The Complete Simpsons Bibliography

Part III
Magazine and Newspaper Articles - The Early Years - Prior to 1993

Magazine and Newspaper Articles - Prior to 1989

Matt Groening (L. Kinoshita)

v11 Saturday Review Mar/Apr 1985, p50-53.

Great interview of Matt Groening in his early pre-Simpson days. One that will be transcribed over the next few months.

Matt Groening cover

n71 The Rocket, Aug 1985, Cover

Great cover by Matt Groening in "Life in Hell" style.

A Pack of Drawing Cards What do these artists have in common? Style so vivid they couldn't be mistaken for anybody else. Content so strong you cannot forget it. And the ability to make us laugh out loud. (not supplied)

Newsweek On Campus, October 1986, p18-19

Cover story profiling various cartoonists, with artist Berke Breathed, author of Bloom County, on the cover. After a full article on him and a page on Gary Larson they then dedicate two additional pages to Roz Chast, Lynda Barry, Ken Brown and Matt Groening. In addition to a 1983 Life in Hell comic it supplies the following;

Matt Groening

Age: 32

Home: Venice, Calif.

Outlet: "Life in Hell" in 60 newspapers

Most Recent Book: "Work is Hell"

(Quote:) "I like to find humor in the stuff that makes people lie in bed awake late at night."

Matt Groening: Master of Rabbits (unknown, perhaps Mike McGonigal)

Chemical Imbalance #6, 1987, Cover and p26-30, 33

Cover of this magazine lists "Matt Groening".

Great interview of Matt Groening in his early pre-Simpson days. One that will be transcribed over the next few months.

Confessions of a Doodle God An Interview in Hell with Matt Groening (Kim Thompson)

Honk #3, Mar 1987, Cover and p14-21

Cover of this magazine says "Matt Groening Interview in Hell" and features a full page drawing of Binky (the one with two ears!)

Great interview of Matt Groening in his early pre-Simpson days. One that will be transcribed over the next few months.

Batman at Midlife: Or, The Funnies Grow Up (Mordecai Richler)

The New York Times Book Review, May 3 1987, p35

Review of ten collections of cartoons, including Matt Groening's "Love is Hell" and "Work is Hell" collections of Life in Hell.

New Age TV Animation (Steve Segal)

v1n1 Animation Magazine, Aug 1987, Cover, p14-15

Our favorite family, Tracey Ullman style, appears in a approx. 2" by 2" square labelled "New Age TV Cartoons". The first recorded cover appearance!

The advent of avant-garde cartooning on television. It begins;

Since the first time a commercial appeared on American television, animated commercials have been one of the primary outlets for creativity and innovative new ideas. In the late '60s and early '70s, a movement to produce independent animation (outside the confines of studios and sponsored films) blossomed throughout the world and provided the impetus for the creation of adventurous animation. Out of this movement came Yellow Submarine which combined innovative ideas with the ability to entertain. More recently, music videos entered the scene and in the past several years have provided a haven for independent animators to express their ideas and create all forms of outstanding original animation. However, in the past year the production of animated videos has dropped sharply, partly because of record company cutbacks.

So where is the innovative new animation being produced today? By some odd stroke of fate, a new breed of animation has found an unlikely home on network television.

There are three distinct examples of animation that have been aired this year and they have appeared on three distinctly different types of programs: the Tracey Ullman Show, Pee Wee's Playhouse and Amazing Stories. The animation produced for these shows exhibits a marked difference from what is commonly seen on network television. Together, they represent a "new age" of TV animation. The fact that the format of these three programs is primarily live action, makes the networks less apprehensive about the content than if the programs were totally animated. As a result, independent animators have found an opportunity to have their ideas seen by millions.

On the smallest of the networks, Fox Television, is the Tracey Ullman Show. Those who have seen the show surely remember the animated commercial bumpers designed by comic artists M.K. Brown and Matt Groening. The concept of animating these comic strips dates back to 1983 when producer Jim Brooks bought some of Matt Groening's cartoons and expressed an interest in some day having them animated. As producer of the Tracey Ullman Show, Brooks was able to convince the Fox network to use the cartoons. The ideas have been put into motion by Klasky/Csupo Animation Studio. The animation is being done by three talented animators, each with his own personal style: David Silverman, Wes Archer and Bill Kopp. The style for the bumpers, of course, is dictated by the two comic artists. Brown had requested that her pieces have limited animation with highly rendered figures. Since her work is mostly verbal, she didn't want the animation to detract from the message. Groening's challenge was to take his loosely structured cartoon style and make a completely linear story. It has also been a challenge for the artists to take one story and make a series of 15 second gags on the theme. For director Gabor Csupo, the greatest challenge has been producing the animation for about one half of what it would typically cost. The Klasky/Csupo studio has proven that it is possible to bring adult-themed animation to network TV because they have been willing to make the sacrifices necessary to ensure quality animation.

The rest of the article goes on to discuss Family Dog on Steven Spielberg's Amazing Stories and Penny cartoons on Pee Wee's Playhouse. It then summarizes as follows;

The animation exhibited on the Tracey Ullman Show, Amazing Stories and Pee Wee's Playhouse is probably not an indication of a new attitude at the networks, but rather of a few artists who are finding opportunities in the face of overwhelming odds to brighten up bland commercial television. If the popularity of these shows and their animated sequences remains the same, we may be witnessing the dawn of a new age in the art of animation.

25th New York, New York, Film Festival

v23 Film Comment, Sep/Oct 1987, p56-57

A doodle god makes good (J. Foote)

v110 Newsweek, Sep 28 1987, p70+

Fast Forward: More Cwazy Rabbits (Jon Krampner)

v35n5 Playboy, May 1988, p154

Quote: "No one would ever accuse Matt Groening, 34, of being a great artist, but his crudely drawn angst-filled characters - notably rabbits named Binky, Bongo and Sheba - have made him, and his Life in Hell comic strip, a favorite of malcontent Yuppies and disaffected collegians. Groening (rhymes with complaining) syndicates his strip to 60 newspapers and has published three collections...'The frivolity of drawing rabbits can get to me,' Groening admits. 'That's why I hope to write something that will be taken a little seriously.'"

Strip Tease (Robert Newman)

v33n5, Village Voice, Feb 2 1988 p30-31

Discussing the cartoons of Matt Groening and Lynda Barry

(Which appear in the Village Voice, of course).

Comics (Brad Balfour, Lou Stathis Bart Bull, Bob Levin, Bob Boze Bell)

v4n5 Spin, Aug 1988, cover, p40-45, 48-50

Matt Groening reference on cover in full cover of Binky from Life in Hell.

Article is illustrated with picture of Binky and a Cartoon panel from Life in Hell with the heading "The world's most consistently funny strip, Matt Groening's Life in Hell".

Long article on the history of Comics alludes to The Simpsons; "As the comics embrace more and more of the world, more and more of the world seems ready to - well, not to embrace them, actually, but at least to admit their existence. Novelists are starting to script stuff for the classier graphic novel form; the endlessly innovative Gary Panter is responsible for designing Pee-wee Herman's Playhouse; Matt Groening animates brief segments for The Tracey Ullman Show; Lynda Barry has a full-color gig doing mildly colorless stuff for Esquire; Calvin and Hobbes appear poised to despose the despised Garfield."

Rabbit Punch (Tish Hamilton)

n535 Rolling Stone, Sep 22 1988, p81-82, 113

Primarily about Life in Hell, The Simpsons get the following mention: "..this past season, the Fox Network's Tracey Ullman Show presented the first Groening animation. The fifteen-to-twenty second skits, starred The Simpson family: mother Margaret, father Homer and kids Bart, Lisa and Maggie." "..it might be described as an angst-ridden Father Knows Best." (MG, primarily discussing Life in Hell, but apropos of The Simpsons; "The secret thing I'm trying to do, behind entertainment, is to subvert. And if I can make myself and my friends laugh and can annoy the hell out of a political conservative, I feel like I've done my job."

Subsequently reprinted in Rolling Stone Australia, May 1990. The Australian version however has five additional full page comics from Life in Hell.

Magazine and Newspaper Articles - 1989

Matt Groening (interview by Mark Borax)

n74 Comics Interview, 1989, Cover, p12-15, 16-19, 21-23

Cover reference: "Matt Groening Life in Hell".

Fantastic early interview of Matt Groening to be transcribed onto the archive over the coming year (2000).

Childhood in Hell (book review) (Ralph Novak)

v31n2 People Weekly, Jan 16 1989, p34

Favorable review of "Childhood in Hell", the latest collection from the Life in Hell series of cartoons.

Anigraphs

v17n4 Millimeter, Apr 1989, Cover!, p9, p11

First full cover of The Simpsons.

Note: cover story begins on p47 with 14 pictures from 14 different animators, none from The Simpsons.

p9 "About the Cover: Under the guidance of Matt Groening, animator Wesley Archer and colorist Gyorsyi Peluce, of Hollywood animation house Klasky Csupo, designed a cel for our cover story using Groening's characters - (from left) Homer, Margaret, Lisa, Maggie, and Bart Simpson. 'The Simpsons are Groening's skew on the all-American family,' says Klasky Csupo producer Margot Pipkin. The two-year-old collaboration between Groening and Klasky Csupo can be seen weekly on The Tracey Ullman Show - for which Groening develops Simpson scripts with Klasky Csupo animating."

p11 Editor's Notes (editor Alison Johns) "Perhaps Matt Groening is known best for his comic strip 'Life in Hell' which brought cynicism and everyday angst to the funnies. His comics are carbolic cartoons about everyday things like what to name a baby, insufferable coworkers, or how to be a film critic. Lately, Groening has created his first generation of TV characters, The Simpsons, who are animated for The Tracey Ullman Show by the L.A. company Klasky Csupo. The family Simpson, which shares a quiet moment on our cover this month, is a true nuclear family - prone to sadistic quibblings and suburban anxieties."

Many New Shows Have Familiar Ring (Dennis Kneale)

Wall Street Journal, New York, Apr 14 1989, p1

The first sign that The Simpsons may get their own show. "Yabba-dabba-doo! Remember The Flintstones? The modern stone-age family premiered on ABC in 1960 and lasted six years, the most popular prime-time cartoon series ever. Fred and Wilma are still having a "gay old time" in syndication. But hopes are high that the television business soon will see its first successful prime-time cartoon series in 23 years. Three cartoon canines inhabit Hound Town, an NBC pilot. Hollywood Dog, a Fox pilot, features a lone mutt among the stars. Fox also may spin off The Simpsons, the cartoon short in The Tracey Ullman Show. On NBC, Jackie Bison stars a buffalo in the swaggering style of Jackie Gleason."

Animated Series on Drawing Boards (Charles Solomon)

The Los Angles Times, Los Angeles, May 13 1989, pV1

Discussing that The Simpsons will move from shorts on The Tracey Ullman Show to their own series.

Although some critics have complained that the list of television pilots in production for the 1989-1990 season represents a new low in imagination, artists in the animation industry are encouraged by the lineup. For the first time in years, the networks are considering animated series for prime time.

Fox Broadcasting, in fact, has committed to ordering 13 episodes of The Simpsons, a half-hour series involving the characters that cartoonist Matt Groening devised for The Tracey Ullman Show, and two other pilots are in production. Ralph Bakshi (The New Adventures of Mighty Mouse) is producing Hound Dog for NBC, and Fox is developing Hollywood Dog, a live action/animation combination, based on R.P. Overmeyer's comic strip in the L.A. Weekly.

Whether these make it will be known in the next few weeks, but even if they don't, additional programs are in development at various studios. "I think the current interest in animation represents an effort at counter-programming." says Joe Barbera, the president of Hanna-Barbera, who is developing a prime-time project called Square One.

"My understanding is that the TV executives who are in power are young enough to remember cartoons as being funny. They have children of their own now, and they want to give them something to watch," comments Groening, who recently became a father. "Part of the reason I'm doing this is that I'm so unhappy with what has been done - animation for TV is about the lowest form of entertainment in existence. There's been an outcry about violence on TV affecting children adversely, what really affects them adversely is bad animation."

The Simpsons (Mark Silver)

v107 U.S. News & World Report, Aug 21 1989, p64

'The Simpsons' Marks the Return of Prime Time Animation (Bill Givens)

For Simpsons' Creator Groening Going to Hell was Inspirational (Bill Givens)

v3n2 Animation Magazine, Fall 1989, Cover, p1, pp22-26

Cover features Matt Groening and Sam Simon surrounded by Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie with title "The Simpsons: Prime Time Animation"

p1 has black and white picture of Bart in table of contents.

pp22-26 Wonderful early article about The Simpsons spends a great deal time discussing how it must remain true to it's Tracey Ullman form. "The main thing." says David Silverman, "is trying to maintain a certain similarity in the animation that we've established so far. We want to flesh it out a little bit, but we don't want to tamper with what already works." Later in the article; "We're going to keep the same underground style which Matt originated. We want to be faithful to that. That also will separate the show from other animation shows which try to be too realistic. This is goofy, underground stuff." Ironically, many of the follow-on shows would go far beyond The Simpsons with wild graphics, and in fact, The Simpsons would start off with refined graphics over that which appeared in the Tracey Ullman show and then evolve to even more refined graphics. It would be the writing that would carry the show, and the article does predict this; "What we're trying to do is bring a level of intelligence to the dialogue that's missing from virtually every other animated cartoon on television..." An impressive claim that would prove itself out.

pp24-25 Large sidebar article discusses Life in Hell comic strip.

Cartoon From Hell (Robert Lloyd)

v15n1 American Film, Oct 1989, p112

Includes picture of Simpsons. Quote: "Call it Simpsonland, a series of zillion-laffs psychic-chill rides that relate the adventures of a television family Groening describes as 'good-hearted, but at the mercy of their extremely volatile emotions - rage, self-pity, disdain."

Hell Can Wait (Daniel Weizmann)

v14n10 California, Oct 1989, p96-97

A profile of Matt Groening, creator of The Simpsons, "a half-hour animated TV program about a family who watches a lot of TV and likes to talk to radio psychiatrists."

Now Homer Has A Cow on His Own Prime-Time Show (Julie Hinds)

Detroit News, Detroit, Nov 30 1989, pG1

Matt Groening expresses his excitement over the fact that The Simpsons will get its own prime time TV slot on Fox in 1990.

Is TV the coolest invention ever invented? Subversive cartoonist Matt Groening goes prime time. The Jetsons was never like this. (Sean Elder)

v14n10 Mother Jones, Dec 1989, Cover, p28-31

Cover has Binky and Bart. Bart's saying "Kids in TV Land -- You're Being Duped!", to which Binky is responding "We Are??". Heading says "TV is Hell: Can Matt Groening's subversive humor survive prime time?" Yeah, we think so.

A profile of Matt Groening, as he's about to embark on his new television series.

'The Simpsons': tempered cynicism as knowing reality (Betsy Sharkey)

v39 Adweek, Dec 11 1989, p30

'Simpsons' Special is a Family Christmas in Hell (Phil Kloer)

The Atlanta Consitution, Atlanta, Dec 15 1989, pF6

Mixed review of "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire."

Fox's 'Simpsons' a Goofy Animated Gift (Matt Roush)

USA Today, Dec 15 1989, pD3

Favorable review of "The Simpson's Christmas Special".

Prime time is heaven for 'Life in Hell' Artist (Erik H. Bergman)

TV Host Weekly, Dec 16-22 1989, Cover!, p3

Cover picture of our favorite family with heading: "Matt Groening: Portland's Own Hitting Home with 'Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire'.

Nice early article on Matt Groening and The Simpsons.

"For ten years Matt Groening hunched over a drawing board in his garage, a "lonely and socially backwards" cartoonist inking his Life in Hell cartoon strip. His quirky characters have propelled him from the back pages of alternative weekly papers to center of culture by committee: prime-time TV.

He now rates an office at the Fox studio as an executive producer of The Simpsons and works alongside collaborators such as Oscar winning producer James L. Brooks.

'I didn't expect to do this at all', Groening admits of his rise to TV notoriety. He first came to Los Angeles from Oregon and 'got sidetracked by my comic strip. I just did that as a little hobby.' Some hobby!"

After discussing the upcoming show it continues...

"Look for The Simpsons to go on beyond The Flintstones. As a boy The Flintstones didn't grab him; 'The show time after time was, uh, dumb and obvious'. Says Groening, 'We think we're pushing the boundaries of what's expected from cartoon shows.'

The Simpsons' fictional town of Springfield is far more real than Fred and Wilma's Bedrock. Springfield consists of a toxic waste dump, a federal penitentiary, a pesticide factory and a nuclear power plant, where father Homer Simpson works as a safety inspector. Some realism matters because 'animation can create an entire world.' Fred Flintstone might run past 35 windows in his living room. 'If the Simpsons ran 20 feet they'd run into a wall.'"

Better still we've now transcribed the entire article right here!

'The Simpsons' Get a Show of Their Own for Christmas (Howard Rosenberg)

The Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, Dec 16 1989, pF11

Favorable review of "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire."

Sam Kinison Drops into a Noel-Fashioned Nightmare at the Bundy Household (Rick Kogan)

Chicago Tribune, Chicago, Dec 17 1989, p516

Review of "Married With Children" (hence the title of this article) and "The Simpson's Christmas TV program".

Life in Hell's Matt Groening goes overboard to make the Simpsons the first family of TV 'toons (Joanne Kaufman, Cindy Yorks in Venice)

v32n25 People Weekly, Dec 18 1989, p108-110

Two page black and white photo of Matt Groening rowing a canoe overlapped with Simpson drawings. Second photo of Groening at work in office. Third photo of Groening, wife Deborah Caplan, son Homer and pet duck Brownie.

Quote: "The two [Matt and wife Deborah] now live with their 8-month old son, Homer, in a two-bedroom home on a canal in Venice, Calif., a move Groening was reluctant to make ...until it was pointed out he could canoe from his front door."

A copy of this can be found on the archive right here!

The Simpsons Christmas Special (review) (not supplied)

v337n11 Variety, Dec 20 1989, p48

Favorable review of the kickoff episode of the Simpsons, 7G08, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire".

