Groundskeeper Willie declares support for Scottish independence, volunteers to lead the new country
The Simpsons’ Scotsman has backed the Yes campaign in Thursday’s referendum in a new video
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.He may be yellow and have only eight fingers, but Groundskeeper Willie from The Simpsons remains one of Scotland’s favourite sons – and he’s thrown his weight behind Scottish independence ahead of Thursday’s referendum.
In a YouTube video, Willie, Springfield’s resident Scotsman, ripped off his shirt to reveal printed on his chest the words: “Aye or Die.”
“That’s not a tattoo, it’s a birthmark,” he roared.
The proud Scot, dressed head to toe in his country’s traditional attire, began the video by framing the independence debate as one between “the freedom-loving heirs of the Highland tradition, and those who enjoy crawling like worms beneath British boots.”
He said: “I am hesitant to throw my support to either side – be it the right one, or the obviously wrong one.”
Willie, who would be unable to vote in the referendum as he lives in US, pleaded with Scotland to opt for independence, highlighting the country’s vast North Sea oil reserves and flourishing whisky industry as proof of its governmental competence.
“I’ve lived in America most of my life, so I’ve seen first-hand how not to run a country,” Willie added.
With that in mind, Willie offered himself as a candidate to lead a new, independent Scotland rather than the “safe choice” Alex Salmond.
He said: “For a leader who can stand in the proud tradition of William Wallace and Andy Murray, won’t you consider the return of Scotland’s prodigal son – Groundskeeper Willie?
“Willie won’t back down to world leaders, because I haven’t a clue who they are and I’m not willing to learn.”
Shrek, the other famous animated Scot, backed the union earlier this summer. Mike Myers, who voiced Shrek, said: “Shrek wants what the will of the Scottish people want.”
The Liverpool-born actor added: “I love Scotland; I hope they remain part of Britain.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments