Season 35, Episode 3 (titled McMansion & Wife), as Homer announced he's changed his ways when speaking to a new neighbor, Thayer. The last recorded instance of Homer strangling Bart was during season 31, aired between 2019 and 2020. Despite being a trending gag on the show, it has been a contentious topic.

During the Season 22 episode 'Love is a Many Strangled Thing', Homer was taught a lesson by former NBA star Kareem Abdul Jabbar, which resulted in Homer no longer being able to strangle Bart. Although this controversial running gag has been addressed before, some fans were unhappy when Homer declared he's changed his ways. Others have pointed out that it's been rare to see Homer strangling Bart in recent seasons.