Fox Trots Out Its Best Ratings Ever (Brian Donlon)

USA Today, Dec 20 1989, pD1

Discussing how America's Most Wanted, Married ... With Children and The Simpsons first episode (7G08, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire") placed the Fox network third for the evening, beating fourth-place ABC.

'Wonderful Life' Parody, 'Simpsons' Roast Deliver Big Ratings for Fox (Phil Kloer)

The Atlanta Constitution, Atlanta, Dec 20 1989, pF8

Discussing how Married ... With Children and The Simpsons first episode (7G08, "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire") blew away the major networks on Sunday, Dec 17 1999.

A mutant 'Ozzie and Harriet' (Michael Reese)

v114n26 Newsweek, Dec 25 1989, p70

Quote: "Despite enthusiasm from both affiliates and advertisers, The Simpsons still represents an what producer James L. Brooks calls 'an incredible roll of the dice'." Photo of Brooks and Diller with cutouts of Homer and Bart.

Fox find 'Married' bliss in Nielsens (Tom Bierbaum)

v337n12 Variety, Dec 27 1989, p25-26

Magazine and Newspaper Articles - 1990

Dynamite Star Shot: Bart Simpson (not supplied)

Dynamite #156, 1990, Cover and p11-12

Cover of this children's magazine published by Scholastic says: Posters: ...Bart Simpson!

A write-up of Bart Simpson followed by a poster page. It begins:

Bart Simpson: A weird and wacky cartoon family kept showing up each week on The Tracey Ullman Show. And the more they showed up, the more we laughed, and the more we liked them. So much so that this hilarious animation group has its own hit TV show."

The Simpsons: A Family Portrait (Devra Newberger)

Dynamite #158, 1990, Cover! and p2-5

Cover of this children's magazine published by Scholastic features our favorite family in a classic pose. Article inside includes a character portrait for each family member, a sidebar titled "What It Takes to Make a Single Episode of The Simpsons!" and a sweepstakes wherein one wins a "huge assortment of Simpsons paraphernalia".

Rabbit Roast America's top cartoon characters dish up a 50th birthday tribute to Bugs Bunny's long drawn-out career

(Simpsons Cartoon family tribute to Bugs Bunny 50th birthday)

Bugs Bunny 1990, p32-39, Simpsons on p37

Not an article, just a picture of the family in tribute, Holding banner "Happy 50th Birthday, Bugs!"

A condensed version of this tribute magazine, with the same cover and with the same Simpsons tribute. appeared as a certerfold insert to v33n18 People Weekly, May 7 1990.

The Simpsons (poster)

Modern Screen Yearbook #30, 1990, p95

Since the caption is much larger that the title of this publication just to avoid confusion note that the caption says "New Kids Greatest Pix! plus Other Torrid Teens".

Just a standard Simpsons pose in a one-page Simpson poster. What I can't understand though is why a photo magazine with relatively sharp pictures has a grainy Simpsons picture.

Funny Money: Simpsons' creator ain't workin' for peanuts anymore (author not supplied)

Globe Special: Secrets of the Stars, 1990, p27

Illustrated with the classic angry Bart with slingshot picture, a nice photo of Matt holding his son Homer with his wife Deborah, and a 2" x 3" scene of the Simpsons taken from the Tracey Ullman short MG33 Punching Bag.

"He (Matt) ..has plenty of praise for his wife, Deborah Caplan, who also acts as his business manager. 'I defer to her in all cases', Groening says. 'She handles the business, because I'm slow and naive when it comes to that.' "

The Simpsons A Report on TV's Latest Phenomenon (Sheldon Bayley)

Fantazia #4, 1990 (month not supplied, about September), Cover, p28-29

Our favorite family is pictured in a 2 1/2" by 3 1/2" box near the center of the cover of this UK magazine.

Nicely written early article on our favourite family. To be transcribed.

Famous Far-Out Kids (Beth Goodman)

Hot Dog #67, (Sep 1990) (month/year not supplied), Cover, p1

Cover of this Scholastic school publication shows Bart wearing shoulder pads, holding a baseball bat behind his neck and his foot propped up on a basketball.

Short children's article about Bart on page one.

Aye Caramba! Rampaging Bart Simpson and his family storm across our TV screens capturing our hearts and minds (not supplied)

Awesome Magazines, (1990) (month/year not supplied), Cover, poster

Full cover of this poster magazine which folds out into one large 23 1/2 by 34" poster featuring our favorite family.

Article within just decribes events from the first season and is largely illustrated with scenes from the shorts from the Tracey Ullman Show.

The Simpsons (poster)

n25(?) Teen Dream, (???) (month not supplied) 1990, Cover, p?

Cover has Bart pictured in lower center with caption "Cartoon Mania: The Simpsons"

Includes a color "pin-up" of OFF. More info when we obtain an issue!

The Simpsons (poster)

Whopper #3, (???) (month not supplied) 1990, Cover, p?

Cover has Bart pictured in the upper right hand corner with the heading "The Simpsons: How Weird Are They?"

Includes a 11" by 16" poster of OFF. More info when we obtain an issue!

A Simpsons Christmas (not supplied)

Whopper #4, (Sep) (month not supplied) 1990, Cover, p12-23

Cover has our favorite family pictured in the lower left hand corner with the heading "A Simpsons Christmas! Exclusive to Whopper!"

This teen magazine consists of full page posters and articles, including one for our favorite family. Article discusses what you could buy The Simpsons for Christmas. They suggest Marge: hair barrette, lightweight designer piggybank (to replace the jar in her hair), gold plated hair pins, stationery; Homer: Pork Rinds. Gift certificates for doughnuts or Moe's, a video game hint manual for Super Slugfest; Lisa: a new necklace, cookie-cutters, saxophone music book, polishing rag and case for her saxophone; Maggie: pacifiers, nightshirts; Bart: skateboard knee pads and a helmet would be good but since he would never use them, they suggest the latest Krusty the Clown toy, Super Slugfest II, the videotape "The Best of Itchy and Scratchy".

'The Simpsons' a typical family (Joyce Millman)

TV & Video, Jan 7 1990, Cover and p3 (syndicated story no doubt appearing elsewhere)

Sunday newspaper Times Herald-Record television listings insert featuring The Simpsons on the cover with byline "Getting animated about 'The Simpsons'" Includes illustration taken from Tracey Ullman of Bart sparring with a punching bag in the backyard from episode MG33 Punching Bag. Quote: (The Simpsons) "..might end up on lunch boxes someday, but they're really for adults.." (Of course, they did end up on lunchboxes)

The Week That Will Be - Cartoonist Matt Groening's show 'The Simpsons' appears on prime-time television (Karen Schoemer)

7 Days, Jan 17 1990, p37

8" by 9" black and white photo of Matt Groening overlapped with drawings of Binky and Bart.

Quote: "..he dubs in his own footsteps, and, of course, belches. 'The producers thought my (MG) burps were too grotesque to be coming out of the mouths of little children,' he says with a chuckle, 'so they sped them up to make them cuter.' "

The Simpsons proves cartoons not just for kids (Kenneth R. Clark)

Chicago Tribune, TV Week, Jan 14 1990, Cover! and p3-4

Cover features our favorite family on this newspaper television insert.

p3-4 illustrated with Bart hitting a punching bag from the Tracey Ullman days. Like all new show hype it describes the high hopes of the Fox, the producers and Matt Groening; sure, we know the outcome, but somehow it all rings true and makes perfect sense. Commenting on the ill-advised comparisons between The Simpsons and the Bundys on Married... With Children; "'I suppose there's some similarity,' he sniffed. 'I guess the big difference is that Married... With Children is more cartoony.'" Bravo! Later in the same article: "...Fox, gambling on one more secure rung in the ladder toward full networkhood, is launching what it hopes will be the first successful prime-time animated series since The Flintstones and The Jetsons made it big more than 20 years ago. There are those who will make the inevitable comparison between the raunchy, rowdy Bundys and the befuddled Simpsons. But Groening says his new creation has more in common with Ozzie and Harriet, Leave it to Beaver and, in terms of quality, Rocky and Bullwinkle."

Night by night by network.

v118 Broadcasting, Feb 5 1990, p58+

The Simpsons (review) (David Hiltbrand)

v33 People Weekly, Feb 12 1990, p10

The Simpsons (review) (Thomas H. Stahel)

v162 America, Feb 17 1990, p153.

Prime-Time Cartoon of Unbeautiful People (John J. O'Connor)

New York Times, Feb 21 1990, pC18

Favorable review of The Simpsons Quote: " (The Simpsons) ..had a shot at being something refreshingly different, and not just as the only animated cartoon in prime time. The record so far: impressively on target." (later at end of article) "There is, admittedly, a fine line between being hilariously perceptive and just plain, even objectionably, silly. While habitually teetering on that line, The Simpsons has shown a remarkable ability to come down on the right side most of the time."

Bad Language, Hurt Feelings and Success (Jeremy Gerard)

New York Times, Feb 21 1990, pC18

Includes small photo of Matt Groening. Quote (MG): "My favorite letter was from a kid who said his father wouldn't let him watch because there [is] so much bad language and everybody hurts each other's feelings" "There's been no interference from Fox as far as content."

Toonburbia (Erik Davis)

v35n9 Village Voice, Feb 27 1990, p51-52

Caught by surprise at the popularity of The Simpsons, Fox and Groening are now in the enviable position of not having enough new episodes to keep their viewers happy.

The Simpsons 'R' Us (Bill Forman)

Request, Mar 1990, p24-25

Found this one in 1997. Good article about Matt Groening, written before they knew for sure if The Simpsons would live or die. Mentions that Matt Groening's father (Homer) was an illustrator for Coronet and an experimental filmmaker. "Jack and Jill magazine had a contest in which readers were invited the finish the story of Little Davy who went up into his attic and, while pretending to be a ghost, bumped his head and suddenly realized what he wanted to be. Groening was among the lucky winners whose conclusion to the story appeared in a later issue. 'In everybody else's story, Davy said, 'Oh, I wanna be a cowboy, oh, I wanna be a fireman.' and so on,' says Groening. 'But in my story the kid bumped his head, and he died. He got killed on the spot. And the family felt so bad they boarded up the attic. They boarded up the door and nailed it shut. And every year on that day the little boy would float down the stairs, his ghostly image would eat dinner in silence, and he would return.'"

Cool Cartoon Causes Kooky Craze (John Anderson)

Newsday, Mar 5 1990, Part II, p8-9

Quote of a fan: " The Simpsons is like religion." "It is religion, in fact." (and from another fan) "The kids love it, but you wonder how much goes over their heads."

A smash cartoon hit called 'The Simpsons' hits licensing paydirt With 100 offers coming in daily, the offbeat show is turning suitors away (Matthew Grimm)

v31 Adweek's Marketing Week, Mar 5 1990, p17

The Simpsons A Google-Eyed Guerilla Assault on TV (Howard Rosenberg of the Los Angeles Times)

TV Week (television insert), The Washington Post, Mar 18 1990, Cover

Full cover with standard shot of our favorite family. Caption: "Fox's Far-Out 'Simpsons'"

Nice article to be transcribed.

Hey dude - Fox's Simpson family is hot (Christy Fisher and Marcy Magiera)

v61 Advertising Age, Mar 19 1990, p17

It's All in the Family (By Emily Mitchell, Reported by Wendy Cole)

v135n13 Time, Mar 26 1990, p75

Lead story on People page. Picture of Simpson family. Quote: "Suddenly prime time looks like Saturday morning. But the fans in front of the TV laughing at Fox Broadcasting's cult clan The Simpsons aren't just youngsters."

This man is not normal Which is why - and how - Matt Groening created The Simpsons (Rip Rense)

v14n13 TV Guide Canada, Mar 31 1990, Cover, p23, 25-27, 29

Cover says "Meet Matt Groening: The Creator of The Simpsons is Definitely Not Normal".

Yet another nice article to be transcribed.

The Simpsons: The Origins of Homer Sapiens and Other Creatures (Gregory Solman)

Millimeter, Apr 1990

Word has it that this industry publication provided juicy details on animation, production, etc. When we obtain a copy we'll pass that info on!

Cool shows make Sunday hot 'Home Videos.' 'Simpsons': Two new shows with pizazz have taken America by storm (Phil Kloer)

TV Week, television insert from The Atlanta Journal, Apr 1 1990, Cover, p4-5

Full cover (non-glossy) of Bart Simpsons (Tracey Ullman style) saying "Whoa, mama! Sundays are suddenly cool!"

Nice article to be transcibed.

Cultural Icon On The Verge, Bart Simpson

v3n13 7 Days, Apr 4 1990, Cover and p30

Small Bart Simpson part of cover Quote: "He's Pee-Wee Herman without the gender confusion, Dan Quayle with a brain."

Meet the SimpsonsThe TV Family of the '90s (unknown)

TV Week Magazine, Apr 7 1990, Cover and p?

Full Cover featuring our favorite family with Bart Simpson aiming his slingslot at us

Can't say what's inside this Canadian guide to television yet, since I don't have a copy!

Home is Where the Venom Is (Richard Zoglin)

v135 Time, Apr 16 1990, p85-86

Full page article on The Simpsons, Married with Children and Roseanne. Includes Simpson picture from The Tracey Ullman Show. The reviewer obviously 'doesn't get' The Simpsons, criticizing "the drawings are grotesque without redeeming style or charm..". Either he was too conservative to accept the Simpsons or too ignorant...

Bart Imitates Life (Tracy Young)

7 Days, Apr 18 1990, p53

Mentions references to Diane Arbus (episode 7G10), Helmut Newton (episode 7G10), Patsy Cline (episode 7F24) and stylistic nods to The Flintstones, Bride of Frankenstein and the B-52's. Quote: "In some respects, The Simpsons are a typical blue-collar brood; beer-bellied Homer and blue-bee-hived Marge, Bart and Lisa the squabbling sibs, and infant Maggie, with a pacifier and imprinted on the TV set. But they're cartoon characters - and about as obedient of current sitcom social conceits as Wile E. Coyote is of the laws of nature."

Family Feuds (Harry F. Waters)

Binky and Sheba in Hell (Bill Barol)

v115n17 Newsweek, Apr 23 1990, Cover, p3, 58-62, 64

Cover: "Why America Loves the Simpsons - TV's Twisted New Take On the Family". This was the first cover of Newsweek to ever feature a cartoon. According to Newsweek, the only other contender was an April 18, 1955 cover featuring Walt Disney that had Mickey Mouse, Peter Pan, Snow White, Donald Duck, etc. peering over his shoulder. This Simpsons cover was duplicated onto knock-off T-Shirts, including the title 'Newsweek'.

p3 Table of Contents includes Simpsons picture from Tracey Ullman (Homer hanging from tree upside down - episode MG46) - Quote: "This cartoon's antics, however, are loaded with sophisticated satire and cultural asides only adults would dig: one episode (7G10) - recently dropped references to photographers Helmut Newton and Diane Arbus."

p64 has Binky and Sheba in Hell article, to be transcribed.

Bart Simpson's Real Father Recalling the Fear and Absurdity of Childhood, Matt Groening Has Created a Cartoon Sitcom More Human Than Most Live-Action Shows (Joe Morgenstern)

Los Angeles Times Magazine, Apr 29 1990, Cover, p12-18, 20, 22

Wonderful article about Matt Groening. "The Simpsons is a prodigy of pop culture if ever there was one, a primetime cartoon series that's livlier and more vividly human than most live-action shows." This article is awaiting transcribing.

The Bratty Bunch They're quarrelsome, they're homely, and their table manners are a joke. But who cares? Not since the Flintstones have viewers been so drawn to a cartoon family (Jerry Lazar)

Us Number 127, Apr 30 1990, Cover and pp. 38-41

Good Simpsons article includes some insights into the state of Simpsons animation at this point. "Simpsons directors Wesley Archer and David Silverman, who work for the animation house of Klasky-Csupo in the heart of Hollywood, share a cramped 15-by-15-foot office sparsely furnished with two animation tables, bookshelves full of storyboards, and walls plastered with Simpsons sketches and Post-it notes. Though Groening designed the characters, the directors provide the characters' movements and blinks. As they fine-tune subtle facial expressions, they listen to CDs ranging from Count Basie and Fats Waller to Schubert and Shostakovich. At Klasky-Csupo - and at Simpsons headquarters on the Fox studio lot - the feedback from the early Simpsons episodes is washing over the staff like a tidal wave." Much of the article goes on to relate the incredible wave of popularity that has suddenly arisen around The Simpsons.

Burger King Nabs 'The Simpsons'

v61n18 Advertising Age, Apr 30 1990, p3, 57

Announcing a three month promotion, battling McDonalds for the children's market. See The Simpsons merchandise list for the results of this!

Don't Have A Cow! It's LoudMouth's Interview with Bart Simpson! (not supplied)

n10 SuperTeen's LoudMouth, May/Jun 1990, p9, p48-49

p9 contains a full page pinup of Bart Simpson - appears to be a screen shot, and it does not have Matt Groening's signature on it...

p48 Usual Bart interview. Lead-in to interview has this; "...if you haven't been catching their (Simpsons) show Sunday nights on Fox-TV you've been missing the funniest, and dare we say it?, most realistic family this side of TV land!"

Rabbit Punch (Tish Hamilton)

n444 Rolling Stone Australia, May 1990, cover (reference), p49-55, 114

Exactly the same article that appeared in the U.S. version back in 1988 (Rolling Stone, Sep 22 1988) but this version has "Matt Groening: Cartoonist from Hell" on the cover and five full pages of comics from Love is Hell, Work is Hell and School is Hell.

The Pox of Fox Our man assesses the burgeoning new network; His conclusion: It's gone fourth and stultified (Ron Powers)

v60n5 Gentlemen's Quarterly, May 1990, p78, 80-82

Interesting article to be transcribed, by an author who is not a fan of Fox.

Hey Man, Don't Have a Cow - LI Firm Brings Simpson Home (Jeanne Dugan Cooper)

Newsday, May 3 1990, p55

Article concerning Acclaim winning hand-held and Nintendo contracts.

For the results of this contract and for more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

'Simpsons' creator Groening Moves from Pantheon to Harper (Gayle Feldman)

v237n18 Publishers Weekly, May 4 1990, p33-34

That's from Pantheon Books to Harper & Row. This would affect all publications from Matt Groening, including the Life in Hell series and his Simpsons books. See booklist for the Simpsons books published before and after right here!

'Simpsons' strategy (author not supplied)

The Times-Herald Record (newspaper) May 7 1990, p25, 29 (syndicated, Knight-Ridder Newspapers)

Fox attempt to limit Simpsons exposure, since there's only one episode left to broadcast before the beginning of the second season that's many months off.

Rabbit Roast America's top cartoon characters dish up a 50th birthday tribute to Bugs Bunny's long drawn-out career

(Simpsons Cartoon family tribute to Bugs Bunny 50th birthday)

v33n18 People Weekly, May 7 1990, Special insert in centerfold

Special Bugs Bunny 50th anniversary insert, a subset of a full magazine also released with the same cover.

Not an article, just a picture of the family in tribute, Holding banner "Happy 50th Birthday, Bugs!" In this condensed version the tribute is printed in page P16.

The Simpsons arrive on SA (MaryEllen Gordon)

v159 Women's Wear Daily, May 9 1990, p10

Great donuts - great TV (Meg Greenfield)

v115 Newsweek, May 14 1990, p80

Cartoon brat catching teachers' flak (no author supplied)

The Times-Herald Record, May 23 1990, p6

(via AP) Discusses problems Bart's image has with educators. "Bart's influence has reached Stanford University and UCLA, where he won votes in student elections. He was disqualified in both races on the technicality that he was not enrolled, prompting student protests." Notes that "Underachiever and Proud of It" T-Shirt was banned in: Lutz Elementary School, Ballville Township, Ohio; Cambridge Elementary School, Orange, California; Taylor Mill Elementary School, Kentucky. Peggy Charen, president of Action for Children's Television, is quoted as saying: "How can you teach the Constitution if you ban T-Shirts?".

(Licensed product manufacturers concern with lack of new shows)

v339n8 Variety, May 30 1990, p43

Seventy-five licensed product manufacturers are concerned with the lack of new shows at present and are waiting to see how the summer turns out.

'Simpsons' to Compete With 'Cosby' (Bill Carter)

The New York Times, May 30 1990, pC18

Discusses all the program rearrangements that are occurring. Opening quote: "In a bold move, the expanding Fox network announced yesterday that it was moving its hit show, The Simpsons, to compete against NBC's top-rated Cosby Show.

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vs. The Simpsons! (not supplied)

Hot!, Summer 1990, Cover, p24-25

Cover pictures our favorite family in the corner adjacent to TMNT with the title "The Simpsons vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!: The Battle of The Century!"

Contest with fans voting between Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Simpsons. Now, while I liked TMNT as a comic, The Simpsons made soup out of the turtles.

Bartman! (not supplied)

v3n6 Wow!, June 1990, Cover, p62-63

Cover includes a small picture of Bart with heading "Bart Simpson Rules!"

p62 has a pinup or Bart, lounging in bed reading a Radioactive Man Comic. Page 63 has a generic Simpsons article, with an off quoted line "America's favorite family - The Simpsons".

What's Cooking With The Simpsons? math puzzle

3-2-1 Contact, Jun 1990, p32 (magazine for Children's Television Workshop)

p1 has Bart Simpson with slingshot in Table of Contents Full sized family portrait, "What's Cooking With The Simpsons?" math puzzle on page 32.

Bart: Don't Have a Cow, Cos (Marvin Kitman)

Newsday, Jun 4 1990, Part II, p7 (The Marvin Kitman Show syndicated column)

A definite fan of The Simpsons, he's not sure they should be moving to Thursdays. Turned out he was right!

Cowabunga! Bart vs. Cos. (Wayne Walley)

v61 Advertising Age, Jun 4 1990, p32+

Family feud: 'The Simpsons' vs. 'Cosby' (Stephen Battaglio)

v40 ADWEEK Western Advertising News, Jun 4 1990, p17

'Simpsons' Tops 'Cosby' (Ben Kubasik)

Newsday, Jun 6 1990, Part II, p9

Being compared because it was announced that they would compete against each other in the fall.

Programming guerillas: rebels with a 'Cos'? (J. Max Robins)

v339n9 Variety, Jun 6 1990, p39+

Burger King 'Simpsons' Ad May Not Air on NBC, ABC" - because of Fox association (Joe Flint)

v118n24 Broadcasting, Jun 11 1990, p80

Concerns that CBS has approved a Burger King advertising campaign that features The Simpsons yet NBC and ABC are still mulling if over.

Hey dudes: Fox TV may have a cash cow in its licensing deals (Cyndee Miller)

v24n12 Marketing News, Jun 11 1990, p1,8

The licensing of The Simpsons name.

Bart has pull with kids, says marketers (Jon Berry)

v40 ADWEEK Western Advertising News, Jun 11 1990, p40

Simpsons Take America By Storm (Susan Goldfarb)

v37n24 Globe, Jun 12 1990, cover and p3

(Yes, this is a newspaper aka National Enquirer style or worse)

Cover has family picture in corner, words across top read: "The amazing appeal of The Simpsons"

p3 General positive comments about the show, includes two more Simpsons pictures. Notes that a "principal of a elementary school in Orange, Calif., banned the shirt" (Underachiever and Proud of it). Also invites readers (and they use the term loosely, no doubt) to send in photos for a Simpsons look-alike contest, winners to receive $100 worth of Simpsons merchandise.

Media: 'Real' Cartoon Characters: The Simpsons (review by Frank McConnell)

v117n12 Commonweal, Jun 15 1990, p389-390

Favorable review of The Simpsons.

Chameleon or Troublemaker? (Lily Austin)

Downtown Express, Jun 25 1990, p18-19

Concerning the 'African-American Bart', the Rasta Bart, the Hispanic Bart, appearing on T-Shirts everywhere! (Photo of Black Bart and Black Maggie on T-Shirt)

Recognizing Ourselves in the Simpsons (Victoria A. Rebeck)

v107n20 The Christian Century, Jun 27 1990, p622

Simpsons helps us by showing how NOT to act.

The only real people on T.V. (Bill Zehme)

n581 Rolling Stone, Jun 28 1990, cover and p40-42, 46-47, back cover!

Listed in table of contents as: At Home With The Simpsons ("I won't stop singing until I find my picture"..) "..on the cover of the Rolling Stone"! Cover quote: "At Home with Bart Simpson: Underachiever or Just a Kid?" Note full page back of Bart Simpson opposite back cover! Great article, with author pretending to do a long interview of The Simpsons themselves. Photo of Matt Groening, James L. Brooks and Sam Simon with life-sized Simpson cardboard cutouts. Many Simpson pictures. Quote: "On the day I meet him [Bart] he says he has just been detained (unjustly, he feels) to write out the pledge; 'I will not claim reporters are coming to see us.'"

Subsequently reprinted in Rolling Stone Australia, Mar 1991.

Eight years later the cover appeared in a book documenting Rolling Stone covers.

Bart's Guide To Driving Your Sister Crazy! (not supplied)

n11 SuperTeen's LoudMouth, Jul/Aug 1990, Cover, p4, p48-49

Cover has small picture of Bart in bed reading a comic book with the heading "Bart Simpson's New Column:'It's Totally Radical. Man!'"

p4 contains a full page pinup of Bart Simpson

p25 Eleven sweet suggestions for the impressionable pre-teen reading this magazine; "Let your pet rat 'accidentaly' escape in your sister's bedroom", "Find her diary and write rude comments in the margins" and the sure to be remembered "Clog up her saxophone with chewed-up bubble gum".

20 Questions: Matt Groening (Neil Tesser)

v37n7 Playboy, Jul 1990, p130-131, 136-138

Interview of Matt Groening. Quote: Playboy: Forgive us, but we were going to bring up the ugly specter of existentialism in your work. Did you perhaps read a lot of Sartre when you were young? Groening: When I was six, I warped myself by reading a book called 'The Child from Five to Ten', which delineates behavior of children month by month. I knew what I was supposed to be doing, and the sex questions I was suppose to be asking - they didn't provide the answers, they just said these are the questions. And of course I did none of that. My mother was mystified by me as a result. My parents read this book and they said, "Y'know, you never acted like the book said." That's because I read the book. Then in college, I studied Kierkegaard and Nietzsche. You study that in the winter, in a rain forest in Olympia, Washington, and you get very moody.

(Of course I had to buy this issue just to read the articles...)

It's a Family Affair (Tim Sommer)

v6n4 Spin, Jul 1990, p67

Another good Simpsons article worth transcribing. See it here soon!

The Simpsons (not applicable)

Comics Scene Spectacular #2, Jul 1990, Cover and foldout poster

Cover simply says "The Simpsons".

Foldout section contains "4-page" poster of our favorite family.

Watch it, Dude! Cosby: How I'm Gonna Flatten Super-Mouth Bart Simpson (unknown)

National Enquirer, Jul 3 1990, cover, p?

Cover includes picture of Cosby and Bart with the caption "Watch it, Dude! Cosby: How I'm Gonna Flatten Super-Mouth Bart Simpson"

We'll add more details when we acquire a copy!

Yankees Disgust Hall (Michael Kay)

The Times Herald Record, Jul 6 1990, 106

A passing reference - Mel Hall, being quoted on a Yankees losing streak, says "Right now we couldn't beat The Simpsons." "If Bart Simpson could pitch, he could beat us."

Bart Simpson cover (not applicable)

v17 Issue #838 Recycler Classifieds, Bellflower, CA, Jul 12-18 1990, cover

The color cover of this newsprint classified features Bart with the caption "We've Got Something for Everyone... Even You, Dude!"

(no other references)

Don't have a Cow, Man (Dean Chang)

Daily News, NY, Jul 15 1990, cover, p4

Bart on cover, in reference to Bart Simpson look-alike contest at Caroline's Comedy Club, South Street Seaport in New York City.

A Machiavelli in pin stripes, a high-school vixen and bad-boy Bart provided the excitement this year (Robert DiMattio)

TV Update, TV insert to Daily Pilot, Orsa Mesa, CA, Jul 15-21 1990, Cover, p3

Bart Simpson cover says "Breaking Away: Don't have a cow, but Bart Simpson has emerged as the TV character of the year"

Article within about television underdogs begins with Bart Simpson; Call it an extension of the American identification with the underdog. For though we are a nation of star worshipers, many of us are most happy rooting for the newcomer - the rookie who hits the ball out of the park, or, more to our purposes, the little-known actor who has such a "breakout" effect on a TV series that the writers end up doing headstands to build up his or her part. This past season, the following performers have kept series writers buzzing with creativity. Their futures are bright. Bart Simpson: (The Simpsons) That bulging eyed, flat-topped little wise guy, the star of the animated Fox hit, is the most endearing bad boy in elementary school. Ever mischeivous and knowing, with a mouth that never stops, he's an endless challenge to the other members of the family who relish the thought of shipping him off to France for a long stint as an exchange student. Who else but Bart would order "one squid platter with extra tentacles" at the local family fish house? To show you how big this pint-sized fellow has become. the words "Bart Simpson" have already entered the vocabulary to describe a certain type of pesky attitude."

The Groening of America (Jerry Gladman)

v17n46 Sunday Sun Television Magazine, Ontario, Canada, Jul 15-21 1990, Cover, p3-4

Canadian television insert features our favorite family with heading "The Simpsons: Bad Bart in the hit from hell".

For Networks, the Punch Line Is a Bigger Bottom Line (Bill Carter)

The New York Times, NY, Jul 16 1990, pD6

Illustrated with a picture of The Simpsons. Discusses Fox's bold move against Cosby, moving into the Thursday evening time slot to pick up advertising advantages, particularly the lucrative movie advertising category. This advantage was termed "serendipitous" by Fox but this reviewer found that "..sounds like a lot of serendipity to swallow."

American Notes (Stuart Klawans)

Times Literary Supplement, Jul 20 1990, p774

When Life Imitates Bart

v116 Newsweek, Jul 23 1990, p61.

Concerning black Bart Simpson T-Shirts

Bart for President (Michael Kinsley)

v203n4 The New Republic, Jul 23 1990, p4

Concerning liberal slant of The Simpsons, and their popularity with their audience, vs. the Democrats, who have failed to capitalize on a liberal America. "...The Simpsons, the fantastic cartoon family show...has become a national obsession since it's debut last January." "Then there's Bart. He's not a bad kid, just an independent spirit. That makes him genuinely dangerous...by pursuing his own course, true to his ideals, Bart now is even more popular than ...Bush" What kind of comparison is that?

Ay, carumba - Bart is a girl (Tom Jicha)

TV & Video, Jul 29 1990, Cover and p3 (syndicated story no doubt appearing elsewhere)

Sunday newspaper Times Herald-Record television listings insert featuring The Simpsons on the cover with byline "Bart Simpson's a girl - at least vocally" Includes photo of Nancy Cartwright. In connection with Fox throwing a bash to kick off it's 1990 summer press tour. Quote: "About the only fun Cartwright has had with the Bart Simpson role, she confided, came at an irresistible situation at a mall a few months ago. A couple of boys, who looked as if they were 7 or 8, challenged the 32-year old Cartwright to explain why a woman old enough to be their mom was wearing a spiffy embroidered Simpsons jacket. 'Because, I'm Bart, man', she shot back in the voice of her character."

Re-Animated (Simon Witter)

n48 Sky Magazine (UK), August 1990, Cover, p86-89

Cover says "Cartoons: Why Bart Simpsons is bigger than Madonna"

p86 Article discusses how animation in general and The Simpsons specifically are hot! It begins:

Cartoons seem to be taking over modern life. Movie stars are queueing up to play two-dimensional comic strip characters - like Madonna in this summer's blockbuster Dick Tracy and John Goodman in the forthcoming Flintstones film. Movies themselves, with their high-gloss, primary colours and weird camera angles, are looking more and more like kids' cartoons. Pop stars like Betty Boo take their inspiration from cartoon characters, while the biggest celebrities in America this summer are an animated family called The Simpsons. Simon Witter reports on our obession with cartoon culture.

The hippest haircut in America at the moment is Bart Simpson. Shaved at the sides with a high, sculpted, jagged crown, it is named after the 10-year-old brat in America's hippiest family The Simpsons, an animated Roseanne-style household with mental hairstyles, bulging eyes and massive overbites.

After only one primetime TV series (which brought the Fox network its highest ratings ever), The Simpsons are selling more merchandise than Batman and receiving more fan mail than Janet Jackson and Paula Abdul.

The forever-feuding family of yellow-skinned misfits first appeared on The Tracey Ullman Show. Last January they got their own half-hour Sunday night slot - The first prime-time animation series to hit the airwaves since The Flintstones clubbed their way in nearly three decades ago - and now they're so popular that Tracey Ullman was recently moved to (half) joke "next season we're going to appear as a live 30-second spot on The Simpsons.

The Simpsons' achievement has been to mine the current popularity of cartoons with a warped sense of humour that appeals to 50-year-olds as much as 15-year-olds. And the real measure of their success is in their merchandising. Simpson artefacts already on sale including keyrings, puppets, talking toothbrushes and pyjamas. One poster company is reprinting its Bart door poster ("Stay outta my room, man!") after the initial 250,000 print run sold out. Summer will bring Simpson beach towels, autumn Simpson school supplies and Christmas, talking Bart dolls (whose trilingual expressions include "Aye carumba!" and "Au contraire, mon fr�re!"). Simpsons T-shirts, currently the hippest wear in New York clubs, have been banned from some schools in America. The one bearing the slogan "Underachiever And Proud Of It" is particularly unpopular with teachers. And if all that sounds like overkill, consider this: Fox turns down over 100 would-be Simpson marketers a day.

In order to give the sries the kinds of evergreen appeal enjoyed by Betty Boop or Peanuts (60 and 40-years-old respectively), Fox must avoid a Simpsons burn-out now, but the characters are so popular that Fox has had trouble combating Simpsons bootlegging - one unauthorised T-shirt showed prepubescent Bart in bed with a naked woman. But despite Fox's relatively cautious approach to Simpsons exploitation, there are already 200 licensed Simpson products - five million cans of Simpson air-freshener are expected to be sold by Christmas. The importance of marketing becomes clear when you consider that merchandising of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is estimated to have pulled in over $650 million in America alone.

The reason you'll spot Simpsons T-shirts in trendy New York clubs lies in the bizarre catchphrases creator Matt Groening puts in his characters' mouths - "Don't have a cow, man!" is one of Bart's favourites - and the general anti-establishment tone of the show.

The article goes on to discuss cartoons and comics in general, attributing Simpsons' success partly to the "ever-greater popularity that cartoons and comics enjoy these days."

The Simpsons Moved to 7th Avenue (advertisement)

v15n8 Kids Fashions, August 1990, p27

Trade publication for children's clothing. Full page Simpsons portrait advertising for Stickshift Clothing Co., a division of Joujou Sportsware.

The Woman We Love (author unknown)

v114n2 Esquire, Aug 1990, Cover, p108-122, 124

Cover has a small picture of Marge Simpson in the lower right hand corner. Issue theme is "Women We Love and women we don't" and next to Marge is says "Now It Can Be Told! The results of our Perfect Woman Poll! Sorry, Marge, hair isn't everything."

On page 120 under the category "Women We Know Are Two-Dimensional but Love Anyway" we find Marge Simpson, The Little Mermaid and The Laker Girls.

The Simpsons (poster)

SuperTeen (UK), Aug 1990

Full page color "pin-up" of our favorite family.

Arrests Made in Killing of 9-Month-Old in the Bronx (author unknown)

The New York Times, NY, Aug 1 1990, pB1, B3

Significance for Simpson fans? This was one of several newstories appearing during this time in various papers of teenagers getting arrested wearing Simpson shirts. Not the type of advertising Fox would want, but after all, everyone was wearing Simpson shirts. Furthermore, back in 1990 The Simpsons were still considered relatively radical for television; now they're pure mainstream, and it's the South Park's of the world that are considered radical.

Klasky/Csupo (Stephen J. Dubner)

v31 Back Stage-SHOOT, Aug 17 1990, p45+

Brit sat services in pricey promo war (Jeremy Coopman)

v340 Variety, Aug 22 1990, p43+

That's sat as in Satellite; Murdoch's Sky TV satellite company using Simpson's to boast his service.

The Fox Trots Faster With it's biggest hit, The Simpsons, getting ready to challenge NBC's The Cosby Show, Murdoch's network makes its boldest bid yet for parity with the big three (Richard Zoglin)

v136 Time, Aug 27 1990, p64-66

Article illustrated with a half page scene taken from the Tracey Ullman short MG33 "Punching Bag".

Story about The Simpsons versus Cosby. It begins;

In this corner... the champion. TV's No. 1-rated show for four straight years. Slipped to No. 2 last season, but still a powerhouse in the ring. Has the experience, the moves, the fan loyalty. The only uncertainty: most of its victories have come against weak competition. Can it still take a punch?

...and it closes with:

But Fox has proved it can handle the heat. Now it's up to Bart Simpson to handle Mr. Cosby.

How to Teach Our Kids (special magazine issue)

Newsweek Special Edition, Fall/Winter 1990, cover

Features Bart's classroom on the cover, with Nelson Muntz, Bart, Sherry or Terry, Lewis, and Milhouse Van Houten

Cover only - No article within even referencing The Simpsons

The Simpsons Live! (not supplied)

Modern Screen Fall TV Previews '90-'91, Fall 1990, Cover, p44-45

Cover has picture of Simpsons in opera box from 7G02 filling about 1/6th of the cover along with other television stars. Back cover has "Spotlight on TV's Hottest Names!" listing The Simpsons first.

Talking about the upcoming season against The Cosby Show, the merchandising explosion that has occurred and what success has done for Matt Groening. "The Simpsons' creator, Matt Groening, 36, claims he never foresaw the implications of his characters' success, 'I didn't know what the ramifications of success would be,' the cartoonist says. 'I've been successful in the past on some level. I have this comic strip called Life in Hell, which runs in 200 newspapers, and I get a lot of fan mail from generally articulate, literate people. And now I walk down the street and see people wearing Simpsons T-shirts who I'm afraid might beat me up, so the quality of fans has broadened. The people who are now my fans now frighten me." Hey, I think we were just insulted. Let's go beat him up.

The Simpsons (not supplied)

n9 Who's Who in TV, Fall 1990, cover, p13

Cover of this annual Modern Screen publication reviewing every television star features nine stars/families including our favorite family on the cover.

p13 Full page for OFF provides typical details from this time period; Homer loves mambo, Lisa's favorite show is The Happy Little Elves, Marges sports an enormous bouffant hairstyle, Maggie doesn't speak and Bart is... Bart.

Groening, Matt

v51n9 Current Biography, Sep 1990, p18-22

Excellent and detailed biography of Matt Groening and the success of The Simpsons. This can be found in many libraries in the "1990 Current Biography Yearbook", reprinted on pages 285-289. A quote about The Simpsons: "Aimed at adults but appealing to viewers of all ages, The Simpsons immediately found a following among those for whom the traditional formula for family comedies had become stale. 'Most family shows,' according to Groening, 'are namby-pamby sentimentality or smarmy innuendo. We stay away from that.'"

Marge Simpson tells all (author not supplied)

Glamour, Sep 1990, p131

Interview of Marge Simpson indicates that she has her hair done at Betty's Beehive (top part), Hair Apparent (middle part) and Beauty Barn (bottom third). About the height of her hair, she says that "Mine isn't close to the tallest hair in Springfield". This conflicts with the postcard book 'Greetings From The Simpsons' which indicates that Marge Simpsons' secret pride is "Having the tallest hairdo in Springfield" (maybe she's keeping it a secret!)

Simpsons cover and references

Cracked #256, Sep 1990, cover, p38

Bart as part of crowd of 8 on cover

p38 has Yertle the Turtle parody with last panel a family of Simpsonesque turtles..

Briefing: New Heights (Kathryn Lineberger and Jacklyn Monk)

New Woman, Sep 1990, p30

Discussing the return of towering hairdos, illustrated with a picture of Marge Simpson. "TV trendsetters like Peggy Bundy and Marge Simpson have resurrected the classic bouffant. but according to Vernon Keech, artistic director of Vidal Sassoon in New York City, the look for the nineties is not the shellac-sprayed towers, but a soft, timesaving pile like Ivana Trump's or Guess? jeans model Claudia Schiffer's. 'We're not actually going back to the sixties,' says Keech. 'It should be freer than the bouf.'"

TV Eye -- 'The Simpsons'

v66n35 Melody Maker, Sep 1 1990, p47

Favorable review of The Simpsons.

The Insider: Where's Bart's Emmy, Dude? (Mitchell Fink)

v34n9 People Weekly, Sep 3 1990, Cover and p33

Bart Simpson appears in the upper right hand corner on the cover.

Still not nominated in the right categories, but The Simpsons did get to make a personal appearance at The Emmys.

It's not that the folks behind Fox's The Simpsons felt slighted about getting five Emmy nominations, it's just that all five, including a Best Animated Series nomination, are considered craft awards. These awards will be given out on Sept. 15, one day prior to Fox's nationally televised Emmy broadcast.

As Bart Simpson might say, "Not enough exposure, dude."

The Simpsons will rectify that by appearing on the Emmy show as presenters. Plans call for the entire Simpson family to walk down the aisles of the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, where the awards show takes place, and then proceed to the podium to present the Emmy for Best Actor in a Comedy Series.

This will be accomplished by a production technique similar to the one used in the making of Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In other words, it will look at home as if the Simpsons are there, when in fact they won't be, meaning the winner might have a little more to worry about than just his acceptance speech. Definitely radical, man.

The Simpsons (Ben Thompson)

v3 New Statesman & Society, Sep 7 1990, p35

The Simpsons: the first real cartoon family (Bob Hallett)

v45n38 The Newfoundland Herald, Sep 15-21 1990, Cover, p30-31

This Canadian competition to TV Guide features our favorite family on the cover, Bart with slongshot in hand, with the quote: "The Simpsons NTV's new super cool cartoon".

The article inside features the same shot as the cover, albeit in black and white, and a picture of Bart from the Tracey Ullman Show. "Family dramas are a staple of TV animation. Everyone can remember one: The Flintstones, the Jetsons... the list is endless and extensive." (It can be endless and not extensive?) "The 1990s is a new TV age, however. These days, cliched characters and hackneyed humour will not do it. The animated family of the decade is The Simpsons" ..and hopefully far beyond that.

Can Bart Simpsons Beat Cosby? In Texas they're not sure the real Bart can beat Leticia Van De Putte (author not supplied)

v34n11 People Weekly, Sep 17 1990, p48

Full page on Bart Simpson (a politician), running for Texas State Legislature, holding a Bart Simpson T-Shirt (I'm Bart Simpson. Who the hell are you?) Quote: (From the politician) "I really hadn't heard of the cartoon character until a few months ago." Would you vote for someone who crawled out from under a rock?

The fourth network (Ronald Grover, Susan Duffy and Richard A. Melcher)

Bart Simpson Could Put Murdoch's Sky TV in Orbit (Richard A. Melcher)

n3178 Business Week, Sep 17 1990, p114+, p121 (Business/Technology edition)

p114 Simpsons making Fox's fourth network plans feasible.

p121 Simpsons reaches England Sep 2 1990 via Murdoch's Sky TV satellite system, which he's hoping The Simpsons will help get out of the red.

Webs animated over primetime toon series (David Kissinger)

v340 Variety, Sep 17 1990, p1+

I'm Bart, I'm Black And What About It? (Michel Marriott)

v140 New York Times, Sep 19 1990, pC1 and C8

Black Bart Simpson, appearing as Malcolm X, Michael Jordon (Air Bart), Bob Marley (Rasta Bart)

'Peaks' loses edge as Emmy Awards snub innovative TV (David Kissinger)

v340 Variety, Sep 24 1990, p32+

Simpsons not yet eligible as a sitcom.

New York Magazine Competition #687 (magazine competition by Mary Ann Madden)

v23n37 New York, Sep 24 1990, p176

In response to a contest asking for "unappealing products or services" John Felmet, of Wintersville, Ohio won an Honorable mention for "Simpson Family Wigs".

The Simplesons (a parody) (Rich Kriegel and Gary Fields)

Cracked #257, Oct 1990, cover and p27-30

Bart Simpson on cover, "Most Wanted", "#1 Brat".

(Quote from one panel on comic strip; Humor (aka Homer) banging on the outside of the bathroom door with Barf (aka Bart) inside..)

Humor: Barf, get your butt outta there!

Barf : I'm busy!

Humor: You been in there over an hour! What are you doing?

Barf : I can't tell you.

Humor: Sure you can! This is the Fox network! You can say anything!

Sign In, Please (author not supplied)

v11n2 Movieline, Oct 1990, Buzz section, p16,

Story and picture of Universal Studios entrance with sign of Bart Simpson writing on blackboard, "I Will Not Sneak On The Lot Without A Pass" (cutoff on next to last 's' in 'pass' on third line)

Overachiever - and learning to deal with it, man (Larry Rother)

v140 The New York Times, NY, Oct 7 1990, pH33

Simpsons Get Dolled Up (Bradley Johnson)

Book club enlists 'Hell' cartoonist

v61n42 Advertising Age, Oct 8 1990, p6, p24

Article on Mattel Simpsons merchandise.

See The Simpsons merchandise list for the results of this!

Ice Capades CEO expects Simpsons to boost business (Thomas K. Scallon)

v102 Amusement Business, Oct 8 1990, p17+

Fox hoping 'The Simpsons' will boost slow start (Steve Coe)

v119n15 Broadcasting, Oct 8 1990, p49-50

After a great summer Fox fell behind the networks again with the advent of the Fall season. They're hoping however that The Simpsons pulls them back into contention with the other "big three" networks.

That Bart Thing (Diane Werts)

The Fox Network Takes A Gamble (Verne Gay)

Underachiever - and Worried (Diane Werts)

New York Newsday, Oct 11 1990, Part II, p1, p7, p8 & 17, p9

Note: Different editions had different page numbers..

p1 Cover of Part II, Bart for the Sake of Bart. Photo of three people wearing rubber Bart Simpson masks

p7 That Bart Thing Quote: ..take our word for it, it's no problemo to appoint one's entire self in 'Simpsons' merchandise. Any place worth its floor-space has an entire Simpson section."

p8 The Fox Network Takes A Gamble

Ay Carumba! 'The Simpsons' bump Cosby in first ratings showdown (Michele Greppi)

v189n281 New York Post (newspaper), Oct 13 1990, cover, p7

Cover Story, BART BEATS THE COS!, with Bart Simpson & Slingshot on Cover

Quote: "The Simpsons was seen by approximately 33.6 million people, according to A. C. Nielsen Co. Cosby drew about 5.1 million fewer viewers.."

'Cosby' beats 'Simpsons' in ratings

v140 The New York Times, NY, Oct 13 1990, p48

Families feud (Steve Coe?)

v119n16 Broadcasting, Oct 15 1990, p31

Note previous articles in other magazines titled 'Family feuds' and "Families feud'...

Cosby Vs. The Simpsons Is TV Programming Your Family? (Ira Wolfman)

v103n14 Family Circle, Oct 16 1990, p79-80, 82, 84-85.

Comments on family values and TV, not ratings. Quotes: "Kids are particularly vulnerable to these messages. The younger ones watch and frequently mimic the actions and sayings of their favorite characters, like current rage Bart Simpson. That's why millions of children all across America woke up one morning saying, 'Don't have a cow, man'." "..Bart frequently ends up teaching his dodo of a dad, Homer, a lesson. Homer's only saving grace is that he obviously loves his kids. But there's no question that the children are far wiser than hapless Dad."

Simpsons, Cosbys Meet in Therapy (Shari Spires)

The Times-Herald Record (newspaper) Oct 22 1990, p19,24 (syndicated, through Cox News Service)

Thirteen parent child therapists analyze Simpsons and Cosby. Quote: (Concerning Bart) ".. I see him practicing law" "He'll figure out that lawyers can get people off".

5th-graders know the 'Simpsons' - and TV limits (Steve Israel)

The Times-Herald Record (newspaper) Oct 22 1990, p19 (syndicated Broadcast News column)

Makes point that kids are smart enough not to follow the 'incorrect' lessons in The Simpsons, and know right from wrong.

Battling Bart gives Fox p.r. boost (J. Max Robins)

v341 Variety, Oct 22 1990, p25

Simpsons elbow into Welsh Publishing (Patrick M. Reilly)

v341 Variety, Oct 22 1990, p25

It's The Simpsons, man (Bob Remington)

TV Times, Oct 26 1990, Cover, p10

Full cover on this Canadian TV Insert for the Calgary Herald features Bart Simpson saying "Hey man, I'm on the cover of TV Times!" Looks relatively official, and has The Simpsons logo of the time. but it's missing the Matt Groening signature.

Too nice an article to leave anything out, so we transcribed it and placed it on the archive right here!

Cracked Interviews The Simpersons (a parody) (Lou Silverstoning and Gary Fielding)

Cracked #259, Nov 1990, cover and p10-12

Bart Simpson on cover, "Exclusive Simpsons Interview"

Interview of The Simpersons by Nanny Dickering. A selected panel:

Nanny: Mr Simperson, how to feel about ABC and NBC refusing to run any commercials featuring The Simpersons?

Mr Simperson (aka Homer): That's an insult! I mean, they advertise terlet paper, diapers, stuff for smelly sneakers and they got the nerve to turn down a wholesome family like mine! What's the world coming to?

We didn't know back then how true that was.

A Very Small Gene Pool - Andrew Holleran on Fox Television (Andrew Holleran)

Wigwag, Nov 1990, p33-43

Bart on p2 and p33, but not much discussion on The Simpsons

TV programmers find it's lonely out front (Bill Carter)

v140 The New York Times, NY, Nov 19 1990, pC13

Cartoons Grow Up: Klasky Csupo reaps long-form success (David Jacobs)

v5n11 Post, Nov 21 1990, p92

p92 This animation magazine recognizes The Simpsons as the key to Klasky Csupo's success. "...the companies fortunes have followed a path that mirrors Bart's success skyrocket as a long-form animated hit for 'adults' (the first in almost 30 years)...". Has picture of Simpsons used in Emmy's with caption "Blue hair needs a green screen (i.e., instead of the standard blue matte - BG): The family was matted live into the Emmy's telecast."

Publisher's Pick (Kal Rudman)

Friday Morning Quarterback (FMQB), Nov 23 1990, Cover and p42

Full cover of Bart with arms crossed advertising The Simpsons Sing the Blues album.

In this radio industry music publication we find the publisher predicting the success of The Simpsons first album. (In the following quote the items in parenthesis are ours, not from the magazine) "Hey man, don't have a cow, just play this bad boy! 'Do the Bartman' features Michael Jackson and will be an instant phone monster! (i.e., a commonly requested song). Talk about timing, the album 'The Simpsons Sing the Blues' will be a major holiday item, so deal with this early. The CD Pro features six way cool mixes (a nice piece of trivia for you Simpson music collectors), so find the right one that'll work for you. Oh wow, man!"

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

The Mood of 'Tude (William Safire)

The New York Times Magazine, Nov 25 1990, p18, 20

A passing reference in an article about attitude, Safire quotes Lewis Veale in the Detroit Free Press about attitude; Bart Simpson has too much.

I Just Flew Into New York and... (Eric Idle of Monty Python fame)

The New York Times, NY, Nov 25 1990, p18, E11

Passing reference to a one-liner on current news as follows; "...Bart Simpson isn't the first husband of the Duchess of Windsor".

Fine Tooning (Bob Miller)

Comics Scene #16, Dec 1990, Cover and p25

Bart on half of cover with slingshot, Pictures from The Tracey Ullman Show. Includes biographical information on Kent Butterworth, who directed episodes of The Simpsons

Quote: "Basically they (the producers) think about it as if it were a three-camera sitcom. We've got one camera here getting the master shot, then we've got another camera here following Homer and another one getting the close-up on Marge.." (as opposed to the way most cartoons are shot).

The Simpsons (a parody) (Artist: Angelo Torres Writer: Stan Hart)

A MAD Peek Behind the Scenes at The Simpsons Studio (Artist: Sam Viviano Writer: Charlie Kadau)

Using the Simpson Look to Update Stale Appearances (Artist: Greg Theakston Writer: Stan Hart)

MAD #299, Dec 1990, cover and p4-9

Bart on cover, with hair getting mowed down by Alfred E. Neuman, drawn by Mort Drucker. Cover says "In This Issue We Mow Down The Simpsons" This cover would not only get used in the UK MAD #344 Dec 1990 issue, but would also be used years later in n23 MAD Germany, Aug 2000.

Quotes: (from the cartoon panels)

Writer 1: Why does Homer work at a nuclear power plant? He's always causing accidents and exposing people to Radiation!

Writer 2: The network insisted that this show be based on reality!

The Simpsons (a parody) (Artist: Angelo Torres Writer: Stan Hart)

A MAD Peek Behind the Scenes at The Simpsons Studio (Artist: Sam Viviano Writer: Charlie Kadau)

Using the Simpson Look to Update Stale Appearances (Artist: Greg Theakston Writer: Stan Hart)

UK MAD #344, Dec 1990, cover and p4-9, 6, 8

Same cover and nearly the same content as the U.S. version above.

Nintendo Proview: The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Space Mutants (Abby Normal)

Gamepro, Dec 1990, cover and p104

Cover Story with Homer, Marge and Bart on cover; Bart looking like a zombie playing a video game with Homer saying to Marge; "It's hopeless, Marge...We should have unplugged him two weeks ago."

p104 Video game review of Acclaim's The Simpsons:Bart and the Space Mutants with 8 scenes from game

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

The Simpsons: Meet America's Zaniest Cartoon Family They are the American family at its wildest...Fox TV's latest, greatest characters, whose creator, Matt Groening, describes them as "lovable in a mutant sort of way!" (not supplied)

v3n6 Teen Throbs, Dec 1990, Cover and p36-37

Cover has picture of our favorite family in lower right-hand corner with heading "America's Zaniest Cartoon Family: Meet The Simpsons".

p36 has a pinup of The Simpsons family.

p37 Uses one press release photo and three screengrabs from the shorts of The Tracey Ullman Show with small comments about The Simpsons.

Data East Introduces The Simpsons Pinball! (review) (no author)

Nintendo Player: The Simpsons (review) (no author)

n17 Electronic Gaming Monthly, Dec 1990, Cover and p54-55, 56-57

Cover story with Homer, Bart, Lisa, Barney, Moe, Sherri & Terri, Milhouse, Bleeding Gums Murphy, Police Chief Wiggims, Otto, Apu, Krusty, Ms. Krabappel and Sideshow Bob (Wins most characters on a cover award)

p54-55 pinball game review of The Simpsons Pinball by Data East. This game had rave reviews and won an award, but as a pinball player, I thought it made a lousy game..

p56-57 The Simpsons Nintendo Game review

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

(picture reference only)

Splice, Dec 1990, p11, p49

Full page Brian Green photo in this teen 'zine standing between six-foot cutouts of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. Page 49 has small photo of Lesley Boone standing between Marge and Homer.

That Quirky Simpson Spark (Marvin Kitman)

Newsday, Dec 6 1990, Part II, p91, 97 (The Marvin Kitman Show syndicated column)

Quote: "If The Simpsons were on a real network, it would be far and away the No. 1 show." "At Homer's plant they use plutonium bars as paperweights, one of the 342 violations of basic safety procedures...This is the kind of offensive material that never would have gotten on NBC..." Includes B/W Bart picture from Tracey Ullman.

Simpson - Gekte Ligt Op De Loer In Amerika is men gek op de Simpsons. Je kan geen winkel met t-shorts voorbij lopen of je komt Bart Simpson tegen met een opruiende tekst. Ook in Engeland loopt men al maanden lang met Simpson-shirts rond, hoewel de serie pas sinds september door Sky wordt uitgezibden. In Nederland laat RTL 4 de lotgevallen van de familie Simpson zien, maar tot dusver is de gekte hier nog niet uitgebroken. Robert Briel sprak mit Matt Groening, de bedenker van de Simpsons: "Tekenfilms maken is een beetje God spelen. Je cre�ert je eigen figuren en je laat ze een leven leidenm dat je helemaal zelf in de hand hebt!" (Robert Briel)

n48 Veronica, Dec 7 1990, cover, p17-18

Cover of this magazine from Holland says "cartoon: The Simpsons".

Interview of Matt Groening, which we wish we could translate in its entirety. Now if we knew our Dutch a little better, perhaps we could translate the Groening quote in the subtitle into better English; "Creating cartoons is like playing God. You create your own characters and their lives are entirely in your hands."

Ho ho... Homer? Attention TV shoppers: Simpsons, Turtles and Tracy all you want to be under your tree (Andrew Ryan and Bill Brioux)

v14n49 TV Guide Canada, Dec 8 1990, Cover, p23, 25-27, 29

Cover says "Simpsons Greetings!" and has a Bart Simpson bank on the cover.

TV Guide Canada's annual Christmas toy review kicks off with a review of Simpsons' merchandise:

Ay caramba! Time for TV GUIDE's annual shopping spree - looking for the hottest new toys, dolls and games inspired by TV programs. Pay attention, dude - one of the following is sure to be on your child's Christmas wish list.

The Simpsons may have to play second fiddle to the Cosbys ratings-wise, but the obnoxious cartoon clan is the clear winner in the area of toys and other merchandise. Far and away our favorite was the Bart Simpson Bank (our cover toy, $9.99) from Pax Toys. The durable, soft plastic bank is 9 1/2 inches tall and doesn't actually do anything - but the adorable, goofy look on Bart's face is worth the price alone. (Meanwhile, Simpsons originator Matt Groening will laugh all the way to his bank.) Pax also makes a bank of Bart's bratty sister Lisa, as well as possible action figures ($4.99) of the entire family. Then there's Mattel's Talking Bart doll ($29.99), which says things like "Don't have a cow, man." And if you really want to go all out, there's a Bart Simpson Vehicle of Destruction Skateboard (TeeFee, $49.99) - elbow pads and helmet advised but not included.

Dig That Simpson Sound (By Sophfronia Scott, Reported by Wendy Cole)

v136n25 Time, Dec 10 1990, p105.

Announcing "The Simpsons Sing the Blues" on the People page. Pre-release announcement. Picture of Simpsons with microphones.

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

The Year in Television

n593/594 Rolling Stone, Dec 13-27 1990, cover, p27-28, 236

1990 Yearbook Special Double Issue Bart on cover as one in a matrix of 22 squares Quote: "Fox and The Simpsons have proved just how fragile institutions of network TV are. They've shown that a cartoon brat named Bart can put a hit show starring relatively real people [i.e., Cosby Show] on the ropes."

X-Rated Madonna to join 'Simpsons' Sexy rock star will play Bart's Girlfriend (Michael Glynn and David Duffy)

National Enquirer, Dec 18 1990, cover, p27-28, 236

Cover has minature Bart (not be Matt Groening) in lower right hand corner with caption "X-rated Madonna joins 'The Simpsons'"

Wonder if the story was premature and subsequently fell through or this was just another one of the Enquirer's oh-so-reliable sources. It begins as follows;

Watch out, Cosby! Bart Simpson is getting a new girlfriend, and she's sure to be a ratings whopper because Bart's sweetie is that X-rated Material Girl, Madonna!

It's a casting coup that will turn the Battle of Thursday night into a real slugfest. Madonna will provide the voice for Bart's heartthrob - a flirtatious cutie name Mary Elizabeth - in three episodes airing in February.

It continues subsequently:

The singer's character, Mary Elizabeth, will appear to be an angel to her teachers and other students - but Bart and viewers will see another side to her. She's actually a little vixen.

1990 Entertainment Yearbook (author not supplied)

Us Number 144/145, Dec 24 1990 - Jan 7 1991, Cover, p 17-20, 22-28, 30, 32-38, 42-45

Bart as one of eight celebrities on the cover.

A picture of our favorite family with the following text; "The father never knows best, the mother sports a blue bride-of-Frankenstein hairdo, the family plays mono-syllabic Scrabble - and American audiences have never related to a TV family more. But out of all of The Simpsons, it's Bart who will emerge as the show's star. He may be a self-proclaimed "underacheiver," but before the end of the year, the Bart Man will be merchandised alongside Batman and fearlessly battle Cosby - tying the ratings king on his sacred Thursday-night turf.

Most Overexposed Underachiever

v136n28 Time Dec 31 1990, Cover and p45

Bart Simpson Cover - "The BEST of '90" and "Yes, Bart, even you made the list" Listed as "Most Overexposed Underachiever", an amazingly snide remark for a magazine using his picture to sell this issue! Additional pictures within on p2 (table of contents) and on p45.

Picks & Pans - Best of Tube

The 25 Most Intriguing People of 1990 (authors not supplied)

v34n26 People Weekly, Dec 31 1990-Jan 7 1991, p10, p72-73. (End of Year Issue)

The only 'imaginary' person listed (out of the 25)

p10 The Simpsons listed as one of the ten most satisfying TV programs. References the fortune made in merchandising.

p72-73 Bart Simpson listed as one of "The 25 Most Intriguing People of 1990". (The only imaginary person listed). Nude Bart Simpson laying across a bed with quote "I Have No Shame, Man!" Quote: "If Horatio Alger were alive today, he'd be eating his well-starched shorts, man. Never has a young upstart - a nonhuman one, at that! - attained so much doing so little."

Magazine and Newspaper Articles - 1991

Acclaim video game reviews (video game review/advertisement)

v1n2 Masters of the Game, 1991?, p8 (like Nintendo's Nintendo Power)

p8 advertises handheld game Bart Simpsons Cupcake Crises and has coupon to order six foot Bart Simpson standup (see merchandise section for these items)

p8 has The Simpsons listed as Coming Next Issue

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Bart Simpson: Child of the '90s (not provided)

Teen Dream, ? 1991, p48

We have the article, but not the magazine, so we don't know when in 1991 this appeared.

When Bart was charming the teen scene this page of quotes from Bart appeared. Sample: "Trouble is, my teacher has this incredible talent at catching me. They say that detention is the All-American way, but personally, I think it's some kind of Communist plot to deplete our nation's chalk supply, and I'm against it!

Bart Simpson's All-Purpose Excuses to Befuddle and Outsmart Parents (And Other Adults) (not provided)

Teen Dream, ? 1991, p62

May be same issue as article above, but if not, we're not even sure if this is 1990 or 1991.

As the title says, a list of Bart excuses. Sample: Because your parents always want to believe the best about you, these are great excuses: "It's not mine. It belongs to my friend." "My friend left it here." "I don't know how it got in my bedroom (locker) (pocket)!"

Holy cow, man! Most folks recognize Bart Simpson - but not their own congressman (John Blosser)

National Enquirer, 1991

From the references in the copy of this article we can tell it's the latter half of 1991, but we don't know the exact date!

Survey showing that 89% of people recognize Bart Simpson yet only 28% recognized their congressman. What a surprise.

All About Bart (not supplied)

n25 Kid City, Jan/Feb 1991, Cover! and p5-6

Nice cover with Bart Simpson saying "Am I a Cool Dud or What?" Inside of this children's magazine ("For the Graduates of Sesame Street") we just find a poll asking questions like "Which Simpson would you like to be your best friend?". Nonetheless I would like to see if they ever published the results of the poll.

The Simpsons The Simpsons Sing The Blues (music review) (reviewer name not supplied)

v2n1 Prime, Jan 1991, Cover and p3

Officially titled "Prime", the full name on the cover is Music Plus Prime Video - Music Guide. It's a small format (5 1/4" by 8") 32-page free pamphlet. The cover has a picture of our favorite family dancing in "Simpson Sings the Blues" format and says "Get Down, Man! The Simpsons Cut a Record Deal"

The review is as follows: "Rising from cult status as a feature on The Tracey Ullman Show to their own prime time smash series, with Simpsons merchandise going through the roof and Bart lingo becoming a standard part of American vernacular, the Simpsons are anything but blue. Neither is this particularly an album of blues songs, but rather a showcase for the familial quintet's diverse talents. Bart exhibits vocal versitility with a hard-hitting rap tune, as well as the danceable "Do The Bartman", a duet by Marge and Homer aches with heartfelt emotion: Lisa lets loose on the sax on the album's one true blues cut. Stars B.B. King, Joe Walsh, Jazzy Jeff, Dr. John and a guest rapper - we won't spoil the surprise - lend the Simpsons a good-natured hand."

Bart Simpson vs. The Space Mutants (poster)

n20 Nintendo Power, Jan 1991, cover, poster

Cover advtersies "Plus Poster: Bart Simpson vs The Space Mutants"

Attached between pages 50 and 51 we find a foldout poster measuing 10 3/4" by 22 1/2".

Mad Fold-In (drawn by Al Jaffee)

MAD #300, Jan 1991, back inside cover

The classic inside back cover of Mad magazine that folds in to reveal a 'surprise' picture. The question they ask before you fold in the picture; "What master underachiever has underservedly attained worldwide fame and fortune?". The bottom folds in to form an obvious Bart Simpson, but above it us a drawing of Al Jaffee, and the words below form the answer "Our Own Al Jaffee". It would subsequently be recycled years later in n23 MAD (Germany), Aug 2000.

Spy Jr.:A Very Special Supplement for Our Younger Readers

Bart Simpson's Match the Excuse to the Thing You Did

Spy, Jan/Feb 1991, Cover, p9, 43-44

Cover - Bart with skull and cross-bones shirt, spray painting "(Spy) is yuppie scum" on cover of magazine.

p9 Mrs. Bush writing to Marge Simpson

p43 Bart on cover of Spy Junior, on phone with Princess Diana, asking "Do You Have Prince Albert In a Can? Hee Hee Hee".

p44 Picture of Bart saying "I'm insulted that you'd even think of accusing me" followed by a match-the-excuse to the thing-you-did test, as follows;

Thing you did: 1) Sent president picture of butt. 2) Tore off label from every food can in house. 3) Answered phone as raccoon. 4) Ordered musical treasuries for strangers. 5) Disrupted Air Force fly-by. 6) Ripped last page from every book in house. 7) Tried to turn humidifier into robot.

Excuse: a) Grandma started it. b) I blame the economy. c) A man on the radio said to do it. d) I was at a movie alone. e) I've already punished myself. f) Let's say no more about it. g) Gypsies did most of it.

Answers: The only wrong excuse is no excuse.

The Rehabilitation of Bart Simpson

n16 Mother Jones, Jan/Feb 1991, p13.

New Kids (Homer and Bart share cover with 6 photos)

v14n1 Life, Jan 1991, Cover and p38-46

Homer and Bart part of cover. Article about various newly popular stars of 1990. Simpsons listed prominently in the opening spread. Page 39 shows Matt Groening with large cardboard cutouts of The Simpsons. Quote: "Don't have a cow, man, but this season's runaway hit was a cartoon show about a subhuman family, The Simpsons."

Top Producers of 1990 (Gregory Solman)

v19n1 Millimeter, Jan 1991, Cover, p51-52

Cover and p51 has picture of Simpsons in opera box from episode 7G02.

p51 James L. Brooks, Sam Simon and Matt Groening listed first in Top Producers of 1990. Two page detailed article on The Simpsons. Quotes: "The Simpsons started as a lark, as snippets during The Tracey Ullman Show. ...Generally people liked The Tracey Ullman Show or The Simpsons, not both." "...The Simpsons, a prime-time cartoon for the 1990s, accomplishes the near impossible: It improves television."

Book Review - "The Big Book of Hell" (Stephanie Zvirin)

v87n9 Booklist, Jan 1 1991, p914

Favorable review of "The Big Book of Hell" collection of Life in Hell cartoons.

'Simpsons' TV Power Has Everyone Doing the Bartman (Chris Morris)

v103n2 Billboard, Jan 12 1991, p4, 77

Article discussing how "The Simpsons Sing the Blues" is on Billboard's Top 10 Pop Albums chart, and with over a million sales, was one of the top-selling albums of the Christmas 1990 season.

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

The Simpsons Sing the Blues (record review) (Andrew Abrahams)

v35n2 People Weekly, Jan 21 1991, p31

A mixed review of this album.

The Simpsons Sing the Blues (record review)

v35n2 Us, Jan 24 1991, p58.

Mixed review on "The Simpsons Sing the Blues".

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Space Mutants (game review) (Leslie Mizell)

v4n2 Game Player's Strategy Guide, Feb 1991, Cover & p14-16, 18, 20

Decent Simpsons cover featuring Bart on a skateboard with Homer, Marge, Moe, Santa's Little Helper, Lisa, Maggie and Space Mutants in the background. This cover was then reused for the Hame Player's Strategy Encyclopedia for Nintendo Games, Volume Three.

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Space Mutants (game review) (Joshua Mandel)

Video Games & Computer Entertainment, Feb 1991, Cover! & p38

Cover - Bart Simpson saying "Game Over?" with banner "Professor of Video Games". Cover also says "News Flash!! Acclaim and the Simpsons Join Forces to Battle Space Aliens! Details Inside!"

p38, Acclaim Nintendo game review

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Bringing Up Bart Story Editor Jon Vitti reveals how difficult it is to get "The Simpsons" to behave (Pat Jankiewivz)

n17 Comics Scene, Feb 1991, Cover! & p54

Cover - Bart Simpson occupying a 2" square on the upper left corner in a Santa hat. Caption: "Simpsons: Keeping Bart bad".

p54 Yet another nice article, so we've transcribed it right here!

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Space Mutants (game review)

n19 Electronic Gaming Monthly, Feb 1991, cover, p100 - 101

Preview listed on cover (with many others). Acclaim Nintendo game review

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Networks count on cartoons to reanimate ratings (no author)

The Times-Herald Record Feb 6 1991, p39

p39 Discusses various network plans to get into cartoons with the popularity of The Simpsons. Tim Burton plans to put out Family Dog cartoon for CBS, credits new found cartoon popularity to An American Tail and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Now I personally love the work of Tim Burton, but the ONLY reason The Simpsons are popular is because they're The Simpsons, and we can all predict what will happen to any networks attempt to piggy-pack in prime-time to The Simpsons success - most will and have failed, and as of 1998, the networks are still trying but haven't been successful yet in prime-time.

The 12 Most Powerful Men in America Strength, smarts, and that special something extra put these guys in control of their lives - and yours! Discover their secrets to success in this special report. (Tom Callahan)

v19n2 Gallery, Feb 1991, cover, p49-50

Cover of this men's magazine has "Bart Simpson's Path To Power & 11 Other American Success Stories"

p49 Article starts on page 45, and once again amongst 11 gentlemen we find a single cartoon character - Bart Simpson. Illustrated with a half page scene of Bart sparring with a punching bag taken from the Tracey Ullman short MG33 "Punching Bag", Bart's tribute is as follows;

BART SIMPSON: "Aye, carumba, dude." A cartoon character on a "most powerful" list! Well, as the outspoken fourth-grader would say, "Don't have a cow, man!"

Indeed, if you go to the school yards of America, how many H. Ross Perot T-shirts are you going to see? Fourth-graders, the future of America, are much more likely to be swayed by the power of the Matt Groening-created Bart Simpson than by John Sununu.

Don't underestimate Bart's influence on America (even if his voice is actually that of a female). The Simpsons have already been dubbed "TV's new first family" by Newsweek, and go head-to-head with the established king of sitcom Bill Crosby, every Thursday night. The show, described as "a mutant Ozzie and Harriet," made the Nielson's Top 15 within two months of its debut. And Simpsons T-shirts are reportedly selling at a rate of one million per week.

At the center of it all is Bart (an anagram for brat), a modern-day anti-hero, an infamous underachiever, and the nightmare of any parent. Bart provides a kid's-eye view of the world. He may be a role model of rudeness (which has resulted in an effort by some schools to ban his likeness from their classrooms), but he also gives voice to the fears and frustrations of an entire generation of kids tired of being pressured to excel.

In one episode, Bart is forced to stay after school and write on the blackboard, "I will not instigate revolution" [7G06]. But beware, America, it is already too late. And if you don't like it, "Eat my shorts."

Immedia: The Simpsons (Caren Myers)

v67n7 Melody Maker Feb 16 1991, p44

Matt Groening discusses the incredible popularity of The Simpsons.

With Love from Hell by Matt Groening (book review) (Ralph Novak)

v35n6 People Weekly Feb 18 1991, p31

Another favorable review of the "With Love From Hell" collection of Life in Hell cartoons.

The 'Simpsons' creator was a real-life Bart! (Brian Williams)

National Enquirer, Feb 19 1991

Picture of Bart, Photo of Matt Groening at present and as a teenager(?). Quotes, taken with a grain of salt; "Matt the menace once dropped school encyclopedias out the window, and got elected high school president on a promise to rid the halls of teacher patrols. He outraged teachers by submitting pages of gibberish at a school poetry contest that serious judges were forced to read out loud."

Groening against the grain (Doug Sadownick)

n571 Advocate: The National Gay & Lesbian Newsmagazine, Feb 26 1991, Cover, p30-35

Full Life in Hell cover featuring Ackbar and Jeff with heading "A 'Life in Hell' Valentine: Cartoonist Matt Groening Outs Akbar and Jeff"

Interview of Matt Groening, discussing The Simpsons and Akbar & Jeff. Definitely worth reading, and hence we've transcribed it right here!

Who the Hell is Bart Simpson? (Bill Zehme)

n30 The Face, Mar 1991, Cover, p64-69

Full Bart Simpson cover with Bart saying "What the Hell are You Lookin' At?!". Heading says "Who Is Bart Simpson?"

p64 has a full page drawing of Bart writing: "I Will Not Read "The Face" in Class"

Interview of Bart Simpson:

Face: Why do you say "Don't have a cow, man"?

Bart: Oh man! Don't have a fish. Don't have a pig. Don't have a cow. What would you say?

Face: What is you philosophy of life?

Bart: Make sure there are plenty of escape routes.

Face: What are your views on education?

Bart: You want me to tell you about the damned school system? Wanna hear something good for your story? Are you tired of homespun crapola? Wanna get to it? They hate children!

Face:So you're looking forward to finishing school?

Bart:Man, no! Kids, stay in school! Otherwise you'll have to go to work. I plan to stay on the education gravy train until they kick me off screaming.

Face: What do you think of music censorship? Do you approve of the 'parental guidance' stickers on records by acts like 2 Live Crew?

Bart: Of course albums should be labelled, man. Why waste your money on music that won't disgust your parents?

Face: What do you read?

Bart: My sister Lisa's diary. I make notes in the margins. Mostly I read book reports of kids who've been in my grade before. Also, I once read The Boy Scout Handbook. But basically, I don't think anybody shoild willingly join an organisation where there's a bid guy with a whistle tellinf you what to do. Where the plus is that you learn to make knots!

Face: Do you have a girlfriend?

Bart: I don't like girls. They don't like me, Anybody who says different is gonna find something hot and smelly on their doorstep in the near future.

Face: What do you have in your pocket at the moment?

Bart: (Bart pulls out 300 dollars in tens and twnties, and a pop gun bought from the Carousel '' Violent Toys.)

Face: You could put somebody's eye out with that gun.

Bart: I should hope sp, for 25 dollars!

Face: Where did you get the money?

Bart: I'm collecting for underpriveged kids. I only take 30 per-cent cut; other charities take 40. Call me a saint, man!

Face: Do you like your Dad?

Bart: I like that I get to call him Homer and he hardly ever strangles me for it. He's courageous. 'Fear' is not in his vocabulary. Come to think of it, neither is 'success'. For that matter, neither is 'vocabulary'.

Face: What makes you happy?

Bart: There's no substitute for the social interaction you get hurling a spitball at your unsuspecting neighbour or poppnig a milk carton over the dress of a well-deserving girl.

Face: Do you have any advice for the readers?

Bart: Commit the following sentences to memory: you'll be surprised how often they come in handy: I didn't do it! Nobody saw me do it! They can't prove anything!

The only real people on T.V. (Bill Zehme)

n455 Rolling Stone Australia, Mar 1991, cover and p36-37, 39-41, back cover!

Exactly the same article that appeared in the U.S. version back in 1990 (Rolling Stone, Jun 28 1990) with an almost identical cover BUT this issue has an advertisement on the back cover instead of the the back of Bart's head.

Eight years later the cover appeared in a book documenting Rolling Stone covers.

Simpsons cover and other pictures

Wow, Mar 1991, cover, p54, p100-101.

Family portrait wrapped around cover and on p54. Nintendo game review on p100 - 101

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

The Simpsons (a parody) (Artist: Angelo Torres Writer: Stan Hart)

A MAD Peek Behind the Scenes at The Simpsons Studio (Artist: Sam Viviano Writer: Charlie Kadau)

Using the Simpson Look to Update Stale Appearances (Artist: Greg Theakston Writer: Stan Hart)

Australian MAD #302, Mar 1991, cover and p4-9

Same cover and Simpsons content as U.S. MAD #299 Dec 1990 issue. (Other content varies).

More From Those Silly Simpsons! (unknown)

v3n8 Zing!, Mar 1991, cover, ?

Cover has inset of OFF with caption "More From Those Silly Simpsons!"

No further information. Yet.

Straight Talking From The Simpsons Dudes! (not supplied)

Hot!, Mar 1991, cover, p18-19

Cover includes 6 teen celebrities and Bart, with caption "Bart Simpson: What Bart REALLY Thinks of Girls!"

p18-19 A page of quotes by Homer and Bart, followed by a full page color poster of OFF.

The Simpsons Sing the Blues (record review)

v25n3 Guitar Player, Mar 1991, p117

Favorable review of "The Simpsons Sing the Blues"

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

The Simpsons (David Nichols)

v6n4 Smash Hits, Mar 6 1991, Cover and pp10-11

Cover of this Australian magazine says "The Simpsons: Over Here At Last!"

Better than standard teen fare, and it includes a contest to win a "Do the Bartman" CD Single. A sample: "Each episode is drawn out roughly by the American animators, and a film is made of the rough layers: then the whole kaboodle is sent to Korea, where the finished visuals are worked on for the next six weeks by skilled artists. Then there is the sound to be done: the music and dialogue, which itself takes 12 hours per show and involves people running around screaming and strangling each other to get just the right effect. Sometimes scenes are rewritten after the animation is completed!"

Les Nouveaux H�ros De La T�l�: Qui Sont Les Simpson? Les familie a rapparot� plusieurs millions � son cr�ateur (Solange Plamondon)

v2n20 7 Jours, Mar 30 1991, p42-43

Full page article in this French Canadian magazine titled "The New Heroes of Television: Who are the Simpsons?" is illustrated with two pictures from the first season and three from the Tracey Ullman show.

Now if only we can get it transcribed *and* translated...

The Simpsons (poster)

Hair-Do The Bart Man! (not supplied)

Big! (UK), Mar 13-26 1991, cover, article and poster (not paginated)

Cover has inset picture of Bartman with caption "Bart Simpson" illustrating the poster within.

Small article on hairdresser Simon Forbes who will provide a Bart Simpson style haircut for fifty bob.

Full color poster of Bartman "Watch it, dude!".

Matt Groening: An Interview With America's Most Overexposed Cartoonist

The Comics Journal #141, Apr 1991, Cover!, pp78-95

Cover features Bart and Bongo (Bongo is another Groening creation from the Life in Hell comic strip). Bongo says "You overhyped, pseudorebellious, catchphrase-spouting sellout! What do you say to that?", to which Bart replies "Don't have a cow, man?".

Excellent interview of Matt Groening. To be transcribed ASAP...

Smash Hits (poster)

Smash Hits, Apr 3 1991, poster centerfold

An insert to the Australian Smash Hits magazine, a "poster pack", which folds out to reveal various celebrity posters, including a 36 x 48" Bart Simpson!

Simpsons Illustrated (A review of that magazine)

USA Today, Apr 12 1991

Review of Simpsons Illustrated, lambasting the School Survival Handbook.

Bart! From the start... to the chart! The story of the Simpsons! (not supplied)

n28 Number One (UK), Apr 13 1991, cover, p28-31, 44-45

Cover features inset of OFF on the left and also Bart inset on the right with caption "Bartmania! Read the story of The Simpsons Inside! Plus - Four page poster pull-out!"

p16 Simpsons freebies contest for five T-shirts and ten The Simpsons Sings the Blues albums.

p28-31 Four pages of posters of OFF, typical for the fan magazines of this era.

p44-45 Better than usual article on The Simpsons, considering this is a fanzine publication!

Should we note a little irony have a Macgyver poster in the same issue? Nah.

Drawing Laughs (James Warren)

Chicago Tribune, Apr 14 1991, Section 5, p2

From coverage of the American Society of Newspaper Editors Convention, where Matt Groening and Gary Trudeau spoke

Simpson Clan Finally Doing the Write Thing (Kathy Hogan Trocheck)

Atlanta Constitution, Apr 30 1991

Review of Simpsons Illustrated.

Kids First (Marian Wright Edelman)

v16n3 Mother Jones, May-Jun 1991, cover

Lisa on cover using foot to cover Bart's mouth Contains several articles on children, but no Simpsons references within except miniature cover on p1 in Table of Contents.

In Character (author not supplied)

n24 Mirabella, May 1991, cover, p136-141

Cover references our favorite family with the following: "Spike Lee, Ronaldus Shamask, Cynthia Gregory & The Simpsons"

Clothing fashion spread with a couple on each page features Marge in designer shoes and her other normal attire being held by a suited Homer with a designer tie. The text; "Attention-grabbing accessories on Homer and Marge Simpson: Homer is decked out in a Emilio Pucci silk tie, $65; Marge slips on Manolo Blahnik patent-leather mules, $415."

The Simpsons: Bart vs. the Space Mutants (Brian Carroll)

Game Player's Strategy Guide to Nintendo Games, May 1991, p62-66

The contents here are obvious, but allow us to quote the opening line: "We just can't get enough of the Simpsons."

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Lesercharts - Singles (not applicable)

n5 Popcorn, May 1991, p100, 101

p100 An advertisement for a Homer Simpson, Michaelangelo (TMNT) and an Alf toothbrush in this German magazine.

p101 Has a chart of singles listing "Do the Bartman" at number nine.

Back cover consists of four cards with portraits on one side and the lyrics on the other; on the back we find out favorite family and inside the back cover is the lyrics to "Do the Bartman" (in English, unlike the rest of the magazine.)

The Simpsons turn to print (Liz Horton)

v20n5 Folio: The Magazine for Magazine Management, May 1 1991, p57-58

Now that's a trade journal. Announcing Simpsons Illustrated. First print run had 2 million copies (Where are they now?).

Not Just Bart (Simon Frith)

v36n19 Village Voice, May 7 1991, p72

Bart's appearance in the UK.

Bart Simpson Poster (not applicable)

n11/91 Pop Rocky, May 15 1991, Cover, centerfold, p62

This German entertainment magazine says "4 Super Poster - Seal - E.M.F. - Vanilla Ice - Bart Simpson" on the cover.

The centerfold contains a double-page Bart Simpson poster.

p62 Music charts list Do the Bartman at the number 8 single on the "Leser-Hitparade", number 3 on the Euro-Charts, number 9 on the German Dance-Charts and number seven on the German Single-Charts.

News: The Simpsons (not supplied)

Maggie Simpson Poster (not applicable)

n12/91 Pop Rocky, May 22 1991, Cover, centerfold, p62, 68

This German entertainment magazine has a miniature of the calendar poster of Maggie Simpson on the cover.

The centerfold contains a double-page Maggie Simpson poster.

p62 Music charts list Do the Bartman as the number 12 single on the "Leser-Hitparade", number 6 on the Euro-Charts, and number seven on the German Single-Charts. It also lists Deep, Deep Trouble as number nine on the English Single-Charts.

p68 News section has the following article: "Matt Groening (39), Cartoon-zeichner, war langweilig. Er dachte an die Famalie im Nebenhaus und an deren Altags-probleme. Und an seinen zehn Jahre alten Comic-Strip �Life in Hell� Nach 15 Minuten waren daraus die Simpsons geboren, die neue Zeichentrick-Kultfamilie. Als Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie am 17.Dezember '89 ub Amerika TV-Premiere hatten, stand die Nation Kopf. An der ersten Folge hatten zwei Zeichner gearbeitet, an den neuen 75! Jede halbst�ndige Folge kostet 900 000 Mark und dauert fast sechs Monate. Auch als S�nger sind die Simpsons erfolgreich.", which includes the information that two cartoonists worked on the original and now 75 are involved, it takes six months and costs 900,000 DM to make an episode, and that The Simpsons are successful singers too.

Is it Smart to Buy Bart? (Cover Story)

v1n6 Zillions, Jun-Jul 1991, Cover!, p5-7 Bart on cover, holding Bart phone, exclaiming "$39.99!". Caption reads "Is It Smart to Buy Bart?" Bart phone has it's own voice bubble, saying "Don't Have a Cow, Man!"

Kids rate twenty-one Simpson products as either "No Way, Man!", "Whoa, Moma, Think Twice!" and "Aye, Carumba!".

Billy Johnsons Buntes Chaos (not applicable)

n6 Popcorn, June 1991, Cover

Cover of this German magazine lists ten posters within, including "The Simpsons".

Attached to the gatefold we find several posters including our favorite family.

p100-101 Photograph of Bill Johnson painting Bart Simpson with the caption "Holly ist ein so gro�er Bart Simpsons-Fan, da� er sogar ein Portr�t des Comic-Stars malt", saying he's such a big fan that he paints portraits of comic stars...

p102 On the record charts, a compendium of record sales in various European countries, we find "Don the Bartman" listed as number 9 on the Singles charts, "The Simpsons Sing The Blues" under the "Lanspielplatten" (LP) charts, and "Do the Bartman" under the "Lesercharts - Singles" charts.

What's the secret of The Simpsons' success? (not supplied)

n25 Look in! (UK), Jun 22 1991, cover, p3, 5, 6-7, centerfold poster, p24-25

Cover has "Free Giant Double-Sided Poster Inside" that includes the image of the Bart Simpson "Go For It, Man!" poster inside.

p3 Table of contents page includes a "have you heard?" column that includes a picture of Homer and Bart and the following comment:

"What's the secret of The Simpsons' success? According to their creator Matt Groening it's their "father-knows bestish" attitude that ll families have. "You recognise yourself in one of the characters, and you cringe," he says.

p5 Get Stuck In To The Simpsons!

"With the Simpsons Stick 'N' Lift Adventure Set from Paul Lamond Games you can make Bart, Lisa and Co come to life in loads of hilarious fold-out scenes and different situations."

P6-7 Quizword crossword puzzle asks 6 Across: Bart and Lisa's family name (SIMPSONS)

Centerfold poster features Bart Simpson.

p24-25 Spot The Difference shows two nearly identical scenes of The Simpsons on the beach and asks for the 10 slight differences.

p29 Previews a new series "Meet The Simpsons Part One Homer" starting the following week.

All For a Good Cause Nancy Reagan and Bart Simpson? How did Kitty Kelley miss this? (not supplied)

v35n24 People Weekly Jun 24 1991, p108-109

At a fundraiser for the Pediatric AIDS Foundation, Nancy and Ronald Reagan are pictured surrounded by people wearing costumes of our favorite family.

Bart Simpson Poster (not applicable)

n14/91 Pop Rocky, Jun 26 1991, back cover, p62

This German entertainment magazine features a poster of Bart Simpson on the back cover.

p62 Music charts list Do the Bartman as the number 17 single on the "Leser-Hitparade".

Maggie Simpson's Alphabet Book and Maggie Simpson's Counting Book (book reviews)

v238n28 Publishers Weekly, Jun 28 1991, p100. A review of two of the four Maggie Simpsons books, now out of print. A list of all The Simpsons books can be found right here!

The Simpsons Part 1: Homer (not supplied)

n26 Look in! (UK), Jun 29 1991, cover, p15-17, 29

Homer Simpson appears on the cover with the caption "Father of Bart: What's It Like Being Homer Simpson?" and "Start your Simpsons Poster Collection Today"

p15-17 Half page of facts about Homer followed by the centerfold poster.

p29 Previews Lisa Simpson poster the following week.

p3 Table of contents page includes a "have you heard?" column that includes a picture of Homer and Bart and the following comment:

"What's the secret of The Simpsons' success? According to their creator Matt Groening it's their "father-knows bestish" attitude that ll families have. "You recognise yourself in one of the characters, and you cringe," he says.

p5 Get Stuck In To The Simpsons!

"With the Simpsons Stick 'N' Lift Adventure Set from Paul Lamond Games you can make Bart, Lisa and Co come to life in loads of hilarious fold-out scenes and different situations."

P6-7 Quizword crossword puzzle asks 6 Across: Bart and Lisa's family name (SIMPSONS)

Centerfold poster features Bart Simpson.

p24-25 Spot The Difference shows two nearly identical scenes of The Simpsons on the beach and asks for the 10 slight differences.

p29 Previews a new series "Meet The Simpsons Part One Homer" starting the following week.

The Simpsons: America's Nuclear Family Blasting traditional values and domestic bliss, these prime-time cartoon characters horrify conservatives but are breakwaway ratings hit. (Clas Von Sydow)

v21n7/8 Scanorama (Sweden), Jul/Aug 1991, Cover, p10-12, 15-16

Full cover of our favorite family in a classic pose appears on the cover of the Scandonavian Airlines System (SAS) publication (used "in-flight") with the title "The Subversive Simpsons"

After the standard intro and background information this article actually goes on to say something. We quote:

But why are the Simpsons this popular?

Apart from the show's undeniably artistic and satirical qualities, media pundits note that it is that rare show which has cleverly redefined family entertainment, in this case mixing cartoon slapstick with hip gags and smart literary references. And, no doubt, it was only a matter of time before the same skewed comic-book sensibility which spawned such underground magazine classics as Robert Crumb's Fritz the Cat and Gilbert Shelton's The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers in the late sixties would eventually hit big time. Most immediately, the road has been paved by the unprecedented "literary" success of such "serious" comics in the eighties as Art Spiegelman's Maus, depicting a grim cat-and-mouse version of the Nazi Holocaust, and Alan Moore's Watchman, a dark version of superheroes on the skids. Clearly, with the recent big-screen versions of Batman and Dick Tracy raking it in in the box office, plus all the commerical hoopla surrounding that other current animation phenomenon, The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the comics have reached the mainstream to stay.

There's more worth transcribing. Someday.

20 Questions: Matt Groening (Neil Tessa)

Australian Playboy, Jul 1991, Cover and p70-73

Just a mention on the cover; "Interviews The Simpsons' Matt Groening".

Same interview that appears in the v37n7 Playboy, July 1990 issue.

Interview of Matt Groening. Here's one question;

Playboy: We're never going to see something as repulsively mercantile as, say, a Bart Simpson talking-action figure?

Groening: Actually, there's one in the works. It says a number of things, through there are two things the toy company would not let the doll do. One is to say, 'I'm Bart Simpson. Who the hell are you?', which I can't understand - it's one of his big catchphrases - and they wouldn't let him belch. They didn't think either was appropriate coming out of the mouth of a doll. But he does say 'Whoa, Momma!' 'Ay caramba!' and 'Au contraire, mon frere'; it will be the only trilingual talking doll on the market."

Of course the interview took place over a year earlier, so the dolls were on the market by the time this appeared.

We've Gone Bart Bonkers! They're the maddest family in the history of tge universe, in fact they've [SIC] even more crazy than the craziest thing!! Once more, FF's Peter Loraine delved in the Simpson family album and discovered a few spook details! (Peter Loraine)

Fast Forward (UK), Jul 3-9 1991, cover, p10-11

Cover features Bart Simpson holding a tennis racket saying "I'm Just Ace, Man!" with caption "We're Bonkers About Bart!"

Typical fanzine article of the period, using Tracey Ullman stills. A quote; "Homer firmly believes that by eating Frosty Crusty [SIC} Flakes for breakie, Bart and Lisa will grow up brainy!

The Simpsons Part 2: Lisa (not supplied)

n27 Look in! (UK), Jul 6 1991, cover, centerfold

This was the Lisa Simpson issue; more info when we acquire a copy!

A Simpson Cel-Out Art fans eat up everything but Bart's famous shorts (not supplied)

v35n26 People Weekly, Jul 8 1991, p79

Article on Christie's auction of Simpsons cels; "Normally, if spike-headed Bart Simpson crashed Christie's East auction house in Manhattan, the refined patrons would have a cow, man. Not so on June 20, when 500 animated bidders got first crack of 27 cartoon cels (painted celluloid sheets) drawn by creator Matt Groening, 36, for Fox's TV series The Simpsons. Bart and family didn't approach Mickey Mouse's 1989 record of $450,000 for a single cel, but they did ring up $117,920. The biggest spender; Manhattan restaurateur Antonio Francesco, 31, who paid $24,200 for the cel of Bart auctioning sister Maggie that Groening drew for the cover of the auction catalog (Groening earmarked this piece for AIDS Project Los Angeles). The youngest buyer; Ross Krasnow, 9, of North Bay Village, Fla., whose parents, Elliot and Bibi, funded his $4,950 purchase.

Groening remained in L.A. with wife Deborah, second child Abraham, who was born June 9, and Homer, 2. How would the Simpsons react to the bidding? 'Bart would say, 'I'll offer self-portraits at half the price,' says Groening, 'Homer would then undercut his son.'"

Tube Talk (Susan Bax)

v19n3 Playgirl, Aug 1991 p5, 15

Discussing a strange mall incident and the first wave of animation to break out after the success of The Simpsons. "What about the mall in Mesa, AZ, that was forced to sue The Simpsons after their costumes got lost in the mail and they missed their promotional appearance? A federal judge ruled that the mall was not entitled to a $200,000 breach of contract fee... Those Simpsons are also responsible for the glut of animated pilots being considered for prime time shows this fall, including these gems: Fish Police, an underwater detective sitcom from Hanna-Barbera; Cleveland City Limits, based on Arsenio Hall's rapper character, Chunky A; Capitol Critters, a Steve Spielberg creation about mice living in the White House; and The Wayneheads, a claymation series from In Living Color's Damon Wayans."

The Simpsons Part 3: Marge and Maggie (not supplied)

n28 Look in! (UK), Jul 13 1991, cover, centerfold

Full cover of Marge Simpson "Bart's My Son" with Maggie at her side.

p3 "Have you heard?" section begins with:

"Simpsons fans may like to know that 27 stills from the series (they're the original drawings for the cartoons) were recently auctioned in New York for as much as £1,000 each! Aye carumba"

p16-18 Details facts about Marge followed by a Marge and Maggie centerfold.

p25 Quick Quiz includes question;

#6 What colour is Marge Simpson's beehive hairdo? (Blue)

p26 Giant Crossword includes the following clues;

38 Across: Maggie is Bart Simpson's baby one (SISTER)

6 Down: The character in picture B (Lisa) likes to play this instrument (SAXOPHONE)

15 Down: Bart Simpson travels everywhere on one (SKATEBOARD)

p29 Previews Bart Simpson poster the following week.

The Simpsons Part 4: Bart (not supplied)

n29 Look in! (UK), Jul 13 1991, cover, centerfold

This was the Bart Simpson issue; more info when we acquire a copy!

Hanging Tough Some of this year's big winners could be shows the networks have written off (not known)

TV Guide (Canada), Aug 24 1991, p12

p12 First page of article illustrated with classic illustration of Bart upside down surfing a wave saying "Cowabunga, Man!".

Caption on illustration reads "Cowabunga! This year's big Emmy controversy revolves around whether the very animated Bart and the rest of The Simpsons should be eligible in the Best Comedy category."

When we acquire the rest of this article we may add more!

Meet Bart Simpson! (no author)

Satellite TV (UK), Sep 1991, Cover, p3, p10

Full cover has classic Bart with slingshot pose, aimed at reader with caption "Bart's Back... New Series on Sky One" 'Win! ...loads of Simpsons prizes ...Your Chance to Meet Bart Simpson!"

p10 A one page promotion for a contest to meet Bart Simpson (did they mean Nancy Cartwright? It doesn't say!) and to win various Simpson merchandise.

The Simpsons: Bart vs. The Space Mutants (no author)

Moor Simpsons Games! (no author)

n11 Raze (UK), Sep 1991, cover, p5, 15, 60-62

Full cover of Bart Simpson on this "console and handheld games" magazine has caption "The Simpsons: Sensational short-scoffing action in Acclaim's cracking cartoon caper!"

p60 Very positive review of Bart vs. The Space Mutants from Acclaim.

Total irre! 200 Scharfe Preise Zum TV-Start Der Serie Zu Gewinen! (no author)

n9 Popcorn, Sep 1991, Cover, p3, p68-69

Bart Simpson is pictured on the cover of this German magazine promoting this magazines' Simpson prize giveaway.

p3 of the Table of Contents has a half page classic pose of Bart Simpson with slingshot.

p68-69 Pictures of everything they're giving away as part of a Simpson promotion. The article begins; "Es ist soweit! Jetzt regieren die Simpsons! Genaugenommen vom 13 September an, denn da halten die total angesagten Comic-Antihelden der USA endlich auch bei uns Einzug.", which means, until someone who knows German can correct me, "Far out! The Simpsons now rule! Strictly speaking, (they rule) from September 13th on, because that's when it's announced that the Simpsons will finally be here."

Celebrity Profile: Bart Simpson (no author)

v28 Nintendo Power, Sep 1991, p91

Done as an interview with Bart, with one standard picture of OFF and one of Bart on a skateboard passing a fence with 'El Barto was Here'. Interview segment:

NP: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Bart: I'm still undecided careerwise. I guess I'll either be the guy who fishes the loose change out of the moat at Sir Putt-A-Lot's Miniature Golf Course, or Vice President of the United States.

Simpson Rip-Offs We'll Undoubtedly Be Seeing (Frank Jacobs) (Artist: Sam Viviano)

MAD #305, Sep 1991, p3, 38-39

p3 has "A Letter From The Simpsons". The indicate they received a letter from The Simpsons as follows; "Dear Clods: Thanks for putting me on the cover of your magazine. I haven't read the article yet, but Maggie seems to be enjoying it. Sincerely, Bart Simpson". Included was a remarkably well-drawn but apparently unsigned pencil drawing of The Simpsons watching television with Maggie sitting on the floor tearing out pages from a Mad magazine with Bart on the cover. The drawing looks like the work of Klasky-Csupo.

p38 Typical Mad Humour featuring Simpson take-offs: The Samsons (biblical), The Blimpsons (fat), The Simians (stone-age), The Symptoms (medical), The Simpseones (mafia), The Samisens (Japanese).

The Simpsons Speak Out! (no author)

v1n8 Starz, Sep 1991, p55

A teen zine article illustrated with a standard picture of The Simpsons, they simply repeat various Simpson quotes. Sample: "Fun has a name and it's Bartholomew J. Simpson"

The Simpsons (poster)

Popcorn, Sep 1991, p3, 68

A Simpsons poster in this German teen zine.

At a Glance: The Big Book of Hell written and illustrated by Matt Groening (book review)

v37n9 School Library Journal, Sep 1991, p298

Yet another favorable review of "The Big Book of Hell" collection of Life in Hell cartoons.

Questions and Answers With Bart Simpson (unknown)

v8n1 Barbie, Winter 1991, Cover and article within

Cover of this Barbie girls magazine says "Q & A With Bart Simpson".

Interview of Bart Simpson within - when we obtain this we'll add more details!

The Simpsons Rate America's Sexiest Stars (author not supplied)

Us Number 164/165, Oct 1991, Cover and pp. 32-40, 42-43

The entire Simpson family offering their insights on America's sexiest stars, with various individual Simpson drawings between the celebreties.

Title above was on cover; title in index was "Who are the Sexiest?"; title on article was "America's Sexiest".

Whoah! Momma! Eat my shorts! Bart's Back!!! (not supplied)

Smash Hits, Oct 16 1991, Cover, p2-3

Cover of this European edition of Smash Hits simply says "The Simpsons".

The return of The Simpsons to Europe. "Those of you lucky enough to own a satellite dish will already know that unashamed "underacheiver" Bart Simpson and his family (i.e The Simpsons) are back on SKY TV on a Sunday evening. Yaree! Yet even if you don't own one of these contraptions, we've got bountiful amounts of new Simpsons info to boggle your noggins with." Goes on to describe upcoming guests and episodes. Page 3 features a full page poster of Bart Simpson.

Is That Really Michael Jackson With Bart? (not supplied)

n44 Look in! (UK), Nov 2 1991, cover, p12, 13,

Cover has miniature picture of OFF with caption "The SImpsons on Video: Poster"

p12 full page poster of OFF.

p13 They're Out On Video, Man article discussed the release of the first two Simpsons video tapes.

p13 Discusses rumour that Michael Jackson voiced the character John Jay Smith in episode [7F24] Stark Raving Dad.

Saints, Histories, Carnal Acts: Best Reads in 1991: The Big Book of Hell by Matt Groening (book review) (Ken Briggs)

v28n5 National Catholic Reporter, Nov 22 1991, p37

A decidedly favourable review of "The Big Book of Hell" collection of Life in Hell cartoons. Who says the Catholic church doesn't have a sense of humour?

The Johnsons (indicates by Matt Nigroen)

v18n6 Hustler, Dec 1991, Cover reference and p31-33

Cover reference: "Homeboy Simpsons? Bart in the Ghetto?"

A three page comic, The Johnsons, a not very amusing parody of a black Simpsons family. Note author is Matt Groenings name transformed to Matt Negro-en. The comic ends with someone from the Comic Codes Authority saying "This comic is a heinous insult to African Americans! It employs the worst stereotypes and portrays the black family at it's lowest!..." to which Homeboy (Homer) replies "Well, how about dem' Simpsons? They's a demeanin' po'trayal of an American family!".

The Simpsons: Bart vs. The World (game review)

v3 Gamepro, Dec 1991, Cover, p22-23

Full cover featuring Bart on his skateboard. Caption reads; "Bart's Back! Blasting Off in "The Simpsons: Bart vs. The World" for your NES!

p4 Table of Contents features Bart Simpson.

p19 Full page Acclaim advertisement for Simpson NES and Game Boy games.

p22-23 Positive game review rates the game as having great graphics, sound, gameplay amd FunFactor, and *hot* (the highest rating) for 'challenge'.

Super Nintendo Game review

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

The Simpsons Christmas Special (review of video tape)

v103n50 Billboard, Dec 14 1991, p57

Yet another favorable review of The Simpsons Christmas episode, the only one released on tape thus far.

For a list of all The Simpsons Audio and Video releases, see our list on the archive right here!

Magazine and Newspaper Articles - 1992

Interview of Matt Groening

Guitar Players Presents! Zappa!, 1992 (Winter?), p25

This is a special issue put out by Guitar Player and Keyboard magazines about Frank Zappa in which they interview Matt Groening

Quotes from interview of Matt Groening;

"Frank is my Elvis"

"As soon as Bart Simpson is able to shave he'll have a little moustache and goatee just like Zappa's"

Acclaim video game reviews (video game review/advertisement)

Masters of the Game, 1992, cover(p1), 2-3, 7, 12, 15, 16

Sweepstakes edition of Acclaim publication (like Nintendo's Nintendo Power)

p1 The Simpsons Bart vs. the World on cover

p13 Bart's Nightmare

p14 The Simpsons Bart vs. the Space Mutants

p14 Bart Simpsons Escape From Camp Deadly

p15 The Simpsons Bart vs. the World on cover

p16 Sweepstakes question on Simpsons games

p16 The Simpsons Bart vs. the Space Mutants handheld game (Yes, we're aware that this publication is more a large advertisement than a publication. It's mailed to registered game owners).

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Celebrity Interview of the Month: Nancy Cartwright World-class Entertainer and the Emmy Award-winning Voice of Bart Simpson (photographs by Dick Zimmerman)

n259 Celebrity, 1992, cover, 8-9, 12

Cover photo of Nancy Cartwright on this Scientology publication references The Simpsons with the following caption "Interview with: Nancy Cartwright. Entertainer and the Emmy Award-winning Voice of Bart Simpson"

p8 Another full-page photograph of Nancy Cartwright and family, with the caption "Nancy Cartwright in the Franklin Gardens of Celebrity Centre International with her husband Warren Murphy and their children Lucy [Mae] and Jackson. Behind Nancy is the Garden Pavilion, where she is performing her one-woman show "In Search of Fellini."

p9, 12 Article within makes little mention of our favorite family and discusses her fulfillment with Scientology. One interview question of note;

Celebrity: What other projects are you working on in addition to your one-woman show?

Nancy: We are doing another album for the Simpsons that will be released sometime in the beginning of the year. Half the cuts on the album are Bart songs, so I sing them!

Note: The Yellow Album was originally recorded during this time frame, but wasn't released until six years later.

The Simpersons (a parody) (Lou Silverstoning and Gary Fielding)

Cracked TV Collector's Edition #89, Jan 1992, cover, p40-43.

Bart on cover of "TV MisGuided" drawn on cover by Gary Fields, writing "I Will Not Read Cracked in Class" on blackboard, with last two complete lines changed to "I Will Not Get Caught Reading Cracked in Class" (Quote from one panel on comic strip; Newscaster Nanny Dickering interviewing Humor (aka Homer))

Nanny: Mr. Simperson, how do you feel about ABC and NBC refusing to run any commercials featuring The Simpersons?

Humor: That's an insult! I mean, they advertise terlet paper, diapers, stuff for smelly sneakers and they got the nerve to turn down a wholesome family like mine! What's the world comin' to?

The Big Book of Hell (book review) (Jeff Blair)

v82n8 Wilson Library Bulletin, Jan 1992, pS4.

Favorable review of "The Big Book of Hell" Life in Hell collection of cartoons.

Actress' Voice Does Double Duty for Fox (Eric Gerber)

Houston Post, Jan 11 1992, pF3

Yeardley Smith, aka Lisa Simpson is profiled. Smith also plays the character of Louise in the sitcom "Herman's Head."

'The Simpsons' Producer Changes Animation Firms (unknown)

Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, Jan 21 1992

The switch from Klasky-Csupo to Film Roman, transcribed for the archive right here!

Buffaloed by the Stupor Bowl ... (Howard Rosenberg)

Los Angeles Times, Jan 24 1992, pF1

Howard Rosenberg criticizes not only the hype surrounding the Super Bowl broadcast, but the game itself. Rosenberg notes that the famous game was effectively satirized on episode 8F12 Lisa the Greek.

Darling, Listen to Me (Hilary De Vries)

New York Times Magazine, Jan 26 1992, p22+

About Julie Kavner, her role in The Simpsons and in the upcoming movie This is My Life.

Bugging the White House (Daniel Cerone)

Los Angeles Times, Jan 28 1992, pF1

ABC's "Capitol Critters" will be the first prime-time cartoon since "The Simpsons." The series will take viewers behind the walls and underneath the floorboards of the White House, where a colorful world of rodents and roaches emulate the political mayhem above.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Even when it flops.

Bush speech ignites Marge charge (Jill Brooke)

New York Post, Jan 30 1992, p64

Bush takes swipe at The Simpsons, saying that "...the nation needs to be closer to the Waltons than The Simpsons", to which Matt Groening responding in an interview said "Hey, The Simpsons are just like the Waltons". "Both families spend a lot of time praying for the end of the Depression!". This line was subsequently incorporated into a Simpsons episode. Bush comment made on Monday, January 27, 1992 in speech to the National Religious Broadcasters convention. Includes small B/W picture of an angry Marge Simpson and a photo of Bush titled "President Bush Slams The Simpsons".

Is the Nuclear Industry Pulling a Homer?'

National Employment Review Jan 30 1992, cover

Homer Simpson on cover with caption "Is The Nuclear Industry 'Pulling A Homer'?" (also on cover of Mar 4 1992? (don't have a copy yet)), the cover of which was reproduced in Simpsons Illustrated #6.

If Coolness Were Soul, Bart Would be James Brown Konami's The Simpsons: Bart's House of Weirdness (computer game review) (Charles Ami)

n91 Computer Gaming World, Feb 1992, cover, p76, 78

Cover as "Also in This Issue:.....Bart's House of Weirdness".

p76 Review of PC-DOS based game "Bart's House of Weirdness". It concludes: "House of Weirdness stands up as well as any "Super-Mariod" arcade game, but its greatest appeal will be for those who also enjoy The Simpsons on television. Of course, Bart Simpson thinks even more highly of it, but he, one must remember, is a kid. "Kids" in the words of the self-styled philospher Homer Simpson, "say such stupid things."

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

'Simpsons' Just a Cartoon to TV Academy (Matt Roush)

USA Today, Feb 21 1992, pD1

Matt Roush comments on the TV academy's board of governors announcement that Fox's "The Simpsons" was not worthy of Emmy consideration as a situation comedy.

Simpsons Think Howe's Cool, Dude (Vartan Kupelian)

Detroit News & Free Press, Feb 23 1992, pE2

Vartan Kupelian and Mike O'Hara comment on how former Detroit Red Wing Gordie Howe was mentioned in an episode of "The Simpsons" rather than more contemporary stars such as Wayne Gretzky or Mario Lemieux.

Born to Mambo (Gustavo Perez Firmat)

v2n2 L.A. Salsa, Mar 1992, cover

Simpson family on cover, in celebration of dancing Mambo, Homer's favorite dance. Only reference inside is on p4; "Special thanks to Antonia Kaughman and Fox Television for accepting our invitation for The Simpsons to Mambo on our cover".

Comic Art in the '90s Misfit Lit Discussion Panel (Gary Groth in a panel discussion with Paul Maverides, Matt Groening, Burne Hogarth, Jaime Hernandez, Gilbert Hernandez, Mary Fleener, Daniel Clowes, Jim Woodring and Gary Groth)

n149 The Comics Journal, Mar 1992, p48-64

Matt Groening and comic artists discuss the state of comics, with questions to Matt about The Simpsons. Very nice article, but nothing revealing about Matt or The Simpsons.

Simpsons reference

Newsweek, Mar 9 1992

Picture of Simpson family as part of box commenting on the resigning of Barry Diller, Chairman of Fox

Stations Abuzz Over Off-Fox Bart (Mike Freeman)

v122n12 Broadcasting, Mar 16 1992, p16-17 The stories behind syndicating The Simpsons.

Hey, Man! It's Bart Simpson, Trapped Inside the Body of a Woman! (Susan King)

The Los Angeles Times, Mar 22 1992, TV Times

As people discover Bart is Nancy Cartwright.

A copy of this can be found on the archive right here!

Homer Simpson Has a Thang for That Twang (Jim McFarlin)

Detroit News, Mar 26 1992, pC1

Jim McFarlin reviews an episode of "The Simpsons."

Posting "The Simpsons" How Not to Have a Cow (Dan Daley)

v16n4 Mix, Apr 1992, Cover, p34-35, 37-38

Inset on cover shows Bart on Skateboard with the caption "Posting 'The Simpsons'".

Nice article to be transcribed.

Simpsons cover (not applicable)

Christie's Animation Art and Collectible, Apr 1992, Cover, p48-52

Not a magazine but a Christie's (London) auction catalogue, with a full Simpsons cover showing Bart photographing Marge standing amongst the Palace Guards. This was taken from a special celluloid from which the proceeds of which were to be donated. The catalog was actually dated "1/4/92" (that's April 1 1992), the viewing was April 23-25 and April 27 and the auction was held April 27, 1992.

Regarding 'The Simpsons' (Maggie Roswell)

Los Angeles Times, Apr 13 1992, pF3 Maggie Roswell criticizes the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences for refusing to move "The Simpsons" from animation to the comedy category for the Emmy Awards.

Awards Boards Keep Apples from Oranges (Lou Chaloukian)

Los Angeles Times, Apr 20 1992, pF3

Academy of Television Arts & Sciences President Leo Chaloukian states in response to a complaint that "The Simpsons" should be in the comedy category for Emmy consideration that not everyone can be pleased.

Idiotic response from a bunch of idiots.

Christie's Turns Bart into Art (Angella Johnson)

Guardian, Apr 28 1992, p4

Christie's in London auctioned off ten hand-painted stills of the "Simpsons" television cartoon program for @12,661 on Apr 27, 1992.

No, Groening made it art. Christie's just made it official.

(missing)

Adweek, May 4 1992

Article discussing David Brinkley show blaming The Simpsons and cultural climate for criminal behavior (show 4/26/92)

An Ode to Marge's Style of Motherhood (Mike Duffy)

Detroit News & Free Press, May 10 1992, pG1

Marge Simpson of the television program "The Simpsons" is a most devoted and affectionate mother and wife, one most worthy of tribute on Mother's Day. And though she's only a cartoon mom, she ignites a genuine empathy buzz in moms everywhere.

The Confusing Spider-Dude (Lou Silverstone et. al.)

Cracked Blockbuster #6, Summer 1992, cover, p2-8

Bart on Cover with Waldo Inside front cover and rear cover has projected knock-off Bart Simpson T-Shirts (but here truth was stranger than fiction)

p4 has "The Confusing Spider-Dude", takeoff of Spiderman with Simperson parody within (Quote from one panel on comic strip; Humor (aka Homer) consoling a crying Marge over the kidnapping of Barf (aka Bart))

Marge: Why would they take Barf?

Humor: It musta been a mistake, they probably wanted Charlie Brown or Doodie Howser.

High-Stakes Gambling Leagues Licensing Losers

v63n22 Advertising Age, Jun 1 1992, p29

Reviews the problems associated with licensing. Cites the Burger King campaign, which was considered a failure. From what we understand people came in for the toys but not for the food (by buying the minimum food purchase, for example.) Sounds like a success from my perspective.

Video Game Reviews: Krusty's Super Fun House (Zach Meston)

v4n7 Video Games & Computer Entertainment, Jul 1992, cover, p34-35

Bart, Krusty on Cover!

p7 full page ad for Bart vs. the Space Mutants for Sega Genesis and Sega Game Gear

p34-35 review of Krusty's Super Fun House for SNES

p94 Computer Game Reviews reviews The Simpson Arcade Game for Commodore 64 and the IBM PC (review of Simpson game is on p104-105).

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

Glamour's Men of the Moment Citations and Awards for Notable Knavery and Bravery (Compiled by Mary-Lou Weisman)

Glamour, Jul 1992, p126, 136

p126 Glamour polled over 1000 reporters around the country and this was one of the questions asked:

12. Who do you consider more of a soul mate?

a) Bart Simpson (63 percent) b) Ted Koppel (36 percent)

p136 Under "Men Who Make Us Laugh" is pictures of Seinfeld, Homer Simpson, Bill Crystal and Damon Wayans.

More Star Voices, Secrets on 'The Simpsons' This Fall (Donna Gable)

USA Today, Jul 24 1992, pD3

Cartoonist Matt Groening has a lot in store for the TV program The Simpsons in the fall of 1992 including more star voices.

Paperbacks (book review) (Charles Soloman)

Los Angeles Times, Jul 26 1992, Section BR, p10

Book review of The Simpsons Fun In the Sun Book by Matt Groening

For a complete list of Simpson books see our list on the archive right here!

'Simpsons' Actors Win Six Emmys

Los Angeles Times, Jul 31 1992, pF4 The Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced that six actors from The Simpsons have been chosen to receive Emmy Awards in the new category of voice-over performance. The actors provide the narration for the characters in the animated cartoon.

My Life's Work: Bart's Creator (Nancy Shepherdson)

v82n8 Boys' Life, Aug 1992 p33, 63

Groening discussing his career as a cartoonist and his life as creator of The Simpsons.

Activity Books Banish Boredom (Matt Berman)

Times-Picayune, Aug 3 1992, Section C, p1

Book review including The Simpsons Fun In the Sun Book.

For a complete list of Simpson books see our list on the archive right here!

The Simpsons:TV's "Real" Family? (unknown)

v47n33? The Newfoundland Herald (Canada), Aug 8-12 1992, cover, ? (2 pages)

Full cover of our favorite family with the caption "The Simpsons: Are they real?"

Two page article, yet unseen.

Licensing: (Terry Lefton)

v33n30 Brandweek, Aug 10 1992, p16-17

Can the sales of Simpsons merchandise be sustained? This second wave of merchandising expanded the characters available to outside The Simpsons immediate family, including Krusty and Itchy & Scratchy. The sales of Simpson merchandise was certainly sustained at this household - although this second wave was a lot more difficult to obtain than the first wave.

Bart Not Afraid to Take a Shot at Bush (Joanne Ostrow)

Denver Post, Aug 27 1992, pE1

Joanne Ostrow comments on television programming, saying that TV's Simpsons are an honest American family that the Republicans should beware of criticizing.

A Bart in Woolf's Clothing

v324 Economist, Aug 29 1992, pA24

Fame Has Its Own Terms, 'Simpsons,' 'Herman's' Star Learns (Rod Dreher)

Washington Times, Sep 13 1992, pD1

Actress Yeardley Smith, the star of Fox's Herman's Head and The Simpsons in which she plays the voice of Lisa Simpson, is profiled.

Critic's Heaven (Joanne Ostrow)

Denver Post, Sep 17 1992, pE1

Joanne Ostrow reviews two episodes of "The Simpsons" TV program.

Haven't seen this yet - will pull and add info!

Simpsons Toyota Advertisement (not applicable)

Le Lundi (Canada), Sep 19 1992, p13-15.

While not normally indexing advertisements, this one is three full pages and is French Canadian. One the first page we simply see our favorite family with the heading "Une heureuse nouvelle dans la famille", or "Good news in (for) the family". Inside their standing around a Toyota Corolla with the heading "La toute nouvelle Corolla de Toyota". Bart is holding up the keys saying "Venez faire un tour. C'est moi qui chauffe."

The Simpsons (unknown)

Detroit Free Press, Sep 20 1992, Cover

Cover of this newspaper television insert pictures Bart wearing war paint and burnishing a bow and quiver of arrors admonishing Krusty for the conditions at Kamp Krusty.

Simpsons Are Back (John Carman)

San Francisco Chronicle, Sep 24 1992, pE1

Review of the fall 1992 season premiere Kamp Krusty episode 8F24 and the new series "Rhythm & Blues."

'Simpsons' Keeps Spinning Sublime from the Ridiculous (Matt Roush)

USA Today, Sep 24 1992, pD3 Review of The Simpsons.

America's Most Animated Family (Tom Shales)

The Washington Post, Sep 24 1992, pC1, C9

Preview of first two episodes of the 1992-1993 season.

A copy of this can be found right on the archive here!

The Misadventures of the Simpsons (John J. O'Connor)

The New York Times, NY, Sep 24 1992, pC18

Reviews the Sep 24, 1992 Kamp Krusty episode 8F24.

'Simpsons' Puts Value on Comedy (Rod Dreher)

Washington Times, Sep 27 1992, pD2

Rod Dreher comments on "The Simpsons" and claims that it is by far the best sitcom on television.

A claim we would be more than happy to attest to. But why just the best sitcom?

Meet the Faces Behind These Voices (Patricia Nolan)

v13n39 Woman's World, Sep 27 1992, cover, p39

Cover has "Bart Simpson, Beauty and the Beast and Roger Rabbit - Meet the people who make them come alive".

p39 has full page of Bart Simpson with this article;

"Probably the most popular cartoon character today is Bart Simpson. And it took a mother of two to bring him to life. 'My voice has a unique quality - it wavers between sounding like a woman's and a little boy's. My talent is purely genetic!' says Nancy Cartwright. Cartwright says she owes much of her success to her mentor Daws Butler, the voice behind many popular Hanna-Barbera cartoons. Butler got her her first job, as the voice of Gloria on the Richie Rich TV cartoon. That led to other roles and then the cartoon jackpot: The Simpsons. She says the biggest fan is her two-year-old daughter. 'When my daughter sees Bart on TV, she points to him and says 'Mommy!'' Cartwright says."

Are we Producing a Future Work Force of Bart Simpsons? (George H. Jacobson)

v17n1 Business Forum, Winter 1992, p18-21

Another one of those quality of education articles. Too late, man.

Bart's Nightmare (game review) (unknown)

v41 Nintendo Power, Oct 1992, Cover and ?

A reference on the cover - "SUPER NES BART'S NIGHTMARE".

Game review of the SNES game Bart's Nightmare.

For more information about all the Simpson games check out our Simpsons Games list right here!

I'm Not Lisa (Ian Spelling)

n29 Comics Scene, Oct 1992, p62

Interview of Yeardley Smith to be transcribed!

Simpsons Take a Shot at Crescent City (Mark Lorando)

Good and Glossy (David Ruben)

v6n9 Parenting, Oct 1992, p23

Recommending Simpsons Illustrated.

Simpsons Take a Shot at Crescent City (Mark Lorando)

Times-Picayune, Oct 1 1992, pA1

The Oct 1, 1992 Streetcar Named Marge episode 8F18 of "The Simpsons" includes a satirical song titled "New Orleans," which calls the city "stinking, rotten, vomity, vile ... crummy, lousy, rancid and rank." The complete lyrics are given.

An early entry in the New Orleans song controversy.

Fox Apologizes for Simpsons (Mark Lorando)

Times-Picayune, Oct 2 1992, pB1

On the same day that an episode of "The Simpsons" referred to New Orleans as "crummy, lousy, rancid and rank," New Orleanians flooded the switchboard of WNOL-TV and prompted a formal apology from the head of the Fox network.

'Simpson' Jab the Price of Fame (James Gill)

Times-Picayune, Oct 4 1992, pB7

A defense of the Streetcar Named Marge episode 8F18 from a New Orleans writer, who indicates that the city deserves some of the insult because it markets itself as a party town to the world.

Besides all the other good reasons.

Picayune 'Toons (Walt Handelsman)

Times-Picayune, Oct 5 1992, pB5

Editorial cartoon retaliates against the TV show "The Simpsons," in which a degrading song about New Orleans was sung in jest.

Television (Dorothy Rabinowitz)

Wall Street Journal, Oct 5 1992, A10

A rave review of the Oct 1, 1992 Streetcar Named Marge episode 8F18 of The Simpsons. Describes The Simpsons as "the best written show on television". Also reviewed episodes of Different World and Dogie Howser, M.D.

Fox's 'Simpsons' Strategy Paying Off (Rick Du Brow)

Los Angeles Times, Oct 6 1992, pF9

The success of "The Simpsons."

'The Simpsons' Roll on to Greatness (Eric Mink)

St Louis Post-Dispatch, Oct 7, 1992, pF7

Discusses the first two episodes of the 1992-93 season.

A Future Treat for Trekkies (Mark Lorando)

Times-Picayune, Oct 8 1992, pE1

In an article on Star Trek author also discussed the ratings for The Simpsons episode 8F18 featuring the New Orleans "theme song from hell."

Bart Chalks Up Apology for N.O. Song (Mark Lorando)

Times-Picayune, Oct 8 1992, pA1

In an episode of the TV program "The Simpsons," Bart Simpson appears in the opening credits of episode 9F01 writing "I will not defame New Orleans" for those offended by a derogatory song he sang about New Orleans in Streetcar Named Marge episode 8F18.

Families for All Seasons (Mike Duffy)

Detroit News & Free Press, Oct 11 1992, pQ1

Discussion of the family TV shows The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, Leave It to Beaver, The Waltons, Brooklyn Bridge, The Simpsons, and Roseanne.

Focus Pocus (Mark Lorando)

Times-Picayune, Oct 25, 1992, (TV section) p7

Article on Halloween shows, including the Halloween III episode 9F04 of The Simpsons and Roseanne.

Video Previews: The Rock Bottom Remainders by Stephen King, Amy Tan, Matt Groening and others (video review) (Marilyn A. Gillen)

v104n44 Billboard, Oct 31 1992, p51

Mixed review of the video featuring the eclectic temporary band featuring various writers, not musicians

First Person, Plural (Patricia Brennan)

The Washington Post, Nov 1 1992, pY06 in TV Tab

Interview of Yeardley Smith. I Love Lisa.

And the Winner Is ... Bart? (Eric Mink)

St Louis Post-Dispatch, Nov 3, 1992, A1

Fox Broadcasting will show four of its more successful sitcoms, including a new episode of The Simpsons on Nov 3, 1992 in order to compete with ABC, CBS, NBC and CNN, which will focus on the results of the presidential election. No contest.

Election Was Top TV, But Simpsons Were 2nd (Eric Mink)

St Louis Post-Dispatch, Nov 5 1992, pC5

The Simpsons took second place in their battle for St Louis television ratings on Nov 3, 1992, outscoring all but the NBC News team in head-to-head competition.

What price comedy? (Mike Freeman)

v122n47 Broadcasting, Nov 16 1992, p30, 31, 34.

Don't have a cash cow, man. Fox's attempt to ensure they maximize the returns on syndication.

Hamming it Up with Matt Groening (Marty Grosser)

v2n12 Previews, Dec 1992, cover and p136;137-140,272;171-172

Interview with Matt Groening. Cover has Bart on corner, "Hey dudes! Lemme get my cape!"

p136-137 lists "The Simpsons Comics & Stories #1 " comic as 'GEM of the Month' (only lists 6 gems out of thousands of comics).

p138 full page advertisement

p139-140, 272 has Matt Groening interview

p171-172 lists 12 Itchy & Scratchy T-Shirts Quote: (MG) "I was definitely influenced by The Flintstones. Those large 'rocks' that Marge has around her neck are definitely inspired by Wilma Flintstone's necklace." "Homer's beard line was definitely influenced by Fred Flintstone, although very early on in The Simpsons, some people didn't understand that it was a beard line. I got this letter from an outraged woman who said. "What is that horrible man with the gigantic lips?"

Jollies & Follies (Rick Du Brow)

Los Angeles Times TV Times, Dec 20 1992, Cover, pp78-79

Cover features Our favorite family standing around a Christmas tree with Maggie Simpson as the star on top of the tree. Caption reads "Ay, Caramba, Another Christmas! Rick Du Brow Sends Greetings to 'The Simpsons' and TV's Other Movers and Shakers of '92". Great cover, but the article inside, however, said not one word about The Simpsons.

Who do your kids look up to? Is your child trying to imitate Bart Simpson? (Emma Wells)

v12n51 Womans World, Dec 22 1992, Cover, pp3

Cover reference on this weekly magazine; "Is Bart Simpson hurting your kids?"

What Matt Groening has now apologized for. "You've heard it before: our children watch too much television! But now, perhaps, parents should be more concerned than ever. Because not only is TV eating up time that could better spend playing, reading and doing homework - it may be giving kids the wrong message."